Years ago I asked my high school coach what 'under the radar' statistics he valued. Our managers, John Hunneman and Andy Johnson kept detailed statistics and shot charts over fifty years ago. Coach Sonny Lane said, "assists and rebounds."
That makes sense in the context of 'possession enders' - assists lead to scores and rebounds continue or gain possession.
The best girls' basketball team I saw was Winnecunnet High School, coached by Ed Beattie. When I asked about his methods, he was open and thoughtful. "Championships were made in the summer.” He explained that he could work with players twelve months a year, that "it was between the kids and him" (not parents), and they finished every practice with every player having to make two free throws (e.g. 22 in a row). I saw his team with Tiffany Ruffin dominate a local Melrose club during a ten-year league title streak.
Periodically, I reach out to high school coaches with a set of open-ended questions about their methods. Those who respond always provide insight. Kristen McDonnell had a great share.
Also, some coaches reply with information they ask to remain confidential. Mindfulness helps us widen the space between stimulus and response. Confidential to me means that the space becomes infinite.
Our coaching philosophy evolves over a lifetime, influenced by a myriad of people, events, and ideas. Basketball is an "open source" domain; there are no secrets.
If I could sit down with a few coaches for lunch, I'd include Geno Auriemma, Carla Berube (Princeton), and Brad Stevens. That would be beyond awesome...
Lagniappe. Coaches enjoy Xs and Os. Here's a tweet from Coach Hacks.
Princeton Point Backdoor
— Matt Hackenberg (@CoachHackGO) December 30, 2023
Back screen to loosen the defense ✅
Enter to the high post ✅
Dribble at backdoor to the wing ✅ pic.twitter.com/ZAzOYIifPN
Lagniappe 2. A favorite quote.
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