Rebounding

 

Just like playing defense and moving without the ball on offense, rebounding requires great determination and discipline. Although height, long arms and great athleticism are both very helpful; the keys to rebounding are determination and technique. Good rebounding teams are usually good scoring teams too. It is impossible to fast break if you do not rebound, and second shot points can make or break you. To rebound is to add another possession – and championship basketball is all about positive possessions!

 

See the Shot

Always see the ball at all times. You must be aware of when and where a shot is taken. If you are guarding the shooter, call out "Shot! Check!" to alert all of your teammates.

 

Assume the Shot Will Miss

Think of every shot as a pass to you. Every field goal attempt is a potential rebound. And every rebound equals an extra possession for you and your teammates. You can never rebound too much!

 

Find a Body & Make a Hit

Once the ball is in flight, locate your man or find the closest man and block him out. Too often players become spectators and watch the ball in flight. This can be detrimental. Hit or get hit!

 

Block Out

First, raise your forearm allowing the offensive player to initiate the contact. This establishes a "feel" for the opponent so you can more efficiently inside or reverse pivot into his lower body. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, arms raised, upper arms parallel to the ground and bent at the elbows, and palms up.

 

Pursue the Ball

Instinctive rebounders have a "nose for the ball". It is not just being in the right place at the right time, but smart play. Shots taken from the side of the court have a 75% chance to rebound to the opposite side, or weak side. Shots taken from the middle of the floor tend to rebound in the middle of the paint. Also, common sense tells us the longer the shot, the longer the rebound. The shorter the shot, the shorter the rebound.

 

Clean Chin

Keep in mind all efforts are in vain if you fail to protect the ball and turn it over. Go up tall and come down wide. At the same time, chin the ball up and away from the defense. Do not bring the ball down low and/or dribble.

 

Outlet Pass

After a defensive rebound, pivot to the outside and immediately look to the nearest outlet box (2-seconds or less). We teach the two-hand, overhead pass and/or scoop pass (advanced). If the outlet receiver is not open or available, look to the long cutters or bust out with a few dribbles of your own.

 

Coach Hueser’s “3-Pointer”

1. Offensive rebounding requires you to read and counter your opponent – go to the gaps. Jab step and crossover in the opposite direction, or spin (S.O.F.O.) with a reverse pivot to gain the all-important inside position.

2. As a shooter, you're the one player on the floor with the greatest "nose for the ball". Therefore, follow your shot!

3. Consider every shot as a pass to you. Pursue every rebound with your head and heart!