Youth Inc. Recommends: Six Resources to Help Improve Your Defense and Rebounding

Defense isn’t just about effort — it’s about technique, communication, and basketball IQ. And rebounding? That’s defense’s closing act. Whether you're learning to navigate ball screens, lock up your matchup, or control the boards, these resources break down how to become a more effective, smarter, and tougher defender.

Simple Defense Technique Drill

What it is: A short drill reinforcing defensive stance, lateral movement, and how to hold your ground — especially when you’re undersized. 

Why we like it: It's a bite-sized reminder that defensive fundamentals matter — stance, footwork, and effort go a long way when trying to contain your matchup.

Master Ball Screen Defense with This Technique

What it is: A quick lesson on how to absorb contact and control your opponent during ball screens using your arm bar, strength, and angles. 

Why we like it: It teaches physicality without fouling — a must for navigating screens and disrupting pick-and-rolls.  

How to Defend Ball Screens

What it is: A tactical breakdown of the reads and decisions defenders need to make when guarding a pick-and-roll — like when to go over, under, or switch. 

Why we like it: This is about IQ. It teaches how to read the shooter, communicate with your teammates, and react accordingly — the stuff that separates good defenders from great ones. 

Ashley Deary “The Art of the Steal”

What it is: A mini-masterclass from former NCAA steals leader Ashley Deary, sharing the mental and physical keys to becoming a disruptive on-ball defender. 

Why we like it: It’s rare to hear elite defenders break down how they rack up steals. Quickness helps — but timing and anticipation are everything.

How to Block Out and Rebound

What it is: A high-energy tutorial on boxing out fundamentals: locating the ball, moving your feet, and securing rebounds. 

Why we like it: This one’s aggressive and simple — perfect for players who need to develop consistency and effort on the glass.

How to Understand and Execute Successful Box Outs

What it is: A smart breakdown of how angles, discipline, and positioning impact rebounding success — both for individuals and teams.

Why we like it: It teaches why rebounding matters and how to do it like a thinker. Knowing where the ball is likely to bounce = next-level rebounding.