How to Assume a Defensive Position in Basketball

Defense is a combination of desire and attitude. It is not a skill normally attributed to pure athletic ability. Quick feet and quick hands don't hurt, though.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Athletic Socks
• Basketball Uniforms
• Basketball Hoops
• Basketball Shoes
• Basketballs
• Basketballs

1. Maintain a distance from your opponent of about an arm's length away.

2. Bend your knees so you're in a comfortable crouch on the balls of your feet.

3. Stagger your feet with your back foot 2-3 feet behind your front foot.

4. Point your shoulders at a 45-degree angle to your opponent.

5. Hold your arms slightly extended in front of you.

6. Keep your palms angled up for quick flicks at the ball.

7. Move with your opponent, keeping your body between her/him and the basket.

8. Slide your feet as you move. Avoid crossing your feet whenever possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice with a partner alternating positions. Dribble the length of the court at a slow-to-medium pace while the other plays defense.
• Don't give up if your player gets past you. Hustle to get back into position.
• Some coaches insist that concentrating on your opponent's midriff prevents you from being fooled by head and hip fakes. Determine for yourself if you like that method.
• Constantly survey the court using your peripheral vision.

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on 3/29/2006 Never give up on defense. Sometimes you won't be able to guard someone because they are just too athletic. Just try your best to keep up with them, that's the only way you'll get better is to play against someone that is better than you are! Sometimes you'll find yourself standing around watching and all of a sudden you get burnt with the guy you were suppose to be guarding. Always be moving on defense, no matter what.

on 11/22/2005 Look at the belly rather than their head or the ball. Even when your opponent doesn't have the ball, you must keep one eye on him and the other on the other opponent with the ball. Otherwise you might be surprised when you see the man you are supposed to be guarding get a backdoor pass to the hoop and jam it on a clear lane because you weren't looking to see where he was.

on 11/22/2005 If you are a 1, 2, or 3 on defense and you are playing a zone defense (2-3, 2-1-2) you should know when the ball is away from your area and sink into the lane. When the ball is in your area, you close out to the defender with your hands high and your backside low for the best balance and control.

on 11/22/2005 Look for your opponent's tendencies. Does he/she favor one direction (right or left)? Force your opponent to go the opposite direction, making them uncomfortable and shutting them down.

on 11/22/2005 When defending a guard, wave your arms in front of them and yell "ball" over and over again. This will cause distractions and might force a turnover.