How to Pack Someone in Basketball

There is an old saying in sports that defense wins championships. In basketball, no other play exemplifies great defense more than when a player packs an opponent’s shot. The blocked shot not only negates the other team's scoring chance, but it brings the crowd to its feet and energizes the player’s teammates.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Study the opposing player’s moves. Note where and how he prefers to shoot the basketball. Anticipation is a key component in packing someone, and you can't anticipate a shot unless you know what to look for.
2. Wait until the offensive player commits to shoot. Offensive players often use a shot fake to get the defender off his feet, and then the shooter can draw a foul or drive to the basket. Don't jump until the shooter leaves his feet.
3. Bend your knees before jumping. To pack someone's shot you must jump as high as possible.
4. Jump straight up into the air to avoid fouling. A referee may call a foul if your jump carries you toward or into your opponent. Even if the pack is legal, you can foul the other player with your body if you don't jump straight up.
5. Extend your arm, either the left or right, as high as possible. The arm extension lets you cover more vertical space.
6. Make contact with the basketball and pack the player's shot. When you feel the basketball strike your hand, pack the ball by moving your arm forward to propel the ball in opposite direction.