Start with the player guarding the ball
Use a simple activity where a defender stays balanced in front of a controlled ball handler. Stop when footwork turns into reaching.
Add one teammate at a time
Introduce the idea that a defender must also notice the ball and a teammate who needs help. Demonstrate the position before adding movement.
Use the rules your league actually plays
Youth competitions may restrict pressing or zone defenses. Check the local rulebook and teach the version your players will use.
Make help and recovery visible
In a small practice group, freeze when the ball handler changes position. Ask defenders to identify the ball, their assignment, and the basket, then discuss who needs to move. A player watching only the ball can lose their matchup; a player watching only an opponent can miss a teammate needing help. Use controlled repetitions to make that tradeoff visible before adding more instructions or pressure.
Questions a coach might ask
Does man-to-man mean never helping?
No. Players still need help and recovery responsibilities. The individual matchup is only part of the team picture.
Should players always switch screens?
Switching is one possible team decision, not a universal rule. Choose and teach a response that fits the players and situation.
Keep learning
For official development guidance, see USA Basketball’s Youth Basketball Guidelines. For another example of movement after a pass, see the Jr. NBA Post Pass and Cut Drill. These are further-reading resources; they have not reviewed or endorsed this HoopSketch example.
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