In the competitive world of basketball, honing your shooting skills can make all the difference. As a veteran basketball coach with over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of structured practice. Today, I want to introduce you to a highly effective timed shooting workout that I’ve used to develop precision and consistency in my players: the Magic 20 Shooting Drill.
The Magic 20 Timed Shooting Workout Sequence
The Magic 20 Shooting Drill is a comprehensive workout designed to improve various types of shots within a timed framework. Here’s a breakdown of the sequence:
Layups: Two left-handed layups and two right-handed layups.
Mikan Shots: Two right-handed Mikan shots and two left-handed Mikan shots.
Reverse Mikan Shots: Two reverse left-handed Mikan shots and two reverse right-handed Mikan shots.
Bank Shots: Two right-handed bank shots and two left-handed bank shots.
Elbow Shots: Two right-handed elbow shots and two left-handed elbow shots.
The goal is to complete all 20 shots as quickly as possible, making each one before moving on to the next. By timing this drill, players can track their progress and push themselves to improve.
Importance of Proper Shooting Form
Executing each shot with proper form is crucial for success in the Magic 20 Shooting Drill. Proper shooting form ensures that players develop consistent mechanics, which translates to better performance during games. Here are a few key points to remember:
Balance: Maintain a strong base with feet shoulder-width apart.
Hand Position: Place your shooting hand under the ball and your guide hand on the side.
Follow Through: Extend your arm fully and flick your wrist for a proper follow-through.
Focus: Keep your eyes on the target, whether it’s the rim or a specific spot on the backboard.
Emphasizing proper form during each shot helps in building muscle memory and reduces the likelihood of developing bad habits.
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Timing yourself during the Magic 20 Shooting Drill is essential for measuring improvement. Here’s how to get the most out of this timed shooting workout:
Record Your Time: Use a stopwatch to track how long it takes to complete all 20 shots.
Track Progress: Maintain a notebook or a digital log to record your times and identify trends over time.
Repeat and Improve: Aim to complete the drill multiple times in a session, striving to beat your previous best time.
Free Throw Practice: After completing the Magic 20, shoot five free throws to simulate game-like pressure and improve your accuracy.
By regularly tracking and aiming to improve your times, players can stay motivated and see tangible progress in their shooting abilities.
Conclusion
The Magic 20 Shooting Drill is an excellent timed shooting workout for basketball players looking to enhance their shooting skills. By focusing on proper form and consistently tracking progress, players can develop the precision and consistency needed to excel on the court. Incorporate this drill into your regular practice routine, and watch as your shooting performance reaches new heights.
For more drills, tips, and a roadmap to becoming a nationally ranked coach, be sure to visit ts.com. Let’s continue to elevate our game, one shot at a time!
As a veteran basketball coach with over 30 years of experience, I’ve come to understand the importance of effective shooting drills in developing well-rounded, skilled players. In this post, I’ll share three valuable shooting drills that I’ve consistently used in my coaching clinics. These drills are designed to improve movement, accuracy, and offensive rebounding skills. Whether you’re a new or inexperienced coach, these valuable shooting drills will help you enhance your team’s performance on the court.
Valuable Shooting Drills #1: Shoot and Relocate
Objective: To improve shooting accuracy while teaching players the importance of movement and offensive rebounding.
Instructions:
Setup: Players start with a ball and a partner (the passer). Position them around the three-point line.
Execution:
The shooter takes a shot from a set position.
Immediately after the shot, the shooter relocates to a different spot on the floor.
If the shot is missed, the shooter retrieves the rebound and shoots again.
If the shot is made, the passer rebounds and passes back to the shooter at the new location.
Rebounding: Emphasize the importance of rebounding every shot, whether it’s made or missed. This teaches players to read the ball and react quickly.
Tips for Coaches:
Encourage constant movement. Players should not stand still after taking a shot.
Correct shooting form and ensure the ball is not brought below chest level to prevent steals from shorter defenders.
Run this drill for 35-40 seconds per player before switching roles.
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Valuable Shooting Drills #2: Screen and Curl Shooting
Objective: To develop shooting skills off the dribble and from screens, simulating game-like situations.
Instructions:
Setup: Place a cone to act as a screen. Position a passer near the top of the key and the shooter near the wing.
Execution:
The shooter starts by moving off the cone (screen) and curling towards the basket.
The passer delivers the ball to the shooter, who then takes a jump shot.
If the shot is missed, the shooter rebounds and takes a follow-up shot.
Variation: Alternate between shooting off the curl, dribbling to the paint, and baseline shots to keep the drill dynamic.
Tips for Coaches:
Teach players the importance of reading the defense when coming off screens.
Discuss different theories on following shots – some players believe every shot will go in, while others should follow their shot to improve rebounding chances.
Encourage quick decision-making and fluid movements.
Valuable Shooting Drills #3: Conditioning and Shooting Combo
Objective: To combine conditioning with shooting practice, ensuring players can perform under fatigue.
Instructions:
Setup: Position a rebounder under the basket and the shooter at the free-throw line.
Execution:
The shooter runs from the free-throw line to the baseline and back.
Upon returning, the shooter receives a pass and takes a 15-foot jump shot.
Repeat this sequence, increasing the number of down-and-back runs each time (e.g., run once, shoot; run twice, shoot; run thrice, shoot).
Ensure the shooter rebounds their own shot if missed and quickly returns to the drill.
Tips for Coaches:
Focus on proper shooting form even when players are tired.
Use this drill to build endurance and simulate game-like conditions where players need to shoot accurately while fatigued.
Adjust the distance as well as number of runs based on the players’ fitness levels.
Conclusion
Incorporating these three shooting drills into your practice sessions will help your players improve their shooting accuracy, movement, and rebounding skills. And remember, consistency and repetition are key. Encourage your players to practice these drills regularly and watch their performance on the court soar. Also, for more coaching tips and resources, visit teachhoops.com and join our community of coaches dedicated to excellence.
In youth basketball coaching, the efficiency of practice is key to developing young players effectively. The challenge lies in creating drills that are both engaging and instructional, optimizing the limited time available for practice. The 4-minute basketball shooting drill I’m about to share is designed to maximize the engagement of young players by keeping them active and focused throughout the session. This drill works well as a quick warm-up or as a regular practice routine to improve shooting accuracy and speed.
