zone defense

American  

noun

Sports.

1. a method of defense, especially in basketball and football, in which each member of the defensive team guards a specified portion of the playing area.

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Etymology

Origin of zone defense

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

But the Commanders are likely more than happy with Forbes, whose history of playing zone defense should fit well in defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio’s scheme.

From Washington Times

Kispert found success with his typically good off-ball movement until Orlando’s zone defense slowed the Wizards and held them to just 13 points in the fourth quarter.

From Washington Post

The Hawkeyes switched to a zone defense.

From Washington Post

After Notre Dame’s zone defense kept the Terps out of the paint in the first half, Maryland adjusted and got to the basket and the free throw line.

From Washington Post

Iowa: The Hawkeyes were held 13 points under their national-best average of 87.8 points, but came up with enough offense Georgia’s zone defense, which forced 17 Iowa turnovers.

From Seattle Times