Basketball: Action Creates Belief, From Theory to UCONN Zone Offense

Keywords: Training, Playmakers, Notebooks, Video Study, Feynman Technique, Zone Offense

We're in the business of behavior change. If we get players to act, then they may believe. Action creates belief. 

Ask ourselves, "am I investing my time in ways that improve me as a person, a player, or a coach?" Coach Wooden asserted, "never confuse activity with achievement." 

Moreover, succeed by reducing barriers. 

Consider a few examples:

Good. "Improve each practice by writing down three things you did well and one you didn't. Write a specific plan to fix a need area." E.g. "practice non-dominant hand layups finishing off either foot or both from either side of the hoop." 

Better. I handed out a composition book to each player with instructions. Still, only a minority of players use the notebook. 

Best. Challenge players who want to be exceptional. "Become your best version, earn more minutes and a bigger role." Samantha used her notebook this way, constantly benefited, and so far earned four Division 1 scholarship offers and a state championship with her private school."

Good. "Watch more video." 

Better. A player watched video, took notes, and became the best middle school player I've coached in twenty years.  

Best. Send video clips to the player with specific examples of solid actions and opportunities to improve. Find simple, well-executed plays with initiative and execution. 

Lagniappe: Let's review the Feynman teaching technique.

Feynman helps explain math, physics, zone offense, or pick-and-roll defense. The four elements are:

• Name the concept
• Explain it
• Research and review the material
• Simplify 

Lagniappe 2: UCONN Women, Zone Offense