Anticipation on Defense

The ability to anticipate, or think one step ahead, gives players a defensive edge as long as the decision making balances risk versus reward. Effective anticipation requires having a heightened awareness of what is happening around you so you can predict what your opponent will do to stay one step ahead of her. Players can make risk/reward decisions based on the situation and communication with teammates. Being skilled at anticipation has more confidence taking risks and players should work within their abilities to make things happen on defense. Being able to anticipate the ball carrier’s body language and anticipate where and when she is going to pass the ball. As the ball carrier begins her throwing motion, our player is already on her way to the spot of the pass, ready to knock it down or intercept, because she is able to anticipate what the ball carrier was going to do.