A well-conditioned team is one poised for significant triumph on the basketball court. Yet, achieving such a level of readiness demands a dedicated focus on basketball conditioning drills. This can be particularly useful in the preseason. Numerous approaches exist for achieving this: including sprints, distance training, rigorous drills targeting in-game stamina, or a blend of the aforementioned methods.
In our training regimen, extended distance running receives the least emphasis. This choice is grounded in the understanding that basketball primarily involves bursts of energy rather than prolonged jogging or running. Instead, our preference leans towards incorporating conditioning through dynamic wind sprints and specialized drills engineered to enhance overall endurance.
Basketball Conditioning Drills: Defensive Slides
This is a great drill for working on different defensive movements and can be used as a warm-up drill. Players will work on many defensive fundamentals: defensive slides, back-pedalling, close-outs, drop-steps, and sprinting.
A line of players begins behind the baseline on one side of the key. If available, place d-men or cones on the elbows so that players have a visual to close-out to. No basketballs are needed for this drill.
Players should complete the course as quick as they can while still in control of their body. Pay attention to the footwork of the players. Players must be closing out with short steps and get one hand up. They must stay on-balance during this. Some variations include increasing the distance and flipping to the opposite side of the floor.
Basketball Conditioning Drills: The Riley Test
This is a conditioning test from the Xavier Newsletter #198. This is a great conditioning exercise because it is tough but achievable for players to accomplish.
The Riley Test is five “down and back” runs. The players start on the baseline and must run those five down and back sprints. It is best to group your players by position. After each set the players get a 2:30 break.
The goal for high school boys has always been anywhere from 1:05-1:10 per set and for the girls has been 1:10-1:20. This can decrease as you go throughout the season or get more conditioned. We always started with 3 sets but never did more than 6 sets.
Basketball Conditioning Drills: Champion Runs
This is a run that I ran in my high school under my coach Andy Elkins. It is a long sprint where if you don’t give 100 percent effort, it is impossible to complete.
The Champion Run consists of the following: 1 valley (see note in intro paragraph) followed by 5 full court touches (full court touch= start at 1 baseline and sprint to opposite baseline is 1). Coach Elkins always said the beauty of the Champion Run is that you will end up on the opposite baseline from where you started, so you might as well run two Champion Runs!
We do these runs when we don’t make free throws like we should, commit too many turnovers, or for just some good old-fashioned conditioning. We time these. Boys, especially guards and wings, should complete a Champion Run in the 1:00-1:07 range. Girl basketball players should complete a Champion Run in the 1:10-1:16 range.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
Basketball coaches frequently strategize diverse methods to overcome the top-ranked team in their matchups. A significant portion of these strategies revolves around defensive tactics. For coaches aiming to optimize their training sessions and enhance the effectiveness of their guidance, the solution lies in embracing the Funnel Down Defense.
The Funnel Down Defense methodology offers coaches a proven defensive system that controls the tempo of the game and fosters the creation of turnovers.
What is the Funnel Down Defense?
The Funnel Down Defense taps into an often overlooked element of many basketball courts: the volleyball lines. This defensive strategy revolves around compacting the court’s effective area for the opposing team’s offense, achieved by pushing ball handlers beyond a specific key section of the court. The primary objective of Funnel Down Defense is to hinder the utilization of around 60 percent of the court, compelling offensive play to operate within a condensed 40 percent perimeter.
The central idea is to confine ball movement to one side of the court, inducing a faster pace in the opposing offense which, in turn, tends to result in errors and missteps. Moreover, this tactic reduces the available space that the offense can effectively utilize.
Funnel Down Defense is meticulously crafted to disrupt the customary rhythm and flow of opposing offenses, leading to turnovers and forcing unfavorable, hurried shots. Its efficacy is particularly pronounced in games with a shot clock, as the offensive team is forced to dedicate more time to escape the trapping zones.
3 Key Concepts of the Funnel Down Defense
Pin the ball on the sideline
Funnel the ball to the baseline
Trap and Rotate in the short corner
The design of this defense borrows its terminology from bowling. The task of the defense remains to “funnel” the ball along the “gutter” of the court to the baseline, where a trap awaits in the “strike zone.” Funnel Down seeks to keep the ball out of the “alley,” which is the main stretch of center court inside the volleyball lines. The traps occur in “strike zones” positioned at the short corners.
Ideally, defenders pressure the ball into the gutters, avoiding the centering pass. This is called a “pin.” This tactic overplays the ball handler away from the middle so that the ball can’t be swung. Defenders stay ahead of the ball handlers by sprinting, not sliding, trying to stay half a body width ahead of the dribbler. This discourages penetration and funnels the ball toward the trap areas.
The defender “up the line” covers a man below the ball level on the court. This defender needs to remain between his man and the ball in order to help. The defenders continue to “funnel” the ball along the sideline, encouraging the dribblers to head toward the baseline. Once the ball enters the “strike zone” in the short corner, that triggers a trap and weak side rotation.
For more on how to implement this game-changing defensive system, Click Below for the Limited Time Funnel Down Defense Offer!
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As coaches, we are always looking for ways to give our team and program any sort of slight edge. Coaches are also educators and looking to put their players in a better position after being in their program than when they came into their program. In basketball leadership skills help in that regard. As coaches and educators, we want to set up our athletes to be successful when they stop bouncing the basketball. There is one program that I feel has checked both of those boxes for our program for the last five years and that program is Lead ‘Em Up.
Lead ‘Em Up is a Leadership Program that was created from Adam Bradley and his team that is designed to be dynamic and engaging for athletes to develop the skills for leaders that are needed to win. In my opinion, that “win” component means much more wins in the victory column during the season. Those “wins” are preparing young people with the needed skills to become successful employees, spouses, parents, etc.
Basketball Leadership Ideas
Lead ‘Em Up has 8 thoughts they believe in:
When the leader improves, everybody wins.
Leadership is a skill and like any skill, it needs practice in order to improve.
Great leaders can make the “uncool” into the new “cool”
Leadership isn’t sometimes, it’s all the time.
Better people make better athletes
Leading by example is not enough; there needs to be more.
The more you pour into your players, the more they have to give.
We want players as excited about leadership development as they are about skill development.
The program provides weekly exercises that the coach leads that work on different skills like engagement, focus, self-discipline, and many, many more. When coaches become members, they gain access to the lessons that are easy to follow and implement.
In addition to the great lessons, the Lead ‘Em Up team does an interactive video session either with the coaching staff or entire program to kick off the season on the right footing. We have elected to do the session with our entire program to really help build up some of the initial skills that are necessary.
Any question you have about the Lead ‘Em Up program can be found at their website. As they say at the end of every lesson: Have Fun, Lead ‘Em Up and Build Green!
Kyle Brasher | Gibson Southern High School
Lady Titans Basketball Coach
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As youth basketball coaches, we understand the immense significance of preparing our young athletes to excel in high-stakes moments during the game. Whether it’s hitting a game-winning shot, nailing crucial free throws, or effectively managing the clock, end-of-game situations can often determine the outcome of a match. In our latest blog post, we present a comprehensive practice plan tailored to help young players develop the skills, decision-making, and composure needed to thrive in these pressure-filled moments.
Join us as we dive into a specific practice plan with drills that simulate game scenarios, designed to instill confidence, teamwork, and strategic thinking in our youth basketball team. With a structured progression and targeted exercises, we aim to empower both players and coaches to master end-of-game situations and turn them into game-changing opportunities for success on the court. Let’s lead our young athletes towards greatness in the most critical moments of the game!
Practice Plan: End-of-Game Situations
Objective: The goal of this practice plan is to develop the youth basketball team’s skills, decision-making, and composure in end-of-game situations. By incorporating specific drills that simulate game-like scenarios, the players will gain the confidence and ability to excel in pressure-filled moments during real games.
Timing: 90 minutes
Warm-up (10 minutes):
Begin with a dynamic warm-up, including light jogging, dynamic stretches, and agility drills to get players physically and mentally prepared for the practice.
Drill 1: “Game-Winning Shot” (15 minutes):
Set up a game-like situation where the team is trailing by two points with 15 seconds left on the game clock.
