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.
There are
many reasons why a team plays bad defense. One explanation is that, too much attention is placed on increasing the score. No one can blame players for this. After all, it is the top scorer who eventually enjoys the undying admiration of fans and teammates. When the focus is on scoring, everyone else forgets that defense is just as vital.
Defensive basketball techniques play one vital role. They stop opponents from making points. Players would realize how good this is when they are told that high points will amount to nothing if the other team keeps on scoring more. Beginners should be given preliminary tips to make sure they are able to block opponents from scoring.
#1- Put stance and balance as priorities.
Good defense relies a lot on stance. The right form on court is what can stop the other players from scoring. It also helps maintain defensive players’ balance and provides clear opportunities to gain ball possession. Basic basketball defense starts with bended knees. This puts a player’s head on the same level as an opponent’s chest. Feet have to be far apart and at shoulder’s width at the most. This position is the best to adopt because it will prevent tipping in high contact instances. In addition, defensive players would do well to put one foot and one hand forward in front of a player’s dominant half. This will block a shooter’s movement as much as possible and will allow an easy 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- Let the opponent feel pressure.
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.
Tags: basketball defense, basketball for beginners, beginner basketball