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!
As a youth basketball coach, I’ve seen players of all levels and abilities. While there are many skills that can be valuable for players to learn, there are five essential skills that every youth player should focus on. In this post, we’ll discuss these five skills, along with specific tactics and reasoning for each one, and explain how they can be helpful for youth basketball players.
Essential Youth Basketball Skills to Develop
These five essential skills are critical for youth basketball players to learn. Ball handling, shooting, defense, passing, and rebounding are fundamental skills that players will use in every game.
Ball Handling
One of the most fundamental skills in basketball is ball handling. Without good ball handling skills, players will struggle to move around the court, protect the ball, and make passes.
To improve ball handling skills, coaches can encourage players to practice dribbling with both hands, practice changing direction while dribbling, and incorporate cone drills to work on agility and control.
Shooting
Shooting is another essential skill that all youth basketball players should learn. Accuracy is critical for players to contribute to their team and score points.
Coaches can help players improve their shooting skills by encouraging proper form, incorporating shooting drills, and helping players develop a consistent shooting routine.
Defense
A good defense can make a big difference in a basketball game. Youth basketball players should learn how to play good defense, which includes staying low, moving their feet, and keeping their eyes on the ball.
Coaches can help players improve their defensive skills by incorporating defensive drills, practicing closeouts, and encouraging communication on the court.
Passing
Passing is another essential skill that all youth basketball players should learn. Good passing skills can help players move the ball around the court, find open teammates, and create scoring opportunities.
Coaches can help players improve their passing skills by practicing different types of passes, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and timing, and incorporating passing drills.
Rebounding
Rebounding is an important part of basketball and can help a team gain an advantage on both ends of the court.
Coaches can help players improve their rebounding skills by teaching proper technique, encouraging box-outs, and incorporating rebounding drills into practice.
As coaches, we can help players develop these skills by incorporating specific drills and exercises into practice, emphasizing the importance of good technique and consistency, and providing positive feedback to encourage improvement. With these skills, youth basketball players can improve their performance and make valuable contributions to their teams.
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, it’s essential to design drills that help your players develop the skills they need to succeed on the court. These drills should be challenging, fun, and age-appropriate. In this post, we’ll discuss the top 10 drills for youth basketball players, along with specific tactics and approaches coaches can use to ensure their players get the most out of each drill.
10 Youth Basketball Drills
Designing effective drills for youth basketball players is essential for helping them develop the skills they need to succeed on the court.
3-on-3 Half-Court Scrimmage
This drill is excellent for improving team play, communication, and defensive skills. Divide the team into two groups of three and have them play a half-court game with no dribbling. Encourage players to communicate with each other and work together to defend and score.
Full-Court Layup Drill
This drill helps players develop their speed and agility while practicing their layup technique. Have players line up at one end of the court, then sprint to the other end while dribbling and finishing with a layup. Repeat this drill several times, alternating which hand the players use to dribble.
Shooting Relay
This drill helps players improve their shooting accuracy and speed. Divide the team into two groups and have them stand at opposite ends of the court. Each player takes turns shooting and running to retrieve the ball. The first team to make all their shots and return to the starting line wins.
Zig-Zag Dribbling Drill
This drill helps players develop their ball-handling skills and improve their footwork. Set up cones in a zig-zag pattern on the court and have players dribble the ball through the cones while maintaining control and speed.
Defensive Slide Drill
This drill helps players improve their lateral movement and defensive skills. Have players start at one end of the court and slide laterally to the other end while staying low and keeping their eyes on the coach. Repeat this drill several times, alternating the direction players slide.
Basic Rebounding Drill
This drill helps players improve their rebounding skills and timing. Have one player stand under the basket while the coach shoots the ball from various angles. The player must jump and grab the rebound, then quickly pass the ball back to the coach.
Two-Ball Dribbling Drill
This drill helps players improve their ball-handling skills and coordination. Have players dribble two balls at the same time, alternating which hand each ball is in. Encourage players to keep their eyes up and maintain control of both balls.
Line Passing Drill
This drill helps players improve their passing accuracy and speed. Have players line up facing each other, then pass the ball back and forth while walking down the court. Encourage players to use different types of passes, such as chest passes and bounce passes.
Pick and Roll Drill
This drill helps players improve their teamwork and pick-and-roll skills. Have two players set up a pick-and-roll, with one player setting a screen and the other player dribbling and using the screen to get past a defender. Encourage players to communicate and work together to execute the play.
Hot Potato Drill
This drill helps players improve their reaction time and hand-eye coordination. Have players stand in a circle and pass the ball quickly to each other, trying to keep the ball away from a defender in the middle. The defender tries to steal the ball, and if they do, they switch places with the player who lost possession.
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 is a physically demanding sport that requires strength, agility, and endurance. As a youth basketball coach, you know that your players need to be physically prepared to compete at their best. Strength training is a crucial component of physical preparation for basketball players of all ages. In this post, we’ll discuss the importance of strength training for youth basketball players and specific tactics and examples coaches can use to incorporate strength training into their team’s practice and games.
Benefits of Strength Training for Youth Basketball Players
Strength training offers a range of benefits for youth basketball players. It can improve overall strength and power, increase endurance, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance agility and coordination.
Strength training can also improve confidence and self-esteem, which can translate to improved performance on the court.
Incorporating Strength Training into Practice and Games
Coaches can incorporate strength training into their team’s practice and games in several ways. One way is to include strength exercises as part of the warm-up routine. Dynamic warm-up exercises that focus on balance and stability can also help to improve overall strength and reduce the risk of injury.
Another way to incorporate strength training into practice is to use bodyweight exercises such as push-ups, squats, and lunges. These exercises can be modified to suit players of all ages and skill levels and can be done without the need for specialized equipment.
Coaches can also incorporate strength training into their team’s games by using drills that require strength and power, such as rebounding drills or defensive drills that focus on quick lateral movements. These drills not only improve strength and power but also help players develop basketball-specific skills.
Building Team Culture through Strength Training
Strength training can also help to build a positive team culture and foster a sense of cohesion among players. Coaches can use strength training as an opportunity to encourage players to support each other and work together towards a common goal.
Strength training can also help to build confidence and self-esteem, which can improve players’ attitudes and approach to the game.
Incorporating strength training into youth basketball practice and games offers a range of benefits for players. It can improve overall strength and power, reduce the risk of injury, enhance agility and coordination, and build confidence and self-esteem.
Coaches can use strength training as an opportunity to build team culture and foster a sense of cohesion among players. By incorporating strength training into their team’s practice and games, coaches can help their players develop the physical and mental toughness they need to compete at their best.
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!
Here is a great competitive half court offense drill that allows you to work on your offense while also emphasizing your defense. Teams play “live” 5-on-5 starting at half court. (If you have 12 players, you could have three groups and play 4-on-4).
