Three Basketball Defense Tips for New Players
Posted in Fly Fishing Gear on the June 27, 2010
It should be obvious how important beginner basketball defense is. Like offense, it is one word associated with the game that is a topic all its own. It is so crucial that fans scream it all the time when their team doesn’t have ball possession. Despite the enduring presence of this word, not all novice players and coaches focus on it.
One possible reason why the concept is being downplayed is the overwhelming obsession over scoring more points. Fame and maybe fortune await the player who can shoot the most. Shallow play analysis further stress who has made the most points. This is when people forget that in most cases, guarding the team with the ball is just as important.
Coaches should remind players that only through defensive basketball can the opponent’s score be significantly limited. There is really no requirement for players to score more than a hundred points to grab the winning slot. All they need to do is to stop the other team from shooting the ball through tight defense. Here are some tips to consider.
#1- Stance and balance are everything.
You need to adopt the right form and position to prevent an opponent from scoring and to maintain balance. Moreover, the right stance also puts you in the best position to steal the ball when you can. The basic stance in proper basketball defense is to bend the knees in such a way as to put the player’s head level to the offensive player’s chest. Feet should be planted shoulder’s width apart. By choosing this position, a player is least likely to lose balance even when pushed. The foot and hand facing the dominant hand of the other player should be placed a little forward to prepare for action when there is an opportunity to steal.
#2- Defend against other players not handling the ball.
With so many people on the court, many viewers restrict their eyes to the ones surrounding the ball. Players and coaches would be at a disadvantage though if they don’t pay equal attention to other players. Defensive basketball isn’t about the person with the ball. It’s also about every other member because unguarded players can take over from a pressured ball handler and attempt to make the shot.
#3- Pressure the opposing team.
It’s normal to get tired near the end of a game. Because of exhaustion, players may show weariness in their expressions and stances. Teams on defense however, should try to mask these from the other camp. From the very beginning to the end, strong pressure should be placed on the offensive group. Pressure can be shown in different ways. Players can show mildly threatening expressions. Proper hand, foot and body positioning can also indicate pressure because it limits the movement of an opponent and prevents shooting.
Good basketball for beginners defense understandably starts with these basic guidelines. Teams intent on winning however, should put some time and effort into discovering the deeper aspects of defense. A team that has naturally good shooters should learn better defense.