Point guard is a pivotal position on a basketball team. The point guard is referred to as the quarterback of the basketball offense, and is often the spearhead defender, covering the opposition player who brings the ball up the court. Point guard training must develop physical fitness, as well as solid fundamental skills in passing, shooting and defensive play.
Physical
A point guard must be in optimal physical condition, possessing the ability to break and lead the attack at speed, while always managing to recover on defense without being beaten. The ability to sprint, change direction quickly and jump high are all required point guard skills. The Sports Fitness Advisor website recommends a series of shuttle sprints or shuttle slaloms using cones that require agility and a quick change of direction.
Passing
Passing is the most important of all offensive point guard skills. The point guard brings the ball up the court and begins the majority of attacks and is responsible for distributing the ball. Point guard training must work on passing technique and also decision-making. Point guards must step into a pass to add power to the intended target of the pass. The point guard should develop the ability to recognize defensive pressure and pass to the open player.
Shooting
The ability to score is a crucial aspect of point guard training. Shooting technique requires a point guard to form a shot pocket, holding the ball on the palm of one hand and holding the side of the ball with the other. Feet, shoulders and hips should all be pointed to the basket when shooting. The ball should be released from the fingertips and the shooting wrist should flick through to put backspin on the ball. Scoring is a lethal point guard skill because defenders will be caught between pressuring the point guard outside or covering teammates closer to the basket.
Leadership
Leadership is a vital point guard skill. A point guard is often responsible for communicating the offensive play to be run. A point guard should lead by example and actively take up the role as leader on and off the court in a basketball team.
Defense
Points and assists make the highlight reel, but to be successful, man-to-man defense should be part of a point guard training regime. One-on-one competition, or a drill where the point guard shadows the movement of the offensive player, to practice footwork are good defensive point guard drills. The point guard should also regularly practice the team defensive scheme in practice.
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