The second player on defense is extremely important to effectively shut down an opposing team’s attack. The second defender is the person who takes the ball from the player while the first defender stalls and distracts the dribbler.
As the first defender applies pressure and challenges the opponent, you run in and take the ball. The first defender is there to stall and hold the dribbler long enough in one place to allow the second defender to double team and take the ball away. Most dribblers cannot escape this type of defense because they panic or are overwhelmed with the applied pressure. Defend as a pair to eliminate any chance of getting scored on.
Make sure to tell your coach or teammates about this strategy so they understand how to do it. Here are some drills to improve this defensive technique.