Individual Defense in Basketball

Individual Defense in Basketball

Defensive play in basketball is as important as offensive play. In fact, sometimes-best defense is the best form of offense. Defense in any form is vital, and if your opponent is charging with the ball in his hand you must be prepared to repulse the onslaught. Bear in mind, that this is the major part of the game. 

Take a look at how to learn it and master it:

 

Keep Your Distance: Good defense begins with a good triple threat position: chin up, weight balanced, and so on. When you are guarding the player with the ball, it is important to maintain correct distance from him. If you are too far away, you cannot deny your opponent anything he wants to do, and if you are too close, he can drive around you.

To properly judge the correct distance, position yourself so that you can reach out with your arm and touch your opponent’s chest. If your opponent moves around you move back.

While you are on the defensive, it is imperative that you never cross your feet. There is a better choice for the situation, use defense slide. This doesn’t mean jumping up and down. It simply means sliding your feet from one spot to another. The head stays at the same level all the time so that you can see the court.

Know The Opponent’s Strengths: When you are playing defensively, it is important to know your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. Give a moment to him; know whether he goes well to his right or to his left. As a rule, right-handers move better to their right, left-handers to the left. It is best to overplay about half a step in the direction of your opponent’s strong side. This will force the offensive player to the weaker side, and you get the advantage. By taking away the stronger side, you are forcing your opponent to move in the direction where he would rather not.

Always keep your arms and elbows out; take up as much space as possible. If you have your arms and elbows down, it is easier for your opponent to drive past you. If the offensive player gets around you, jump back into position. Never cross your feet. You cannot play defence from behind the play, so you have to jump back between your opponent and the basket.

Take care of the above and you’ll find that you are one of the most valuable members of the team.