Equally important is that great defense forces offensive mistakes. Turnovers reduce your opponents shot attempts by one and normally increase yours by one. Turnovers often occur in situations where an offensive player can't get back as well, often leading to a 3 on 2 or 2 on 1 situation and easy score. Teams that defend with active feet, alertness, and react quickly are the best fast break teams. Convert Quickly to your Assignment on Any Exchange of Possession.
Transition is really about which team converts the quickest in numbers to defend or attack.
If you practice reacting immediately up the court at the exact moment you team gains possession you will be a better fast break team. Gaining possession isn't just after a steal, but off a rebound-outlet pass, and an explosive inbounds after a made basket. Do not lose the most opportune time for you to fast break because you are disappointed after a score. Get your tail up the court. If you are really alert you should have made 1-2 sprint steps well up the court on any exchange of possession prior to the first dribble or pass between teammates in fast break transition.