It's natural to overlook basketball history...how the game developed and those responsible for 'everyday' actions. Hoop Tactics shares some basketball chronology. "Basketball at one time was referred to as the “Cage Game” and players’ “Cagers”. This was a result of wire mesh (chicken wire) or chain-link fencing being hung around the entire court in an effort to make the game go faster by eliminating all the out of bounds delays. However, in reality, it served more as a barrier to protect the players and rowdy spectators from each other, as well as from the objects being thrown onto the court."
Clair Bee (1896-1983) was a multi-sport athlete and figured prominently in basketball innovation, coaching at Long Island University and the NBA with the Baltimore Bullets. His teams won two NIT Championships, THE title to win in his day.
Bee is credited with introducing 1-3-1 defense and the 3-second rule. Some also say he is responsible for the idea behind the 24-second shot clock.
Coaching Philosophy:
Coach Bee's priorities were "teaching fundamentals and team play." We say, "we're not getting back to basics; we never leave the basics."
Clair Bee quotes:
"Good coaching may be defined as the development of character, personality and habits of players, plus the teaching of fundamentals and team play."
Clair Bee coaching notes:
Wes Kosel shares Bee 1-3-1 Coaching notes.
He illustrates how the defense works, to keep three players between the ball and the basket. When the ball is on the side, it also protects ball side blocks and elbows, key scoring areas.
Video:
Kermit Davis presents his version of the 1-3-1 defense. I haven't considered playing 1-3-1 (not only because I don't believe it develops youth play) because we had no size to protect the diagonal pass .
I think John Belein (Michigan) when I think on 1-3-1 defense in college hoop.
SI profiles Bee in The Vault.