Defensive team starts out by working to get a single stop. (A stop means gaining possession of the ball either by a steal, a defensive rebound, or by an offensive turnover.) After getting one stop, the defense then attempts to get two stops in a row, then three, then four and finally five straight stops.
If the offense scores then they get to play defense. The two teams alternate back and forth until one team gets five stops in a row.
The drill can also be done backwards with each team staying on defense until they get five straight stops. When both teams have stopped five straight then they compete to get four straight stops, then three, then two, then one
“Stops” A Half Court Offense Drill that Emphasizes Defense
Half court man defense versus halfcourt man offense. 5-on-5 with both the offense and defense playing “live.” This drill is done halfcourt only. Be sure to discuss with your defense your specific approach to switching screens.
The defense must get five stops in a row. A stop means getting possession of the ball or off of a turnover by the offense. The defense is allowed only one foul. If a second foul is committed, the five stops count resets to zero.
After five stops, the defense gets to switch to offense. The drill then begins again, but the switch counter goes from five to four. Each time the drill resets, the counter drops. This half court offense drill allows for an emphasis on half court defense.
One gripe you hear on social media, talk radio, and from various coaching outlets is the following: “The fundamentals of the game are lost!” The question then comes back to this: Why are basketball “fundamentals” lost? And if that truly is the case, what can be done to fix it?
As all coaches (and parents) know, what you emphasize is what you believe in. As coaches, if we do not emphasize the fundamentals then your players will not work on the fundamentals. The next question to this conundrum is what exactly are basketball “fundamentals”?
Fundamentals can be defined as the basics of the game, skills all players need to have to be successful basketball players. I believe the fundamentals center around three skills: shooting, passing, and dribbling. In our practices and drills, we strive to do things to improve our players abilities in these three areas. Below are 3 “fundamental” drills that help to teach these three skills with some fundamental principles.
Drills to Practice Basketball Fundamentals
Drill 1 (2 Foot 2 Hand Drill)
This is a super fundamental drill that will have players working on attacking a defender’s hip, landing on a 2 foot jump stop, and finishing strong through a padded defender.
Drill 2 (4 on 3 Passing)
This drill brings in the lost art of the “pass fake.” In this drill, the offense’s goal is to complete 10 clean passes without a defensive steal or deflection. The key is each offensive player must keep a foot on either the block or the elbow (whichever they were assigned). This also works on an important part of both offense and defense:communication.
Drill 3 (Perfect Passing)
This is a great drill to make sure our passes are hitting our teammates in stride, it works on our communication, and we can even test how our players do in a little more difficult situation when we randomly changedirections in the middle of the drill.
I hope you enjoyed looking through these three fundamental drills!
Kyle Brasher | Gibson Southern High School
Lady Titans Basketball Coach
Basketball is a sport that requires both offensive and defensive skills. And while flashy scoring gets much of the attention, a solid defense is equally important to winning games. In basketball, one of the key aspects of defense is on-ball defense, which involves guarding the player with the ball and preventing them from scoring or passing effectively.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 fundamentals of on-ball defense according to coach Ernie Woods, including techniques, strategies, and tips for becoming a more effective defender on the court.
10 Points for On-Ball Defense
Ernie Woods has have long been recognized as having one of the best defensive minds in the game of basketball. The following 10 points come from the chapter entitled “On Ball Defense” from his book Advanced Basketball Defense.
Ball pressure is the single most important element of team defense.
To be successful, players must possess a working knowledge of the basic defensive concepts and fundamentals.
“On Ball” defensive fundamentals are comprised of three basic components: Pressuring and attacking the player with the ball, containing a dribbler and attacking the picked up dribble.
Pressuring the ball handler makes dribbling and passing more difficult, and increases the chances of an offensive mistake.
When guarding a player with the ball, the defender should attack and take away the “Triple Threat” options by forcing the opponent into dribbling.
The defenders should influence ball handlers to the closest sideline or baseline push point. In keeping the ball out of the middle of the court (“Red Zone”), it not only reduces the offensive operating area, but it also creates help side defense.
On dribble penetration, it is important that the defender protect the “Elbows” and “Blocks”. Do not allow the dribbler penetration into the three second area.
Defenders should constantly anticipate and immediately attack any player that picks up their dribble.
Defenders must have a hand up and contest every shot. Since shooters know where the ball is going as soon as it leaves their hand, they must be boxed out.
Taking a charge is a really big play in basketball. However, in taking a charge, players need to be taught to absorb contact by tucking their chin in and executing a shoulder roll.
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail! Quickly create, organize, & manage your practice plans all in one place to help win games.
Create detailed practice plans! Add drills, notes, diagrams, videos, & groups with an easy-to-use interface to create a detailed practice plan in no time!
Other than parents, coaches have a bigger impact on the lives of young people than just about everyone else. As coaches we know and understand that fact and are often quick to point out to others how our influence has helped the weak become strong, the average become good, and the good become great. Even though we don’t publicly keep score, many of us take detailed mental notes of how many athletes are obviously better off both on and off the court because they participated in our program.
However, what many don’t realize or admit is that there have also been some athletes who are not better off because they were coached by us. In fact, some of these players leave us worse off than when they started!
How does that happen? The answer can often be found in the principle of self fulfilling prophecy which basically says that when someone strongly believes something about themselves, they often adjust their behavior to make those beliefs come true. Because of our position and influence, we as coaches often play a huge role in the development and nurturing of these beliefs even if we don’t realize it at the time.
How We Sabotage the Success of Your Own Players
We usually do this in four incremental steps. The results can either be an upward spiral that leads to improvement, fun, and success or a downward spiral that leads to stagnation, frustration, and failure.
Step 1: Early Impressions
The first step takes place when we form our early impressions and expectations of each of our players. Sometimes this is done during tryouts and other times it takes several days and even weeks of careful observance. Occasionally we even form our impressions and expectations based on the information given to us by others.
Regardless of exactly how and when it is done, we eventually establish a mental picture of the potential value and corresponding expectations of every one of our players.
Step 2: Revealing Our Expectations
The second step occurs when we both directly and indirectly reveal those expectations to our players. This happens directly by telling each player what you expect his or her role to be. Then, constantly telling them specific ways to expand those roles. Expectations can also be indirectly revealed as well by spending more time coaching the better players and less time with the others.
Many coaches also seem to naturally develop stronger, more personal relationships with their top players. That leaves more casual, business like relationships with the bottom of their roster. Soon, players know their worth to the team by how their coach interacts with them.
Step 3: The Weight of Those Expectations
The next step in the cycle finds the athletes responding either positively or negatively to the way they are treated. The special few, the ones author Tim Grover calls “relentless,” ignore the expectations and treatment of others because they have such high expectations of themselves.
