Defending the Basketball Fast Break

Stopping the fast break is a difficult but important part of the game and a key to being a good defensive basketball team.

Stopping the fast break is a difficult but important part of the game and a key to being a good defensive basketball team.  Transition defense takes effort, anticipation and intelligence.  Even then a well executed fast break is difficult to stop.

The key to fast break defense is to first get immediate pressure on the ball and delay the attack.  Do not just let the outlet man run out and begin a quick transition.  Slow down the initial pass and force the ball out of the middle of the court.  This will allow defenders to get back, fill lanes, and pick up their man.  So make sure the closest man pressures the rebounder or outlet man on every possession.  This single act will do the most to keep your opponent from getting out on a fast break.

If the initial pressure on the ball does not stop a fast break from developing, there are a number of other strategies to limit the damage and force your opponent into a half court set.   The main thing once a fast break gets started is to hustle back on defense and get behind the ball.  Fast breaks are about numbers and getting back quickly behind the ball will stop a fast break in its tracks.

We already mentioned forcing the ball wide and trying to keep it there once it is wide.  This cuts the court space and limits passing options for the break.   Get in front of the ball and try to make them pass back or pick up the dribble.  In  the meantime, defensive players are tracking back and getting in position.

Another strategy is to take a foul.  If things are particularly dire and the game is tight, there is nothing wrong with taking a foul to stop the play.  Be careful to not do so if you are over the foul limit as it will give the other team free throws.   Otherwise, a well timed foul is a good strategy. 

Also, try not to give away the free basket.  Get up and challenge the shot.  Maybe you'll get the block or at least pressure the shooter into missing.  If not, make them earn the two points at the free throw line.  Do not go soft on the foul though as you can find yourself giving up the three point play.

Stopping the fast break is difficult but using the ideas above can greatly slow down or stop a fast break most of the time.  Take the time to discuss fast break defense as it is an important part of the game most basketball coaches do not put enough time into.

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