Coaches seek a 'Goldilocks' approach headed into the playoffs. We want neither deconditioning nor fatigue. We want a team on the rise - healthy, mentally focused, and playing well.
What belongs on our playoff checklist? The MUST, NEED, WANT approach of Bill Parcells is one way to go.
Here's an example from an offseason list.
But another approach might be PREPARATION, PRACTICE, GAME PLAN.
Think back to our Goldilocks analogy, formulate a manageable list.
Cone down on the absolutes:
- Synthesize the practice plan that translates into results
- Never leave fundamentals, be on the same page in every phase
- Attack weaknesses and utilize strengths getting feedback
- Appropriate warmup of shooting (Jay Wright)
- Long-distance shooting - catch and shoot 3s, catch and side dribble threes
- Box drills into various finishes (front and reverse pivots)
- Jab series including negative, neutral, and 'shimmy' steps
- Attack off the catch (stampede)
- Side dribble float into direct attack or crossover attack
Leave your comfort zone. Rule of 2s, two minutes to learn, two weeks to practice extensively, and two months to implement as core move
Lagniappe 2. Winning competes with ego. Young players often don't understand what it takes to win and focus on themselves (minutes, shots, recognition) over victories. Also, distractions (relationships) are always a concern. Plus, in the COVID era, you never know which key players might be out.