Basketball Tip

Basketball Tip: How to Get in Position to Take a Charge on Defense

Getting a foul called on you every so often is a part of the game, but how you position yourself for that foul can make all the difference. Properly placing yourself for a charge will not only take away a potential basket, but it can also create an opportunity for a turnover and prevent injuries. At Nike Basketball Camps, our coaches ensure each player understands how to avoid getting a blocking call made against them. Check out some of these charge tips to help get you up to speed and improve your game!

The difference between a charge and a block
While you may think they are similar, they are two completely different calls in basketball. A charge is an offensive foul and a block is a defensive foul. When a charge is called, it means that an offensive player has made significant contact with a defender that has an established position. When a block is called, it means that an offensive player has made significant contact with a defender who is not in a stationary position, in a restricted area, or fails to give proper space. The restrictive area is defined as the four-foot arc underneath the basket where a player cannot draw charges. This rule is in place to stop defenders from staying under the basket while offensive players charge to the net.

How to get into position
To get in position to take a charge, make sure that you are square to the person with the ball. Slide to get into the path of the player and plant your feet. When you take the charge, take the contact directly on your chest and do not move your hips or shoulders, your only movement should be falling backward after contact is made. When you hit the ground, try to push back to get out of the way of the falling player.

In the fast-paced game of basketball, officials often get these calls wrong. They are tasked with making these calls in real-time and have a lot to watch and track in a matter of seconds. They must watch foot placement, torso movement, where the drive started, etc. At the end of the day, it is a judgment call by them and ultimately their decision.

Players who learn how to execute a charge have a huge advantage in the game. Learning the difference between a charge and a block can take your game to the next level. Check out more basketball tips and get better this summer at a Nike Basketball Camp near you.