While some of the all-time greats in the NBA made a name for themselves on the back of some memorable posterizing dunks, unbelievable half-court circus shots, or dazzling displays of handling, the greatest dynasties in the history of the game relied heavily on defense as much as they did offense. The same can be said in the modern game, perhaps now more than ever, which translates onto the virtual court as well.
With the release of NBA 2K24 came another chapter of the storied history of the game on PCs and consoles, with the latest edition holding a special place in the hearts of all basketball fans. With 2K24 paying homage to the late legend Kobe Bryant, players have flocked to the game to relive some of the Laker's greatest moments, as well as creating new history for their favorite teams. In order to accomplish unfathomable feats on the court, players will need to know how to defend in NBA 2K24, or can kiss their aspirations for championship rings goodbye.
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How To Defend In NBA 2K24
Much like any of the popular sports across the globe, being a good defender takes more than just protecting scoring zones from the opposition. In fact, the best work in defense usually starts with actions taken off the ball. In basketball, players need to understand that off-ball pressure can be just as effective in the game as on-ball pressure, as well as understand that there is a delicate balance between good defense and committing a costly foul on the opposing team.
Players can go deep into the playbooks of their favorite teams and run specific defensive plays, but they won't be effective without the fundamentals of defense in NBA 2K24. If you are just starting out, the key to defense is being able to perform Intense-D, Steals, and Blocks.
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How To Perform Intense-D in NBA 2K24
Intense-D is simply the shortened version of the term "intense defense", and refers to applying an increased amount of direct pressure on the player carrying the ball. To perform this technique, you will simply need to approach the attacking player and hold the L2/LT button on PlayStation and Xbox, respectively. This will have your player move in close to the attacker and pressure them while they are holding the ball.
Using Intense-D is a sound strategy and generally fairly-low risk, provided players don't get overzealous or attempt to steal the ball carelessly, as it closes the distance between attacker and defender. By doing this, you are obscuring the attacker's vision and minimizing movement potential, which can force a turnover in your favor if the opposition crumbles under pressure.
In addition to holding the L2/LT button, players can also control the movement of their defender's arms with the right stick, which can make it more difficult for the attacker to get a clean pass or clear shot at the basket. In some instances, players can force a turnover if the attacker attempts to pass in the space where the defender's arms are.
How to Perform Steals in NBA 2K24
Attempting a steal in basketball is a risky venture, as an unsuccessful attempt can lead to a foul or even give attackers an opportunity to open up the defense and score. With that said, a successful steal will cause a turnover and can be a significant momentum-swinging play. To perform a steal, players will need to press Square/X or move the right stick toward the ball when within reach of the attacker.
Given steals are a risky play and will often lead to a foul, this move is best used sparingly, as your success rate will not improve if you spam the control input. Instead, try and time your steal for when the attacker is performing a dribble or spinning move, or when the player is off-balance. It is worthwhile trying it once in a while, as you won't always get fouled, especially if you don't attempt it often, or even try your luck when you still have fouls left to give.
Steals are generally more successful when players are in control of a smaller and faster player, generally in the guard position . However, take note of the Steal rating for each player on your team to get an idea of whom to best try this technique with.
How to Perform Blocks in NBA 2K24
Blocks are perhaps just as risky as steals, as you can almost guarantee that an unsuccessful attempt will lead to free throws or even a three or four-point play. Nonetheless, blocking is an essential defensive move that can affect the attacking player's shot attempt, even without making contact. To perform a block, players will need to press the Triangle/Y button when the attacker attempts to shoot.
Blocking is best used when your player has a significant height advantage over the shooter, but the defender will need to almost beat the attacker to the jump to be successful. Players should be wary of attempting too many blocks, however, as attackers can always lure you in with a fake and end up scoring with a foul. Consider the risk against the reward and what the game circumstances dictate, as performing Intense-D with raised arms can also do enough to get an attacker to take a lower percentage shot attempt.
As is the case with Steals, it is best to check which member of your team has the best block rating. This will generally fall to the tallest players on the field, so take note of your Center and Power Forward's stats.
NBA 2K24
- Platform(s)
- PC , PS5 , PS4 , Switch , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S , Xbox One
- Released
- September 8, 2023
- Developer(s)
- Visual Concepts
- Publisher(s)
- 2K Games
