The following are a few concepts of Pack Line defense from Chris Mack of Xavier.
Pack Line defense helps give you a “system” to play defense.
1) Gives players answers and accountability
Certain things players can/can’t do do
They are given specific rules ex. “You can’t play behind the post” vs “Play hard”
2) Simplifies Scouting
Their coaches watch a ton of film but do not give it all to the
players. Instead they play certain actions in very specific ways and practice these
every day.
Example: Practice defending staggered screens so when they play a team they already know how they will defend this and get better at it through out the year.
3) Creates a culture your players can believe in.
Varsity players “pass” down the defense by teaching your younger players without a lot of involvement from coaches.
GOLDEN RULE: When your man does not have the ball YOU MUST HAVE 2 FEET IN THE PACK LINE.
Exceptions: If your man is cutting you must chase the cutter.
1) On the Ball: Have extreme ball pressure -- do not get beat to the outside NEVER GIVE UP BASELINE
Keep your butt to the basket
Don’t get beat baseline
If your man goes towards the middle do not get beat through the elbow, they can’t attack you on a straight line.
2) You must have two feet inside the pack line when your man does not have the ball and you are trying to form triangles
Defining Your Team
1. How do you close out?
2. Close out with two high hands to discourage rhythm shots
3. Play in then out
KEY: Your positioning is your help
Discourage shots, play the drive, call shot when the shot goes up.
