Defend Like Marcus Smart: Top Basketball Conditioning and Defense Drills

So you want to defend like NBA star Marcus Smart...

But how???

With these defense and conditioning drills.

To defend "Smart" you need top-notch conditioning, quick reflexes, and LOTS of effort. These drills will help you build the same defensive intensity and conditioning as the Grizzlies point guard.

1. Timing

Timing is everything. Intercepting passes or contesting shots... finding ways to be in the right place at the right time is key. Our drills focus on quick reactions, and help you develop your decision-making abilities, needed to mirror Smart's defensive timing.

2. Angles

This is where geometry can help you! Understanding angles can prevent you from rushing to cut off an opponent too early, but rather position yourself to force mistakes. You can practice defensive positioning at local basketball training programs, and work on using angles to your advantage.

3. Smart Hustle

"Smart" hustle over reckless hustle, always. Know when to take risks and play it safe. Train to assess situations in real-time, making the best defensive plays without comprising your position.

4. Closeouts

Learning how to close out on shooters without overcommitting is a key component to your defensive game. Basketball camps can help you improve your reaction time and footwork, to help you challenge shots effectively while staying balanced.

5. Footwork Adaptability

You don't need perfect stance-you need to be able to adapt on the fly. Smart does this perfectly. His transitions between different defensive movements are a testament to his versatile footwork, helping him stay ahead of opponents no matter the situation.

6. Active Hand Placement

Active hand placement can create the illusion of more space and therefore disrupt offensive players.

7. Taking Charges and Causing Turnovers

One of Smart’s signature moves is taking charges, turning the game in his team’s favor. One of the most important skills to learn is how to anticipate and position yourself to draw offensive fouls.

Conclusion

To defend like Marcus Smart, you need skill, intelligence, and effort. By focusing on timing, angles, hustle, closeouts, footwork, hand placement, and charge-taking, you can create the ultimate all around defensive skill set. At BTG Basketball, located near Los Angeles, California, we offer group and private training sessions tailored to help you develop these crucial defensive skills. Join us and start making game-changing plays like Marcus Smart.