Galen Harkness • June 9, 2024

How to Get More Steals in Basketball: Tips for Becoming a Defensive Stopper

Defense is a crucial part of basketball. Great defense can change the game, and getting steals is a big part of that.

Defense is a crucial part of basketball. Great defense can change the game, and getting steals is a big part of that. If you want to be a defensive stopper, here are some tips to help you get more steals on the court. Whether you're a a young player or a seasoned player, these tips will help you step up your game. Parents and coaches, these are great points to emphasize with your players too!


1. Anticipate the Play

- Study Opponents: Learn the habits of the players you guard. If you know what they like to do, you can guess their next move.

- Watch the Ball: Focus on the ball handler’s waist or the ball itself. This helps you see where they're going to dribble or pass.

- Read the Game: Spend time watching game film. Discuss with your coach when and how to anticipate passes and dribbles.


2. Read Eyes and Body Language

- Eye Tracking: Pay attention to where the passer is looking. Their eyes can give away their next move. Sometimes!! No look passes are made by good players.

- Body Cues: Notice how the opponent’s body moves. A shift in weight or a shoulder fake can show you their direction.


3. Keep Your Hands Active

- Hand Placement: Keep your hands out and ready. Active hands can deflect passes and disrupt the ball handler.

- Swipe Timing: Practice timing your swipes. Try to swipe at the ball when it’s low or when the dribbler isn’t protecting it well.


4. Positioning and Footwork

- Stay Low: Keep a low defensive stance. This helps you move quickly and react to the ball handler.

- Angle Cutting: Use the right angles to cut off driving lanes. Force the ball handler towards your help defenders or into traps.


5. Communicate on Defense

- Defensive Talk: Always talk on defense. Call out screens, switches, and where the ball is. This keeps everyone alert.

- Signal Awareness: Use hand signals or verbal cues to alert teammates about traps and steal opportunities.


6. Physical Conditioning

- Endurance Drills: Stay in shape with conditioning drills. High energy and intensity on defense can lead to more steals.

- Quickness Training: Work on your agility and quickness. The faster you can move, the better you can react and steal the ball.


7. Practice with Steal Drills

- 1-on-1 Ball Handling: Practice 1-on-1 drills where you focus on stealing the ball from your opponent.

- Pass Interception: Run drills that simulate passing lanes and work on intercepting passes.

- Reaction Drills: Use drills that test your reaction time. Respond quickly to coach commands to intercept or steal the ball.


Make It a Habit

- Film Review: Regularly watch game film to see where you can improve. Look for missed opportunities and successful steals.

- Consistency: Always put in the effort on defense. Stealing the ball takes persistence and smart play.


By following these tips, you'll become a stronger defensive player and get more steals. Remember, defense can win games, and being a defensive stopper is a valuable skill. Keep working hard, stay focused, and always be ready to teach and learn more about the game.

What Players Can Learn from Dominique Malonga

By Galen Harkness • September 15, 2025
At 19 years old, Dominique Malonga was the youngest player drafted in the WNBA when the Seattle Storm picked her No. 2 overall. With her size, skill, and potential, she was called a “unicorn.” But her rookie season didn’t start with highlight reels. It started on the bench. For most of the first half of the season, she barely played. Frustrating? Absolutely. But instead of being negative, Malonga stayed ready. She studied veterans like Nneka Ogwumike, clapped for her teammates, and asked constant questions. She turned frustration into fuel. By midseason, the patience and hard work paid off. Malonga became the youngest player in league history to reach 300 points and record back-to-back double-doubles. Suddenly, Seattle’s playoff hopes rested on the same rookie who was once just watching from the bench. So, what can players learn from Malonga? Patience and persistence matter. Success isn’t instant—stay consistent. Learn from the best. Watch, listen, and apply what veterans do. Confidence comes from work. She built belief through preparation. Energy is everything. Even before she played big minutes, her attitude lifted her team. Work > hype. Being called a star means nothing if you don’t put in the reps. Malonga’s story is a reminder: greatness is built day by day. Talent opens the door, but work, mindset, and resilience keep you in the room. At EYG Basketball, we help players do exactly that. Whether it’s skill development, game IQ, or building the habits that matter, our programs prepare you for your moment—on and off the court. šŸ‘‰ Ready to grow? Explore EYG Programs Original ESPN article link
Luka Dončić training in the offseason with improved discipline, highlighting the importance of off-c

Discipline Wins: A Lesson from Luka Dončić’s Offseason

By Galen Harkness • July 28, 2025
Luka Dončić’s offseason proves greatness starts off the court. Learn how discipline with training, diet, and habits can elevate your basketball game.
Basketball player training on courtā€”focused skill development, coaching, and confidence building dur

Coaching vs. Recruiting: What Are We Really Doing for Players?

By Galen Harkness • July 8, 2025
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