The Importance of Proper Shooting Form
Before incorporating any shooting drill into practice, it’s critical to teach players the correct shooting mechanics. Proper form is the cornerstone of good shooting and includes several key components:
Stance: Teach players to position their feet shoulder-width apart with knees slightly bent. This stance provides balance and stability.
Grip: Players should learn to place the shooting hand under the ball and the non-shooting hand on the side as a guide. The fingers should be spread comfortably on the ball.
Alignment: Encourage players to align their elbow directly under the ball with the shooting eye forming a straight line to the hoop, which promotes accuracy.
Follow-Through: Stress the importance of a relaxed wrist and a follow-through where the fingers point downward toward the basket. The saying “cookie jar” is a useful metaphor to teach kids to reach into the jar on the follow-through.
Spending time correcting and refining these techniques during early practices will help young athletes develop muscle memory and increase their shooting consistency over time.
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Practice Breakdown: The 4-Minute Basketball Shooting Drill
This drill is concise and designed to cover several fundamental shooting skills within a short period:
Mid-Range Shots (1 Minute)
Instruct players to begin shooting from various spots within the mid-range area. Use cones or marks to designate specific shooting spots around the key.
This segment should focus on quick, rhythmic shooting with immediate rebounds. Emphasize the importance of maintaining form even when moving fast and fatigued.
Free Throws (1 Minute)
After mid-range shots, players should proceed to the free throw line. This is an excellent opportunity to focus on mental toughness and shooting accuracy.
Coaches should monitor each player’s form and provide feedback, emphasizing the need to replicate their optimal free throw routine each time.
Three-Point Shots (1 Minute)
This segment is for more advanced players or older children. For younger players, adjust the distance to ensure they are not straining to make the shot, which can lead to bad habits.
Focus on maintaining good form from beyond the arc and encourage players to observe the differences in their shooting technique from long range.
Returning to Free Throws (1 Minute)
Revisiting free throws after shooting from the field tests players’ ability to maintain focus and accuracy while tired.
It’s beneficial to have players track their own shots during this drill to encourage personal responsibility and awareness of their performance.
Conclusion: The Value of Efficient Practice
Implementing this 4-minute drill in your practice sessions provides a structured method for players to improve their shooting skills while also enhancing their physical conditioning and mental focus. Encouraging players to track their shots using a simple spreadsheet not only helps in setting goals but also in monitoring improvements over time. This kind of structured, high-intensity practice is crucial for developing competitive skills in young basketball players. As a coach, your ability to provide concise, effective training sessions will greatly influence your team’s development and enthusiasm for the game.
Welcome, basketball enthusiasts and coaches, to an exclusive breakdown of a game-changing basketball shooting drill presented by Coach Shane Hennon from Hennon Workouts. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of the “5-Shot Series Shooting Drill” – a dynamic drill designed to enhance shooting skills and elevate your game.
The 5-Shot Series Shooting Drill: Precision in Every Shot
Coach Shane kicks off the drill in the short corner, seamlessly transitioning to the deep corner, wing, catch and shoot three, and a challenging transition three. The grand finale involves drifting back to the corner, creating a comprehensive series that hones accuracy, agility, and shooting versatility.
Drill Instructions
Short Corner to Deep Corner (Shot 1): Start in the short corner and swiftly move to the deep corner for the first shot. Focus on a quick release and maintain balance throughout the motion.
Deep Corner to Wing (Shot 2): Progress to the wing after the first shot. Emphasize proper footwork and positioning, setting the stage for a fluid shot from the wing.
Catch and Shoot Three (Shot 3): Return to the wing for a catch and shoot three. Develop the ability to execute precise shots under varying conditions, simulating in-game scenarios.
Transition Three (Shot 4): Engage in a transition three, emphasizing speed and accuracy. This shot challenges players to seamlessly move from offense to defense while maintaining shooting precision.
Drifting Back to Corner (Shot 5): Conclude the series by drifting back to the corner for the final shot. This requires adaptability and showcases a player’s ability to maintain accuracy even in challenging situations.
Repeat the 5-Shot Series Shooting Drill for three trips, aiming to make as many shots as possible out of the 15 attempts.
Elevate the 5-Shot Series Shooting Drill Challenge
Why This Drill? The 5-Shot Series is strategically designed to enhance shooting skills from various positions on the court. It promotes quick decision-making, adaptability, and the ability to maintain accuracy under pressure – crucial aspects of a well-rounded player.
Variations to Increase Difficulty:
Time Constraints: Challenge players to complete the series within a specified time frame, simulating game scenarios with shot clocks.
Defensive Pressure: Introduce defensive players to add pressure during catch and shoot situations, enhancing players’ ability to shoot under defensive challenges.
Randomized Order: Mix up the order of shots in each trip, requiring players to stay mentally sharp and adapt to changing circumstances.
Conclusion
Incorporating the 5-Shot Series Shooting Drill into your training regimen can be a game-changer for both players and coaches. By focusing on precision, adaptability, and versatile shooting skills, this drill cultivates the essential qualities of a top-tier basketball player. Elevate your game, master the art of precision, and watch as your shooting proficiency reaches new heights. Don’t forget to subscribe to Coach Shane’s channel and stay tuned for more transformative drills on Hennon Workouts.
All of us, whether on the sidelines or right on the court, love a good challenge. Challenges keep us motivated, push us to improve, and help us set and achieve new goals. In the world of basketball, challenges can come in various forms – defensive challenges, team challenges, and of course, the ever-exciting shooting challenge.
Today, we’re diving deep into the world of shooting challenges and how they can transform not just your shooting skills but your entire game. The highlight of today’s discussion is the incredible 3-6-9-12-15 shooting drill, a favorite of Arkansas women’s basketball coach Mike Neighbors. This drill is not just about putting up shots; it’s about pushing your limits, both physically and mentally. With each round, you’ll take more shots, move across the court, and test your accuracy under pressure.
What to do with Shooting Challenges
All coaches and players love a great challenge. That challenge could be a defensive challenge, a team challenge, or in this day and age a shooting challenge. Coaches can do a variety of things with different a shooting challenge:
1. Post a leaderboard in your locker room
These leaderboards will allow all the players in your program to see now only how they currently rank for the season, but if you have an all-time leaderboard, it could motivate them to get one of the top scorers of all time. This could be a great motivator to keep encouraging your players to get shots up.
2. Discuss strengths and weaknesses with your players
If you have a player that thinks they are a great shooter, have them perform a certain shooting drill that you like. The key to the shooting drills is it must be measurable and something that can be completed fairly quickly.
