In basketball, Guarding is the act of legally defending an opposing player. The defender positions their body between the offensive player and the basket.
They aim to prevent open shots, drives to the hoop, or easy passes. Guarding involves maintaining a legal position without making illegal contact or committing fouls.
A legal guarding position requires the defender to face the opponent with both feet inbounds. The defender can move vertically, backward, or sideways to maintain this position. They cannot extend an arm, leg, or hip into the opponent's path.
Renowned defenders like Kawhi Leonard and Draymond Green excel at guarding opposing players.