Basketball Defense Basics

Basketball Defensive Position

Defensive play in basketball is just as important as offensive play. Keeping your opponent from scoring means your team won't have to score as many points to win the game. Defensive skills are often neglected; however, learning how to maintain a proper defensive position make your job guarding opposing players easier.

Defensive Position

Good defense begins with a defensive triple threat position. You need to keep your chin up with your eyes focused on the defender. Make sure your feet are shoulder-width apart with your weight evenly distributed on each leg. Keep a slight bend and the hips and knees so that you can change direction when you need to. Finally, close off the passing lanes by keeping your arms raised up.

Distance from Opponent

When you are guarding the player with the ball, it is important to maintain correct distance. Too far away and the player can pass, shoot, or dribble without difficulty. Too close and the opponent can maneuver around you if they are quicker or more powerful than you are. Part of knowing the correct distance is knowing your competitor; however, a general rule of thumb is to position yourself so that you can reach out with your arm and touch your opponent's chest by extending your arms. You don't want to be so far away that you fully have to extend your arms and not close enough that you don't have to extend your arms at all.

Basketball Defensive Footwork

While you are defense, it is imperative that you never cross your feet. An offensive player who sees a defender crossing their feet can quickly change directions and blow right past you. Crossing your feet diminishes your ability to move laterally and makes it even more difficult for you to change directions. The key to good defensive footwork is learning how to move laterally and keep the opponent in front of you.