3. Red-Yellow-Green Light System
Part of the discussion with your players could be the Red-Yellow-Green light system. Some coaches like having a system like this in place to give players a goal/something to shoot for to enhance their shooting opportunities on the court. The premise goes that a player with a Red Light can only shoot closer to the basket, yellow can shoot a 3 if it is in rhythm, and a green light can shooter has the most freedom to take the shots they choose.
3-6-9-12-15 Shooting Challenge
This is where the 3-6-9-12-15 shooting challenge comes into play. This is a great shooting drill from Arkansas women’s basketball coach Mike Neighbors. Players will shoot shots from the top of the key, right wing, and then left wing. There are 5 rounds. In round 1, a total of 3 shots are taken, round 2 a total of 6 shots, and all the way to round 5 with 15 total shots. Players start shooting at the top of the key, then move to the right wing, and then to the left wing.
After each round of 3-6-9-12-15, each player will shoot a free throw too. At the end of the drill, the player will have taken 50 total shots (45 3 point shots and 5 free throws).
Here is the catch though:
After every 3rd shot, the shooter (if they miss) will run around a set of cones on the other end of the court. If they miss 1 shot, they will run around the first cone, miss 2 shots around the second cone, and 3 shots around the 3rd cone.
So that means on the round of 6 shots, they could run around cones twice, 9 shots they could run around cones 3 times, and on and on until they complete the round of 15 shots. The first cone is just over half-court. The 2nd cone is right at the old 5 second line. And the 3rd cone is in the deep corner.
This is a great drill not only to get shot reps up but also for conditioning. We have learned a great score for a high school player is 32 or more. If they are able to make 32 or more in 6:30 or less, they would be in the green light status, 24-31 in the yellow light status, and 23 and below in the red light status.
This is a great drill that we have enjoyed implementing. Be sure to check out the visual that was attached with this article and the attached scorecard.
Appendix A (Scorecard for 3-6-9-12-15 Shooting Challenge)
Name:
Number of Shots
Number of Made Shots
Free Throw
3
6
9
12
15
Time:
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!
In the world of basketball coaching, we know that nailing those shots is a game-changer. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or just starting out, we’ve got a lineup of the top 5 youth basketball shooting drills that will revolutionize your team’s accuracy and boost their confidence on the court.
Picture this: your players confidently sinking shots from all angles, their form impeccable and their focus unwavering. That’s the power of a well-practiced shooting routine, and that’s exactly what we’re here to help you achieve. We’ve curated a range of dynamic and engaging drills that target everything from catch and shoot finesse to mastering free throws under pressure.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of each drill, explaining their rationale, suggesting variations to increase the challenge, and highlighting the coaching points that will ensure your players develop solid shooting fundamentals. Plus, we’ve sprinkled in some invaluable tips on how to adapt these drills to suit different skill levels, keeping your players engaged and eager to improve.
5 Youth Basketball Shooting Drills
As coaches, we know that mastering the art of shooting is crucial for any youth basketball team. So, let’s gear up and explore the five best shooting drills that are not only effective but also fun and engaging for your players. These drills will not only improve their accuracy but also boost their confidence on the court.
1. Catch and Shoot Frenzy
Drill Details: Players form a line on the perimeter, each with a ball. The first player shoots from a designated spot, retrieves their rebound, and passes to the next player. The sequence continues until all players have shot from that spot. Then, rotate to a new spot.
Rationale: This drill develops quick release, shooting under pressure, and efficient footwork when catching and squaring up to the basket.
Variation: Add a defender who lightly contests shots to simulate game situations.
Coaching Points: Emphasize proper hand placement on the ball, balance, and using legs to generate power. Encourage players to focus on form and rhythm.
2. Form Shooting Focus
Drill Details: Players work in pairs, standing close to the hoop. They focus on perfect shooting form – elbow in, wrist locked, follow-through – without the ball touching the rim.
Rationale: Building muscle memory for correct form is crucial for consistent shooting.
Variation: Increase distance gradually and introduce light competition by challenging players to hit a certain number of consecutive shots.
Coaching Points: Stress the importance of consistent form and repetition. Use positive reinforcement to create a routine of proper technique.
3. Around the World
Drill Details: Place markers at various spots around the three-point line. Players take turns shooting from each spot. Once a shot is made, the player moves to the next spot. The goal is to complete the circuit.
Rationale: This drill improves shooting from different angles and distances, simulating various game situations.
Variation: Set a time limit for completing the circuit or require players to make a certain number of shots at each spot.
Coaching Points: Encourage players to focus on using their legs and consistent follow-through. Remind them to adjust their shooting angle based on their position on the court.
4. Partner Passing and Shooting
Drill Details: Players work in pairs, with one player passing and the other shooting. The passer alternates between chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passes.
Rationale: Teaches players to catch and shoot quickly after receiving a pass, enhancing their overall court awareness.
Variation: Increase the distance between players for longer passes, challenging both passing accuracy and shooting range.
Coaching Points: Emphasize being ready to shoot upon receiving the pass. Highlight the importance of catching in a shooting-ready stance.
5. Free Throw Pressure Cooker
Drill Details: Players shoot a series of free throws with added pressure. For each miss, players must perform a physical activity (e.g., jumping jacks) before attempting the next shot.
Rationale: Simulates the pressure of free throws during a game and helps players focus under stress.
Variation: Increase the number of physical activities for consecutive misses to up the challenge.
Coaching Points: Discuss maintaining focus and concentration despite distractions. Remind players to take a deep breath and execute their routine before each shot.
There you have it – five engaging and effective shooting drills to elevate your youth basketball team’s shooting prowess. Remember, practice makes perfect, so integrate these drills into your training sessions and watch your players’ shooting skills skyrocket. Let’s turn those misses into swishes and create a team of confident, accurate shooters!
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!
Incorporating the right basketball drills for kids makes all the difference for coaches at the youth level. Coaches need to gauge the skill and talent they’re working with, instituting a practice plan to maximize the growth of these young players. Developing specific basketball skills early sets both the player and the team up for success, so picking the best basic shooting drills for kids can be a good place to start.
Finding the right balance for your practice is key. You want your players to practice hard, hone their skills, and become better basketball players. But you also want them to have fun. Coaching at the youth level takes plenty of patience and positivity. You’ll need to incorporate a fast pace and keep your players occupied and engaged, especially during potentially monotonous skill development drills. Developing focus and fun at practice remains an integral effort for coaches at the youth level of the game.
