In basketball, hedging refers to a defensive strategy used during pick-and-roll situations. When a player sets a screen for a ball handler, the defender guarding the ball handler (the “on-ball defender”) may need help from the defender guarding the screener (the “off-ball defender”). Instead of just switching or fighting through the screen, the off-ball defender may “hedge” by briefly stepping out towards the ball handler to disrupt their movement and give the on-ball defender time to recover.
Hedging involves the following steps:
1. Stepping Out: The defender guarding the screener steps out towards the ball handler after the screen is set. This creates a temporary double team on the ball handler.
2. Disrupting the Play: The goal is to make it more difficult for the ball handler to move freely or make a quick decision, like taking a shot, driving to the basket, or passing.
3. Recovery: After a brief delay, the hedging defender must recover quickly to their original assignment (the screener) while the on-ball defender gets back into position.
The effectiveness of hedging relies on timing, communication, and the ability of the defenders to recover quickly after the hedge. It’s typically used when the defending team wants to prevent the ball handler from having an easy path to the basket or an open shot, but it can leave the screener open for a shot if not executed properly.