However, the majority of players gradually start to mirror whatever the coach expects of them. Those with great expectations become great. Those with lesser expectations seem to get worse as the season progresses.
Step 4: Confirmation Bias
The fourth step takes place when the coach tells himself something like “I knew he would become one of our best players.” Or, “I’m not surprised. I knew she would never amount to much.” Once that happens, either higher or lower expectations get re-established and then revealed by the coach. The behavior of the athletes then adjusts to reflect the new expectations, and the entire four step process is started over.
Obviously not every player can be the team’s leading scorer or rebounder. But every player can be treated with respect and given the necessary support and encouragement to maximize his talents and to reach his full potential. Like it or not, nearly everything you say or do influences your players in one way or another.
Don’t be satisfied that you’ve had a positive impact on some of your players or even most of your players. Make the commitment that you won’t be satisfied until you’ve made a positive impact on all of your players.
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail! Quickly create, organize, & manage your practice plans all in one place to help win games.
Create detailed practice plans! Add drills, notes, diagrams, videos, & groups with an easy-to-use interface to create a detailed practice plan in no time!
There are thousands of basketball drills available in videos, books, and on the internet these days. But how can you tell which one’s a good practice drill and which one isn’t? That’s among the most difficult aspects of practice planning for new basketball coaches. Sometimes, though, it’s as easy as finding a veteran coach and building off what they used to be successful.
Here are 9 tips to recognize a good basketball practice drill that I learned from ultra successful coach Burrall Paye.
Practice Drill Tip 1: Make It Game-Like
When I was in school I was always frustrated by the teacher who would teach us tons of stuff only to find out that none of it was on the test. The gym is your classroom and the games are the test.
Help your students (players) pass the test (win the game) by teaching them what they need to know and giving them a preview of how to apply it. If it doesn’t happen in the game don’t do it in your team practices.
Practice Drill Tip 2: Make It Relevant
There are a lot of coaches who fill their practices with drills that they ran when they were in high school or college or with “favorite” drills that they have picked up along the way – even though those same drills have absolutely nothing to do with their current offense, defense, or coaching philosophy.
If a drill is not applicable or transferable to what you are trying to teach your current teams then don’t do it!
Practice Drill Tip 3: Make It Progressive
If you can lift 10 pounds in September and are still lifting 10 pounds in August you might be lifting all the time but you’re not getting any stronger. The same is true with your drill work in practice.
The best drills grow right along with your players and give them the opportunity to improve over the course of the entire season.
Practice Drill Tip 4: Make It Competitive
One of the most important and productive things you can teach your players is how to be competitive and the use of competitive drills is a great way to do this.
Whether your players are competing against another player or team, competing against themselves or competing against the clock they will benefit from increasing their competitive level as well as their skill level. Most non competitive drills are useless.
Practice Drill Tip 5: Incorporate Conditioning
Ask yourself this – how much does your team have to run at the end of practice to improve their conditioning? If it’s a lot then you are not using enough drills that contain a built in conditioning component.
Keep everyone moving, reduce standing around and remember that just about every half court drill can be turned into a full court drill with just a little tweaking.
Practice Drill Tip 6: Don’t Be Too Complicated
Great drills should make your players stretch their levels of skill, concentration and teamwork and in many cases should be tougher than an actual game situation.
However, the drills should not be impossible to master, especially at lower levels where constant perceived failure could permanently damage a player’s confidence.
Practice Drill Tip 7: Keep Groups Small
We all know and accept the fact that repetition is the mother of all learning. Then why do we run drills where lots of players are standing around watching and then only get a few repetitions when it is finally their turn?
Instead, divide the team in half and run the same drill at both ends of the court so there is less standing and more practicing. Better yet, utilize all your assistant coaches and managers and organize a series of timed drill stations where every player is constantly working and learning.
Practice Drill Tip 8: Incorporate Decision Making
If you can teach your players to be competitive and make good decisions you’ve already won half the battle. This is difficult for those coaches who want complete control over every possession and every player. That said, teaching kids how to make good decisions is synonymous with teaching them how to play.
Since there are a limited number of timeouts, at some time in every game your players will need to make some decisions on their own. It’s better that they learn how to do that in practice instead of “winging it” when the game is on the line.
Practice Drill Tip 9: Keep It Fun
Granted, not all drills need to be fun but at least they should be interesting and challenging. This is especially true with younger players and as the season progresses. LA Clippers assistant coach Kevin Eastman says that fatigue and boredom are the two biggest practice killers.
Be creative. You wouldn’t want to eat chicken cooked the exact same way every single night for 6 months! So of course, your players don’t want to run the exact same closeout drill every single night of the season!
Don’t fall into the trap of drilling just for the sake of drilling. Make sure each drill is run with a purpose and fits into your practice objective for that particular day. If you follow the 9 tips above you can become what Kevin Eastman calls a “skill coach not a drill coach.”
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail! Quickly create, organize, & manage your practice plans all in one place to help win games.
Create detailed practice plans! Add drills, notes, diagrams, videos, & groups with an easy-to-use interface to create a detailed practice plan in no time!
This much we know is certain: winning teams have common characteristics that separate them from losing teams. It’s no secret. As a matter of fact, I would say they are not just characteristics; they are actually high character-driven traits. Perhaps among the most important of these winning basketball traits is attitude.
Basketball Attitude
There is just not enough practice time in a given season at any level for skill development. A player truly grows through being what I call a gym rat. A gym rat is someone who lives in the gym or on the courts working on their game.
Gym Rats are continuing to decrease every year in my opinion. I feel that players have come accustomed to coaches organizing their skill time opportunities for them. As if coaches don’t set times and opportunities for players then the growth often doesn’t happen. We have now become a generation of convenience and having things done for us. I am sure if players could just purchase an App to get better they would.
At the college level, we recruit kids with high character and value hard work. Our job is often easier then coaches who coach high school or younger when it comes to skill development. For example, there were times this past summer the doors closed at midnight in our gym. I am telling you this not to brag, but to provide the results of the hard work that happened. We won our first state title in school history with having 4 all-conference players this past season.
Building Basketball Attitude in the Summer
Summer development benefits the whole team. You cannot simply win with one or two players that put up a lot points. For example, when I coached HS I had player scored 530 points in his senior season. We completed the season with only 5 wins. Why? Not enough scoring from others and easy to defend of our tactics.
Take a look at the winning teams in the last few years: Villanova, Golden State, North Carolina, Gonzaga, and even our team this season. If you view these team’s statistics, you would notice a trend of 4 to 5 players scoring in double figures every game. I believe role players still exist in some capacity and often are glue kids for a team, but coaching basketball is easy when you have multiple players that can score. It’s hard to defend and scout. Also, I think as a coach you can keep your offensive system very simple with many players that can score. You allow them to create and score on reads and reaction. We were able to complex our defense this season, which made it very difficult for other teams to compete with us.
