defensive assessment

Defense Wins Championships

This isn’t just a saying — it’s the truth. Great defenders change the game without needing the ball in their hands. But what makes a player elite on defense?

Our Defense Assessment puts your skills to the test. We measure key attributes that every top-tier defender needs:

This assessment helps players, coaches, and parents understand defensive strengths and uncover areas to improve. Whether you’re a lockdown perimeter defender or working to earn more minutes, knowing where you stand is the first step toward becoming a defensive anchor for your team.

Why Defense Matters

Scoring is fun, but stopping your opponent is how you win. Defense is about heart, hustle, and smart fundamentals. This assessment isn’t just about testing speed — it’s about evaluating the mindset and habits that make elite defenders stand out.

power Tests:

agility Tests (non-reactive):

Lane Agility Test

T-Test


reactive agility tests:

Reactive Lane Shuttle Test

strength tests:

Your Weight 

Purpose: We want to make sure that we know how much you weigh so we can have comparison to your tests.

Lower-Body Strength: Back Squat (3RM)

Purpose: Measures maximum lower-body strength, essential for holding position in the post and exploding laterally.

Procedure:

Normative Data for Basketball Players (Relative Strength to Bodyweight):


Level

3RM Squat / Bodyweight


Elite Defender:

1.85x bodyweight


Strong Defender:

1.6x bodyweight


Average Defender:

1.4x bodyweight


Needs Improvement:

<1.4x bodyweight


Alternative: If a player is inexperienced with squats, use a Trap Bar Deadlift as a safer alternative.

Trap Bar Deadlift (TBDL) 3RM Testing Protocol

The trap bar deadlift is a powerful, hip-dominant movement that is great for assessing posterior chain strength (hamstrings, glutes, lower back) and contact strength. Below is a comprehensive testing protocol for the 3RM (three-repetition maximum) and the corresponding normative data.


Test Preparation


3RM Testing Protocol


Form Considerations


Normative Data for 3RM Trap Bar Deadlift

These normative values are based on bodyweight-relative data for trained athletes and basketball players who perform resistance training regularly.

Level

3RM Trap Bar Deadlift / Bodyweight

Elite Defender

2.0x bodyweight or more

Strong Defender

1.75x bodyweight

Average Defender

1.5x bodyweight

Needs Improvement

<1.5x bodyweight

Explanation of Levels:


Upper-Body Strength: Push-Ups at 50BPM

Upper-Body Strength: Pull-Ups or Chin-Ups

Core Strength: Weighted Plank Hold

Purpose: Measures core endurance, which is essential for maintaining a low defensive stance and absorbing contact.

Procedure:

Scoring:

Level

Hold Time (45 lb plate)

Elite Defender:

2+ minutes

Strong Defender:

1:30 – 1:59

Average Defender:

1:00 – 1:29

Needs Improvement:

<1:00

Alternative: Perform Weighted Side Planks to test lateral core stability, important for sliding on defense.