Divide the team into two groups and run controlled scrimmages, focusing on executing plays to get an open shot opportunity.
The defense should apply pressure to simulate real-game conditions.
Rationale: This drill allows players to practice making game-winning shots under pressure and improves their ability to execute plays effectively in tight game situations.
Drill 2: “Free-Throw Pressure” (10 minutes):
Players pair up, and each player takes turns shooting a pair of free throws.
Add consequences for missed free throws, such as doing push-ups or a short sprint.
Increase the pressure by making the players complete a physical activity before attempting the free throws.
Rationale: Practicing free throws under pressure helps players build confidence and composure when facing crucial moments at the free-throw line during real games.
Implement your go-to play for End-of-Game, End-of-Quarter, or End-of-Half situations. If you don’t have one, be sure to view the clip below for a good one!
Run several repetitions with varying scenarios, such as different scores, time remaining, and defenders applying pressure.
Conclude the practice with a cooldown that includes static stretches to prevent injuries and promote recovery.
Review the key takeaways from the practice and provide constructive feedback to the players on their performance.
Progression: As the team becomes more proficient in handling end-of-game situations, gradually increase the difficulty by shortening the time available, adding defensive pressure, or incorporating multiple scoring options in plays.
By following this practice plan and incorporating specific drills for end-of-game situations, the youth basketball team will develop essential skills and strategies to succeed in high-pressure moments. Repeated practice in these scenarios will instill confidence, composure, and cohesion among the players, ultimately translating into improved performance during real games.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
When practicing for end-of-game situations in youth basketball, it’s essential to focus on drills that simulate game-like scenarios and help players develop the necessary skills and decision-making abilities. Having practice drills specific for End-of-Game situations will help develop your team’s confidence in those key moments.
Here are some good youth basketball drills to run for end-of-game situations:
Practice Drills for End-of-Game Scenarios
1. Scrimmages with Time Constraints: Divide the team into two groups and play controlled scrimmages with specific time constraints, such as 1 minute or 30 seconds left on the game clock. Emphasize executing plays, managing the clock, and making quick decisions under pressure.
2. Free-Throw Pressure: Create pressure situations in free-throw shooting drills, where players have to make critical shots with the game on the line. Add consequences for missed free throws to increase the pressure.
3. Quick Transition Offense and Defense: Practice transitioning from defense to offense and vice versa quickly. Emphasize making fast decisions, passing, and attacking in transition to capitalize on opportunities.
4. Defensive Stops Drill: Set up scenarios where the defensive team needs to make consecutive stops to win the game. The offensive team tries to score, and the defensive team must secure rebounds and prevent scoring to succeed.
5. Decision-Making Scenarios: Design drills that force players to make quick decisions based on the game situation, such as whether to hold for the last shot, take an open shot, or pass to a teammate.
6. Clock Management Drill: Run scenarios where the team must manage the clock effectively, making deliberate decisions to use or save timeouts and control the pace of the game.
7. Simulated Game Endings: Recreate actual end-of-game situations from previous games or popular basketball moments. Have the team watch footage and discuss the strategies used, then try to replicate those scenarios in practice.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As a seasoned basketball coach with years of experience on the court, I firmly believe in the power of precise execution during critical moments. The end of each quarter presents a golden opportunity to make a significant impact on the game’s momentum, and that’s where this “End-of-Quarter Quick Hitter” comes into play.
In this post, I’ll be sharing valuable insights into this strategic offensive play, tailored specifically for youth basketball teams. Mastering the art of the end-of-quarter quick hitter can give your team the edge they need to finish quarters on a high note, gain momentum, and seize control of the game. So, let’s dive into the intricacies of this tactical gem and empower your young athletes with a game-changing tool that will elevate their performance to new heights.
End-of-Quarter Quick Hitter
This play begins with using the 1-4 High set.
1 starts with a dribble entry to the wing. As 1 makes his way to the wing, 2 imitates a zipper or loop cut.
2 cuts down and loops around 5, who provides the down screen.
As that action is taking place, 3 cuts to the corner as a decoy action.
This initial action might get an open look for 2 at the top of the key.
Any defensive overplay might result in a dump down pass to 5 for a layup.
3 pops up from the corner to receive a pass on the wing.
1, meanwhile, cuts from the opposite wing to the strong side corner. He cuts along the baseline, receiving a screen from 4 at the block to free him.
2 reverses the ball to 3 on the wing. Once that pass has happened, 5 provides a flare screen for 2.
This action might get an open shot for 3. It might also get an open shot for 1 in the corner, or 4 on the block.
The final sequence of this play sees 3 make the decisions. He might be open, or 1 in the corner, or 4 on the block.
3 can also skip pass to 2, whose flair screen might see him open on the opposite side. Depending on how the defense plays it, 5 might slip the screen for an open layup as well.
The value of a play like this one remains the pressure-release aspect. If a defense overplays or denies certain passes, preventing a team from initiating a continuity offense, then a set like this one provides a useful counter attack.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As a veteran basketball coach who has witnessed countless thrilling finishes and heart-wrenching losses, I understand the immense value of preparing young athletes for the intense pressure and critical decision-making that accompanies end-of-game situations.
These nail-biting moments can define the outcome of a basketball game, making them an essential aspect to address during practice sessions. In this post, I will delve into seven compelling reasons why youth basketball coaches should prioritize practicing end-of-game situations with their teams.
From fostering composure under pressure to enhancing strategic thinking, these reasons highlight the significant impact that targeted practice in these scenarios can have on the development and success of young players. So, let’s explore the crucial reasons why dedicating time and effort to practicing end-of-game situations is vital for the growth and achievement of our youth basketball teams.
7 Reasons to Practice End-of-Game Situations
As a veteran coach, I can emphasize the crucial importance of practicing end-of-game situations for a youth basketball team. Here are several reasons why practicing these scenarios is essential:
1. Building Confidence
End-of-game situations can be high-pressure moments that require composure and decision-making under stress.
By practicing these scenarios, players become more comfortable and confident in executing their roles and responsibilities when the game is on the line. This confidence translates into better performance and reduced anxiety during real-game situations.
2. Enhancing Execution
End-of-game situations often involve specific plays, strategies, and tactics.
By practicing these scenarios, players learn how to execute these plays effectively, make precise passes, set screens correctly, and execute scoring opportunities. Regular practice allows players to refine their skills and improve their execution in critical moments.
3. Developing Decision-Making Skills
End-of-game situations require players to make quick and smart decisions based on the game’s context.
Practicing these scenarios allows players to develop their basketball IQ, understand the importance of time management, shot selection, and reading the defense. It helps them become more knowledgeable and skilled in making intelligent decisions in pressure-filled situations.
4. Team Cohesion and Communication
End-of-game situations require seamless coordination and communication among teammates.
By practicing these scenarios, players develop a better understanding of each other’s strengths, tendencies, and preferred plays. They learn to communicate effectively, anticipate each other’s moves, and make collective decisions that can lead to successful outcomes.
5. Minimizing Mistakes
End-of-game situations can be unforgiving, and even small mistakes can have significant consequences.
By practicing these scenarios, players become more aware of potential errors and develop strategies to avoid them. This includes minimizing turnovers, making solid passes, executing plays correctly, and maintaining focus until the final buzzer.
6. Instilling a Winning Mindset
Practicing end-of-game situations instills a winning mindset in young players. It teaches them to never give up, fight until the end, and believe in their abilities.
By rehearsing these scenarios repeatedly, players understand that victory is achievable in challenging situations, boosting their motivation and competitive spirit.
7. Preparedness for Real Games
Youth basketball teams often face close games where end-of-game situations become decisive.
By practicing these scenarios regularly, players are better prepared to handle the pressure and execute their roles effectively. They can enter real games with the confidence and skills necessary to succeed in critical moments.
Overall, practicing end-of-game situations is invaluable for a youth basketball team. It not only enhances their basketball skills and decision-making abilities but also fosters team cohesion, confidence, and a winning mindset. These skills and qualities extend beyond basketball and can positively impact players’ lives both on and off the court.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As a veteran coach with years of experience on the basketball court, I firmly believe that preparation is key to success in any sport. As Benjamin Franklin famously said: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” When it comes to basketball, there’s one aspect that often separates the winners from the losers—the ability to navigate and excel in basketball end-of-game scenarios.