While there’s no magic formula for practice planning or picking drills, leaning on your experience as a head coach often shows the right path for your players. Here’s a look a some of the best basic passing drills for kids.
Proper Shooting Form
It’s important for young players to learn the proper shooting form early so as to not develop bad habits that can be hard to break. Although the kids will want to start shooting immediately, coaches must make them understand chucking the ball does more harm than good. And becoming a great shooter isn’t an easy thing to do!
A good approach to teaching shooting form involves the nemonic “BEEF.” Beef stands for Balance, Elbow, Eyes, Follow Through.
Balance often refers to a shooter’s stance. While there’s no specific stance to teach, generally the feet should be about shoulder-width apart, turned slightly, with the lead foot forward a bit and knees bent. For Eyes, shooters should look in the direction of the rim. While there’s no one spot that must be taught, players can focus on the rim.
The shooter’s elbow remains the key to a shot’s accuracy. Players should try to set the shooting eye, the shooting hand and elbow, and the rim all on the same line. The shooting motion involves the hand and elbow getting under the ball, making an up and out motion. Make sure the elbow doesn’t flare out. Once set, the wrist should hinge at an angle with the forearm.
Follow Through is the release. The shooter should snap their wrist as the ball is released at the same time the elbow is fully extended. The ball should roll off the index and middle fingers to produce a backspin. Shooters should keep their arm extended and not let the off-hand push the ball at an angle on release.
Remember, this shooting method is designed to simplify the approach for inexperience players and kids just coming to the game. It’s not something to teach to more experienced players since it doesn’t address the nuances of great shooting.
Basic Shooting Drills for Kids
Teaching the proper shooting fundamentals remains integral for coaches at the youth level of basketball. Here are some of the best basic shooting drills for kids to help in that process.
Form Shooting
To practice the basic shooting form, kids can participate in this drill with a partner or a group of three. Form shooting allows the players to practice not only the right way to shoot, but also develop concentration. This drill remains ideal for coaches in a station setting.
Shooters begin at a given spot on the floor, depending on their strength, ability, and perhaps position. The shooter should assume the proper stance (hands up, knees bent, feet set) and await a pass. The player catches the pass and comes up shooting. Each player should take 10 shots before progressing to another spot. After another 10 attempts, the player moves to a third spot.
This drill works as a good warm-up before practice, or as part of a larger station rotation for coaches. Stress to each player the need to use the proper form, practicing each element to develop that muscle memory.
Step-Back Shooting
Another one of the valuable basic drills for kids is step-back shooting. This exercise helps players develop and improve their shooting touch with each repetition.
Shooters begin directly in front of the rim for this drill. Players should start low with the ball and arc the shot up over the rim, finishing high with the release. Shooters need to hold their form until the ball passes through the net, taking five shots in total. After the last make, the shooter should step back one and make another five shots. The shooter continues until they reach the foul line.
This drill provides direct reinforcement of the basic shooting form kids should learn. Coaches should stress hand and finger placement, as well as the motion of the elbow, as part of their instruction.
Knockout
A fun competitive game to incorporate into your practices is knockout. This enjoyable shooting drill provides kids the opportunity to learn proper form while under pressure and with a heightened sense of urgency.
Players line up in single-file at the free throw line. The first two players in line have a ball and the drill begins with the first shot attempt. If the first shooter makes his free throw, he retrieves the ball and passes to the next person in line. Then he joins the back of the line. If he missed his shot, he must grab the rebound and make a layup before the next shooter makes their attempt. Should the first shooter can make a layup before the second player scores, he’s still in the game. If the second shooter makes a shot before, the first player is eliminated.
Each time a player takes and misses a shot, the next player in line shoots to try to knock them out. Hence the name of the game. The drill continues until only one player remains, the winner.
There are several points of emphasis for this drill. Each player should maintain proper mechanics and form when shooting. Keep your head up and be aware of other players. Coaches can also stress form with layup attempts and return passes.
We also know that you can’t just waltz into a gym and tell your players to shoot some shots and call it a day. You can’t just yell “GAME SPEED” and expect them to always push themselves; you need to develop drills and put them in situations where players will compete against each other. Coach has you covered here with his 3-2-1 basketball shooting drill.
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Basketball Shooting Drill
Do you have a kid(s) or a team that just loves to shoot? If you’re reading this either yes is your answer… or the answer is no it is because YOU love to shoot! Everybody in the game now knows how important shooting is; we’re entering a new “space and pace” era of basketball where the trend is to be able to attack the rim and finish or kick to an open shooter. 1-5 players today are expected to be able to hit open 15+ footers.
There always seems to be 5 spots around the perimeter that you can expect to shoot from: corner 3s (the big NBA shot), wings and top of the key. Coach has these covered with this basketball shooting drill.
Three makes (any amount of shots) all the way around for 15 makes. Then, the shooter has to hit two consecutive from those same 5 spots. This will amount to 10 makes. The following time through, the shooter has to make 1 from all the spots. Without missing. That’s 5 straight, 1 from each of the 5 spots.
Reps and Focus
How does this help? Of course, it allows you to get up (probably) a lot of shots in a short amount of time. It forces a shooter to focus, to forget about the last miss, build that mental toughness that is required to win games and compete in life.
This drill is not an easy drill to just start off your players with unless you want them to see how much they need to improve! I wouldn’t, obviously, use this as a team drill but it can be great for individual workouts. Players will get fatigued, salty, and frustrated at times; that’s why a coach should love it!
Modifying the Drill
If you like the concept of this drill but aren’t there yet, you can surely modify it. You can modify the distance to develop range and/or confidence in a shooter.
If you have a big, why not go short corners, elbows, and FT line? Those are shots bigs often get in most offensive systems or against zones.
Shooters aren’t good enough (yet)? No need to change any of the first 3 makes from each spot. I don’t think you should change the two in a row either, but the final 5 makes? If your shooter isn’t at that spot yet, why not give them a “2nd opportunity.” IE: Shooter makes 1st 3 from corner, moves to wing and misses. Give the shooter another opportunity to make the 3; if they make it. Move on. Miss? Start over.
Overall, another great drill with so much individual focus to build range, confidence, perseverance, and that gritty knockdown mentality that shooters need to excel in the game before, now, and as long as it is played.
