How to Block Someone in Basketball

The blocked shot in basketball not only prevents an opponent from scoring, but it can energize teammates, excites the crowd and intimidate opponents. To block someone in basketball, a player must understand the opposing player's tendencies and be able to time the block correctly. The blocked shot is less about height or jumping and more about study and preparation. Having height and leaping ability does not hurt.

Instructions

1. Study what kind of shots the opposing player likes to take. Most players have a handful of different shots they like to take during a game. Once you determine the favorite shots, it can make blocking a shot in basketball much easier.

2. Remain on the basketball court until the opponent leaves her feet for the shot. Many players try to use shot fakes to get a defender of the floor. If you can remain on the floor, you increase your chances of blocking the shot when the player actually shoots the basketball.

3. Extend your arm straight up when you attempt to block someone in basketball. Too many times, player will move the shot-blocking arm forward before it reaches its highest point. This forward motion negates the length of the attempted shot block. Once your arm reaches the highest point, then it is okay to move the arm forward in an attempt to make contact with the basketball.

4. Block the shot with the hand closest to the basketball. This is why you must practice blocking shots with either hand. Players will often only use the dominant hand to block someone in basketball, and this can lead to a foul.

5. Jump straight up of the floor to block someone's shot. If you jump into the player, you most likely foul him. Jumping straight up reduces the possibility that you may foul the opposing player.