Basketball Defensive Channeling

The object of this Basketball Defensive Channeling drill is to allow the defensive player to learn techniques to force a ball handler to go where the defender wants them to to go.

Setup

1. With this defensive channeling drill you will need to use the full court. 
2. Split into two even teams on both ends of the endline on the right side of the basket.
3. The first player in line steps out and faces the first player in line in a defensive stance.
4. The next player in line will be the ball handler.
5. Utilize the wide area of the field. 

Instructions

1. On the coaches command each lines start at the same time.
2. The ballhandler dribbles slowly towards the basket on the other side of the court.
3. The defensive player shuffles and positions his body to force the dribbler to the outside of the court.
4. The defensive player then shuffles and positions his body to force the dribbler to the inside of the court.
5. This continues down the court until the defensive player reaches the opposite endline.
6. Make sure players switch roles and all players are able to work on defensive channeling.

Variations

1. Keep it simple early on. 
2. As the drill progresses allow tougher defense. 
3. Make it live where the dribbler can go to the basket after reaching halfcourt. 
4. This is also a good ballhandling drill to work on taking care of the ball, avoiding turnovers and breaking full court pressure.

Coaching Points

By proper body position and footwork the defensive player can funnel or channel the ball handler certain directions.  In a game it will allow the defender to force the offensive towards defensive help or towards bad areas of the court.

• Focus on good defensive footwork and body positioning. 
• Try to have the defensive player overplay and turn the ballhandler making them change directions often. 
• Make sure the offensive player takes care of the ball. 
• At first make the defensive passive where they cannot steal the ball. 
• As the drill progresses turn up the intensity. 
• Allow steals and look for fouls.

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