The more commitment you get from players in the summer, especially dedication in skill development that team becomes harder to defend. Better players and deeper bench equals better practices as well. Practices become more competitive with players challenging each other for minutes. Summer development for all equals better results during season play.
Reward Team Attitude and Effort
In his book Extreme Dreams Depend on Teams, Pat Williams says the following about rewarding your basketball team’s attitude and effort:
The natural tendency of leaders and coaches is to reward individual achievements. The problem is that when teams succeed, it is so often the result of selflessness and sacrifice on the part of people who truly “think team” and never get the glory. So the job of the leader or coach is to dig a little deeper, look beyond the flashy accomplishments of the stars on the team, and finds ways to acknowledge and reward the hod carriers and role-players. Yes, we should acknowledge individual achievement – but we should also recognize the team as a whole – and especially those self-effacing, self-sacrificing team players who make their contribution without making headlines
Hand painted jersey portraits make a great gift for Senior Night or Banquets. They have worked hard and pushed themselves to the limit physically and emotionally. Give them a gift that will be cherished long after they graduate.
Let’s say at this stage in your career your skills are at point A and your goal is to get those same skills to point B. What is the quickest way to get your basketball skill set there? There is really only one answer and it is daily, repetitious, and purposeful practice!
Purposeful means that you are following a proven and workable plan. Repetitious means you are practicing the desired skill over and over and over again. Those two are the easy parts of the formula. It’s the daily requirement that’s the stumbling block!
The 10 Million Dollar Basketball Skill Set
At first thought it seems like shooting 2100 jump shots on a Saturday would be the same as shooting 300 shots a day for 7 straight days but it’s not. It’s the daily consistency that is going to strengthen your muscle memory and ultimately improve that skill. The same is true with passing, ball handling, post moves, defensive techniques, etc.
Think about this for a second:
If you take a penny and double it every day for 31 days, you’ll soon have more than 10 million dollars. However, if you only double it every other day for 31 days, you’ll wind up with $163.00. And if you choose to only add seven cents every Saturday instead of worrying about it every day you will finish the month with 29 cents. Ten million dollars versus $163.00 versus 29 cents.
Pete Maravich, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durrant, and Chris Paul are just a few of the many professional basketball players whose daily work ethics are legendary. Sometimes we see players like these and think to ourselves, “Well, if I made tons of money to play in the NBA, I’d work out hard every day too!” They don’t work out every day because they’re successful. . . .they’re successful because they work out every day!
Daily Work Takes Sacrifice
It’s not easy working on your game every day. On some days you’re going to be more tired than usual and on other days your friends are going to insist that you hang out with them instead of spending time in the gym. You have to have an extraordinary amount of self discipline to ignore all of the distractions that constantly tempt you from doing what’s important. (It might help you memorize the quote, “The things that matter the most should never be at the mercy of things that matter the least.”)
What is easy is telling yourself that missing a day every now and then is okay and that you’ll make it up some other time. The first time you miss you feel a little guilty about it, but you soon get over it. Then before you know it you’re missing more and more days without even thinking twice about it. Soon you decide just to do all your extra skill work just on Saturdays and you know what that gets you.
So I guess the question you have to ask yourself is, “Do I want a $10 million skill set or a 29 cent skill set?
Only you can answer that question and only you can do something about it!
Hand painted jersey portraits make a great gift for Senior Night or Banquets. They have worked hard and pushed themselves to the limit physically and emotionally. Give them a gift that will be cherished long after they graduate.
No matter the level, every basketball coach is always searching for ways to improve their team. Finding the right ways to motivate your team might be one of the most difficult tasks facing any coach. Old methods might not reach the players of today in the same way. So it’s on coaches to find new and innovative tactics to deploy. That brings us to the University of Central Florida Women’s Basketball Team and their use of the 10/50 Rule.
The 10/50 Rule for Improvement
UCF’s 10/50 Rule aims inspire players to improve their lives both on and off the court. This rule states that you should always play to your strengths yet continue to work on your weaknesses.
To implement the 10/50 Rule you should do two things:
strive to improve those things that you already do well by 10 percent
decrease your weaknesses by 50 percent
The players are taught that the first thing they must do is to make an honest evaluation of all their strengths and weaknesses. Then they are left with the following thoughts and ideas:
There are certain things within their control and they must control the controllables.
No one has to do anything incredible
Everyone knows what they can get better at, and what they need to do less of or eliminate altogether.
Do what we are asked to do 10% better.
Don’t let the things that keep you from doing what you need to do occupy your mind.
Make it happen before it happens.
It takes work, not luck.
As you start to think about organizing your spring and individual workouts consider using the 10/50 Rule to get a huge advantage over your competition.
Hand painted jersey portraits make a great gift for Senior Night or Banquets. They have worked hard and pushed themselves to the limit physically and emotionally. Give them a gift that will be cherished long after they graduate.
This much we know is certain: winning teams have common characteristics that separate them from losing teams. It’s no secret. As a matter of fact, I would say they are not just characteristics; they are actually high character-driven traits. Perhaps among the most important of these winning basketball traits is sacrifice.
Key to Winning Basketball: Sacrifice
The ultimate trait is that of self-sacrifice, i.e. the ability to give up one’s personal glory for the success and betterment of the team.
I’ve been fortunate to witness firsthand how critical this is to success at the highest level. Who knows if we will get to The NBA Finals, but what I do know is that the two teams that reach the Finals will have highly talented players giving of themselves so that the team can win it all. It’s a rule of success at every championship level!
Giving up touches, giving up shots, giving up personal accolades, giving up your body by taking a charge or diving for a loose ball…that’s what championships are built on. These are the ultimate player sacrifices. Knowing and believing that what we do together is far more daunting to our opponent than what we do on our own. Opponents can handle individuals; it’s the true teams that are so difficult to beat!
So each player has to have that personal talk with himself. Does he want to win scoring titles or championships? Get his name in the paper or on a championship trophy? Be the best player on the team or the best team in the nation? How much work ethic does he have?
We know how championship caliber players would answer these questions, but you need to know how your players will answer these questions! That will give you a great indication of how far you may be able to go this coming season.
Hand painted jersey portraits make a great gift for Senior Night or Banquets. They have worked hard and pushed themselves to the limit physically and emotionally. Give them a gift that will be cherished long after they graduate.
I meet and learn from champions every day. Not just in locker rooms but in classrooms, hospitals, homeless shelters, homes and office buildings. I’ve learned that to be a champion you must Think Like a Champion.
Champions think differently than everyone else. They approach their life and work with a different mindset and belief system that separates them from the pack. Here’s a look at five ways to think like one.
