How to avoid a box out in basketball

This article will show you how to avoid being boxed out by your defender, and put yourself in position for offensive rebounds and trips to the foul line.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. The first step is that your team must have the ball. Whether you or a teammate is the one taking the shot is irrelevant. The key is when the shot is about to be taken, to be sure you are close to your defender.

2. While the shot is in the air, 90% of defenders will watch the ball, and not their assignment. When your defender's eyes look up, you step backwards, because they will be looking to box you out, and, given proper technique, they will shift their weight backwards.

3. Once your defender commits to shifting his or her weight, slide to either side of them, and then take a step forward. Their momentum will have them move slightly behind you, or at least shoulder to shoulder. (Hint: If you can take a glance at the ball to anticipate a rebound, you'll want to move to that side of your defender)

4. At this point, your defender is out of position, and you can either box them out yourself and grab the offensive rebound, scramble to the ball for an easy lay-up, or, at the very least, be in the perfect position to gain another offensive possession for your team. As with anything in basketball, the key is to practice. Do this during box out drills and use your defenders' momentum against them to give yourself and your team an advantage on the boards.

Tips & Warnings

• If you jump to grab the ball and immediately try to put it back in, there's a good chance of getting fouled by the opposite team because they'll be caught off guard, so practice your free throws!!