At some point in their career, every baller encounters a “dirty” opponent or defender. Whether you are a starter or the last player in the rotation, you are guaranteed to cross paths with an opponent whose sole task is to test your patience and ability to stay focused. One of the most important factors in separating a great player from a good one is the ability to effectively deal with a “dirty” opponent.
1.Don’t Take It Personal. If you are the best player, it’s likely that the “dirty” defender is purposely trying to get into your head. Take this action to mean that the opposing team is showing you respect – your opponent fears you and knows he can’t beat you straight up. Looking at it from this perspective will give you a mental edge, and the ability to stay cool under pressure.
2.Stay in Control. When an opponent begins to play dirty, most players fight fire with fire. If you find yourself beginning to play your rival’s game, you have already taken the L. No matter what, stay in control! Don’t get out of your lane in hopes to one-up your opponent. If you’re on the floor to play defense and take open shots, don’t try to run the offense. You will only end up embarrassing yourself. Remembering your role and the game plan will put you in the best position to come away with a win.
3.Let Your Game Do the Talking. At this point, staying true to your game will confuse the opponent, ultimately having an adverse effect on their strategy to get you flustered. You will see – when you stick to your guns and refuse to let your rival dictate momentum, they will begin to lose composure. Expect the dirty play to intensify. Your only response can be to elevate your game.
4.Let the Referee Know. If you stay focused, you can count on the other team to get frustrated and amp up the dirty play. Don’t be surprised if they pull out cheap shots, elbows to the ribs, or footstomping. When this happens, you should pull the ref to the side at a dead ball or end of the quarter and let them know that the opponent is playing dirty. The ref won’t see everything, but bringing it to their attention will increase the chances that they catch the dirty fouls. The dirty player might even get stuck with a technical foul or ejection.
5.Finish the Game with a Win. Playing smart ball and staying focused will lead you down the road to victory. With these qualities in the front of your mind, you will gain the respect of your teammates, the crowd and, ironically enough, the dirty player and opposing team. From now on, that player knows not to mess with you by pulling cheap tricks or unfair stunts.