Jalen O'Neal | Practicing Close-Out Techniques

Closing out on a shooter is one of the most challenging defensive tasks in basketball, requiring a combination of speed, timing, and footwork. Professionals like Jalen O'Neal convey that a successful close-out involves sprinting towards the shooter, then quickly decelerating to avoid a foul while raising your hands to contest the shot. The goal is to close the gap between you and the shooter without losing control, thereby reducing their chances of making an uncontested shot.

 

To practice close-out techniques, incorporate drills that simulate game situations where you need to close out on a shooter. Focus on the mechanics of sprinting, decelerating, and contesting the shot without jumping recklessly. Proper foot placement is crucial, as it allows you to maintain balance and recover quickly if the shooter decides to drive past you. By mastering close-out techniques, you can become a more effective perimeter defender and significantly reduce your opponent's shooting percentage.

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