GLENN WILKES ON DEFENSIVE FOOTWORK

A few years ago while our team was playing in a tournament, I got to spend some extended time with Coach Glenn Wilkes. He has a tremendous basketball mind and loves talking the game. I actually went out and purchased a book by him simply called "Basketball" off of ebay. It is a long-time out of print book but it is one of the better basketball books I've ready in terms of fundamental approach to basketball. It was a book I wished I had in my possession when I first started coaching. Here some thoughts on individual defense from Coach Wilkes:

Footwork…three major steps must be mastered
The approach step (closeout)
The side step (on the ball)
The retreat step (drop step)

Approach Step…as the opponent receives the ball in scoring range, the defensive player must advance quickly into defensive position. The body must be low and the weight distributed on both feet.

The Side Step…as the opponent moves across the court, the defensive player brings both feet on a line parallel to the opponent. Neither foot is in advance of the other.

The Retreat Step…if the opponent makes a drive or cut for the basket, the retreat step must be used.

Vision…vision is as important to defensive play as to offensive play. Proper vision allows the defensive player to see both the opponent and the ball at the same time, as well as offensive screens and defensive situations that may call for help. Peripheral vision is important.
charm home : Basketball: Man to Man Defense, Fundamentals

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