Learning how to play basketball defense is hard work! No wonder most players and coaches don’t make defense a top priority when developing their basketball game.
Most players and coaches are not willing to put in the effort and time needed to become successful in basketball defense probably because it’s not as fun and involving as other aspects of the game. Dribbling, passing and shooting as well as other offense aspects of the game are often enjoyable to teach, learn and practice and many players and coaches focus their effort and time towards such aspects.
However learning how to play basketball defense properly helps teams to become more successful and as a matter of fact defense wins championships at all levels and this has been proven on court. Last season in the FUBA league, it was evident when power played super defense through out the regular season and at playoffs to win the championship. The season before, Kyambogo Warriors put up an exceptional defensive display which saw them win the FUBA league that season. When Celtics played exceptional defense in 2008 they won the NBA and so were the Mavericks last season just to mention.
Therefore coaches and players should dedicate a portion of their training time on teaching and learning how to play basketball defense as it helps payers to become complete and well rounded in all aspects of the game and above all it’s critical for their success in basketball.
In order to be successful at the defensive end of the court, there are certain characteristics that must be possessed. To become a better defensive player you should;
1.Practice proper footwork, defensive stance and positioning
2.Have an understanding of the entire basketball game and all of its concepts and strategies.
3.Be able to communicate with teammates on the defensive end of the court. This helps to set up the defense and create better understanding.
4. Be able to play both strong side and week side defense fairly equally well.
5.Have quick hands and quick feet in order to take on different positions
6.Have quick reactions and good instincts to quickly react to the action on the court.
7.Be able to play different forms of defense(full court press, man to man, zone defense etc)
8.Be able to make quick transition from offense to the defensive position
