A block is credited when a defender legally deflects an opponent's field-goal attempt.
blocked shots
In plain English
A block occurs when a defender legally touches a shot and prevents or changes its path towards the basket. It often reflects rim protection, interior presence and the ability to disrupt opposing finishes.
Derived terms
BLK%
Block Percentage: an estimate of the share of eligible opponent field-goal attempts blocked by a player or team.
Why it matters
Blocks can reduce an opponent's efficiency near the rim and affect shot selection. They do not measure defence on their own, but they complement defensive ratings, opponent eFG% and defensive rebounding when assessing paint protection.
Practical example
An attacker goes up for a layup, but the opposing centre legally touches the ball before it reaches the basket and stops the attempt. The defender is credited with a block.
Related terms
Statistic•Basketball
Steals (STL)
A steal is credited when a defender legally takes the ball and causes an opponent's turnover.