1. Champions Expect to Win
When they walk on the court, on the field, into a meeting or in a classroom they expect to win. In fact they are surprised when they don’t win. They expect success and their positive beliefs often lead to positive actions and outcomes.
Champions win in their mind first and then they win in the hearts and minds of their customers, students or fans.
2. Champions Celebrate the Small Wins
By celebrating the small wins, champions gain the confidence to go after the big wins. Big wins and big success happen through the accumulation of many small victories. Developing teamwork certainly makes this easier.
This doesn’t mean champions become complacent. Rather, with the right kind of celebration and reinforcement, champions work harder, practice more and believe they can do greater things.
3. Champions Don’t Make Excuses When They Don’t Win
Champions don’t focus on the faults of others. They focus on what they can do better. They see their mistakes and defeats as opportunities for growth.
As a result they become stronger, wiser and better.
4. Champions Focus on What They Get To Do, Not What They Have To Do
Champions see their life and work as a gift not an obligation. They know that if they want to achieve a certain outcome, they must commit to and appreciate the process.
They may not love every minute of their journey. However, a champion’s attitude and will helps them develop their skill.
5. Champions Believe They Will Experience More Wins in the Future
Faith is greater than their fear. Positive energy is greater than the chorus of negativity. Certainty is greater than all the doubt. Passion and purpose are greater than their challenges. In spite of their situation, champions believe their best days are ahead of them, not behind them.
If you don’t think you have what it takes to be a champion, think again. Champions aren’t born. They are shaped and molded. And as iron sharpens iron, you can develop your mindset and the mindset of your team with the right thinking, beliefs and expectations that lead to powerful actions.
As coaches, we are accustomed to doing a lot of talking. Pre-season, in-season, and basketball postseason meetings remain a regular platform. We are accustomed to talking during practice, accustomed to talking in the locker room. Heck, some of us probably even talk basketball in our sleep. What can get lost in all this talking is the art of listening.
Our players have a ton to say and it is important that we take the time to open up our ears and listen to what we have to say. With most of our seasons either winding down or being over at this point in the year, there is no better time to start that process of listening than in your basketball postseason meetings.
Postseason Meetings: Basketball Players React and Reflect
These basketball postseason meetings are some of my favorite times of the year with my players. Thinking about and reflecting on my previous meetings, I really felt like I dominated the conversation as the coach.
After talking with my staff after this season, I wanted to shift the focus to the player and just listen. I provided the questions I would ask the players before their arrival to give them a chance to think about how they will want to respond. The questions that I asked are below:
What are your thoughts on the season for you?
What are your thoughts on the season for the team?
What is your goal/a role you want to have for next season?
What are you going to do to accomplish that goal?
The Process
When each player would come in, I would just go through each question and type what they would have to say. I felt like the first two questions are good reflection points on this past season while the last two questions are good things to think about this off-season and going into next season.
I would often provide some of my thoughts after question two on their season and inject some things for them to consider while preparing for their off-season work after question four.
The main thing I focused on this year was just listening and trying to get my players to open up their thoughts. I really enjoyed just listening and typing their answers down.
Wrap-Up
What I learned by turning the focus of the meeting onto them is it really forced them to think about the season and their performance. I immediately noticed that teenagers are not always the most comfortable talking about themselves, especially in terms of positive things. I really pushed them to think about parts of the season they felt like were successful for them.
So much of our society is wrapped up in the negative side of things that the things they did really well oftentimes get overlooked. I wanted to celebrate the success each of them had while also providing some coaching tips for them to consider as they prepare to enter the offseason.
I really enjoyed taking the time to really focus on my listening skills. This allows the players to take ownership of their season and what they want to accomplish this offseason. With them stating their desired goals and roles, I am hoping it will inspire and motivate them this offseason to work towards their goals and accomplish them. If our players do accomplish the goals they set out in our postseason meetings, then we have a great chance for huge success next season.
Kyle Brasher | Gibson Southern High School
Lady Titans Basketball Coach
Ask just about any basketball coach what their key to success is, and in almost every scenario, you’ll hear some version of the same answer: Teamwork. Basketball requires players to have the right attitude, work together, and sacrifice for success on the court. Individually, skills are only effective if the team can effectively collaborate, taking advantage of each other’s strengths and creating opportunities.
Communication is Key to Basketball Teamwork
Effective communication is crucial for teamwork in basketball. Calling out screens, setting picks, or discussing plays, players must communicate to ensure everyone is working towards the same goal.
Build Trust within the Team Dynamic
Trust among players is important for smooth teamwork. Trusting each other’s skills, tendencies, and abilities leads to better results and a stronger team dynamic.
Sacrifice for the Team
In basketball, players must be willing to sacrifice personal interests for the good of the team. This could mean taking a less prominent role, passing up a shot, or making a defensive play that doesn’t result in personal recognition. When players make sacrifices, they put the needs of the group first, leading to greater success.
In conclusion, teamwork is essential in basketball. Communication, trust, and sacrifice are key factors in achieving success as a team. Focus on these elements and you’ll be on your way to reaching your goals.
Getting the right rhythm and flow to practice remains one of the most challenging aspects for most basketball coaches. It’s important to change up your approach from time to time to prevent players from getting board or simply going through the motions. Adding pace-changing basketball practice activities can inject new life into each session and set players up for success.
Basketball Practice Activities: Opposites
Opposites is a 10-minute scrimmage where every player can only use their opposite hand to dribble, pass, and shoot. Their strong hand can only be used to catch passes, and as a guide for shooting and dribbling transfers. Coaches ref the scrimmage to make sure everybody’s sticking to the rules. Every player on the winning team gets 1 point for “The Practice Breakers Board.”
This activity is hilariously fun, but also strongly encourages each player to work intensely on developing their opposite hand. It gets them in the habit of forcing the issue, and experiencing the intial ups and downs along with the rest of the team. “Opposites” is a tremendous team confidence builder, and is truely a blast. Have fun!
Basketball Practice Activities: Half-Court Heroes
For “Half-court Heroes,” 3 players spread across the half-court stripe. They will all back up several feet, and with a running start at the coach’s whistle, will each take a halfcourt shot at the same time. The challenge is for them to choose the proper height, distance, and speed that will allow their shot to arrive at a different time than their two teammates. Thus giving their shot a better opportunity to go in.
The only true rule is that all three players must shoot at the same time. Coaches ref this activity as well, and often join in with the team, which makes it even more fun. The player with the most makes at the end of 10 minutes, gets a point on “The Practice Breakers Board.” Your team will love it!
