Sport is not war but learn from military leaders.
Alexander Suvorov (1729-1800) was one of the greatest generals in history, undefeated in 62 battles, "The General Who Never Lost."
Key principles that propelled his success included:
- Attitude. "We are here to fight not to count."
- Training. "Train hard, fight easy."
- Always forward. He believed aggression spawned winning.
- Empathy. Unlike peers, he treated his men well.
Some of his quotes parallel sports.
"What is difficult in training will become easy in a battle." Don Meyer said, "Make practice hard so games will be easy."
"Fight the enemy with the weapons he lacks." You may have heard, "Never bring a gun to a gunfight; bring a tank." Use overwhelming force.
"One minute can decide the outcome of the battle, one hour - the outcome of the campaign, and one day - the fate of the country." Make each possession matter.
"No battle can be won in the study, and theory without practice is dead." We can't win on paper.
"Win with ability, not with numbers." Can't say it enough, "every day is player development day." Focus on improvement creates skill, competition, and confidence.
"Judgment of eye, speed and attack are the basis of victory." Teach vision, decision, and execution
"Fortune seized at the right moment gives victory."
"To surprise the enemy is to defeat him." Change defenses, strategies.
"One cannot think that blind bravery gives victory over the enemy."
Lagniappe (something extra).
Coach Hopla explains his process. Not everyone uses the same "shooting fork" as some favor the index finger as guide (e.g. Ed Palubinskas)
Lagniappe 2. Simplest thoughts on five-out offense.
- If you have the edge in dribble penetration, seize it.
- Exploit give-and-go with inexperienced defense. Cut hard!
- Against overplay defense back cut or "dribble at" back cut. When defenses can't stop an action, keep exploiting it.