These critical moments can make or break a team’s chances of victory, and as coaches of youth basketball teams, it’s our responsibility to ensure our players are well-equipped to handle the pressure and make the right decisions. In this post, we’ll explore five essential questions every coach should ask before diving into those nail-biting, adrenaline-pumping end-of-game situations. By addressing these questions, we can empower our young athletes to face these moments with confidence, poise, and a strategic mindset, ultimately increasing their chances of triumph. So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to mastering basketball end-of-game scenarios!
Basketball End-of-Game Scenarios: 5 Questions to Answer
As a coach, you and your staff need to know the answers to the following questions ahead of any basketball season to prep for those end-of-game scenarios.
Question 1: Should you foul or go for a steal/turnover if your team is behind? If fouling, whom and when?
Rationale: This question addresses the strategy of whether to intentionally foul the opposing team to stop the clock and extend the game or to go for a steal or turnover to regain possession quickly.
Possible Answers: It depends on the time remaining, the score difference, and the defensive capabilities of your team. If there is sufficient time, fouling the opponent’s weakest free-throw shooter or the player with the ball can increase your team’s chances of getting the ball back. However, if your team excels at creating turnovers, going for a steal or trap might be a viable option.
Question 2: Should you foul when your team is up by 3 points to avoid a potential 3-pointer? If so, when?
Rationale: This question addresses the decision of whether to foul the opponent intentionally to prevent them from attempting a game-tying 3-pointer.
Possible Answers: It depends on the time remaining, the defensive capabilities of your team, and the likelihood of the opponent making a 3-pointer. Foul only when the opposing team is attempting a 3-pointer, ideally before the shot is released, to prevent them from tying the game.
Question 3: What should your team do after getting a rebound/turnover or after a made shot? Should you call an immediate timeout, push the ball up and call a timeout, or disregard the timeout and go for a score?
Rationale: This question addresses the decision of whether to call a timeout immediately, push the ball up the court and then call a timeout, or play through without a timeout to capitalize on the momentum.
Possible Answers: It depends on the game situation, time remaining, and the need for a strategic adjustment. If your team needs to regroup, set up a play, or make substitutions, calling an immediate timeout might be appropriate. However, if there’s an opportunity for a quick score in transition, pushing the ball up the court and then calling a timeout can catch the defense off guard. In some cases, if the flow of the game is favorable and momentum is on your team’s side, it might be best to let the players play and go for a score without using a timeout.
Question 4: Should your team hold for the last shot or take the first good scoring opportunity when trailing by 1, 2, or tied?
Rationale: This question explores the strategy of whether to be patient and hold the ball for the last shot to ensure your team has the final possession or to take the first good scoring opportunity available.
Possible Answers: It depends on the time remaining, the offensive strengths of your team, and the quality of the available shot. If time allows, it might be wise to run a well-executed play and look for the best possible shot rather than rushing. However, if there’s a clear and open opportunity early in the possession, taking the shot might be a suitable option.
Question 5: Do you have plays prepared for various locations on the court, considering the time left in the game?
Rationale: This question emphasizes the importance of having well-rehearsed plays from different areas of the court, taking into account the time remaining in the game.
Possible Answers: Yes, it is crucial to have a variety of plays designed for different scenarios, such as sideline inbounds, baseline inbounds, and half-court sets. These plays should consider the time remaining and provide options for quick scores, perimeter shots, or set plays to exploit defensive weaknesses. Having a diverse playbook allows your team to adjust and execute effectively, regardless of the location and time left on the clock.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
Basketball End of Game situations refer to the specific scenarios and strategies that teams employ in the closing moments of a basketball game when the score is close and every possession becomes critical. These situations typically involve various tactics aimed at maximizing scoring opportunities, managing the clock, and maintaining or gaining a competitive advantage.
It’s important to note that end-of-game situations can vary depending on the specific rules and regulations of different basketball leagues and organizations. Coaches and players often develop unique strategies and adjustments based on their team’s strengths, the opponent’s weaknesses, and the game’s context.
Here’s a look at seven elements basketball coaches should consider when dealing with End of Game situations.
7 Elements to Consider During Basketball End of Game Situations
Game-Winning/Go-Ahead Possession: When a team is trailing by a small margin or tied, they have the opportunity to execute a play to score and take the lead or win the game.
Clock Management: Teams need to be mindful of the game clock and shot clock in order to maximize their possessions and prevent the opposing team from having enough time for a comeback. This may involve intentionally fouling to stop the clock, strategic timeouts, or using quick fouls to send the opponent to the free-throw line and conserve time.
Free-Throw Strategies: Depending on the score and time remaining, teams may employ different strategies when shooting free throws or defending against them. This can include intentionally missing a free throw to create an opportunity for an offensive rebound or committing intentional fouls to prevent the opposing team from attempting a potential game-tying or game-winning shot.
Inbound Plays: Out-of-bounds situations, especially when the offensive team is near their basket with limited time, require well-designed plays to create open scoring opportunities. These plays often involve screens, cuts, and decoy movements to confuse the defense.
Three-Point Shooting: With the increased value of three-pointers, teams may strategically seek three-point shots to quickly close a scoring gap or take the lead.
Defensive Strategies: Teams may employ specific defensive strategies, such as full-court pressure, double-teaming star players, or denying certain passes, to disrupt the opposing team’s offensive flow and force turnovers.
Overtime Strategies: When a game is tied at the end of regulation, teams enter an overtime period with additional time to determine the winner. Overtime basketball strategies are similar to end of game situations, but teams need to adapt and adjust their approach based on the game’s flow and player fouls.
Prepping for Basketball End of Game Situations
Preparing for end of game situations are crucial for basketball coaches at any level. Often times, however, this remains overlooked when developing their practice plans. Coaches continually drill aspects of an offensive set or a defensive approach, but sometimes forget those end-of-game scenarios.
Competitive practice games stand as one useful tool. These drills inject energy into practice that’s usually reserved for game nights. Competitive games, especially ones where the losing team feels the consequences, allow coaches to bring a high-level of energy to the practice floor.
Another thing basketball coaches should consider is developing specific in-practice scenarios to prepare for those end of game situations. These scenarios might play out during a controlled scrimmage. But adding specific elements like time and score will aid in that preparation. Something like, asking a team to hold a single-digit lead for three minutes. Or maybe the “best” player is not available due to foul trouble. Options are only limited by the coach’s creativity.
Check out the YouTube link below for a specific discussion between coaches on how to deal with end of game situations. In this segment, coaches use real game footage to talk through the options available.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
In this post, we will focus on two critical aspects of the game: defense and rebounding. Although developing offensive skills is usually preferred by young players, as the cliché goes, defense wins championships. By incorporating effective youth basketball defensive drills and rebounding techniques, you can empower your players to become defensive forces and control the boards.
These drills are designed to improve their fundamental skills, boost performance, and foster their love for the game. Whether you are a seasoned coach or just starting, incorporating these drills into your practice plans will greatly benefit your players’ growth and development. Let’s dive into some essential youth basketball defensive drills and rebounding techniques that will elevate your team’s defensive prowess and rebounding abilities.
Defensive Drills
Defense is the backbone of any successful basketball team. By instilling solid defensive fundamentals and practicing specific drills, you can strengthen your players’ defensive skills and teamwork.
Here are three defensive drills to incorporate into your practice sessions:
1. Defensive Slides Drill
The defensive slides drill is a fundamental exercise that focuses on lateral quickness, footwork, and defensive stance. Have players start in a low defensive stance, feet shoulder-width apart. Instruct them to slide laterally from one side of the court to the other while maintaining a low posture.
Encourage players to keep their hands active, maintain balance, and stay in front of an imaginary offensive player. This drill improves agility, defensive positioning, and the ability to guard opponents effectively.
