How to Keep Your Eye on Your Man & the Basketball

Playing basketball well is not only a matter of learning to dribble and shoot. Whether you are on offense or defense, you need to perfect the art of multitasking. In basketball, this often takes the form of keeping track of a player on the opposing team and the ball at the same time. While there is no one way to make sure neither the ball nor your opponent elude you, you can get into position to give yourself the best chance of doing your job and winning the game.

Instructions

    • 1

      Maintain your balance on the basketball court. Getting yourself in a good stance to go after the ball will allow you to focus on what's happening on the court, including where your man is. Stay in a wide stance with your knees slightly bent. Keep your shoulders square over your knees. Avoid lunging at the ball, which can throw you off balance.

    • 2

      Get yourself in a position to see both the ball and your man. Most of the time, this entails keeping low. Stay lower than the man you are defending, which will always keep him in sight even when you are looking at the ball.

    • 3

      Keep your eyes moving. Things unfold quickly on a basketball court, and you could miss it if you get distracted. Look around and read the court. Anticipate where the ball is going and where your man's next move might be.

    • 4

      Use your hands to keep track of your man while the ball is in the air. If you are both looking up to a rebound, keep one hand slightly touching your man so you can know where he is at all times.