Defense wins basketball games, as the old saying goes. Stressing the importance of defense is essential, especially in the early stages of learning the game. Make sure kids are learning the proper fundamentals and defensive positions as early as possible. Repetition is important when learning the proper way to play defense. Incorporate defensive drills into every practice, and focus on areas of weakness.
Shell Drill
The shell drill teaches the basic positioning of team defense and is used by coaches teaching kids the fundamentals. Start with four offensive players around the perimeter passing one ball on command. The four defensive players guard one offensive player each and don't steal the ball. According to the Coaches Clipboard website, the player defending the ball yells "ball" repeatedly until the next pass. The two defenders one pass away deny the ball to the offensive players they are guarding and yell "deny" until the next pass. The player two passes away from the ball shades into the lane and plays "help-side" defense and yells "help" until the next pass. Speed up the passing as the defense gets used to adjusting to the different positions.
1 on 1 Half-Court With Corner Man Stationary
Start with two defenders guarding two offensive players. One offensive player stands, not moving, at the corner of the three-point line. The ball starts at half-court with the other offensive player, who dribbles to the basket. The defensive player guarding the ball should force the offense to the sideline, away from the basket and toward the help, according to BasketballCoach.com. The other defender should help defend the ball and recover to the man in the corner if the ball is passed. Start over after a shot is made.
Take the Charge
Teach kids how to draw a charging foul. Form one line at the perimeter and give each player in line a basketball. Form a second line under the hoop. Start with the first offensive player driving to the hoop and making contact with the player playing defense under the hoop. The Coaches Clipboard recommends using a mat for the defensive player to fall on to avoid injury. Make sure the defensive player sets his feet and does not move when drawing the contact.
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