How to Play Defense Like Ron Artest

Ron Artest is one the most controversial figures in the NBA. He is often making headlines for his behavior and not his basketball skills. Despite these distractions, Ron Artest is one of the best defensive players in the NBA, and he uses those defensive skills to frustrate opponents. He bases his defense on attitudes and skills that any player can learn and incorporate into his game.

Instructions

    • 1

      Grow up with a defensive mindset on the court. In an interview with Startingfive.net, Ron Artest said, "I grew up always wanting to play defense-always wanting to lock down my man." Artest just grew up wanting to play defense while other players want to score.

    • 2

      Play very physically on the ball defense. Ron Artest has a reputation league-wide for his toughness and ability to muscle offensive players to positions on the court that are outside their comfort zone.

    • 3

      Stay in front of the offensive player on defense. Ron Artest works relentlessly on his footwork and timing in order to stay in front of his man on defense. You must bend your knees and stay low in order to defend against the dribble drive properly.

    • 4

      Understand the fundamental of defense in basketball. Despite his physical skills Ron Artest is one of the most fundamentally sound defenders in the game of basketball. Like Artest, you must keep your hands active and slide feet in a shuffle motion with a purpose.

    • 5

      React quickly in the passing lanes to make steals on defense. Ron Artest understands when to break for a steal and where the passing lanes are for any offensive set. He demonstrates this skill by ranking in the top five in steals almost every year in the NBA.