2. Closeout Drill
The closeout drill helps players develop the skills needed to close out on an offensive player and contest shots effectively. Set up cones or markers at various spots around the perimeter. Players start near the basket and, upon a coach’s signal, sprint out to the designated spot and close out on the offensive player.
Emphasize proper technique, such as getting low, chopping the feet, and extending hands to challenge the shot without fouling. This drill enhances defensive awareness, closeout speed, and shot-contesting ability.
3. 1-on-1 Defensive Drill
The 1-on-1 defensive drill is an excellent way for players to work on their individual defensive skills and competitive spirit. In a controlled setting, have two players face each other on the court. The offensive player tries to score while the defender’s objective is to prevent a basket.
Emphasize proper defensive positioning, staying in front of the offensive player, and contesting shots without fouling. This drill improves defensive instincts, on-ball defense, and the ability to guard opponents effectively.
Rebounding Drills
Rebounding is an essential aspect of the game that can significantly impact possession and create scoring opportunities. By practicing specific rebounding drills, you can teach your players the importance of positioning, timing, and boxing out.
Here are three effective rebounding drills to incorporate into your practice sessions:
1. Box Out Drill
The box out drill emphasizes the importance of securing rebounds by effectively boxing out opponents. Divide your players into pairs, with one player designated as the defender and the other as the rebounder. Instruct the defender to maintain contact with the rebounder and establish a solid position between them and the basket. The rebounder’s goal is to gain inside position and secure the rebound.
Encourage proper technique, such as using the lower body to establish leverage and arms to create space. This drill improves rebounding fundamentals, positioning, and physicality.
2. Tip Drill
The tip drill helps players develop their ability to tip missed shots and rebounds to themselves or teammates, extending possessions and creating scoring opportunities. Start by having players pair up under the basket. One player attempts a shot while the other player tries to tip the ball before it reaches the rim.
Encourage players to time their jumps, extend their arms, and redirect the ball towards themselves or their teammate. This drill improves coordination, timing, and second-chance opportunities.
3. Team Rebounding Drill
The team rebounding drill simulates game-like rebounding scenarios and emphasizes teamwork and communication. Divide the players into two teams, with one team designated as the offense and the other as the defense. The coach initiates a shot, and both teams compete for the rebound.
Encourage players to communicate, establish box-out positions, and fight for the ball. This drill enhances rebounding in a competitive setting, teamwork, and the ability to secure rebounds amidst traffic.
Youth Basketball Defensive Drills and Rebounding Techniques
In conclusion, incorporating youth basketball defensive drills and rebounding techniques into your coaching repertoire can significantly elevate your team’s performance on the court. By focusing on developing solid defensive fundamentals, such as lateral quickness, closeout techniques, and individual defensive skills, your players will become formidable defenders.
Additionally, teaching proper rebounding techniques, including boxing out, tipping, and team rebounding, will enhance their ability to control the boards and create second-chance opportunities.
Remember, mastering these skills requires consistent practice, patience, and a commitment to improvement. As a coach, your guidance and expertise play a crucial role in shaping young athletes into well-rounded basketball players. By emphasizing the importance of defense and rebounding through purposeful drills, you can instill a strong foundation that will benefit your players both on and off the court.
So, don’t underestimate the impact of youth basketball defensive drills and rebounding techniques. Incorporate them into your practice plans, foster a culture of hard work and determination, and watch your team grow into a formidable force. Together, let’s empower our players to excel in all facets of the game and embrace the challenges that come their way.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
In this post, we will delve into the essential skill development drills for youth basketball players on the offensive side of the ball. These drills are designed to improve their fundamental skills, boost performance, and foster their love for the game. Whether you are a seasoned coach or just starting, incorporating these drills into your practice plans will greatly benefit your players’ growth and development.
Dribbling Drills
Dribbling is a fundamental skill that every young basketball player must master. By focusing on proper dribbling techniques and ball control, players can become more confident and effective on the court.
Here are three dribbling drills to incorporate into your practice sessions:
1. Stationary Dribbling Drill
This drill helps players improve their ball-handling skills while standing in one place. Instruct your players to dribble the ball using both hands, focusing on maintaining control and keeping the ball at waist height.
Encourage them to use their fingertips, stay low, and alternate between dribbling with their right and left hand. This drill promotes coordination and helps players develop a feel for the ball.
2. Zigzag Dribbling Drill
The zigzag dribbling drill is an excellent way to work on change of direction, speed, and ball protection. Set up cones or use defenders spaced apart in a zigzag pattern. Instruct players to dribble through the course, weaving in and out of the obstacles while maintaining control of the ball.
Emphasize the importance of staying low, using quick crossovers, and protecting the ball from defenders. This drill enhances agility, quickness, and dribbling under pressure.
3. Two-Ball Dribbling Drill
The two-ball dribbling drill is a challenging exercise that enhances coordination and ambidexterity. Each player uses both hands simultaneously to dribble two basketballs.
This drill helps players develop their weak hand while improving overall ball-handling skills. Encourage players to start with simple dribbling patterns and gradually progress to more complex moves. It’s important to emphasize control, coordination, and rhythm while dribbling with both hands.
Shooting Drills
Shooting is a fundamental skill that every player wants to excel at. By incorporating specific shooting drills into your practices, you can help your players improve their shooting technique, accuracy, and confidence.
Here are three shooting drills that focus on different aspects of shooting:
1. Form Shooting Drill
The form shooting drill is a fundamental exercise that emphasizes proper shooting mechanics. Start close to the basket and have players focus on their shooting form: feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, elbow aligned with the shooting hand, and eyes on the target.
Encourage them to shoot with a smooth motion, using their legs for power. Gradually move players farther from the basket as they improve their form. This drill reinforces muscle memory and builds a solid shooting foundation.
2. Spot Shooting Drill
Spot shooting drills simulate game-like situations where players shoot from specific spots on the court. This drill helps players develop accuracy and confidence in shooting from various locations. Choose five to seven spots around the perimeter or key areas and have players take shots from each spot.
Encourage proper footwork, balance, and quick release. This drill also improves players’ ability to read the court and find open spots for shooting.
3. Catch and Shoot Drill
In games, players often need to quickly catch the ball and shoot. The catch and shoot drill focuses on receiving a pass and shooting with minimal hesitation. Have players pair up, with one player passing and the other shooting. The passer should deliver accurate passes to simulate game situations.
Emphasize quick footwork, being ready to shoot upon receiving the pass, and proper shooting technique. This drill improves players’ ability to shoot under pressure and in a dynamic setting.
Passing Drills
Passing is a vital skill in basketball that enables players to move the ball effectively, create scoring opportunities, and foster teamwork.
Here are three passing drills to incorporate into your practices:
1. Two-Person Chest Pass Drill
The two-person chest pass drill helps players develop accuracy and technique in their chest passes. Have players pair up and face each other at a moderate distance. Instruct them to use both hands, push the ball from their chest with a quick release, and aim for their partner’s chest.
Encourage players to maintain proper form, follow through with their wrists, and work on passing with crispness and precision. This drill reinforces the importance of strong and accurate chest passes in game situations.
2. Circle Passing Drill
The circle passing drill is an excellent exercise to enhance passing skills under pressure and from various angles. Form a circle with your players, spaced a few feet apart. Start with one player passing the ball to a teammate and continue the pattern around the circle. Vary the passing techniques, such as chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passes.
Encourage players to communicate, focus on accurate passes, and adjust to different receiving positions. This drill improves passing accuracy, decision-making, and adaptability.
3. Outlet Passing Drill
Outlet passing is crucial for fast breaks and quick transition offense. In this drill, players practice long-distance, accurate passes to initiate the fast break. Set up two lines, one near the baseline and the other near midcourt. The first player in the baseline line rebounds the ball and throws an outlet pass to a teammate in the midcourt line.
Emphasize the importance of accurate and quick passes, leading the receiver, and maintaining good spacing. This drill enhances passing vision, accuracy, and decision-making in fast-paced situations.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
Dribbling is one of the most important skills in basketball. A good dribbler can create open shots for themselves and their teammates, and can also help to break down the defense. If you’re a youth basketball coach, you know that it’s important to help your players develop their skills and sometimes, the best way to do that is with a series of dribbling drills.
