Basketball Tip
4 Tips on How to Beat Defensive Pressure
To advance in the game of basketball you must learn how to play against different types of defensive pressures. Whether it be man to man, zone, or a full court press, learning how to play against these different types of defenses can be a game changer. Here are four defensive tips commonly taught at Nike Basketball Camps that will help give you the confidence you need on the court.
1. Three Looks
When inbounding the ball during a full court press, you should remain calm and find the best outlet for that possession. It is important to look in three separate places before passing the ball. The first one is down the court for an opportunity for a quick basket, the second one is for players closest to you and the third one is looking down the baseline you are standing on and running up and down the baseline to get a better angle for a pass. You have 5 seconds from the time the referee hands you the ball until you pass it to your teammate, so this must be done as fast as possible.
2. Clear out
When the opposing team is running a man to man defense, it is best for the player with the ball to be the only one in the backcourt. Having the other four players out of this space will allow for the ball-handler to get the ball down the court quickly and effectively. If the defensive team decides to put all the pressure on the ball-handler, you now have four open players down the court ready to take the shot without any pressure on them.
3. Keeping the Dribble Alive
Once the ball gets inbounded, the point guard will receive the most pressure. They should focus on two things: keeping the dribble alive and progressing down the court. Defensive players will try to trap you and force you to pass the ball, this can be avoided by continuously dribbling the ball and always moving towards the basket. Teams are only given ten seconds to cross the half court line, it is best to avoid getting trapped and loosing possession.
4. Receiving a Pass
When receiving a pass as an offensive player under high pressure, you must meet the ball halfway. Many coaches will instruct you to ‘run over the ball’ which means that you should not wait for the ball to come to you because that gives the opportunity for the defense to intercept it. Staying in one spot on the court makes you incredibly easy to defend and will limit the pass options for the point guard. When you decrease the distance between you and the ball, the likelihood of this happening will decrease, and you will be helping your team significantly.
All types of defensive pressure can be very stressful for the offensive team so try these tips in game like scenarios to best prepare yourself for games! Check out more basketball tips and learn even more at Nike Basketball Camps this summer!