Man to man defense is a type of basketball defensive system in which each defender guards a certain offensive player, typically based on their respective basketball positions, to ultimately limit or prevent scoring opportunities near the basket or near the perimeter.

In pressure man-to-man the objective is to deny passes and disrupt the timing and ball movement of the offense. Therefore players play the passing lanes are a less available to help the on-the-ball defender. One tactic may seem more conservative and the other more aggressive, but both can be effective.

The full-court pressure defense is a man-to-man full-court defense. Instead of using the phrase, "we are going to press this team", I tell my players "we are going to pressure this team." A full-court zone press often implies trapping, gambling. With the "pressure defense", we do not gamble or trap much.

Man-to-man press and zone press attempt to do in a full-court area what is difficult to do in the area within twenty-one feet of the basket. That is to prevent the opposing team from scoring. Teams must understand that with preparation and confidence, they can discourage this type defense.

Man-to-Man Defense - Keeping pressure on the ball, on-ball defense. Pressure the ball at all times. This will cause turnovers and harass outside shooters. Assume the stance described above, forcing toward the baseline, and focus on the belly-button. Don't get your feet crossed unless you have to sprint back.