One of my favorite slogans is "Possession and possessions." What matters is having the ball and what we do with it.
Poor rebounding never won anybody anything. Players need rebounding assignments. Here are five 'observations' that create an edge.
1. All rebounding areas are not created equal. During three-point shots, research shows more opposite side rebounds from corners than higher locations and the highest percentage of offensive rebounds in the center areas.
2. Coach Wooden recommended rebounders assume the "jumping frog position" with hands up when blocking out. Sylvia Hatchell shortened her advice to "hit and get."
4. If a player gets a lot of rebounds without blocking out, retraining them to rebound differently may reduce their productivity. "Do more of what works and less of what doesn't."
5. Free throw rebounding (my opinion) is underemphasized. "Pinch" (below) the best offensive rebounder.
6. Defensive rebounding relates to position and toughness. Offensive rebounding correlates with anticipation and aggressiveness. Michigan State Coach Tom Izzo added toughness with football helmets and shoulder pads.
7. Tap out. Tapping out doesn't always mean giving up. Think of it as a rebounding assist.
8. Corner seal. Especially from the corner, if the defender is too close to the basket, "box in" the rebounder to take advantage of the rebound by pinning them underneath. Great rebounders know what to do and when.
Lagniappe: Competitive rebounding drill demo from Chris Oliver (@Bballimmersion)
Lagniappe 2: Coach DeMarco (@Coach_DeMarco) shares an NCAA tournament backdoor play