Basketball Practice Activities: Stick and Pick
“Stick and Pick” is one of the most engaging basketball practice activities. The coaches select a specific shot for every player to shoot. Whoever makes(sticks) it first, gets to pick the next shot for everybody to take until the next make, which can be any shot they want, regardless of the difficulty. The more difficult each shot becomes, the safer it becomes for the current leader to protect their point for “The Practice Breakers Board”.
There are only 2 simple rules. First, the shot must be attempted from no more than a few feet beyond the 3 point line, and must be shot from in bounds. Second, the line must rotate in order every practice, so each player gets the chance to be the first shooter. It’s very similar to “H.O.R.S.E.”, but is so much more challenging and engaging.
The last player to make a shot at the end of 10 minutes, will of course, get a point on “The Practice Breakers Board”. This is also another great opportunity for coaches to participate whenever they see fit. Enjoy!
When developing any youth basketball shooting drill, a good coach must consider what types of shots they want to focus on. Drills should reinforce the skills that will help the players perform within the context of a game. So shooting drills should be designed around shots that would normally result from a team’s offensive actions. The best basketball shooting drills are representative of a team’s base offense.
Youth Basketball Shooting Drill: 3-2-1 Shooting
This drill involves at least two players and is a high-volume, high-repetition practice. Over the course of one or two minutes, non-stop, a single shooter progresses through a series of jump shots. The other player rebounds and feeds the shooter from near the hoop.
The shooter begins behind the three-point line for their first shot. From there, the shooter moves into the midrange for their second shot. The last shot in the sequence is a layup (which is worth one point). The rebounder keeps track of the shooter’s score as their teammate progresses through the drill. After the time is up, the players switch roles.
This shooting drill provides valuable practice for any shooter, regardless of talent-level. The shooter must move, set their feet and find a repeatable release. Even the other player gets reps at securing rebounds and making solid passes.
This drill can incorporate internal competition as well. The two partnered players can compete with one another, or with another pair at another hoop.
One of the most important elements to designing a valuable practice plan is deciding what core basketball elements you’ll concentrate on. So when deciding between basketball practice warm up drills, it’s important for a coach to know where the focus will be. Many practices begin with traditional layup lines, jump shots, and passing drills. But how often are the players simply going through the motions of those drills? Installing the right warm up drills will vastly improve the efficiency of your practice.
Getting your players warmed up and ready to compete needs to happen at the start of every practice. So why not use that segment to instill core elements to your offense and defense?
Warm-Up Passing Drills: Pivot Pass
One of the better warm up passing drills incorporates pivot passing. While this passing drill remains a staple at the youth level, there are practical elements here that can be incorporated into the practice plan of more advanced teams.
This drill stresses the specific development basic footwork. Players pair off and stand in four lines. If the players start on the baseline, they explode out with an attack dribble to the free throw line extended area. From there, the players jump stop, reverse pivot then pass to their partner at the baseline. The partner receives the pass an immediately explodes into the dribble.
The reverse pivot helps practice creating space, a necessary skill for any level of player. Coaches can layer shot fakes, step throughs, rips, etc. Change the specific pivot foot for the players and force them to adjust. Even the most athletic players may struggle with this seemingly basic drill because it layers specific movements and does so quickly.
Warm Up Passing Drills: Argentina Passing
Coaches always love drills that do double duty. When a drill that incorporates multiple basketball elements can be used, it helps maximize the value of that practice segment. Drills that develop specific skills and other elements like conditioning and/or communication are inherently more valuable than single-focus drills.
Argentina Passing sports that layered value because players progressing through the drill develop their passing skills, as well as hand-eye coordination, communication and conditioning. Passing drills in general get players mentally focused, and this one gets them moving as well.
Eight players start on the court for this basketball practice warm up drill. Each player stands partnered with the teammate directly across or diagonally across from them in the half court. The two balls start with the center players and those players pass to their right. Immediately after a player passes, they cut across the court and exchange places with their partner.
This drill rises above a normal passing drill because the players are sprinting through once they’ve made their pass. Players must concentrate on the catch, using a reverse pivot to open their hips on the catch.
Passes exclusively run to one side, meaning the players are always either passing to the right or the left. Coaches can focus on specific pass types. Coaches can also reverse the drill after a set amount of time.
Players work on passing, foot work, communication and conditioning through the drill.
Warm Up Passing Drills: Star Passing
Star Passing is common one in many gyms, but this version of the drill incorporates the necessary element of finishing with a made basket. This doubles well not only as a basketball practice warm up drill, but also as a game warm up.
The drill begins with players arrayed in a star across the half court. The ball starts with the line under the basket. There are lines in the corners, as well as on the wings.
The first pass goes from under the basket to the left wing. The passer follows their pass and joins the end of that line. From there, the left wing passes to the right corner and follows. Right corner makes a baseline pass to the left corner and follows.
The final move in this initial turn through the drill involves the left corner feeding the player that cuts from the right wing. That player receives the pass and finishes the turn with a layup.
Variations of the drill can incorporate a number of additional basketball elements. Coaches can require that the ball never hits the floor. They can reverse the flow of the drill to work on left-hand layups. Coaches can have a defender waiting at the rim to challenge the finisher. The list goes on an on.
Basketball coaches everywhere are constantly searching for new Competitive Practice Games. Keeping young players engaged throughout a practice period often means mixing up physical warm-ups and stretching, technical drills and competitive contests. Coaches need to layer the information and embed key skills before introducing and installing specific sets.
4-on-4 Cut Throat is a high-energy, high-movement drill. Coaches divide their teams into sets of four, with two groups on the floor at all times. Through each progression, players navigate the possession, looking to score or get a stop. As each possession ends, the successful team (the one that scored or made the stop) stays on the floor, while the losing group comes off. The waiting team comes on and fills the vacancy.
Coaches can allow the players to free play, or can install specific needs in a possession. The free-flowing nature of the drill allows players to learn on the fly. Whatever a coach decides to emphasize in the drill often translates directly to the game.
Emphasis: Build solid offensive and defensive habits. The hidden value remains the opportunity for coaches to provide direct instruction to the teams that lose a possession. As the losing team comes off the floor, a coach can immediately pull them aside and talk through what went wrong while the other two teams progress through the drill.
Competitive Games in Basketball Practice: One-Way Basket
This is a full-court competitive game that allows coaches to install a specific play or set, while also practice key defensive principles. In the half court, the offense runs their first action against a full compliment of defenders. If this action results in a basket, then the offense and defense switch. But if the defense gets a stop, then it’s a full court game.
The defensive stop flows into transition offense as that squad seeks to score. Only points scored off of defensive stops count in this competitive practice game. This game should flow back and forth for several minutes before coaches change anything.
Emphasis: Defense. Basketball coaches that incorporate this competitive practice game look to establish the mindset that the team needs to focus on getting defensive stops before getting to the offensive end of the floor.
