Correct Post Defense
When playing post defense many coaches teach playing in front of the offensive player and this is called ‘fronting’ just as it sounds. However, when a shot is made from outside that leaves the offensive player in excellent position for the rebound. Teams generally shoot below 50% from the field so the thought on this is that you want to mix it up and do a little of playing behind and ‘front’ the post player. For me I play behind knowing that they will miss half the shots they take during a game and I want to have a better chance at rebounding the misses. Here are some ways you can’t teach and practice correct post defense:
During practice run a shell drill with 3 players on the outside (point and 2 wings), 1 post offense and 1 post defense. EVERYONE needs to learn to play post defense including guards.
Have the offensive player cut from block to block as the ball is moved around the perimeter. The defender needs to make it difficult for the offense to get to his spot. Understand that the offense is trained to catch the ball a little above the block and just outside the key. The defense is supposed to keep them away from that area or push them a little higher. This drill should be physical with a lot of lower body being used.
The defender should stay BOTTOM side with a hand up and forcing a pass, if there is one, to the middle of the floor where help defense can easily get there. IF the defender is playing top side it is too easy for the pass to go in and have a clear lane to the basket. The defender should not go through the offensive player to stop the pass but should make the pass go to a spot where the offense is uncomfortable catching the ball.
The defender should always maintain physical contact with the offensive player and not allow space. Once the offensive player catches the ball he should try to score. If the ball is scored the defense stays until they get a rebound or create a turnover.
