5 Tips For Being a Good Guard in Basketball

Almost every player on the court is a guard of some sort. Guarding in basketball is one of the most important jobs. Every player should be sure to understand how best to play their position.

When playing in a guard position it is important to make sure that your mind is always on the court. Focusing is important for every position, but for a guard it is one of the top things to do because a guard who is not paying attention and not focusing is not able to do their job.

In addition to that important rule of guarding, the following five tips are things every guard should take to heart and start putting to work in their game.

1. A guard must be excellent at handling the ball.

Guards handle the ball the most on the court, so being able to handle the ball is essential. A guard must be able to keep control on the ball. They should be good at catching, passing and dribbling.

2. A guard must be quick.

Since a guard is going to be controlling and moving the ball, a guard has to be quick. He has to be able to move the ball before the other team can get to it. He has to be able to move the ball down the court into scoring position fast so the points can be earned.

3. A guard must be in a good position for every catch.

Since guards move the ball they must always be focused and ready. A guard that is not ready is a lost point. When the guard is not ready for the ball another player has to step up and possibly step out of their position to do so. This leaves the team vulnerable. If a guard is not in a good position then it is important the other team members are aware and that the situation is quickly remedied.

4. A guard should play by the sideline as much as possible.

A guard is in the best position near the sidelines. Players will be able to find the guard easier and the guard can zip through the court easier from this position.

This does not meant hat a guard has to stay on the sidelines, but it is a nice place to aim to be most of the time.

5.A guard should always move in a straight line when cutting off the forward and never in a circular pattern.
The way a guard moves is important. Guards should move in the most efficient manner possible. Wasting steps is never a good choice. Straight moves are best whenever possible.

When cutting off the guard it is best to just confront and go straight instead of trying fancy moves or going around. This may be a bit harder but it is the best option. It will allow you to get where you need to go in the fastest manner and you will end up in the best position.

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