In this blog post, I’ll share 5 dribbling drills that you can use to help your players improve their skills. These drills are designed to help players develop their speed, control, and ball-handling skills.
Dribbling Drills: Figure 8
This drill is designed to help players develop their ball-handling skills in tight spaces. It forces players to change directions and pivot while dribbling, which can be difficult to do in a small space.
Set up two cones about 10 feet apart.
Start with the ball in your dominant hand at the midpoint between the cones.
Dribble the ball in a figure 8 pattern around the cones, keeping your head up and your eyes on the cones.
Repeat the drill on the other side.
Difficulty progression:
As you get better, move the cones closer together.
Once you can dribble the ball in a figure 8 pattern around cones that are spaced about 2 feet apart, you can start adding a defender.
Dribbling Drills: Pound
This drill is designed to help players develop their speed and control while dribbling. Pounding the ball into the ground helps players develop the strength and coordination necessary to dribble quickly and smoothly.
Stand with the ball in your dominant hand in front of you.
Dribble the ball down the court, pounding the ball into the ground with each dribble.
Keep your head up and your eyes on the court.
Repeat the drill.
Difficulty progression:
As you get better, increase your speed.
Once you can dribble the ball down the court at full speed while pounding the ball into the ground, you can start adding a defender.
Dribbling Drills: Hesitation
This drill is designed to help players develop their ability to change direction while dribbling. Hesitating before changing direction can help players fool defenders and create open shots.
Stand with the ball in your dominant hand in front of you.
Dribble the ball down the court, and then hesitate for a moment before changing direction.
Change direction and continue dribbling.
Repeat the drill.
Difficulty progression:
As you get better, make your hesitations more pronounced.
Once you can dribble the ball down the court and change direction quickly and smoothly, you can start adding a defender.
Dribbling Drills: Crossover
This drill is designed to help players develop their ability to crossover while dribbling. Crossovers can be used to change direction quickly and create open shots.
Stand with the ball in your dominant hand in front of you.
Dribble the ball down the court, and then crossover to your other hand.
Continue dribbling with your other hand.
Repeat the drill.
Difficulty progression:
As you get better, make your crossovers more pronounced.
Once you can dribble the ball down the court and crossover quickly and smoothly, you can start adding a defender.
Dribbling Drills: Behind-the-Back
This drill is designed to help players develop their ability to dribble behind their back. Dribbling behind the back can be used to create separation from defenders and create open shots.
Stand with the ball in your dominant hand in front of you.
Dribble the ball down the court, and then dribble behind your back to your other hand.
Continue dribbling with your other hand.
Repeat the drill.
Difficulty progression:
As you get better, make your dribbles behind your back more pronounced.
Once you can dribble the ball down the court and dribble behind your back quickly and smoothly, you can start adding a defender.
These are just a few dribbling drills that you can use to help your players improve their skills. By regularly practicing these drills, your players will develop the speed, control, and ball-handling skills they need to be successful on the court.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
Last month’s article dealt with the installation of various Point Motion sets. What I want to focus on in this month’s article are some drills to help install and get your players shots out of these various looks. We all know that as coaches we want todevelop the needed muscle memory, footwork, and confidence from the spots on the court where the shots will come from.
Below I will describe 3 different shooting drills with diagrams attached to help get shots for players in the spots they will shoot from.
Point Motion Shooting Drills
Drill 1: Need 2 lines. 1 line in the left pinch area where the 5 will usually receive the ball and a line on the right wing. You also need a coach/manager in the right pinch area with a ball.
The line of players with a ball will pass their ball to the right wing and immediately set a ball screen. The player on the right wing will receive the ball and drive for a layup. The player that sets the screen will pop and receive a pass from the coach/manager for a shot.
Switch lines after each rep to work both actions.
Drill 2: Same setup as Drill 1. The ball line will dribble and do a handoff with the other line. The lin without the ball to start will take that handoff and drive for a layup.
After the handoff, the player that started with the ball and shape up for a shot attempt from a pass from the coach/manager.
Switch lines after each rep to work both actions.
Drill 3: This drill needs 2 lines, 1 on the right wing and 1 on the left wing. The line on the right wing will start with balls. They will drive down to the baseline, attacking the paint. The other line will move from the left wing to the left corner.
Once the player with the ball gets to the baseline area, they will hit their teammate in the opposite corner. The player willreceive the pass in the left corner and take a shot.
Switch lines after each rep to work both actions.
Kyle Brasher | Gibson Southern High School
Lady Titans Basketball Coach
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
Defense is a critical component of basketball success, and in this blog, we will provide you with valuable insights and effective drills to enhance your players’ defensive skills. From mastering defensive stance and closing out to excelling in rebounding and pressure defense, we have curated a collection of individual defensive drills to help your team elevate their game.
Whether you’re a coach looking to sharpen your coaching strategies or a player seeking to improve your defensive prowess, our blog is your go-to resource. Let’s dive into the world of individual defensive drills for better basketball performance!
Essential Individual Defensive Drills for Better Basketball
To maximize our practice time, it’s crucial to allocate the first 3-5 minutes to warm up our athletes mentally and physically while focusing on fundamental techniques. By repeatedly executing and reviewing the basics throughout the season, we can build a solid foundation for continuous skill development. Here are the skills I plan to emphasize during these individual defensive drills:
Stance
Closing out
Chinning a rebound followed by a good outlet pass
For the initial week and a half to two weeks, I’ll prioritize these drills daily. Building upon the previous segment, let’s move on to the next set of drills:
Defensive Drill: 1-on-1 Box Out
Coach starts with the ball on the wing, offense on the opposite wing, and defense in helpside.
The coach shoots, and the defense boxes out, pursues the ball, and rotates to offense. Intensity increases gradually as defense improves.
Defensive Drill: 1-on-1 Full Court – Force Sideline
Start in the baseline/sideline corner, with the ballhandler attempting to beat the defender to the middle of the court.
The defender’s task is to stay on the inside hip of the ball handler, forcing them up the sideline. Proper positioning is vital.
Defensive Drill: 1-on-1 Pressure the Passer
Offensive and defensive players positioned on wings, with the remaining players forming lines on the blocks.
Defense applies pressure without fouling for 5 seconds as the offense holds the ball. The offense then attempts an entry pass into the post while the defense aims for a deflection.
Defensive Drill: 1-on-1 Jump to the Ball
Offensive and defensive players start on each wing, with a coach at the top of the key. The offense passes to the coach, and the defense jumps towards the ball.
The offense then V-cuts down to the block while the defense prevents them from cutting in front of their face. Intensity increases progressively.
By incorporating these individual defensive drills into your practice routine, you’ll lay the groundwork for better basketball performance. Remember to focus on technique, gradually increase intensity, and provide feedback to enhance your players’ defensive abilities. Stay tuned for more valuable basketball insights and drills!
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
Welcome to our guide on teaching offensive skills, plays, and offenses for better basketball performance. In this article, we present six progressive steps designed to enhance your coaching approach and help your players play better basketball on the court.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to introduce new skills effectively, ensure proper execution, increase speed, incorporate teamwork, integrate defensive elements, and ultimately apply the learned techniques in real-game situations. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or just starting out, this guide will provide you with a solid framework to teach and improve offensive skills, contributing to overall better basketball performance. Let’s dive in!
6 Steps to Teach any Offensive Skill, Play, or Offense for Better Basketball
It’s often been said that basketball is the most over coached and under taught sport on the planet. In order to help change that, here are six progressive steps that can be used to teach any offensive skill, play, or offense.
Introduce the Skill or Play
Start by introducing the specific offensive skill, play, or offense to the players.
Demonstrate the movements, positioning, and timing involved.
Use a coach or experienced player to demonstrate the skill correctly.
Alternatively, utilize a video clip that clearly shows the desired execution.
Help players form a mental picture of the skill or play being executed perfectly.
Execute the Skill at a Slow Pace
Allow players to start executing the skill at a slow pace.
Ensure that all players have the opportunity to master the required techniques and mechanics.
Pay close attention to footwork, which often determines the success of a skill.
