Symmetry teaches "get the best possible shot" (e.g. layups) and defensively, "no easy baskets." The best teams win those battles.
What dos and don'ts belong in our teaching arsenal?
- Win in space (do not play in the traffic). Use gaps to your advantage.
- Learn a variety of finishes (with either hand off either or both feet, on either side of the rim.
- Don't settle for inefficient "in-between" shots.
- Learn to get to the rim with one dribble from anywhere inside the three-point line and take advantage of slower defenders.
- "Low man wins...shoulders/hips." (see video)
- Attack the lead hand/lead foot (defender has to 'drop step' not slide).
- Protect the basketball (second video).
- Use the glass. "The window is your best friend."
- Read the help defender. "Draw 2" and dish.
- "Attack off the catch" may lead to "stampede action."
"Shoulders/hips" to get power.
Options for protecting the ball on the drive (above)
Summary:
- Symmetry: Get the best possible shot versus "no easy shots"
- "Win in space."
- Learn a variety of finishes.
- Low man wins.
- Protect the basketball.
- Attack off the catch.
- "The window is your best friend."
Lagniappe. More "Pro Training" on the impact of using different angles.
Lagniappe 2. Mental Models. Fundamental attribution error. We attribute others' actions to their character but our actions to our situation.