That is why Veteran referee Arnold Mesa wants to share some tips on how to deal with towering cagers in the game both in defense and offense.
Mesa said coaches can not teach gaining height but they can teach how to counter height in basketball games.
When there’s no way to stop an attacking big guy, the best thing smaller defenders can do is to deny him the second chance to charge the basket. And this can be done, Mesa said by blocking him out as soon as he’s back on the ground.
Anyone who fires a shot should remain exactly where he jumped.
Mesa hinted that the better block-out position, the greater chance for a smaller defender to pick up foul on the rebound and turn the game around.
Strength and speed compensate for lack of height, but be it in the defense or offense smaller opponents should use them wisely taking care not to commit foul or violation, Mesa said.
Pouring out strength sometimes causes injuries he added.
And the third is team work. In defense, the player facing the ball handler may want to shout for help, which should signal a double or trap team.
Taking lessons from the World Masters Olympic last year, Mesa said these tips are just a few he can share to help local players level up.
“Basketball game is not about knowledge of height or weight. Anyone can fit the game as long as he understands the knowledge of courage, innovation and persistence,” Mesa said.