Increase Execution Speed
Transition to executing the skill at game speed.
Focus on executing quicker and quicker.
Use highly specific and well-designed breakdown drills to accomplish this.
Simplify the drills to minimize overthinking and maximize execution speed.
Repeat and Practice
For individual skills, emphasize repetition, repetition, and repetition.
For plays or offenses, combine multiple parts and involve more teammates.
Develop mental and physical quickness, teamwork, and coordination.
Example: Add the “picker” when teaching the pick and roll instead of driving around a stationary cone.
Add Defensive Elements
Introduce defense to make the learning process more enjoyable.
Avoid skipping the previous steps and going directly to this one.
Focus on executing all the individual parts while reading defensive reactions.
Apply in Game Situations
Incorporate the newly learned skill, play, or offense into actual game scenarios.
Utilize five-on-five situations to create a game-like environment.
Avoid overlooking or taking this step for granted.
Address any difficulties in carrying skills and actions from drills to game situations.
Remember to periodically review the steps even after progressing through all six. Continual improvement is always possible, regardless of skill level.
Ep 1759 Five Skill Every Player Should Work on During the Summer
Youth Basketball Coaching Made Easy
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
Building a solid foundation in basketball skills is crucial for any player’s success on the court. Whether you’re a coach looking for fresh drills or a player eager to improve, these basketball skill development ideas will provide the tools needed to excel. From shooting techniques to defensive strategies, get ready to elevate your game with these practical and effective practice tips. Let’s dive in!
5 Skill Development Ideas for Basketball Practice
Believe it or not there used to be only one basketball season every year. Those players who had some extra time on their hands and wanted to play a little more would go to the closest park or city gym and play in pickup games. Sometimes those games were five-on-five full court but more often than not they would be half court three on three or four on four. Since only a relatively few players actually played in the off season, those that did were noticeably better than their peers when the official basketball season eventually started up again.
Of course, now things are noticeably different. There are two separate and distinct basketball seasons – school season and club season – and it seems that as soon as one ends the other begins immediately. As a result it’s very common for players to compete in upwards of 80 games a year! Some players benefit greatly from so many games while others just end up reinforcing already bad habits without improving at all.
If you are playing game after game after game and not improving like you want to or need to then it might be time to reevaluate your training schedule. Here are 5 things to consider when working out in the offseason. They are ideas adapted from Doug Lemov’s book for classroom teachers called “Practice Perfect.”
1. Encode Success
Fighting through adversity might make you mentally tougher and much more resilient but it’s not always the best way to develop basketball skills. I’m not saying everything you work on should be easy but instead of doing flashy, complicated drills focus on those things that are simple and game like.
Train yourself to be successful and once you have mastered a skill or movement then and only then move on to something more complicated. If possible, constantly look at pictures or watch videos of someone correctly executing the skill you’re trying to perfect. Think of it as “positive brainwashing.”
2. Practice the 20
The Pareto Principle states that 80 percent of your results will come from 20 percent of your actions.
Assuming that this principle is true, if you are serious about becoming a better player you should focus on getting real good at those things which produce the most results. If it doesn’t happen in a game – and often – why are you practicing it?
3. Objectives before Drills
The majority of young players that I know prepare for an individual skills workout by thinking: “Today I want to play these two shooting games and then do these ball handling drills, and then if somebody else is in the gym maybe we can get in a few games of one on one or two on two.”
Advanced players think something like this, “I’ve been missing slightly to the left lately so I need to work on my follow through and I can correct it by using this particular drill. Then since my crossover needs to be a little tighter I’m going to get out the cones and place them really close together so my ballhandling has to be tighter and quicker. I want to improve my attacking and finishing moves from the wing so I’m going to get someone else to come to the gym and defend me 25 times.” Notice the difference? It’s huge.
4. Make Your Strengths Even Stronger
The summer is a great time to add new skills and dimensions to your game but just make sure you don’t neglect the things you already do well.
I know a local high school girl who was an outstanding shooter but didn’t drive very well or very often. She evidently worked all summer on her attacking and finishing skills because when I saw her in college she was relentlessly attacking the rim. However, she never looked for her outside shot and when she did her shot looked completely broken. After an entire summer of working out she wasn’t a better player, just a different one!
5. Drill to Develop Skills
Scrimmage to Evaluate. Playing 60 games a summer is not going to help you develop a new skill or improve a weak one. What the games will do is give you the opportunity to implement those things you’ve been practicing.
If you’re not practicing during the week then you’re just playing on the weekends! Fun? Absolutely! But not necessarily conducive to becoming a better skilled and talented player.
Ep 1759 Five Skill Every Player Should Work on During the Summer
Youth Basketball Coaching Made Easy
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
In today’s post, we delve into a crucial aspect of coaching that can greatly impact player development. Basketball coaches play a pivotal role in shaping their team’s performance, but at times, unintentional actions can hinder player progress. By exploring the four common practices that inadvertently hold back players, we aim to provide valuable insights to coaches at all levels. Join us as we shed light on these factors, enabling coaches to empower their athletes and create an environment conducive to growth, success, and fulfilling their true potential on the court.
4 Things Basketball Coaches Do To Hold Back Their Players
Years of recruiting potential players has given me the opportunity to observe more high school and club practices and games than I can possibly count and having four kids of my own has let me do the same with grade school and middle school teams. Watching all of these coaches in action has taught me a great deal in terms of X’s and O’s, practice organization, and game management both in terms of what to do and what not to do. One of the things that I have discovered is that while most of us mean well there are several things that many basketball coaches do that are actually holding back our players and preventing them from reaching their full potential.
1. We keep our players (and our teams) “safe.”
When it comes to individuals basketball coaches often dictate to a player what he can and can’t do on the court. One common example is that we often decide early on that a certain athlete is a post player and thus should never dribble the ball, even in practice. After all, we tell ourselves that we don’t want that player at risk of turning it over and so handing it off to a guard is a “safer” strategy. While that may be true in some instances it also keeps that particular player from developing an extremely useful skill.
Coaches do the same when it comes to scheduling. Many won’t venture out and schedule any team that is historically “better” than their own team. Why? So they can keep their team’s record and self esteem safe by reducing their risk of losing.
Growth and improvement often comes after stretching ourselves and getting out of our comfort zones while staying safe and comfortable often leads to stagnation.
2. We overemphasize skills instead of qualities.
I fully realize that as long as they keep score results are important. However, constantly praising a player just because he is a good shooter or because she is a great ball handler can be detrimental to both the individual and the team. Instead we should be praising a player’s work ethic, loyalty, and commitment.
When skills are overemphasized a player may not make the correlation between work and improvement and may falsely believe that a player either has “it” or doesn’t. Don’t praise the skill or the result; praise the process that produced the skill.
3. We bail our players out too early.
One of life’s greatest lessons is that “no one is coming to the rescue” and the sooner our players realize that the better. The problem is that many of our players come from families where their parents “fix” every single problem for them and so they expect us to do the same. Unfortunately, many of us do.
As a college coach, I am constantly in awe of how many times I hear from a freshman, “I never had to deal with that before because my high school coach always took care of it.” By all means we should help our players but there is a huge difference between helping them and completely taking care of it for them.
4. We don’t walk the walk.
I am a firm believer that most players mirror their coaches both on and off the court. Therefore, coaches need to be what they want their players to be and they need to act how they want their players to act. I don’t think you can insist that your players put in extra court time if you’re the first one out of the gym every day.
You can’t realistically expect them to take care of themselves physically if you don’t do the same. If you teach and coach at the same school, your players aren’t going to take their classes seriously if you don’t. Make a list of everything you want your players to do and to be and then make sure you are doing the exact same things. Actions always speak louder than words!
I hear coaches say all the time that the first step in winning is to make sure you don’t lose. Well the first step in helping our players reach their fullest potential both on and off the court is not to hold them back. Overcoming the four roadblocks above is a definite step in the right direction.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As a coach, you understand that success is not solely determined by talent or skill, but also by consistent and effective training routines. Developing and maintaining proper workout habits is the cornerstone of athletic progress, enabling players to enhance their strength, endurance, agility, and overall performance. Join us as we delve into the significance of workout habits, share expert insights, and provide practical tips to help you and your team establish a solid foundation for success through dedicated and purposeful training.
