In basketball, there is a saying that "defense wins championships," which is why defensive preparations can be extensive before important games. A man-to-man defense means that each player is matched against an opposing player during a game. Coaches have many ways to attack a man-to-man defense.
Step 1
Find an opponent to guard. Match up according to size and position. A perimeter player should guard a perimeter player and a post player should match up against a post player.
Step 2
Watch the ball and your opponent. Stay between your opponent and the ball for the entire possession. Being aware of where the ball is forces you to slide over and help if your teammate is beaten on the dribble drive.
Step 3
Talk to your teammates and tell them what you see. If you are guarding the ball, let your teammates know by simply saying, "ball!" If you are in help position, then say, "help!" Talking is the key to a successful pressure defense.
Step 4
Bend you knees and keep your arms wide to intercept the pass. Pressure defense means that the offense should never have an easy pass or shot. Stay in constant motion for the entire possession.
Step 5
Slide into help if your man is two or more passes away from the ball. Help side is in the middle of the lane if the ball is on the opposite wing. You are the last line of defense in keeping the other team from scoring.
Step 6
Rebound the basketball when the shot goes up. This includes finding your man as the ball is in the air, making contact and blocking out. Once the ball is in your hands, you can find your teammate and push the ball up the court.
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