“Defense wins championships.” says Andy Cochrane, 18, a four-time varsity basketball player. The key to playing good defense is always being focused and learning the movement of the other players. Andy has been playing ball since he was ten everyday in his hometown in Wisconsin. He says “It’s culture.” For the most part his whole family has been playing ball for years on end.

The key to playing defense is to read the other players' movements. Andy Cochrane explains “that understanding the other teams plays is the key to winning a game.” Once he can understand the routine of the other team he can match each play with the correct defense. This allows the team to match up even players with the opposite team. Once the team is up correctly the players are calmed and this allows them to focus better when they are set up well.

The basics of defense starts with keying on your opponent. Keep your arms, and legs bent to increase mobility. This will allow you to block a large area. Speed like a cheetah is needed to always be on the ball. Sharp quick movements to stay on opponents is needed. This will make for tight coverage that keeps you on the opponent at all times. Watching the ball at all times will help you play better coverage.

This could be beneficial for you to learn, to help you play street ball with your friends to winning a varsity championship with your team. No matter your circumstance, understanding defense can help you win any game.