6 Essential Workout Habits
Any serious player will surely tell you that there is a huge difference between just hanging out in the gym and actually working out. But what is that difference? How do you know if you’re taking the right approach and getting more out of your gym time than just fun? Here are 6 essential habits that can turn gym time into a productive workout?
Meticulously schedule every facet of your workout.
Plan out in advance the days, times, and length of your workouts as well as the skills you’ll be practicing. Decide beforehand what areas you want to improve and then map out drills that will help you achieve your objectives. Once the plan is made treat it like you’re going to work and don’t let anything keep you from carrying out your plan.
Use a workout partner.
Working out with someone else accomplishes three things. A) It forces you to be accountable. It’s hard to miss a workout or even take a short cut when someone else is counting on you. B) Practicing with someone else, even if it’s just a friend or a parent, allows you to use more complex drills; drills that require a passer, rebounder, or defender. C) Having a workout partner can add a competitive component to your sessions as you work to excel at every drill and to “beat” your partner.
Workouts should always include warming up and cooling down.
There are almost as many ways to warm up as there are players. I know players who swear by the benefits of active stretching and jogging while others are convinced they benefit most from jumping rope and stationary ball handling. The important thing is that you do something to elevate your core body temperature and to prepare your muscles for high intensity work. Afterwards, stretching for at least 10 minutes or more will help get rid of any lactic acid build up and will help reduce muscle soreness.
Keep a workout journal.
Write down everything – specific drills, repetitions, who you worked with, time spent, etc. Keeping detailed records will help make every practice session seem more important and will allow you to visually track your progress. Even more importantly, the information you record in your journal can and should be used to plan future workouts.
Do more than just shoot.
Working on improving your shot is absolutely necessary and should be taken very seriously. However, you mustn’t neglect everything else if you are serious about elevating your game. Current Clippers assistant and renowned skill development trainer Kevin Eastman says that every workout should include shooting, ball handling, and conditioning at the very least. If that advice is good enough for NBA players then its good advice for you too.
Use various speeds to accelerate improvement.
It may sound blasphemous to some players and coaches but “game speed” is not always the best speed. When skills are first being learned going slower is usually more effective than going too quickly. Then once the skill is learned the speed of the repetitions can be increased. As execution improves the speed continues to increase until it is actually faster than “game speed.” Eventually making things harder in practice will make things easier in games.
There’s nothing wrong with hanging out in the gym and socializing with your friends while you put up a few shots. To me it’s a lot more fun than playing video games or watching television and I know it would be for you too. However, if you’re serious about getting better then develop these 6 habits and spend some time hanging out and some more time working out!
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As a coach, you serve as the guiding force behind your players, shaping their development not only as athletes but also as individuals. Effective leadership goes beyond X’s and O’s for basketball coaches. It encompasses qualities like communication, motivation, and the ability to inspire greatness in others. Join us as we explore the profound influence of leadership in coaching, and discover practical strategies to enhance your leadership skills on and off the basketball court.
5 Leadership Musts for Basketball Coaches
To be successful today, coaches need a thorough understanding of relevant X’s and O’s; they need to be an expert in individual player development; and they need to master some very specific leadership skills. In fact, in the long run these leadership skills may win just as many games as the other two requirements!
Here are those leadership requirements in no particular order:
Must be Goal Oriented
A great coach knows exactly what he is trying to accomplish and has a vivid mental picture of what success looks like. He is driven to turn that image into a reality and keeps moving forward regardless of setbacks and disappointments. (And there will definitely be setbacks along the way!) Long term success never happens by accident and you can’t lead your athletes if you don’t know where you are going.
Must Lead by Example
As you know already there are a myriad of time demands that coaches face every day. To have the necessary time and energy to lead others, coaches must not only be focused on their goals but must also be constantly planning and prioritizing their future course of action. “Do as I say not as I do” does not work with today’s athletes and so a coach must mirror the behaviors that he wants to see from his players. If the players are working harder and longer than the coach then that team is ultimately not going to be very successful.
Must be Personally Accountable
Not only is it easy but it’s a widely accepted practice to blame anyone and everyone else for our failures. The players are lazy, the refs are horrible, the gym floor is slick, the other coaches cheat, etc. The truth of the matter is that we don’t always get what we want but we usually get what we deserve. If you make a mistake, admit it. If you are lacking in a certain area then own up to it and do something about it! Great coaches should always take a little less credit than they deserve and should even shoulder a little more of the blame than they earned.
Must have Good People Skills
The days of the “run thru that wall because I said so” coaching dictators are long gone. There may be a few still out there but odds are they spend more time battling their players than actually leading them. Off the court team members want coaches who can relate to them and talk to them as people and not just as players. On the court they want to know why you are doing things a certain why and how that will increase their overall chance of success. Coaching basketball is as much a people business as it is about offenses and defenses and those leaders who lack the ability to positively interact with their players are going to struggle.
Must be Able to Influence Others
World renowned leadership expert John Maxwell has often said that leadership is influence – nothing more and nothing less. Players are generally going to do things for their own personal reasons. But great coaches are able to influence nearly every single decision and action made by a team member. As a result, these coaches (and their teams, of course) are able to produce more and better results than the majority of their competitive counterparts – and when all is said and done, the end results often become the leader’s legacy.
Young athletes need solid leadership now more than ever before. So many players are being influenced more by their friends, their music, the internet, etc. than by adults who really care about their best interest. A coach who possesses these five leadership skills will be able to win more games. And will also be able to make an impact on his players’ lives that will last a lifetime.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As a coach, you understand that developing your players’ physical skills is only part of the equation for success on the court. The ability to navigate through challenges, overcome setbacks, and maintain focus in high-pressure situations is what sets truly exceptional athletes apart. Basketball is a sport that demands players be mentally tough. Mental fortitude shines through split-second decisions and relentless competition can push players to their limits. However, it is in these crucibles that champions are forged. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or a passionate player seeking personal growth, this comprehensive guide will equip you with 20 invaluable strategies to cultivate mental toughness and resilience.
In his book, Training Camp: What the Best Do Better Than Everyone Else, author Jon Gordon presents Twenty Ways to Get Mentally Tough. This book is a valuable resource for coaches, but here’s a look at the strategies to develop that necessary mental fortitude.
20 Ways to Get Mentally Tough
When you face a setback, think of it as a defining moment that will lead to a future accomplishment.
When you encounter adversity, remember, the best don’t just face adversity; they embrace it, knowing it’s not a dead end but a detour to something greater and better.
When you face negative people, know that the key to life is to stay positive in the face of negativity, not in the absence of it. After all, everyone will have to overcome negativity to define themselves and create their success.
When you face the naysayers, remember the people who believed in you and spoke positive words to you.
When you face critics, remember to tune them out and focus only on being the best you can be.
When you wake up in the morning, take a morning walk of gratitude and prayer. It will create a fertile mind ready for success.
When you fear, trust. Let your faith be greater than your doubt.
When you fail, find the lesson in it, and then recall a time you have succeeded.
When you head into battle, visualize success.
When you are thinking about the past or worrying about the future, instead focus your energy on the present moment. The now is where your power is the greatest.
When you want to complain, instead identify a solution.
When your own self-doubt crowds your mind, weed it and replace it with positive thoughts and positive self-talk.
When you feel distracted, focus on your breathing, observe your surroundings, clear your mind, and get into the The Zone. The Zone is not a random event. It can be created.
When you feel all is impossible, know that with God, all things are possible.
When you feel alone, think of all the people who have helped you along the way and who love and support you now.
When you feel lost, pray for guidance.
When you are tired and drained, remember to never, never, never give up. Finish strong in everything you do.
When you feel like you can’t do it, know that you can do all things through Him who gives you strength.
When you feel like your situation is beyond your control, pray and surrender. Focus on what you can control and let go of what you can’t.
