Spain Action

Spain is the term that usually refers to a play where the big sets an on-ball screen and then cuts off a backscreen. The backscreen is usually set by a perimeter player.

The play was popularised by the Spanish national team coach, Sergio Scariolo.

The action is often called “Spain Pick and Roll”. It can occur in a variety of positions on the floor but is most common as a middle pick and roll.

Here is an illustration of how the action usually looks.

5 sets an on-ball screen for 1.
As 1 drives off 5, 2 moves to set a backscreen for 5.
1 drives to score looking for pass to 5. If 2’s defender helps 5, 2 steps out to the top of key, looking for a pass from 1.

The action can be incorporated as a part of an extended offensive set or as a single play.

In the video below you will see Spain executing the play after they go through a series of actions. This type of set-up makes the play more difficult for the defence to read and defend.

The Utah Jazz uses the Spain pick and roll action as part of their sideline out of bounds plays.

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