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Year after year, the NBA Playoffs offer us all a front row seat to the game of basketball being played at it’s highest level. However, even the top seeded teams can often fall short of that level when it comes to playing with maximum effort. In any given game, most NBA Teams can be trusted to play their hardest, but in a “best of 7” series, there are far more opportunities for human nature to sink in. Following a loss, the most common NBA Playoff Team adjustment is usually not schematic, but simply to play with more energy and determination.
Coaches have used several different buzz words over the years to describe either how an abundance of effort led to victory, or how a lack of effort led to defeat. In the past, the most frequently used buzz word was “desperation”, which has graced the narrative of many post-game press conferences and off-day interviews. However, in 2018, the new buzz word appears to be “force”, which ironically has been used most by Head Coach Steve Kerr of the Defending Champion Golden State Warriors. Regardless of whether “desperation” or “force” best describes maximum effort. What’s most important is why it alludes a team to begin with, and how to get it back when it does.
Overconfidence is the most common contributing factor, and also the most damaging. Overlooking any opponent brings about consequences that often cannot be reversed. Coaches of all levels can learn a valuable lesson from this years NCAA Tournament, in which a #16 seed beat a #1 seed for the first time ever. The concept of “rest vs rust” is also a major factor, when a team is affected by having either too much rest, or not enough. Lastly, is a lack of 3-dimensional preparation. Most preparation is based on 1-D and 2-D tendencies, such as preparing for an opponent that plays fast, or tries to dominate the paint. An example of 3-D preparation would be discovering that your opponent has a hidden motivation, such as a team member dealing with a tragedy, or perhaps a hidden revenge angle. That hidden motivation could make this game extra emotional for them, causing them to play with maximum effort and increased intensity. That could be huge problem if you as a coach are unaware of it, and your players enter the game at only a standard motivation level. Bottom line, there are infinite reasons why a team can lack effort in any game, at anytime, at any level. These are just a few details to keep an eye on.
First, I want to say thank you to Coach Collins for asking me to do this Blog for Teach Hoops. Two things you need to know about me is that I am not all knowing, and I am always learning how to better myself as a coach.
Right now at the college, we are just kinda at a wait and see period for some recruits with an attempt to find that gem that went under recruited by the 4 year schools. Yes, I am assistant at junior college in Wisconsin, but before that I coached 5 years as a varsity boys coach and I almost coached every level below that since my coaching journey started in 2005. As I sit typing my Blog in the sun over Memorial Day Weekend, I ponder the question….why are coaches so busy in the summer?
First, I think it’s important to know that all coaches are not busy in the off-season. For example, I consider myself as a college coach to have a lot of free time. But, my position is much different from when I coached Varsity Boys Basketball at the high school level. My current summer commitments reside in help running two youth camps and support supervision for open gyms. But, I know how much work consist in the summer for High School coaches in the summer. And in reality without summer, I think it would be impossible for coaches to function without it. Summer is a time for development, trial and error, and logistics. Here is a list of items I have done in one summer as a head coach.
Try and tweak new sets, defenses, offenses with team opportunities
Meet with High School staff weekly
Plan and organize online shoe and apparel stores for upcoming season
Wow! I forget how much I did in the summer for preparation for the upcoming season. The question you really asking is why? Winning is hard work, and frankly my tenure at my previous job had only small moments of success. I worked harder than most of my players. Personally, I saw more growth in the youth program with future players coming up the ranks in next the 5 years. But, building a program takes time and making the right decisions through the journey. The worst decision I made was not facilitating the workload to others to provide more time for my own team. My advice to young coaches is create a pipeline of people to work under you. Build and maintain positive relationships with other coaches, parents, and community members to support building your program. Your support system comes down to finding individuals that believe in your program and our invested in the program not their child. Again, the process takes time to build a program, which you have to be careful about picking the right job. That is something I can address in a later Blog.
Summer is a period of time for coaches to eliminate clutter during the season. It’s impossible to do the items above plus coach your team during the season. It would be overload. I feel the many of items on my list provide clarity and direction for the season to come. You can learn about your players and how they respond to certain offense and defensive schemes. The regular season has not enough for trial and error and building your identity. 10 practices and your competing in your first game.
Finally, coaching isn’t a full-time job that pays the bills unless you make it to the big time. I currently still teach 5th grade and coach other sports as well. Without using summer, I believe no one could function during the regular season, unless your single and retired. Please email with questions regarding my blog at [email protected].
This is one of many letters I received about the video and podcast I did concerning my son not playing AAU and summer basketball. I thought I would share
Steve,
Appreciate your views on this and agree with much of it. However a few observations:
I train my son and his skill development has exploded in the last few years. But, as you know, there are tons of kids who can “kill a drill” but can’t perform when there’s 10 guys on the court. When you have defensive pressure and lots of decision-making in a game situation, those skills can all of a sudden look a lot different. You just can’t simulate that environment in the quiet of a gym while developing skills. I know every good trainer tries to develop an athlete’s skills while doing “game-like” drills. But it is just not the same. Actual “games” must be played and it’s becoming really hard to find them outside of the AAU tourney scene.
In AAU ball, my son has learned “toughness” that he never had before, and would have never developed, in a training session in any kind of drill. There’s a clock, there’s a scoreboard, there’s fans, there’s referees, and there’s personal “pride” at stake. When he was getting beat up in an AAU game, he either had to fight back or get crushed. He chose to fight back and it has served him so well. He hasn’t turned into an aggressive maniac, but acquired just the right amount of toughness and aggressive mentality that will enable him to play high school basketball. I guarantee he would not be in the same place at this moment without AAU basketball. (He’ll never be a college recruit, but he setting himself up to have a ton of fun playing HS basketball.)
It’s really difficult to supplement skills training with “games” without having a place to actually play games. You and I know there aren’t a lot of parks or gyms that young athletes use to play meaningful “pickup” games that aren’t tied to their schools. We’ve tried playing in the local clubs and the games are mostly garbage for development purposes. Please don’t take this personally, but being a father who is a head coach gives your son access to a gym and I’m only assuming a place where players can get together to play decent pickup games (if WIAA allows, which I believe it does) during the summer. Not everyone has that.
I do agree that AAU travel is ridiculous. I myself coach a boys AAU team and my HS daughter plays AAU and I see that the competition 1 hour away is not substantially different than competition 4+ hours away. I also agree it’s way more games in a weekend than necessary. But of course, the tournaments are making money and they aren’t going to set up tournaments where you only play 2-3 games — which in my opinion would be plenty to supplement skill development.
