Once a guard has obtained legal position on a stationary opponent without the ball, how can they treat that player?

Once a guard has established legal position on a stationary opponent who does not have the ball, they can treat that player as if they have the ball. This is based on the principle of defensive positioning in basketball, where a defender is allowed to engage with an offensive player who may potentially receive the ball. By treating the opponent as if they have the ball, the defender can use their position to create an opportunity for a defensive play, such as blocking their movement or contesting a potential pass.

The assumption that the player may receive the ball guides the defender's actions, allowing them to maintain an effective defensive strategy and respond to plays as they develop. In contrast, the other options do not provide the defensive player with the tools or considerations necessary to effectively guard or challenge the opposing player, leading to less strategic defensive play.