In order to get the most out of practice sessions, basketball coaches like to vary their drills. In addition to skill-building exercises, coaches like to work on conditioning and play execution. The unwritten rules of practice aim (not always successfully) to keep contact to a minimum, because coaches do not want to see any injuries take place. The written rules of practice, meanwhile, outline a code of conduct for coaches, and time limitations.
Coach's Conduct
Coaches will often make their points with a raised voice in practice. However, they are not allowed to put their hands on any player, nor are they allowed to throw a ball in anger at a player to punish her or make a point. Head coaches are responsible for the conduct of assistant coaches and any other staff members. Coaches may only schedule practices on days or dates allowed by the league of which the team is a member. No coach may try to give his team an edge by holding "unscheduled" practices to help his team work on plays and improve.
Time Limit
Practice sessions shall not exceed 75 minutes of court time. Practices that include film study and coach lectures may go longer than that, but the time on the court may not exceed 75 minutes. Full practices are limited to two sessions per week once the regular season has started. Coaches who want to practice more frequently may not have more than 150 minutes of court time over a calendar week period.
Safety Rules
Players must be allowed to take water breaks if they are on the court for 20 minutes at a time. No family members of players may attend practice sessions. This rule aims to prevent injuries --- for example, to younger siblings who are apt to run onto the court at inopportune times. The gym must be left in the same condition that players found it when the practice session is over.
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