Dead ball - when the ball has gone out of bounds, after an official whistle is blown, or after any score.
Defensive board - the backboard behind the basketball net that the team is defending.
Defensive rebound - A rebound of an opponent's shot.
Deny the ball - the prevention of an opponent getting the ball
Diamond-and-one - a defense strategy in which four players position themselves into a diamond shape (one on each side of the line, one near the basket, and one near the free throw line) the fifth player covers an opponent one on one.
Double dribble - when a player dribbles the ball with both hands or when they stop dribbling and start again.
Double foul - a foul in which opponents commit fouls against each other at the same time.
Double post - an offensive set-up where two players (usually the center and power forward) are in post positions.
Double pump - two fake shots in rapid succession.
Double team - guarding one opponent with two defenders.
Down court - From the backcourt toward the frontcourt, or toward the basket at which the team is shooting.
Downtown - a shot made from behind the 3 point line.
Dribble - to bounce the basketball repeatedly with one hand; moving or standing still.
Dribble series - a continuous dribble until the ball handler allows the ball to rest.
Drive - to move aggressively toward the basketball hoop with the ball.
Drop step - when a player backs toward the basket, then takes a step to the side of the defender behind him and then turns and drives past him on that side.
Dunk - when a player leaps above the basketball rim with the ball and slams it into the basketball net.
