The Zone Defense Myth

I am not a zone-defense coach, but I have defended zone defense several times (here, here, and here) because there are so many misconceptions about basketball and the way that the game is taught.

One criticism of zone defenses is that players ball-watch, whereas in man defense, players learn to watch the ball and the man.

I watched a college game tonight, and this argument is inaccurate. Players in a good zone defense constantly look and talk to make sure that their teammates are aware of the offensive players. In good man defenses, the players talk and see cutters too.

The issue is not man-defense vs. zone-defense, but good defense vs. bad defense or well-taught defense vs. poorly-taught defense.

Zone defense itself is not a culprit of ball watching, as good zone defenders are aware of cutters. Instead, it is poorly-taught defense.

However, perception is greater than reality. When we evaluate different aspects of basketball, we need more diligence. Rather than worry about man or zone, we need to encourage well-taught defensive fundamentals.