I need help on defense.?

Question

Everybody I play against says that I'm an inch from blocking the ball. The problem is that I'm afraid of hurting them. One time, I punched this guy in the face and knocked him out. So what do I do? Should I be aggressive?

Answer 1

you can't be afraid of hurting him, basketball is a physical sport. Yes, you punched someone one time but it was probably just unlucky event. I say just be aggressive and go for that block.

Answer 2

Search on youtube Bruce Bowen fundamentals on defense. Search also the Michael Jordan defensive stance. Both videos help.

PS:Bruce won't teach how to put your foot under a player hoping he'd get injured.

Answer 3

K, there is a way to be aggressive without being too physical.  Pressure the ball, not the player.  If the player is right handed, try to make him dribble to the left.  And you probably defend 1v1, so see if your man is a driver or a shooter.

If you guard a shooter, make sure not to let them get open, but if they do, there is nothing you can do except get a hand up to disrupt their vision (but put your hand straight up, don't try to block a long distance jumpshot cuz it probably won't happen)

If you guard someone who drives to the rim, give him some space and force him to his left if he is right handed (which most ppl are).  Against shooters, get up close to them and keep your hands out.

Just try to be as aggressive as you can, but instead of trying to get the person, get the ball.