Games sum individual possessions. Each possession impacts the game. Teams with many "bad possessions" (offensively and defensively) underachieve. They might win some because their opponent isn't any better, but mostly
Bad possessions = bad basketball = bad results
Enumerate reasons for bad possessions and "invert" (to get better or good ones). Start with low hanging fruit - not the whole orchard.
Transition. Players must know their assignment. "Accountability demands clarity." Do you send two or three to the glass? Floor balance demands a plan (e.g. guards back). Challenge our team to allow three or fewer transition hoops per game. Transition layups create a two point deficit and when they come off turnovers it's effectively more (see below 'live ball turnovers bleed into your defense')
Fouling. Never foul jump shots or (worse) three-point shots. The mandate is to "contest shots without fouling." Worse is fouling the opponent's own poor shots. A capable team shoots about 75% from the line, among the highest points per possession.
Turnovers. Here's a great screen capture from Zak Boisvert's clinic. He divides turnovers into skill and decision-making.
Solid teams don't give games away. Do the math. Imagine 60 possessions. If you throw away 40% (24) you have 36 possessions with shots. If you have an effective field goal percentage of 50% (higher than most high schools), you score 36 points. That won't win many high school games. In the dark ages (1973) before the three-point shot and with few ball screens, we averaged 65 points per game. Coach Lane emphasized 'the ball is gold' and take quality shots.
Offensive fouls. "Foul for profit." Bad screens and out of control drivers constitute most offensive fouls. In addition to forfeiting a chance to score, you also acquire a personal foul.
Bad shots. Doc Rivers calls them "shot turnovers." My coach called the "forced shots" or "sh*t shots." Every player should know what good shots are for herself and for each or her teammates.
T.J. Rosene preached "Get 7s."
Understand shot selection. Levels 1-10, there is no 10 (perfect shot) or 1; discuss 3-5-7-9. 3rd grade shots lose. 9s are great shots and obvious. 5s are so-so; get 7s. In range, in rhythm, with room. Get 7s to win.
About a third of games are decided by two or fewer possessions. Don't waste them. Reduce common mistakes and we have an opportunity to turn mediocre seasons into good ones and good into excellent.
Summary:
- Bad possessions = bad basketball = bad results
- Minimize transition hoops
- Bad fouls translate into high quality shots (free throws)
- Play under control (offensive fouls = turnovers plus foul trouble)
- "The ball is gold" (reduce turnovers)
- Get better shots (keep shot charts, get 7s)
Lagniappe (something extra). "On time, on target."