The simplest defensive strategy is the one-on-one defense
(also known as "man-to-man", "man" or simply "person"), where each
defender guards a specific offensive player, called their "mark". The
one-on-one defense emphasizes speed, stamina, and individual positioning
and reading of the field. Often players will mark the same person
throughout the game, giving them an opportunity to pick up on their
opponent's strengths and weaknesses as they play. One-on-one defense can
also play a part role in other more complex zone defense strategies.
One-on-one defense involves shifting your hips to match your opponents.
It is critical to leave a cushion between yourself and the player you
are marking. If a person can shuffle and stay with the person they are
marking, then they are doing a good job as a defender. Their person
should never even be an option on the field.