DON'T FOLLOW THE RULES - Part II

As mentioned a few days ago in Part I of this topic, the best defenders attack the ball first and take away options before they can be used.

For a team to play great defense: #1 they have to believe that defense is more important than offense and #2 they must understand that Offense is variable, but Defense is not.

It sounds easy in theory, but in reality, there aren't that many teams that are willing to place Defense ahead of their Offense.

Why is offense variable?

On any given day, your offense can be affected by numerous things. Your shot could just be "off" that day. Maybe the rims at an opponents gym feel tight, maybe the lighting wasn't that great, maybe you jammed your finger, maybe your PG's passing was slightly off, I think you get the idea. Your teams Offense can be affected by a lot of different stuff.

Why is defense NOT variable?

Tight rims do not affect your ability to play great defense. Bad lighting does not affect your ability to play great defense. A jammed finger does not affect your ability to play great defense. Your PG's pasing does not affect your defense. Again... I think you get the idea.

The key to attacking the ball is to closeout with the intention of "stopping the ball" above all else. The first priority is to contain the ball and not allow dribble penetration. Secondly, no uncontested shots. Every shot is contested and followed by a box out.

To be a great defender, you have to believe that you are one of the best defensive players on the court - period! You have to have a mindset where you almost dare the ball handler to try and get past you.

Great defenders are rare... are you one?

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