Last Updated on: 10th July 2023, 06:13 pm
What Is Help Side In Basketball?
In basketball, the “help side” refers to the defensive strategy of positioning a defender on the weak side of the court to provide support and help defend against an offensive player who is driving towards the basket.
When an offensive player is driving towards the basket, the defender guarding that player is known as the “on-ball defender.” The help side defender, on the other hand, is responsible for providing support and help defense by positioning themselves in a way that allows them to quickly move towards the basket to contest a shot or prevent a layup.
The help side defender must be aware of the movements of both the ball and the other offensive players on the court, and be ready to quickly react and move to the appropriate position to provide support. This defensive strategy is crucial in preventing easy baskets and forcing the offense to take more difficult shots.
Help Side Defense Basketball Drills
There are several basketball drills that can help players improve their help side defense skills. Here are a few examples:
- Shell Drill: This is a popular defensive drill that focuses on help side defense. It involves positioning four defenders around the key, with one offensive player passing the ball around the perimeter. The defenders must communicate and move quickly to cover the ball and the other offensive players.
- 3-on-3 Help and Recover: In this drill, three offensive players start on one side of the court, with three defenders on the other side. The offensive players must try to score while the defenders work on help side defense and recovering to their own player after providing support.
- Closeout Drill: This drill focuses on the initial movement of the help side defender when an offensive player receives the ball. The defender starts on the weak side of the court and must quickly close out on the offensive player to prevent an easy shot.
- Zig-Zag Drill: This is a conditioning drill that also helps with help side defense. The player starts at one end of the court and zig-zags between cones while a coach or teammate passes the ball around the perimeter. The player must quickly move to the appropriate position on the court to provide help defense.
These drills can be modified and adjusted to fit the skill level and needs of the players. Consistent practice and repetition of these drills can help players improve their help side defense skills and become more effective defenders.
How To Play Help Side Defense In Basketball
Playing effective help side defense in basketball requires a combination of awareness, communication, and quick reactions. Here are some tips on how to play help side defense:
- Stay aware of the ball and the other offensive players: The help side defender should always be aware of the movements of the ball and the other offensive players on the court. This will allow them to anticipate where they need to be to provide support.
- Position yourself correctly: The help side defender should be positioned in a way that allows them to quickly move towards the basket to contest a shot or prevent a layup. This may involve standing in the paint or near the baseline, depending on the situation.
- Communicate with your teammates: Effective help side defense requires good communication between all defenders on the court. The help side defender should communicate with their teammates to let them know where they are and where they need to be.
- Be ready to move: The help side defender must be ready to quickly react and move to the appropriate position to provide support. This may involve sliding, sprinting, or jumping to contest a shot.
- Don’t overcommit: While it’s important to provide support, the help side defender should avoid overcommitting and leaving their own player open. They should be ready to recover to their own player if necessary.
By following these tips and practicing help side defense drills, players can become more effective defenders and help their team prevent easy baskets.
