On-Ball Body Defense is a defensive technique for developing through advanced players that teaches defenders to use controlled body contact, strong footwork, and proper arm positioning to stop a drive without committing a foul.
SET UP
Pair an offensive player with a defender and have the offensive player initiate a controlled drive toward the cage. The defender gets into good body position, keeps their feet moving and core strong, and uses their arms to absorb the offensive player’s movement. As contact occurs, the defender should give slightly with their arms before locking the elbows, maintaining position without pushing the offensive player away. Progress by increasing the speed and pressure of the offensive drive while requiring the defender to maintain legal contact. Emphasize the difference between absorbing contact and extending the elbows—punching the arms outward can result in a foul and an eight-meter opportunity.
COACHING POINTS & PRINCIPLES
- Give, Then Hold: Allow the arms to give slightly on contact before locking the elbows and establishing a strong defensive position.
- Never Extend: Avoid punching or extending the elbows into the offensive player; even with good body position, that extension can create a foul.
- Feet + Core: Keep the feet moving and the core strong throughout contact rather than relying on the arms to stop the offensive player.
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