Basketball Tips & Strategies – October 2008

Quick Tip: Teaching & Learning

Whenever possible introduce and demonstrate a skill or drill one day, and then refine it in the ensuing practices. Do not attempt to introduce and refine at the same time. Use positive reinforcement and point out successful performances rather than negative ones.

Motivation is the single most important factor in learning and perfecting basketball skills.

Motivation can be either intrinsic (a self‐curiosity or desire to know) or extrinsic (a definite or must need to know). In basketball, self or intrinsic motivation is the most effective and long lasting. Motivation is definitely enhanced when:

• the coaching staff possesses a contagious excitement and commitment for the game.
• the physical and social environments are conducive for learning.
• the coaching staff encourages and fosters the desire to want to learn and achieve on the part of ALL of the players.
• the players are surrounded by good people, and poor behavior and distractions are not ignored or tolerated.
• every player on the team is given definite roles and responsibilities that are incorporated into a total team effort.
• when it is FUN!

Defense: The Key to Building a Solid Offense

When practicing and refining offense in a half court scrimmage (5‐on‐5) situation, have the defense switch to offense only after making five or six defensive stops (defensive rebounds and turnovers). In requiring 4 or 5 defensive stops to go to offense, it will encourage and motivate the defense to play harder. As a result, by practicing against tough defense, it will definitely help the offense better prepare for actual games.

Player Tips: Hustle and Desire is What Puts Points on the Board

Many players are under the misconception that they have to be a great shooter or shoot a lot in order to score. Still others are constantly being pressured and influenced into shooting more during a game by parents and/or so called “advisors” and personal trainers. However, in most cases, this selfish advice is given out without regard to a total team effort or to the outcome of the game. In addition, players spend countless hours working on their shooting form and individual moves. However, players should realize that to become a proficient and consistent scorer it only requires hustle, aggressiveness and determination.  To learn more – Click Here