Switching
-Switching happens when an a screen is set. It could be an on the ball screen or an off the ball screen.
-The two defenders guarding the players involved in the screen switch to guard the player their teammate was guarding.
-Communication is key. The "switch" call needs to be made every time. Do not assume you are on the same page with your teammate.
-If communication is not used you properly you could wind up with two defenders guarding one player and no one guarding the other player.
Jump to the Ball
-When a defender guarding a who makes a pass to another player. The defender should jump to the ball.
-Move up the line. The line is the invisible line that stretches from the player who just made the pass and the player who received the pass.
-Jumping to the ball prevents the passer from making a cut the crosses the defender's face and allows for any pass back and a layup.
-Do not let an offensive player get between you and the ball.
Bumping the Cutter
-Use your position on the floor to cut off the momentum of an offensive player who is cutting without the ball.
-Step in the player's path. Use your arm to make contact.
-Deliver a firm bump with the arm closest to the cutter. Do not extend the arm or be too physical with the bump so as to cause a foul.
-Place the arm closest to the ball up to take away the passing lane.
-Stay balanced by adapting a wide closed stance with the foot closer to the ball higher and the other foot lower or closer to the baseline.
-If you adapt an open stance by having the foot closest to the cutter higher than you cannot see the cutter, and this will lead to any easy basket.
