I doubt that my (young) players have clarity on "playing well." They need clearer expectations. In his postgame remarks on December 23rd, Brad Stevens made two key points:
"You have to try to play well every game." That's an organizational priority. But for some players, that may mean my numbers. "What do we have to do to play well?"
Intangibles matter. Help your teammates (make others around you better), compete each possession, and find ways to contribute even when parts of your game aren't working.
This can't happen, but sometimes does. You know it when you see it, especially on the glass or defensively.
"Playing well" needs specifics.
Offensively:
Attack the basket
Create good shots (via player and ball movement)
Take quality shots (ask them what that means)
Limit turnovers
Anticipate and rebound aggressively
Defensively:
Take away offensive intent
Deny transition baskets
Pressure the ball
Avoid needless (stupid) fouls (distinguish between bad play and bad players)
Rebound with superior position and toughness
Conversion:
Recognize and anticipate (awareness and alertness to possession change)
"Playing well" won't always translate to winning, because of nuanced skill, athleticism, size, game understanding, and experience differences among young players. But that doesn't preclude setting better expectations. That's on me.
