How to Set Up the Close-Out and Defend Drill

The Close-Out and Defend Drill is a basketball drill that is designed to help kids improve their ability to close out on an opponent and defend the opposing team’s scoring opportunities. The goal of the drill is to teach players to effectively close out on an opponent, challenge shots, and make it difficult for the opposing team to score.

To set up the Close-Out and Defend Drill, cones are placed on the court to create a line for the offensive player to move across. The defensive player starts on one side of the line, while the offensive player starts on the other side. The coach or a designated player will pass the ball to the offensive player, and the defensive player will then close out on the offensive player and defend their scoring opportunities.

The defensive player should focus on proper technique such as keeping their feet shoulder-width apart, using their body to shield the offensive player, and keeping their hands up to contest the shot. The offensive player should focus on proper shooting technique and try to score while the defensive player is closing out on them.

As the players progress, the coach can increase the difficulty of the drill by adding more players to simulate game-like situations, or by adding different types of screens, cuts, or pick-and-roll situations.

The Close-Out and Defend Drill is an effective way to help kids improve their defensive skills and better understand the importance of proper technique. It allows players to practice closing out on an opponent, defending the opposing team’s scoring opportunities and making it difficult for the opposing team to score in a controlled environment, which will help them become better defenders and overall better basketball players.

Additionally, the coach can also add variations to the drill such as having the defensive player switch on screens, or having them communicate effectively with their teammates while defending in order to better defend as a team. As the players progress, the coach can also increase the speed of the drill and make it more game-like by adding more players to the drill and simulating different game scenarios.

It is also important for the coach to provide feedback and correction on the players’ technique during the drill, as well as encouraging them to think ahead and anticipate the next move from the offensive player.

The Close-Out and Defend Drill is a valuable tool for helping kids improve their defensive skills and understanding of defensive strategies. It allows them to practice closing out on an opponent, defending the opposing team’s scoring opportunities and making it difficult for the opposing team to score in a controlled environment. By focusing on proper technique, quick reactions, and teamwork, this drill will help kids become better defenders and overall better basketball players.