Step-Slide Drill

How the 'Step Slide' drill just may save your defensive game.

Make no bones about it, while offense is the highlight reel fans love to see when they come to a game, a good defense is what ultimately keeps them happy – whether they realize it or not.

And when it comes to good defense, it's all about the footwork. That's why the "Step Slide" drill can be such a great ally. The Step Slide teaches players the correct stance for on-the-ball defense.

The "step and slide" method gets players to understand the footwork involved with playing defense by building strength in the legs and feet, which carries over to other skills on the court.

How to do it

• Line up along the baseline and face your instructor
• Your instructor should be positioned on the sideline
• Begin in a fundamental defensive position with your feet wide, knees bent and on your toes
• Step with your lead (front) foot first, and then step with your back foot – 6-inch steps
• Step-slide to half court and back

Points of emphasis

• Remember to slow and concentrate on not crossing your feet
• Your hands should be behind your back
• Stay low and on your toes throughout the entire drill

Common corrections

Make sure you are not standing up, which typically happens when you get tired. OC

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