Shot Blockers Can Completely Alter the Game

The art of the blocked shot usually takes years to develop, especially for a young player. Some youth athletes simply aren’t capable of learning how to block a shot with any kind of consistency. This can most often be attributed to either a lack of height and length or an inability to properly time the opposition’s movements. However, if perfected, few aspects of basketball can have a greater impact on a game than a blocked shot.

Some of the best shot blockers in the pros - Anthony Davis, Serge Ibaka and Hassan Whiteside - are able to completely alter opposing offenses. With the threat of the blocked shot, opposing players are less likely to drive to the paint. Or, when they get there, rim protectors are able to alter their shot even if they don’t block it.

Coaches should use team websites to teach their players about shot blocking. And if these youngsters can learn a thing or two, maybe one day they’ll approach the level of some the finest rim protectors around.

Rudy Gobert, the stifle tower

Rudy Gobert, a French center for the Utah Jazz, has quickly emerged into one of the best shot blockers in the NBA. Since the retirements of John Stockton and Karl Malone, the Jazz haven’t had much to celebrate. However, Gobert represents the possibility of a bright future for the Western Conference cellar dwellers.

RealGM, an NBA blog, notes that Gobert possesses a rare blend of mobility and gargantuan size. These traits have turned him into an elite shot blocker and already one of the more exciting young players in the league.

“The amount he’s been able to contribute so early in his career has blown pretty much everyone away,” DraftExpress scout Derek Bodner told the news outlet. “The amount of ground he’s able to cover, quickly, in one stride is incredible. He’s the type of shot blocker that can not only impact guards driving to the hoop, but can shut his man down as well.”

Oregon State forward elevates game with rim protection

Daniel “Pops” Gomis, forward for Oregon State men’s basketball, used to struggle to make much of an impression on the court. However, he has recently improved his game and carved out a key role for the team, according to the Statesmen Journal.

“He’s been a huge presence,” coach Wayne Tinkle told the news outlet. “What we’ve really lacked is kind of a guy that can control the paint and defend the rim, and he’s been that presence for us.”