Rebounding in basketball is one of the most crucial—yet often underappreciated—aspects of the game. While shooting and scoring dominate highlights, games are often won and lost based on who controls the boards. Whether it’s offensive or defensive, rebounding is all about possession, and possession is power.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The definition and types of rebounding
- Why thsi is so important
- Key skills and techniques involved
- How to measure and analyze rebounding performance
- Rebounding stats across player positions
- Tips to become a better rebounder
What is Rebounding?
This refers to the act of retrieving the basketball after a missed field goal or free throw attempt. When a shot is taken and doesn’t go in, the ball is up for grabs. Players from both teams can try to get it. Whoever gets the rebound gains their team another chance at offense or ends the opponent’s possession.
Types of Rebounds
There are two main types of this in basketball:
| Type of Rebound | Description | Outcome Example |
|---|---|---|
| Defensive | Collected by the team defending the shot. Happens more frequently. | Ending the opponent’s possession |
| Offensive | Grabbed by the shooting team after their own missed shot. | Second chance to score |
Rebounding Frequency in Games
To understand how often rebounds occur in a typical game, let’s look at the numbers:
| Game Type | Total Shots Missed/Game | Average Total Rebounds | Offensive Rebounds | Defensive Rebounds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NBA (pro) | 80–90 | 42–50 | 10–12 | 30–38 |
| NCAA (college) | 70–80 | 35–45 | 8–10 | 27–35 |
| High School | 60–75 | 30–40 | 6–9 | 24–31 |
As you can see, this opportunities are frequent—and they directly affect scoring opportunities.
Why is Rebounding Important?
It has a ripple effect on nearly every aspect of the game:
| Benefit of Rebounding | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Extra possessions | Offensive rebounds give your team more chances to score |
| Stops opponent momentum | Defensive rebounds end a scoring attempt |
| Controls tempo | Teams with strong rebounders can control pace by limiting fast breaks |
| Psychological advantage | It shows hustle and dominance, which can demoralize opponents |
Skills Needed to Be a Great Rebounder
It’s not just about height. Some of the best rebounders aren’t the tallest but the smartest and most determined.
| Skill | Description |
|---|---|
| Boxing Out | Using your body to block opponents from getting to the ball |
| Timing | Jumping at the right moment, not just the highest |
| Positioning | Knowing where the ball is likely to bounce and getting there first |
| Strength | Holding your ground under the basket |
| Anticipation | Reading the shot trajectory and reacting quickly |
Rebounding by Position
Different positions have different responsibilities when it comes to it. Here’s a breakdown:
| Position | Rebounding Role | Average Rebounds/Game (NBA) |
|---|---|---|
| Center (C) | Primary rebounder, closest to the basket | 10–15 |
| Power Forward (PF) | Secondary rebounder, strong inside presence | 8–12 |
| Small Forward (SF) | Supports big men, active on both ends | 5–8 |
| Shooting Guard (SG) | Helps on long rebounds, transition starter | 3–6 |
| Point Guard (PG) | Rarely rebounds but supports in transition | 2–4 |
Note: Some guards, like Russell Westbrook, have broken traditional norms by being elite rebounders.
Understanding Rebounding Statistics
If you’re analyzing a player or team’s performance, these stats are key:
| Stat | Meaning |
|---|---|
| RPG (Rebounds per Game) | Total average rebounds a player collects per game |
| ORB / DRB | Offensive and Defensive Rebounds, separated for better insight |
| Rebounding % | Percentage of total available rebounds a player grabs |
| Rebound Rate | How often a rebound is secured when the player is on the floor |
Famous Rebounders in History
Here are a few legends known for dominating the boards:
| Player | Notable Stat | Era |
|---|---|---|
| Dennis Rodman | 7-time rebounding champ, avg. 13.1 RPG | 1990s |
| Wilt Chamberlain | 23,924 career rebounds | 1960s–70s |
| Dwight Howard | Led league in rebounding 5 times | 2000s–2010s |
| Andre Drummond | Known for massive offensive boards | 2010s–present |
These players weren’t just tall—they were relentless.
How to Improve Your Rebounding
Want to be a better rebounder? Here’s what to work on:
- Footwork Drills – Help improve positioning and quick reactions
- Strength Training – Especially for lower body and core
- Film Study – Learn where shots typically bounce
- Rebounding Drills – Include multiple players to simulate game pressure
- Mentality – Rebounding is 50% effort. Always fight for the ball.
Rebounding Drill Table
Here’s a training table you can use to structure it drills:
| Drill Name | Description | Focus Area | Reps/Rounds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box Out Battles | Partner tries to get around your box-out | Strength + Positioning | 3 rounds |
| Tip & Grab | Tip ball off backboard and grab after second try | Timing + Balance | 10 reps |
| Triangle Rebound | Three players compete for rebound | Competition + Hustle | 5 minutes |
| Chase the Bounce | Coach throws ball off rim at odd angles | Anticipation + Speed | 3 rounds |
| One-on-One Glass | Two players go for a shot off backboard | Game Simulation | 8 possessions |
It may not be flashy, but it’s foundational to winning basketball. Whether you’re a coach, player, or just a fan, understanding the impact of rebounding helps you appreciate the grind behind the game.
It’s more than just jumping for a ball. It’s timing, technique, toughness, and tenacity.
So next time you watch a game, don’t just follow the scorer—watch who owns the boards. That’s where real dominance begins.
