Gortat Screen: The Signature Move in Basketball

In the fast-paced world of basketball, setting effective screens is a crucial skill that helps create open shots, drive lanes, and overall team efficiency. One screen that gained recognition in the NBA is the “Gortat Screen,” named after former NBA center Marcin Gortat. This screen became a staple of his game, particularly during his time with the Washington Wizards, where he often set hard, legal picks to free up teammates like John Wall. In this article, we’ll break down the Gortat screen, how it works, and why it became so effective.

What is the Gortat Screen?

The Gortat Screen is a strong, well-placed pick where the screener holds position long enough to give the ball handler a clear advantage while also rolling efficiently to the basket. It is often followed by a quick roll to the rim, making it a highly effective tool in pick-and-roll plays.

Why is the Gortat Screen So Effective?

• Physicality: Gortat was known for his strong frame, allowing him to set hard, legal screens that defenders struggled to fight through.
• Perfect Timing: His ability to hold the screen just long enough before rolling created separation for the ball handler.
• Pick-and-Roll Mastery: His chemistry with teammates, especially John Wall, made it difficult for defenders to react quickly.
• Legal but Strong Contact: Unlike illegal moving screens, Gortat’s screens were set in a way that forced defenders into difficult positions without drawing fouls.

How Did Marcin Gortat Use This Screen?

Gortat’s screens were a major reason for the success of the Washington Wizards’ offense during the mid-2010s. His key contributions included:

1. Freeing Up Shooters: By setting hard screens, he created space for teammates to take open shots.
2. Driving Lanes for Guards: John Wall, an elite playmaker, used Gortat’s screens to drive to the basket or kick out to shooters.
3. Effective Roll to the Basket: After screening, Gortat would roll hard to the rim, often finishing with easy dunks or layups.

How to Perform a Gortat Screen

To execute a Gortat-style screen effectively:

1. Set a Strong Base: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart to absorb contact.
2. Hold Your Ground: Let the ball handler move first while maintaining position.
3. Roll Quickly After Contact: Once the defender is engaged, cut hard toward the basket for a scoring opportunity.
4. Stay Legal: Avoid moving your feet too much to prevent offensive fouls.

Conclusion

The Gortat Screen is a powerful basketball technique that helped shape offensive strategies, particularly for pick-and-roll-heavy teams. Marcin Gortat’s ability to set strong, well-timed screens made him one of the best screeners of his era. Any player looking to improve their screening game can learn from Gortat’s technique and apply it to their own play.

FAQs

What makes the Gortat Screen different from a regular screen?

It’s a well-timed, strong pick that is followed by a quick roll to the basket, making it more dynamic than a standard screen.

Which NBA players benefited the most from Gortat’s screens?

Players like John Wall and Bradley Beal benefited greatly from Gortat’s picks, as they created open lanes and shooting opportunities.

Is the Gortat Screen legal in basketball?

Yes, as long as the screener remains stationary and doesn’t move into the defender’s path illegally.

Can smaller players use the Gortat Screen technique?

Yes, but it’s most effective when used by stronger, bigger players who can absorb contact and roll to the rim efficiently.

How can I improve my screen-setting skills?

Focus on positioning, timing, and strength training to set solid, legal screens like Marcin Gortat.