It’s important for coaches to allow their players to play through their mistakes and learn as these competitive practice games to unfold. These controlled situations and scrimmages also provide plenty of information for coaching staffs to digest. They’re learning the strengths and weaknesses of their teams.
Developing the right pre-practice basketball warm-up routine remains one of the keys to an efficient practice plan. What the players do prior the structured nature of practice begins often allows coaches to build on specific foundations for success. This helps players get better before practice even starts.
I’ve always found it very interesting to watch and take notice how players prepare themselves while waiting for practice to officially start. All too often they will walk into the gym, sit on the sidelines and “stretch” while they talk to teammates. Eventually they might get up, grab a ball, take a shot, walk after it, talk to another teammate, take another shot, walk after it, and on and on. Before long, everyone has arrived, practice starts, and the first several minutes are completely wasted because no one is warmed up or “into it” yet.
Wouldn’t it be much better for everyone on the team if players used those few minutes before practice to get thoroughly warmed up and focused while doing some skill work at the same time?
Here’s a look at a valuable basketball warm-up routine to implement this season.
Pre-Practice Basketball Warm-up Routine
Part 1: Simple Running
The running segment of this basketball warm-up routine is intended to build some stamina and prevent injury. Go down and back before going to the next option. If are running with a partner, the spacing is such as one partner gets to half court then the other one goes.
Jog – Easy jog, with both hands up, down the length of court. Pause and jog back to starting baseline.
Backpedal – Run to half court with hands up, turn and run backwards to baseline. Pause and repeat back to starting baseline.
Carioca – Facing side of court, use crossover steps to run the length of the court with your hands up. Pause and facing same side of the court continue using cross over steps to return back to the original baseline.
Skipping – Go length of floor while skipping as high as possible. Jump high with right knee coming up toward chest and right hand extending as high as possible. Land and repeat with left leg and left hand. Pause and continue back to starting baseline. Remember that you want jump as high as possible on each jump.
Hopping – On one leg hop back and forth over the sideline while travelling the length of the court. At half court, change legs and continue to hop back and forth over the same line all the way down to the baseline. Pause and continue back to your original starting point. This is an exercise that many skiers use to increase the strength of their ankles.
Sprints – Sprint to half court and then jog to the baseline. Pause and repeat back to the original baseline.
Defensive Slides – Run to half court, turn and defensive slide to the baseline. Rest and repeat.
Part 2: Shooting
Although these shooting drills may seem simple and redundant, they are vital to becoming a good shooter. They also should be done any time you practice on your own:
McHales
Tip the ball one handed off the backboard (or wall) 10 consecutive times right handed. Then tip 10 consecutive times left handed. You may try to tip the tenth repetition into the basket.
Be off the ground for each tip and learn to control the ball with your finger tips. (Repeat three times for a total 60 tips).
Mikans
Face the basket, take a step with your left foot toward the right side of the basket and shoot a right hand lay-up off the backboard. Rebound the ball and take a step with your right foot to the left side of the basket and shoot a left-handed lay-up.
Keep the ball high and do not ever allow the ball to come below your outstretched arms. Continue until you make 12 shots. (Repeat 3 times for a total of 36 shots).
Rodmans
On right side of the basket, toss the ball high off backboard. Jump up and rebound it, keeping arms straight. Without bending arms, quickly bounce off both feet and shoot the ball into the basket. Quickness is important on this shot.
Repeat on left side of basket, shooting with left hand. Continue alternating right side and left side until you make 12 shots. (Repeat 3 times for a total of 36 shots).
Daily Dozen
From the right elbow (corner of the free throw line) take one dribble to the basket and shoot a right-handed, over-hand lay-up off the glass. Rebound the ball and take two dribbles out to the opposite (left) elbow. Pivot without stopping the dribble and take one dribble to the basket shooting a left-handed, over-hand lay-up.
Go hard to the basket and keep your head up and eyes on target. Dribble with your right hand on right side of basket and with left hand on left side of basket. Continue until you make 12 shots. (Repeat 3 times for a total of 36 shots).
Game Shots
This is not a random “shoot and talk” segment. Concentrate on the areas and types of shots that you will be taking during an actual game. Be sure to include some free throws. Remember – game shots at game speed.
By the time you finish this warm up you should have broken a sweat and be prepared both physically and mentally ready to make the most of official practice.
Any good basketball coach knows, in order to go on a run in a game, you’ll need consecutive stops on defense. These stops can facilitate a fast break offense and help your team control the clock. But in order to get these stops, your team must stand on those important defensive foundations laid during practice. These skills and strategies should be ingrained in your players, and developing solid team defense drills often helps in this regard.
The following drill might be a simple one, but it helps stress those foundational skills and strategies. It also forces the team to understand the value of getting multiple defensive stops to take control of a game. Here’s a look.
Team Defense Drills: 5 Stops
5 Stops stands out among most team defense drills because of its versatility for basketball coaches. This is a competitive practice drill that allows your team to work on both your half court offense and your half court defense. Coaches can deploy the team’s base defense for each repetition, or sprinkle in specials.
The progression for this drill is simple: the teams play a “live” 5-on-5 half court set where the defense works to get a single stop. Stops are defined as gaining possession of the ball either through a defensive rebound or turnover. After one successful stop, the defense then must repeat that process for five consecutive possessions.
Defenses are allowed just one foul per five stops. Should the defense foul twice before achieving five stops, the counter resets. Once each team has reached five stops, the drill can continue with four straight stops, then three, two, and one. The offensive team should remain aggressive to challenge the defense throughout this team drill.
This drill is typically done when half court defense is the emphasis for practice. It can be adjusted to 4-on-4 if the team has 12 active players for practice. Coaches can choose to have the defense make five straight stops, or alternate with each possession, keeping score along the way.
Points of Emphasis:
Communication – The defense “talk” throughout the possession, calling out cutters, rotations, etc.
Active Hands – Defenders must play “big,” challenging each pass and shot attempt without fouling.
Mental Toughness – Recording five straight defensive stops isn’t easy, so defenders must be mentally ready for the challenge.
Although the modern game of basketball has drifted away from the low block, getting points from the post can still make the difference between winning and losing. While once upon a time, a basketball big man patrolled the paint on offense with his back to the basket, nowadays must develop a more well-rounded game. That said, having a variety of low post moves will help any developing big man in today’s game.
Where’s the Low Post?
The low post area of a basketball court is the section of the painted area nearest to the basket. This stretch features a rectangular block to designate the spot and remains a vital piece of real estate on the court.
The low post stands in contrast to the mid-post, a section middle of the way between the low block and the free throw line, and the high post, which is situated near the free throw line.
Players that occupy the low post often try to pin their defender to their back before receiving a pass. This area makes for prime rebounding position, and when open, provides the highest percentage shots on the basketball court.
