NBA 2K22 – Tips & Tricks for Advanced Defense

by Falagar / Articles, Misc. Guides / 22 Apr 2021

Tips & Tricks

The most important thing is understanding how to cover your opponent. At the start of the defensive phase, each player is given a man-to-man defense. As a result, it is your responsibility to defend your guy and not let them have any free space, depending on who you choose. Time your jumps and block attempts as well. If you jump, or attempt a steal, and miss, you have now given your opponent a large window of opportunity to make a play, as you need to recover from your unfortunate mistake.

In basketball, forcing turnovers is a crucial part of the game. Because of this, the traditional steal is one of the most exciting defensive plays. Press Square (PS) & X (Xbox) to extend your hand and reach for the ball. Be careful, though. If you spam the steal button, you risk being called for a reach-in foul. Try and only go for the steal against a player who doesn’t have great handling or while they’re in the act of passing the ball. Even just one or two stolen possessions can be the difference between winning and losing the game.

If you’re having trouble playing defense in NBA 2K22, these controls can help you become a lockdown defender. The advanced defense controls are challenging to learn and will require some effort. Calling zones is perhaps the most confusing feature for beginner players, but it may be the difference between winning and losing when done correctly.

Action	Xbox One & Xbox Series X	PS4 & PS5
Intentional Foul	Press and hold X when near the ball handler	Press and hold Square when near the ball handler
Double Team	Press and hold LT	Press and hold L1
Icon Double Team	Press LT, then press the desired double teamers action button	Press L1, then press the desired double teamers action button
Team Intentional Foul	Press the view button to commit a Team Intentional Foul	Press the touchpad to commit a Team Intentional Foul
Defensive Pressure Adjustments	Press LT, then press the action button of the desired defender.	Press L1, then press the action button of the desired defender
Call 2-3 Zone	Press the left arrow and select 2-3 Zone	Swipe from top to bottom on the touchpad
Call 3-2 Zone	Press the left arrow and select 3-2 Zone	Swipe from left to right on the touchpad
Call Man to Man	Press the left arrow and select Man to Man	Swipe from bottom to top on the touchpad

Box out on rebounds and free throws. And speaking of rebounds, make it easier on yourself. The defense will be in a better position to rebound the ball more often than not. When you are, hold L2 / LB to box your guy out and either pave the way for your players to grab it or go and get it yourself (especially if you’re the center).

Get back on the fast break. Speaking of fast breaks, don’t lollygag on the turn of possession. If your teammate misses a shot and you can’t get the rebound, start running down to the other end of the court. And when you make the shot, don’t sit around celebrating when the point guard is about to take the ball right back in the other direction.

Falagar

He is the founder and editor of Magic Game World. He loved gaming from the moment he got a PlayStation 1 with Gran Turismo on his 7th birthday.
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