AAU is ridiculous for kids under 12 years of age (and maybe that’s too young). The most physically mature kids dominate and nothing real productive gets done an AAU format for those young kids. But parents are feeling good that their kid “played AAU”.
I assume the birth of AAU must have been to get the very best players exposure for college. And it probably then trickled down to younger and younger age groups.
Bottom line — I think there’s value in AAU but I think it’s overhyped. At the same time, in order to become a better basketball player, it takes more than reps in the gym. Those skills have to be tested in a game format. I played DI college baseball and there was plenty of guys who hit .300+ in “batting practice” but in a game, for some it was a completely different story. It’s all a “balance” (skills practice + games) which I know is what your message is all about.
Thanks for making your video and providing quality content on Teachoops.com !!!
Eating For Performance:Training
Fruits & Vegetables
• Eat 2 different colored vegetables AND 2 different colored fruits per day- Have > 5-6 servings from these groups per day.
• Eat a salad at least 4-5x/week. Added bonus – Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil to boost healthy fat content
• Try 1 new vegetable or fruit every 2-3 weeks.
• Frozen vegetables/fruits are usually as high of quality as fresh ones & much cheaper
Protein
• Aim for 0.6-lg/lb/day
• Red meat and eggs (yolks) are HEALTHY
• Unless dairy allergies/intolerances are present or you have chosen a vegetarian lifestyle for personal reasons, select a whey protein powder post workout
Dietary Fats
• Aim for 0.3-0.5g/lb/day
• Realize that dietary fats DO NOT cause fat gain on their own
• Healthy sources include avocado, olive oil, peanuts/natural peanut butter, nuts (almonds, etc).
• Use Butter, NOT Margarine
• Avoid the following vegetable oils: Corn, Cottonseed, Soy
Fluids
• Best Bets – Milk, Water
• Be mindful of fruit juices & Sport Drinks They can be sugar bombs. If consumed, try to make sure it’s 100% fruit juice & consume close to the workout time period. Sport Drinks (Gatorade,) often not needed
• Avoid – Soda; Really Avoid —Alcohol (impairs post exercise muscle recovery, dehydration issues, etc)
• Realize energy drinks (Monster, Red Bull, etc) =/= sport beverages (Gatorade, etc). Keep sport beverage consumption only around
Power Granola Bars
2 cups rolled oats
½ cup crushed walnuts
½ cup unpacked raisins (2 oz)
4 tbsp. whole fax seed
4 scoops vanilla whey
2 tbsp. honey
¼ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. vanilla extract
¾ cup of maple syrup
Directions:
1. In a large bowl combine the oats, walnuts, flax seeds, raisins and whey.
2. Add the honey, syrup, vanilla and salt. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed. At first, it will seem too dry, but continue stirring and it will blend.
3. Coat a clean, dry 8×8 inch baking dish with olive oil cooking spray, then press the mixture in the bottom of the dish. The mixture should extend to all corners evenly, and It should be about 1-inch thick. You can also use a smaller baking dish for thicker and chewier bar.
4. Bake at 350 degrees fro 10-12 minutes.
We’ve spent time blogging about our gear (socks, shoes) and once you look good you need to be able to play. Of course, to do that… you need a hoop! Because of affordability I am looking at portable hoops only; you’re more than welcome to search for in-ground hoops ($400+)
Spalding 54” Angled Portable Backboard System w/ Starter Pack.: According to google this is their best seller and can be purchased for around $200 at Wal-Mart. Spalding products are durable, strong, and weather well. This pack is one of the best out there; easy to move as well.
Aosom 10′ Adjustable Height Indoor / Outdoor Portable Basketball Hoop: Much, much more affordable at just $142 or so, but this hoop reflects the price in its durability. The Aosom hoop doesn’t have as big of a backboard; it is also not as durable. It is nice to have wheels to roll easily around. Great hoop to shoot around and play small games on, but not a lot more.
Spalding NBA 68395R Portable Basketball Hoop with 54 Inch Polycarbonate Backboard: One of the more expensive hoops that I’m willing to put on here at $275, but portable and strong. Three poles make this hoop, adjustable from 7.5-10 feet, breakaway rim. Also has a free pole pad. If you know you’re going to be lowering/raising the hoop for dunks or for a youth to shoot.. This is the way to go.
Aosom 10′ Clear Acrylic Adjustable Height Indoor / Outdoor Portable Basketball Hoop B6-000: Another Aosom hoop, a little bit stronger/sturdier than the cheaper version. This one comes in around $170+. As I mentioned it’s sturdier, has a better backboard, and is more stable than the other hoop. Also has wheels to roll around and move when needed.
Spalding Vault 44″ Portable Basketball Hoop Blue/Orange: $200. Not like the other Spalding hoop posted a little above but reliable and strong. Another adjustable hoop from 7.5-10 feet. Features a breakaway rim, easy to adjust the rim and move the hoop. Blue/orange color theme so if you’re worried about looks as well, this could sway or push you away!
Lifetime 1221 Pro Court Height Adjustable Portable Basketball System, 44 Inch Backboard: $110! $40 off on amazon right now and an adjustable hoop, sturdy, strong rim. Backboard is cheap but works for the price and especially for younger kids. If you have young kids and are working to get them to play; I would strongly consider this hoop because of the price and benefits!
If you’re anything like most players; you’re a freak about your feet. Shoes and socks have to be perfect; we covered shoes recently, so next is socks. I’ve gone through many different types of socks for different reasons (running marathons requires the right sock and more to fight off blisters). Basketball is the same way!
We will not cover all the types of socks, but I will try to pick a few to focus on from the different sizes.
Ankle/Quarter: NBA Logoman: Most reviews show this sock as extremely comfortable and easy to wear. (Ever tried to put on a sock that sticks to your feet or bunches up? Logoman doesn’t do that!) The best part is how thick the sock is and how that saves your feet from those blisters we all get especially in workouts/practices early in the season.
Jordan Low Quarter: Durable, athletic, wicking, protection for your feet from blisters. Extremely efficient low sock that people seem to love for the reasons above. One drawback: rather expensive as most Jordan brand appears to be.