Although the modern game has pushed low post players away from the basket, being able to effectively score from this section of the court can often tilt control of the game. These players need to have a variety of low post moves to lean on when trying to score from the block.
Low Post Moves: Baby Hook
Perhaps the most important low post move for young big men to add to their bag is the baby hook. This simple and effective shot leverages the offensive player’s position near the hoop to get up a quality shot. By turning half way, the offensive player creates space from his defender along the length of his body. From there, the offensive player uses one hand to take this shot attempt over his defender.
This low post move requires a wide stance and a solid base to operate from. If the defender is on the offensive player’s back, a shoulder fake one way or the other should create an opening to attack. From there, the offensive player should turn his shoulders parallel to the hoop, with the ball away from the defender. The offensive player then brings the ball up vertically with one hand and executes the shot attempt with a quick snap of the wrist.
The baby hook is a simplified version of the traditional sky hook, a far more difficult move for low post players to master.
Low Post Moves: Drop Step
Another one of the low post moves every big man should have in his bag is the drop step. This simple maneuver leverages a defender’s position on the floor to create space right at the rim for a layup. The offensive player dribbles with his back to the defender after receiving the ball. Once physical contact is made with the defender’s body, the offensive player uses a shoulder fake to position the defender near his pivot foot. From there, the offensive player uses his other leg to wrap around the defender’s foot and “drop” toward the basket.
This move pushes the defender aside, creating an opening for a layup right at the rim. It must be timed correctly to avoid a charging call or to prevent the defender from getting a clean block. Using the dribble to set up the defender, the best drop step progresses the offensive player toward the baseline. Once the spin is made, the offensive player uses his own body to protect the ball from the defender during the shot attempt.
Low Post Moves: Up-and-Under
The up-and-under stands out as an effective set of low post moves that can also create fouls on opposing defenders. This move works particularly well once the offensive player has made a couple of baby hooks. The “up” portion of the up-and-under looks like a hook shot, inducing the defender’s reaction. The “under” takes place when the offensive player steps through while the defender is out of position.
To execute this move, the offensive player should once again start with a wide stance. From there, the offensive players should behave as if he intends to shoot a baby hook. As he moves into a two-foot position after picking up his dribble, the offensive player then performs a ball fake to get the defender to jump. Once the defender is up in the air, the offensive player performs a step-through underneath, getting an open look at the rim.
So much goes into winning and losing basketball games. Coaches and teams prepare to the best of their ability, but sometimes the ball bounces in the other team’s favor. Wins remain joyous, while losses hurt for days.
Coaches have a number of elements to consider in this regard, including how to get a team to think like champions.
20 Keys To Winning Basketball Games and Championships
Developing a winning basketball program often comes down to the details. Here’s a list of 20 keys to creating the right culture to start winning championships this season!
1. Find the Correct People, Program, School or Location
The first step in this process is hiring the right coaches. You’ll want a loyal group that shares your vision for the team. Beyond that, you’ll need to consider the school, including elements like atmosphere, community, and the reality of competition. Beyond that, when assembling your roster, remember, hard working players lead to winning basketball.
2. Have Well-Defined Roles
It’s important to have well-defined roles in your program. Everyone should be connected and understand where they fit. For players, it’s important to understand not everyone can be the star. Role players often hold the key to winning basketball championships. Also, think about how you’ll manage your summer requirements, as well as the players’ participation in other sports.
3. Get Out of Their Way
A key factor in winning basketball is letting the players play. Don’t “over coach” or over complicate the game. Don’t panic. And perhaps most importantly, be willing to change your approach.
4. When Picking Your Team Look For Players Who:
Score and Handle The Ball
Shoot Free Throws Well
Handle Pressure
Players will excel in what you emphasize.
5. Understand That Success Is NOT Immediate
As the cliche goes, Rome was not built in a take. Take time to teach the skills and approaches you want your players to master.
6. Pick A Style You Believe In
When it comes down to developing your basketball philosophy, pick one that fits you and your personality. That will make it easier to sell to your players. Remember, there’s more than one way to develop a winning basketball team. Be ready to adjust the system with different groups each season.
7. Find A Common Goal / Theme
Examine your expectations in preseason and be ready to change as the need arises. Loop in all the voices involved in your program, including assistant coaches, players, families, even school administration. Set clear and attainable goals for the team and individual players.
8. Plan For IT
Creating a winning basketball culture and competition for championships takes buy-in and preparation. Keep realistic expectations but push your players to get better every day. Put your players in situations where they can succeed.
9. Once You Get To The BIG Game Act Like You Belong
Once you and your program has made it to the highest level, stay in your routine. Control what is in your ability to control and block out all the noise. The players will feel ready if you’ve prepared them along the way.
10. Rest
Keep in mind the grind. Fatigue can make a coward of anyone, so limit long practice sessions in season. Shorten and streamline your approaches. Don’t overtrain your players–that’ll lead to burnout.
11. Be Aggressive
That said, be aggressive in your style and approach. Incorporate innovation and instill the idea that no one can give you a win, you must take it.
12. Give Them a Reason To Win
Give your players something to believe in preseason by finding a hook. Consider things like emotion, the underdog story, or program history.
13. Keep Learning
As a coach, always keep learning. Communities like the one at teachhoops.comhelps find like-minded coaches willing to share approaches and in successes.
14. Outside Evaluation
Find someone outside your program to help you evaluate your approach. A fresh set of eyes might find a new angle that you haven’t considered.
15 . Over Prepare
Coaches should over prepare and out work their opponents. This is done though scouting, pouring over reports and tapes, then relaying that information in the classroom to players.
16. WIN
Teach your players how to win and how to handle adversity. It’ll help pull victories from the jaws of defeat and help grab wins in unlikely scenarios.
17. Expect The Unexpected
If it can happen, it will happen. Try to control outside factors as much as possible, but understand you won’t be able to control everything. One of the hallmarks of a winning basketball team is it’s depth, so develop that as best you can.
18. Find Leaders
Filling out your roster is the most important part of the preparation process, but picking the right captains remains a high priority for winning programs. Talk on and off the court with your leaders to help foster that communication. This will model healthy relationships for your players.
19. Visualize
Visualize the winning your local or state basketball championship. See it, then sell that vision to the players in your locker room.
20. Be Lucky
Resources:
TO DEVELOP AN UNSTOPPABLE BASKETBALL TEAM AND DOMINATE YOUR LEAGUE, YOU NEED PROVEN OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYS!
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TO DEVELOP AN UNSTOPPABLE BASKETBALL TEAM AND DOMINATE YOUR LEAGUE, YOU NEED PROVEN OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYS!
The drill begins with players arrayed in a star across the half court. The ball starts with the line under the basket. There are lines in the corners, as well as on the wings.
The 