An important aspect to winning a basketball game is rebounding on the defensive end. To hold the opponent to one shot per offensive sequence gives your team a much better chance to win the game. This article describes the skills and mindset needed to be a effective defensive rebounder. 

It starts with having solid position in front of the opponent. This involves quickly getting in front of the opponent when the shot is taken. The rebounder maintains that position by holding a wide, balanced stance while being persistent in staying in front of the opponent. The rebounder then moves to meet the ball as it goes off the backboard and/or rim. Shots taken from the right of the rim tend to rebound to the left of the rim, while shots taken from the left side of the rim tend to rebound to the right of the rim. Exceptions to this are line-drive shots and short shots which tend to rebound quickly back toward the shooter. It is important for the defensive rebounder to pursue the basketball until it is secured by him/herself or another player. Moving her/his feet quickly to get near a loose basketball is crucial. A defensive rebounder must be eager to be the one to secure the basketball or tap it to a teammate.

Defensive rebounding involves stamina. The effective defensive rebounder must be able to jump often during a game and not get tired. Jumping rope frequently and doing rebounding drills in practice ensures that the player will be strong at the end of the game as well as at the beginning of the game. Defensive rebounding is a challenge because there are 9 other players in the area vying for the basketball. An effective defensive rebounder must really want that basketball in order to help his/her team have more ball possessions.

It is crucial that all 5 teammates on the court are invested in being effective defensive rebounders. If one or more is not into defensive rebounding, then the other team is likely to get the ball. This is frustrating for the players on your team who are making a strong effort to get the defensive rebound. Defensive rebounding is an important extension of team defense. A team can play hard on defense, and it can all go for nought when the defensive rebounding is not there. This is why defensive rebounding should be applauded and celebrated and recognized as one of the keys to winning the game.