When you’re in a high pressure situation and the game is on the line, and everyone is watching you, remember to smile, have fun, and enjoy it. Life is short; you only live once. You have nothing to lose. Seize the moment.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
Long gone are the days when a basketball player could take the summer off and then worry about getting in shape once school starts. Now, if you’re not in decent shape when school starts then you are already behind. The following summer running program will let you start school physically ready for your team’s Fall workouts and will also increase your speed, stamina, and mental toughness.
All sprints are to be done with 100 percent intensity. You can rest longer between sprints if you need to but don’t reduce your intensity level! This is very important!
Variation: Every other Tuesday change directions on your sprints. For example, instead of sprinting 20 yards in a straight line, sprint 10 yards down, turn around and sprint 10 yards back.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
The pick and roll (PNR) is one of the oldest and most popular plays in the history of basketball. Teams that master the skills involved in the pick and roll can become virtually unstoppable. However, a huge difference exists between mastering the required skills and just running through them.
There are four main reasons why the pick and roll has been so effective for decades:
Creates size and/or speed mismatches
Forces two defensive players to defend one offensive player which causes defenses to rotate and cover up
Gets opposing defenders in foul trouble
Lets you play your best offensive players regardless of “position”
5 Phases of the Basic Pick and Roll
Now most players think there are only two steps involved in the PNR – the pick and the roll – but in reality there are five separate and distinct phases. These phases include:
Set up
Pick
Drive
Roll
Pass
Phase 1: Set Up
The set up required in executing an effective pick and roll on a stationary defender is much different than executing one on a moving defender.
If the defender is stationary, such as when the offensive player catches the ball on the wing, the picker must initiate the set up. However, if the defender is moving, such as when running a pick and roll in transition or out of the Horns set, it’s crucial that the ball handler initiate the set up by taking the correct angle.
Phase 2: Pick
The pick should be set with your knees bent and your feet wider than shoulder width. Guys should have their arms extended down over the groin with one hand placed over the other. Girls should have their arms placed in an “X” so that each hand is placed on the opposite collar bone and the chest is protected. Either way all hands and elbows need to be positioned and kept inside the body to reduce the risk of getting an offensive foul.
Don’t lean into the defense, If the ball handler does not take a good angle and drive his defender into the pick, the picker should never overcompensate by moving.
Phase 3: Drive
A pick and roll is only going to consistently work if the ball handler has the mind set of driving to score first and passing second! A driver who is not a constant threat to score will never force two defenders to guard him which will greatly reduce the effectiveness of the play.
The biggest mistake players make is driving too early before the picker has come to a complete stop and established a legal position. When this happens it almost always results in an offensive foul called on the picker.
Get as low as possible on the drive. Work on getting your inside shoulder as low or lower than your teammate’s (Picker) hip. Drive so close to your teammate that you actually make contact with his hip.
Once you clear the pick, the goal is to execute a straight line drive to the basket. The defense may hard hedge to throw you off line but you should keep your dribble alive, recover as soon as possible and attack the rim. Remember, the shortest distance between two points is always a straight line!
Phase 4: Roll
Once the ball handler has cleared the pick, the picker should open up to the ball and roll in the same direction as the drive. The key to a highly effective roll is to maintain contact with the defender as long as possible.
Many on ball defenders, especially younger ones, will usually take the path of least resistance and try to slide underneath the pick. When this happens a quick and physical roll will essentially serve as a “moving screen” and keep the ball handler’s defender completely out of the play.
Phase 5: Pass
The first four steps can be executed perfectly but if the ensuing pass is thrown poorly the entire sequence becomes a total failure. Since the pass must be thrown quickly and accurately a one handed bounce pass thrown right off the dribble is usually the best option. Chest passes are usually deflected or stolen in this situation and lob passes are often thrown too short or behind the roller.
Pick and roll duos like Stockton & Malone and Parker & Duncan have made this play look much easier than it really is over the years. Don’t let its simplicity fool you into thinking than anyone can do it by just walking out on to the court.
Each of the five steps takes hundreds of repetitions to master but once you do you will be able to impact every game you enter.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
There are a variety of different basketball sets that a coach can run. Some like the 1-4 high looks, some like Box sets, and some like to change it up through all their sets. If a coach has been leading a team for any length of time, they have tried a variety of different set options. Some coaches change them from year to year. This article is going to be looking at three different Point Motion basketball sets that a coach could implement with their team.
We implemented these sets last season for a few reasons. First of all, we had 2-3 players who were really strong with the ball in their hands and going downhill. These sets got our best players in positions where they and our team could be successful.
Second, it clears the lane up for those players to drive. Third, it allowed us to put players who may not be the best ball handlers but are good shooters, defenders, or valuable in other roles for us and keep the ball out of their hands as these drives.
Lastly, we had a solid 5 who could play on the perimeter, shoot the ball a little, and drive to the basket as needed. As you will see in these sets, it helped having a skilled 5 who could do a variety of different things of things on the court. The 3 sets are described in detail below.
Basketball Offense: Point Motion Away
Point Motion Away allows any basketball coach to get a great cutter cutting to the basket and looking to make plays off the catch. This is a really good action if you have a player is great at the LeBron-Catch-and-Go idea that you are starting to see make the waves on attacks.
If the cutter isn’t open, the 1 could be open on a screen and pop or the 5 could do some dribble handoff actions on the strong side of the court.
Basketball Offense: Point Motion Middle
This is a great set if you have a guard (especially a 1) who is a skilled post player. It starts with the 5 flashing and the 1 going into the lane for a cut/post opportunity. If that is not open, it continues with a down screen for the 1 to the corner and the screener could slip.
If neither of those are open, the play wraps up with a dribble handoff with 1 going downhill. The 5 needs to be able to be adaptable to many situations in this set.
Basketball Offense: Point Motion Over
This is quite possibly the most simple of the sets. This is a great opportunity to get the ball into your 1‘s hands. It gets them going downhill and make reads. They could go to the basket or hit a corner shooter for a 3.
A counter to this play would be the 5 keeping the ball and spinning and going opposite. This is a great example of why you need a 5 the opposing team needs to respect because if they don’t the lane will be clogged for the 1.
Kyle Brasher | Gibson Southern High School
Lady Titans Basketball Coach
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources. All laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
As a youth basketball coach, one of the most important skills you can develop is effective communication with your players. Good communication can help your players feel more confident, engaged, and motivated, while poor communication can lead to confusion, frustration, and disengagement. Communicating with youth basketball players remains key to any team building and development.
Here are 10 tips to help you communicate effectively with your youth basketball players:
10 Tips for Communicating Effectively with Youth Basketball Players
Be clear and concise: Use simple language and avoid jargon or complicated instructions. Make sure your players understand what you are asking them to do.
Use positive language: Focus on what you want your players to do, rather than what you don’t want them to do. For example, say “keep your elbows in” instead of “don’t let your elbows stick out”.
Provide feedback: Let your players know what they are doing well and what they can improve on. Be specific and provide examples.
Use demonstrations: Show your players what you want them to do. This can be especially helpful for younger players who may not understand verbal instructions as well.
Use visual aids: Use diagrams or videos to help explain concepts or strategies.
Be patient: Youth players are still developing their skills and may need more time to understand what you are asking of them. Be patient and offer additional explanations or demonstrations as needed.
Ask questions: Encourage your players to ask questions and clarify their understanding. This can help them feel more engaged and invested in the process.
Use positive reinforcement: Praise your players for their efforts and progress. This can help build their confidence and motivation.
Give players ownership: Let your players have a say in the team’s goals or strategies. This can help them feel more invested and engaged in the process.
Listen to your players: Pay attention to your players’ feedback and concerns. This can help you identify areas where you may need to adjust your coaching style or strategy.
By using these tips, you can improve your communication skills as a youth basketball coach and help your players develop their skills and confidence on the court. Remember, effective communication is a key component of successful coaching at any level.
If you coach a K-8th grade team, we have hundreds of resources all laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step system to save you time and money. Check out coachingyouthhoops.com today!
This is a great drill for working on different defensive movements and can be used as a warm-up drill. Players will work on many defensive fundamentals: defensive slides, back-pedalling, close-outs, drop-steps, and sprinting.
Pin the ball on the sideline
This play begins with using the 1-4 High set.
