Taking a charge

[rainmaker]

Originally posted by Junker
A good point Bob, but to me, most of the time when the defense ends up right under the basket it is because they are not in good initial defensive position. Yes, I can see that it will alter a lay-up or force a short jumper, but to me, if you are guarding someone, get out on the floor and stop them from getting to the rim. Parking yourself under the rim and waiting for contact just seems to be a little...well I think cheap is the best word for it (I was looking for a clear way to make my point and have writer's block).

Well, cheap is all a lot of high school players have! At the skill level of the NBA, I can see being this restrictive, but for hs and rec ball, it makes sense to give players whatever can be available. Rarely do I see anyone "parking" under the rim. Usually the "take the charge" is set up within a second of the shot, and in that case, I think it's good defense where ever it happens.