Crew Socks: Asics Resolution Crew Sock: There seems to be a little bit of blowback on feedback of this sock because people bought sizes that were too small. Know this but do not be turned off to this sock! Buy bigger and enjoy one of the more underrated socks on the basketball market. Asics is primarily a running product and the socks are tighter as such. Basketball players initially aren’t used to how tight these socks can be, so again, BUY BIGGER! Despite this, Asics knows plenty about wicking, blisters, and toe protection. I’ve used these to run and also just grabbed and used them as basketball socks and were pleasantly surprised at the different forces and how they’re able to handle. Don’t be afraid to experiment with Asics and basketball!
Nike Elite Crew Dri-Fit Basketball Sock Review: One of the most popular sport socks on the market and for good reason. Handles sweat easily, thick and durable, good fit. Nike is built off basketball so their products normally are able to handle more than other brands. These socks are no different and seem to be one of Nike’s most trusted and popular brands.
Over the Calf:
Thorlo B-15s: Over the calf socks aren’t dead; they’re probably going to make a major comeback soon, as a matter of fact. (I don’t actually know or anticipate this) A lot of us wore socks like this in the late 90s/early 2000s because they looked cool. The Thorlo doesn’t really look cool at all, but it is extremely solid basketball sock. You will not find a thicker sock than these, so if sweat wicking is your major concern then probably not for you. That being said, if blisters are a concern and don’t mind hiking a bland sock over your calf; then these are for you!
UA Over-The-Calf-Team Sock: Little more flashy than the Thorlo’s and not nearly as thick. These socks are flashy (bright colors) and more wicking protection as well. The socks help evaporation more quickly than other socks. Arch support to help your feet and UA has a special block that protects your feet from those nasty basketball odors. Another great sock to check out.
I know I didn’t cover 10 socks, but several options at each length should be plenty to find a great sock or dig a tad deeper into another sock. Nike, Jordan, UA and Adidas are the most well known brands but don’t forget about Asics and even Thorlo depending on the length of sock you prefer.
There has been much change in High School basketball over the last 30 years and I am old enough to know that change is inevitable and can be good for the game of basketball. The three point line was put into the game to spread the floor, give more scoring opportunities and make it a less physical game. Another example is when Wisconsin basketball changed from quarters to halves to expand opportunities for players at all competition levels. These changes make sense and have been good for the game.
Currently, there is a movement for our state to implement a shot clock at the high school level. I am not sure what the reasoning behind this movement. Here are my concerns:
1. Why are we changing? Do we want the high school game to be more like the college game (in which only 1% of our athletes will participate in) or the NBA game?
2. Is the delay game that evident at the high school level? If so, what is wrong with a team playing at a much slower pace?
3. What is this change doing for the game of basketball?
4. I think high school basketball is a unique sport in which athletes can play different styles and systems. Because of shot clock at the collegiate level, you do not see multiple systems being played. Is the goal for all the games to be the same?
5. Who is going to pay for this state mandated expense, not only for the implementation of the clock, but the hiring of a qualified person to run it at all the games?
6. What is the rush and why haven’t more states added this to their game?
7. How accurate are the surveys that have been sent by the WBCA? As a statistics teacher, I believe an unbiased survey is simple, short and with non-leading and biased questions. Is the WIAA and WBCA now in the habit of getting student input?
8. Is this best for the game at all levels? Will players be able to create and score when the shot clock is winding down?
9. Why and How are we going to implement this for the LOWER LEVELS?
10. How do the officials feel about this at the high school level?
I have heard very few solid arguments for the reason behind implementing a shot clock. People have said that than it is exciting, players want it and it will stop the “boring” games. Is this a reason for change?
I would ask that the Board of Control table the motion and further investigate the “need” for a shot clock
Cut Throat Drill/Defense and Competition
You will need more than one for this drill, coachmarket.net shows a great example here of a nice drill with just four. He also explains that you can do this drill up to 5 on 5, so set it up how you’d like! 2 points for offensive rebounds, 3 points for taking a charge, 1 point for making a shot, 1 point for running the offense, and maybe my favorite (arguing or fouling a point goes to the other team), turnovers and the other team gets 2 points!
The rules alone put a great emphasis and focus on the drill. Defensive rebounds kill teams (watch the NBA Playoffs or any game ever), they extend possessions, give you more chances to score, draw fouls, limit the other team’s possessions and so on. Offensive rebounds are HUGE to get and backbreakers to give up. Coaches always want their teams to play great position and help defense, taking charges is an emphasis here. It creates a turnover and draws a foul elsewhere. Notice you only get one point for making a shot, the same amount you get for running the offense. Again, it shows where the emphasis is, take care of the basketball, rebound misses, and then score!
The drill is called “Cut Throat” because if the whistle doesn’t blow, you keep playing. How often do you think fouls are called? Coach runs the drill based on emphasis and in different situations: offense, quick hitters, out of bounds, zone offense. Think of the possibilities in your own practices! You could even stretch the drill to fast break, secondary break, and so on. The whole key to the drill is to create competition, focus on defense, take care of the basketball, and call it the way you’ve been or anticipate being officiated.
You can also do this drill with a small group of your friends, as a kid. This helps play through fouls, create competition, and more importantly.. Learn there’s more to basketball than scoring! Coaches year after year, play kids that can’t score because they crash the glass and defend. If you’re watching the finals, take a look at Tristan Thompson for the Cavs.. Andrew Bogut and even Draymond Green for the Warriors; these guys would excel at this drill.. And guess what: They all make 10+ million and don’t really score a whole lot!
John Wooden was born in Martinsville, IN, one of four sons. He started playing basketball in elementary school. His coach was also his school principal, a man of stern but warm character. Each day before practice (their court was outside, beneath tall maple and oak trees) Wooden and the other players had to pick up sticks and rocks, to clear the court for play. The basketball they used was a large rubber bladder which barely fit inside a leather shell, such that after a few minutes of use the players had to take out the bladder, blow it back up with their own lungs, then squeeze it back inside the leather.
Ironically, this led to the team utilizing an uptempo practice, for the secret was to get the bladder in the ball and use it in as many repetitions as possible, before the ball would empty again. Whoever held it at the time had to blow it up–hence, the need to make quick passes to others.
When Wooden was later inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame (he was the first person to be inducted into the HOF 2-X, first as player, then as coach), Wooden said his remarkable ballhandling skills were in part due to the fact he had a learn how to dribble an oblong-shaped ball that lost air on rocks, sticks and in the holes of his outside court in elementary school.
The first lesson Wooden learned in basketball happened at this same elementary school. He never forgot it; in fact, it became a cornerstone of his own coaching years later, at UCLA, when his teams won an astonishing 10 National Championships.
