Basketball seasons are long and grueling affairs that begin to take a toll on the body. After months of practices and games, players begin to fatigue more easily, leading to more sicknesses and injuries. Coaches can combat a rash of player injuries by keeping their late-season practices shorter in duration and less intense competition wise, while introducing new drills and activities that keep the players motivated.
Step 1
Practice for shorter amounts of time. By the end of the season, your team should be well-practiced in running your offense and defense, meaning they need less time to practice them. You most likely have faced your remaining opponents already, earlier in the season so you don't need to spend as much time going through a scouting report. Don't practice two hours just for the sake of practicing. Cover the things you need to cover and let your players go early.
Step 2
Prepare for specific game situations rather than scrimmaging for long periods of time. By now your players should be in top physical condition, and therefore do not need the additional sprints afforded from long scrimmages. Instead, scrimmage for shorter periods of time that are related to specific game scenarios, such as the last two minutes of the game. Your players will be better prepared when they face these situations, and they will be more rested as well.
Step 3
Introduce new drills and games that keep your players motivated. Players lose interest when practices are the same every day. Introduce new games that allow your players to continue working on their fundamentals, but challenges them in a different way. For example, instead of just having your players shoot free throws and keep track of their makes, play an elimination game where if the person in front of you makes their shot and you miss yours, you are out.
References
- Learn to Coach Basketball; Finishing the Season: Three Approaches to Late-Season Practices; Brian McCormick
- The Coach's Clipboard: Basketball Coaching - Planning Practices
- Breakthrough Basketball; The Ultimate Guide to Motivating Players - 36 Ways to Keep Your Players Focused and Working Hard All Season Long; Jeff Haefner
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