Full Court Pressure

"When torrential water tosses boulders, it is because of its MOMENTUM;
When the strike of a hawk breaks the body of its prey, it is because of TIMING.
Thus the momentum of one skilled in war is overwhelming when his attack is precisely regulated."
Sun Tzu Wu, 450 BC

Extending the defense can be very potent weapon at times. However, the effectiveness of full court pressure is dependent timing and on the execution of the basic individual defensive fundamentals. When pressing full court, use sideline push in order to minimize the offensive operating area on the court and to establish strong backside support. Aggressive passing lane denials and quick close out rotations along with the basic concepts of trap zones, box pressure, and Helpside "I" are all vital components to successful pressing.

The types of presses deployed will vary according to player personnel, and to the game situation. Depending on the circumstances, various types of presses can be deployed to either increase or decrease game tempo. They may also be deployed as a change of pace or as a surprise tactic. Generally, press an inferior team, a slow team , when behind, or as a change of pace.

Click on desired press to view graphically illustrated details.