Ryan Kapustka, Asst Men’s Basketball Coach, Dartmouth
This video is a segment from one of the 120 Videos in Glazier Drive Basketball. Explore coaching clinic replays, practice plans, skill development videos, and more. Click here to see all that’s included.
The full video that this clip came from is available on Glazier Drive: Pick & Roll Offensive Concept
A transcript of the video is shown below.
ROCKETS: SIMPLIFYING BALL SCREEN READS FOR LIMITED BALL HANDLERS
The “Rocket” is a ball screen variation designed for players who struggle with handling, reading, or executing traditional ball screens. Instead of the guard dribbling into a screen, they make an early pass (“hit”) to the big man, immediately reducing dribbling and simplifying decision-making.
WHY IT WORKS
By cutting out the dribble and hitting the forward early, the ball handler only needs to read one simple reaction from the defender — making the concept much easier to execute for less skilled players. It’s also particularly effective for elite shooters who benefit from early ball movement.
THE KEY READ
- Defender goes under → shooter has an open look
- Defender goes over → ball handler attacks downhill, kicks back, or executes a back cut for an easy basket
CORNELL AS A MODEL
Cornell’s offense is cited as a prime example — they consistently use this concept by hitting the forward early and flowing into either back cuts or catch-and-shoot opportunities rather than relying on traditional ball screen actions.
ADDING A COUNTER
Once the defense begins anticipating the rocket action, teams can layer in a “snake” (referred to as an “oh no”) as a counter, keeping the defense honest — especially when forwards are capable ball handlers.
BOTTOM LINE
Rockets reduce reads, reduce dribbling, and create the same advantages as a ball screen with far less complexity — a practical tool for coaches working with players still developing their pick-and-roll IQ.
