Whether a coach forces sideline or middle-or not at all-or plays a soft or hard zone, inevitably defenses are constantly put in help and recover situations. If one attends most any pre-season practice at least at the HS level or higher, one will witness one form or another of a shell drill for basketball with…
If you are a serious basketball player looking for an edge, you might want to start at the core. In the world of basketball, a strong core is the secret weapon that can transform your performance on the court. From improved balance and stability to increased power and agility, a strong core is essential for…
On the heels of the of “Offensive Fundamentals and Teaching Points” post. We are going to start a series over the next week or so to share some similar thoughts on the defensive side. First up, basketball box outs. Rather than advocate a particular system, I’d like to catalog and break down “universals” that most…
As much as anything else in competitive athletics, players’ and coaches’ attitudes as revealed through their body language are integral parts of the winning process.  Even in cases where individuals are acting to be braver, more poised or stronger than they really feel, this can have a positive effect on their teammates.  Of course, it’s…
Yesterday I watched Coach Tom Izzo’s Michigan St. Spartans practice and even though they were basically reviewing all their offense and defense in preparation for an exhibition game against Northern Michigan, the program’s hallmark of toughness was still very evident. In retrospect, if you had told me 20 years ago, after serving a 12 year…
Educate your athletes on the importance of training In-Season; they have to “buy in.” Program low volume rep schemes. High volume training can possibly lead to excessive soreness. Utilize moderate to moderately heavy intensities (weight/load). Lighter intensities will not lead to the same motor unit recruitment as moderate to moderately heavy loads will and ultimately…