Wooden was the star of his elementary school basketball team. One day he forgot to bring his uniform to school when he left his farmhouse in the morning. Then, after school, he decided he would not walk home to get it. Instead, he would play dumb when it came time to play that evening’s basketball game. As the game neared, Wooden fessed to his coach that he did not have his uniform. Expecting that the coach would feel some sort of sympathy for him as the star, or at least have a strong desire to win that night’s game with him at the helm, Wooden was pleased when his coach asked the worst kid on the team, “Do you have your uniform for tonight’s game?” When that kid answered yes, Wooden expected his coach to tell him to let Wooden wear his unform that night. Instead, Wooden received the shock of his young life, when the coach said, instead: “Good, because you will play for Johnny tonight.”
Wooden’s face fell. He took off sprinting to his house, and back, arriving in uniform just seconds before the game started. But his teachable moment was not over. His coach said to him, “I am sure you are tired, so sit down.” Wooden sat there, watching his team lose the game, knowing it was his fault.
The 2 lessons he learned that day, are these: 1) The player is not above the team. 2) As a coach, the bench is your friend.
Terry Boesch is a teacher in Martinsville, IN (home of John Wooden), and also coaches girls basketball. Feel free to email him at [email protected], or call/text at 317-643-6042
Let me ask you a question as fellow-coach: How do we think our defense player is going to move as fast sliding sideways, as his approaching dribbling offense player is going to move sprinting toward him?
I have watched 100+ coaches teach players to shuffle side-to-side on defense. That this is somehow going to “close the door” to the basket for a penetrating offense player on the dribble. I confess, for 25-years I repeated this same mantra to my players. But why? Because I assumed every coach had to say it this way. Not a good reason.
This is now the second thing I no longer teach on Defense–to shuffle-step left and right to stop an offense player from penetrating the ball. To be sure, we should teach our defense player to position his legs wide, and square, in front of the offense player, on the hope this deters him from going around us. But after that, then what? Our human bodies are MADE to sprint forward, not to slide to the side.
Two seasons ago I began to de-emphasize shuffling, and to teach instead an inside-full leg step around method to get in front of an offense player who has gotten around us. It is difficult to explain in words, but easier to see demonstrated on the court. After a couple tries, most players get it, though still some want to revert to their old coaching, and slide.
I call it the Step-Around move.
The player on defense, if beaten to the outside, takes a full step with his inside leg in the direction of the offense player. At the same time he swings his hip and upper body around, planting that foot straight behind him in the direction where the offense player is moving, i.e., toward the basket. Then when he takes his next step, and lands it too on the floor behind him, he immediately pivots on that foot toward the offense player. This results in his body being in a solid defense position between the offense player and the basket. It also happens so quick that I have seen a number of offense players take a charge running into our defensive player.
If the offense player goes to our right, we step around with our left leg; if he goes to our left, we step around with our inside leg. Give it a try, see what you think.
P.S. In this photograph I include, you can tell the green defense player is beaten. She tried to slide her right foot over to get in front of the offense player; it did not work. So now the green player is totally beaten, with no ability to recover.
Terry Boesch is a teacher in Martinsville, IN (home of John Wooden), and also coaches girls basketball. Feel free to email him at [email protected], or call/text at 317-643-6042
Coaching is a learning profession. The coach who humbles himself to learn, will grow. The one who fossilizes himself around fixed points, especially of his own imagination, will not.
Here is 1 thing I no longer teach on basketball defense. First, let me say, growing up in Indiana I thought this rule was inviolable, like the 11th Commandment in the Bible. I share this with you, to ask you to think about it yourself (if you still teach this?). Also, to ask you to share something on defense that you no longer teach as a basketball coach. I almost feel like I need to apologize to Coach Bob Knight for saying this,..
Here it is. I no longer teach “Denial” of the pass to the player one-pass away from the player with the ball. I think it fair to say that every coach in America has told his players on defense, I know I have, many times, when coaching the Defense Shell Drill, “WE must do 3 things: We must Stop Penetration, We must Deny the Pass to the player one-pass away, and We must play Helpside Defense.” To paraphrase Meatloaf, “2 outta 3 aint bad,” for the first and last points are true. But the second? I dont think so. Here is why.
As a matter of logic we should never as coaches expect our players to do that which is impossible for them to do. Watch any basketball game, at any level, and you will see it is impossible to deny the pass from the player at top of key to either wing player of his choice, or vice versa. If they want to make the pass, they will make it, even if the player without the ball has to circle high above the 3-pt line to get it, or go way out on the wing for the catch. Truth is, that pass WILL be made 95% of the time. Thus it cannot be “denied.” We are creating frustration and unreasonable expectations in our players’ minds when we scream out to them, “Deny the pass!” when it simply cant be done. To deny means to prevent, stop and render impossible. It is impossible to stop the pass from being made.
More importantly, there are at least TEN (10) times where we WANT the other team to make the pass! In these instances, we should never deny it, but instead, ENCOURAGE it.
We should never Deny these passes–we should ENCOURAGE them. Why?
This is why now I teach “Stop, Steal and Sag” on Defense. The Stop means to stop penetration, while the Sag means to play helpside defense (just like we were always taught). The Steal however means that I place my best, quickest defenders (with best judgment), out on the points of our defense at the high-elbow/3-pt line area on the court (where their best players are positioned). There I teach my players to lay back far enough away from their player to entice a pass (which also helps block penetration lanes), but close enough to steal the ball once it is in the air. I teach players to read the eyes, and body language, of passers. They never lie. I also reinforce to players that as coach I will never blame them if they go for the steal, but come up short. But I will hold them accountable if they go for the ball with less than full intentionality and speed. In other words, the worst thing a player can do is kinda, sorta go for a steal, while still trying to play it “safe.” It is all-in, or nothing. We spend time in practice on how to steal a ball, and how to deflect it. But I also teach, “If you are going for the steal, I better see you flying to get it, at all costs!. For there are no half-steals in basketball.”
Again, my apologies to Coach Knight. But I think “Deny the ball” is impossible to do, is unwise to do in at least 10 instances, and in approximately 4-6 times per game we can steal it–if we read the body language well and truly throw ourselves into it.
So, what do you no longer teach on Defense that you once did as coach?
“Terry Boesch is a teacher in Martinsville, IN (home of John Wooden), and also coaches girls basketball. Feel free to email him at [email protected], or call/text at 317.643-6042
