How to Box Out in Basketball

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

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While height is a definite advantage, when gathering rebounds positioning is more important. Coaches will yell, "Get a body on someone." Translated from coach-talk, that means "box out."

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Athletic Socks
Basketball Uniforms
Basketball Hoops
Basketball Shoes
Basketballs

Step1

Be aware of when the shot is taken. Whoever is guarding the shooter should yell out when the ball is released. This allows teammates who can't see the shot time to react.

Step2

Pivot toward the basket immediately.

Step3

Put your body between the basket and the player you are guarding.

Step4

Bend your knees slightly and extend your arms away from your sides.

Step5

Keep your opponent away from the basket by maintaining body contact. You want your opponent to be pinned behind you.

Step6

Rebound the ball.

Tips & Warnings

Move with your opponent so she or he can't slip around you.
Maintain body contact at all times.
Some of the best rebounders are not the tallest players on the court because they work at rebounding. Boxing out is a skill, not a talent.
If you have any condition which would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Comments

Anonymous said

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on 9/22/2006 If you're boxing out but your man is still on you, jump up for the rebound and as soon as you grab the ball, pull it away from their reach. This prevents them from tipping the ball after you've grabbed it. The best spot is always to the opposite of where they are. For instance, if your man is behind you, pull the ball in front of you.

Also, good footwork is a key to boxing out. You could be weaker than your man but still box him out of you have good feet. I find that playing soccer in addition to basketball helps your coordination with your legs quite a lot.

Anonymous said

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on 1/23/2006 When the ball is shot, watch your man to see which way he is headed. That way you can tell which way the ball is coming off the rim. When you see him make a slight move one way or the other, this is when you turn your body to him to cut him off, making it very hard for him to get around you to rebound the ball.