A good defensive approach starts before you make contact. The goal is to approach on an angle so you can anticipate where the attacker is going instead of simply reacting to her movement.

Approach on an Angle

If you approach an attacker square, she can beat you underneath or over the top. That puts you in a reactive position.

Instead, approach on an angle.

This allows you to understand where the attacker is going and meet her at the right spot. From there, you can either trap her with a double team or force her to roll back.

Your approach also gives the rest of your defense information. When you control the direction of the attacker, your teammates can anticipate where she's going and know when to send a slide.

Break Down Your Feet

Don't sprint directly at the attacker.

As you approach, break down your feet and stay patient. If you come in too aggressively, the attacker can use your momentum against you and beat you.

You also don't want to get too jumpy. If you bite on a fake, the attacker can beat you over the top.

It's okay to stay on the attacker's back hip while maintaining your position. You don't have to win the entire matchup immediately.

Make Contact and Maintain Position

As you approach, maintain your positioning and make controlled contact.

Once you're in the right position, you can use that contact to direct the attacker. If a double team arrives, your positioning can help trap the attacker and eventually force her to turn back.

The goal is to control the direction of the play, not simply chase the ball carrier.

The Coaching Point

Remind your defenders to:

  • Approach on an angle

  • Break down their feet

  • Stay patient

  • Maintain the back hip

  • Make strong, controlled contact

  • Direct the attacker toward the help

A strong defensive approach makes the rest of the defense better. When you control where the attacker goes, your teammates can anticipate the play and make the slide.