A coach has a strong desire to put together a winning team at the start of every basketball season. The usual plan of action is for the coach to put his team through conditioning workouts and lay out the plans for the offensive attack and the defense for the season. However, throughout the process, the coach will attempt to help his players improve with tips and drills aimed at boosting their skills.
Dribbling
All players have to be able to handle the ball competently. Point guards have to become expert dribblers, but big men also have to handle the ball to keep from being a liability to their team. One of the keys to dribbling is to make sure you use your finger tips to control the ball. Never dribble with the palm of your hand. All players have to be able to work in their opposite hand when dribbling. A right-handed power forward or center does not have to go behind his back with his left hand but he does have to dribble competently with his opposite hand. Keep your head up when dribbling and don't focus on the ball.
Screen and Roll
When your team is on offense and you don't have the ball, try to set a screen that the ball handler can use. If the ball handler is dribbling down the right side of the court, step to the left of the defender. When he bumps into you, this will give the dribbler an instant of freedom to accelerate to the basket, pass to the open man or shoot. At the same instant you screen the defender, roll to the basket. There is an excellent chance you will be open for a layup or a short shot. If not, you have created an opportunity for one of your teammates.
Playing Defense
Get in the proper defensive stance when you are guarding your opponent. That means your knees should be bent, your back should be straight and your head should be up so you can see the court well. Get on the balls of your feet so you can move quickly, and place one foot slightly ahead of the other for better balance. Keep your hands and arms out so you have a chance to steal the ball or deflect passes. When you guard your opponent on the move, never cross your feet. Slide to avoid losing your balance.
Member Comments