"I still have to remind them, run a drill every now and then or have an emphasis in a scrimmage in a practice where we’re talking about. Maybe we’re holding the ball too long, and it’s not moving, and we’re not going good to great with our shots.” Note: movement kills defense.
"Contested shots are really bad shots. People’s percentage goes down almost by 20, almost without exception." Good shots are in range, in rhythm, not closely guarded, and situationally appropriate. When a player 'resets' because of defensive challenge, an 'open' shot often becomes an out-of-rhythm shot.
“You want to penetrate not just for you, but for a teammate." Excellent players excel because they make everyone around them better. It's not rocket science or a national secret. Penetration stresses defense and opens up the perimeter.
"You guys got to get together and talk. You guys might see a mismatch that I don’t see. You guys need to communicate constantly." Getting players to communicate challenges every coach. We haven't built it into drills enough and that has to change.
"It’s a players’ game and they’ve got to perform. The better you can get that across, the more they take over and the more smoothly it runs." Jocko Willink, a Navy SEAL, wrote "Extreme Ownership." The SEALs thrive on preparation, communication, and discipline, with down the line leadership to execute 'commander's intent'.
Popovich's system coupled with experienced players capable of constant adjustment, makes for outstanding basketball.
