Ghost Screens

Definition

A ghost screen is a pick-and-roll action where the screener fakes contact and slips into space immediately, before the defense can commit to a coverage.

Why it matters

Ghosts are the cleanest counter to aggressive switching and high blitzing — the screener becomes the open player.

Examples

• Wing ghost into a pop-three.
• Top-of-key ghost into a backdoor cut as the help shifts.

Practical application

• Add ghosts to your PnR menu specifically vs switching opponents.
• Train the screener to read the on-ball defender's hip before slipping.

Common mistakes

• Slipping before the on-ball defender commits — no advantage created.
• Ghost-screener standing instead of relocating after slip.