Adapting the 3-2 Defense for the High School Game with Michael Thomas

This course explores how to adapt the 3-2 defense to the high school level, combining sound defensive principles with practical teaching methods. Coach Michael Thomas draws on his experience rebuilding programs to show how effort, accountability, and structure can turn defense into a team’s identity.

Coaches will learn both the philosophy behind the defense and the step-by-step methods to implement it on the court. Emphasis is placed on teaching roles, rotations, and adjustments while providing drills and film examples to connect practice to game performance.

Key Lessons & Topics:

• Building a defensive mindset: energy, effort, and accountability

• Scouting opponents and tailoring adjustments to shooters and post players

• Structure and roles of the 3-2 defense (top, wings, base, midline)

• Matchup-zone principles: help, recovery, and backside coverage

• Transition defense and stopping penetration

• Defending screens, swing actions, and common offensive counters

• Drills to reinforce rotations, communication, and positioning

• Creating buy-in, leadership, and a lasting defensive culture

By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to teach, adapt, and apply the 3-2 defense to fit their team’s strengths, while instilling a culture of discipline and toughness that drives program success.