Saturday, July 15, 2023

Basketball: "Best Practices"

Have you seen a drill and said, "we should do it that way?" Of course. That recognizes that we are not 'master of the universe'. That shouldn't offend us or assault our ego.

You tried the drill and it didn't work as well as you hoped. Yeah, well Geno has better players than our thirteen year-old girls. Breanna Stewart et al. made 175 in four minutes. Our middle school girls never made more than 50. 

In medicine, some call 'tracks' things like clinical pathways, best practices, and now 'Artificial Intelligence'. Atul Gawande wrote a book, The Checklist Manifesto on using checklists to improve practices.

Yet, some retreat from standardization because why? Does it offend our sensibilities that the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices suggests A, B, or C? Or we don't believe in that science stuff? 


Society has always recognized that "multiple tracks" exist.

Seek the paths to better practices.
  • Read books like Brian McCormick's Fake Fundamentals
  • Watch Youtube videos from guys like Dave Smart, Kirby Schepp, Kevin Eastman, Drew Hanlen, Arik Shivek, and more. 
  • Find a great assistant. 
  • Go to a college or professional practice. 
  • Coaching clinics or their videos such as Coaching U
  • Ask a coach her opinion on something. "How much do you scrimmage?"
  • Ask questions and participate on basketball websites/groups
  • Stay open and humble. Evolving is growth. 

Lagniappe. Ask AI a question: How can I lose weight? 

Intermittent fasting (IF) has gained popularity as a weight loss strategy in recent years. While its effectiveness varies from person to person, research suggests that intermittent fasting can be a useful tool for weight loss for some individuals. Here are a few reasons why IF can be helpful:

  1. Calorie restriction: Intermittent fasting typically involves cycling between periods of fasting and eating. By restricting the eating window, it can naturally lead to a reduction in overall calorie intake. Weight loss occurs when you consume fewer calories than you expend, and IF can help create a calorie deficit.


  2. Insulin regulation: Intermittent fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity. By allowing the body to spend more time in a fasted state, it helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance. This can aid in weight loss, especially for individuals who are overweight or have type 2 diabetes.


  3. Hormonal changes: Fasting triggers several hormonal changes in the body. For example, growth hormone levels tend to increase during fasting, which can promote fat burning and muscle preservation. Additionally, fasting can lead to increased levels of norepinephrine, a hormone that helps mobilize fat stores for energy.


  4. Reduced snacking and mindless eating: IF can help curb impulsive snacking and mindless eating, as it establishes clear guidelines for when to eat and when to refrain from eating. This structure can assist individuals in adhering to their calorie goals and making more conscious food choices.

However, it's important to note that intermittent fasting is not a magic solution, and its effectiveness depends on various factors such as individual metabolism, lifestyle, and overall dietary choices. It's also crucial to prioritize nutrient-dense foods and maintain a balanced diet during your eating periods. Before starting any new diet or weight loss plan, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and goals.

Lagniappe 2. Post up.