Boxing-Out

Boxing out is the way a player takes a position between the ball and the defender / offensive player to get possession of the ball, for example after a shot.

At the time of the shot, the player takes a step backwards (retreat step) followed by a reverse pivot on the front or the back foot. The latter is dependent on the side that the attacker chooses to go to the basket. The player is now in a spread position with the face facing the ring. The legs are bent, ready to jump! The arms point slightly backwards, while the elbows protrude. If the movement is well executed, then the attacker is just caught between the arms. We call the entire movement ‘boxing-out’. Because of making himself braoder, the attacker is forced to make a detour. During this action, the body weight is moved backwards, while the eyes are constantly directed at the ball. The use of the jump consists of a step and the swinging of the arms.

Good boxing out is important, both in the defense and in the offense. It is the way to get the best possible position for the rebound and to prevent the direct opponent from taking the ball.

As a player you have to find your direct opponent immediately after the shot, stand between him and the basket and stand ready to rebound (by the knees, hands up, elbows out). The elbows to the outside is not to hurt the opponent but intended to broaden yourself and eventually protect the ball.

Boxing out is not performed in the defensive rebound, but also in the offensive rebound. As a player, be aggressive and take action in the rebound and box out before the opponent does.

Performing the box out

• Call “shot” to warn your teammates that incoming shot is coming
• Find your man so that you can decide which position to take.
• Make yourself broader and press your forearm against your opponent
• Do a reverse pivot to get in front of your man
• Push your opponent away with back / back and legs
• Put your arms wide to prevent the opponent from coming around
• Make sure that you stay ahead of the opponent with footwork.
• Protect the ball if you catch it (chin the ball, keep it under the chin with elbows out)