Flare Screen
- Flare Screen.
- Player 1: skip pass across the court to player 2.
- Player 2: flare out behind the screen for a catch-and-shoot then catch and shoot — feet set, let it fly.
- Player 3: set a flare screen for player 2 then perform a flash.
A Flare Screen is an off-ball screen set to free a teammate who cuts away from the basket, typically towards the perimeter or corner, to receive a pass for a shot. Unlike a Back Screen or Down Screen which sends a cutter towards the basket or to the elbow, a flare screen creates separation for a player to 'flare out' and catch the ball, often for a Catch-and-Shoot opportunity. This action is particularly effective against defenses that are overplaying or anticipating a cut to the basket. It forces the defense to react to a horizontal movement across the court, often leaving the cutter open for a quick perimeter shot. A flare screen is frequently combined with a Skip Pass from the ball-handler on the opposite side of the court, maximizing the distance the defense must cover to contest the shot.
Player 3 sets a flare screen for Player 2. Player 2 uses the screen to flare out to the wing. Player 1 delivers a skip pass to Player 2, who then catches and shoots.