Impact winning. Be solution-focused.
Many games turn on small details for which solutions could turn a program around. Changing our habits matters. As James Clear says, "our actions are a vote for the type of person we want to be."
Rather than indict a specific program, 'prototype' actions that apply for many teams. We could use the Buffett 25-5 approach, starting with a big list and narrowing it down to five. Rather than generate an extensive list, simplify.
Find answers that work for your program. They improve results.
1. What should we eliminate?
Applying NBA statistics to high school or lower level basketball is a fool's errand. Three-point shots from low shooting talent creates low points per possession. Take more "makable" shots. Track them with shot charts and refuse to accept poor shot selection. Get 7's.
2. What should we add?
Pick-and-roll offense is hard to defend, often generating high percentage shots. Many high school teams barely use PnR.
3. What should we do more?
Many teams allow too many easy shots, especially scoring in transition. Conversion and transition defense are hallmarks of solid teams.
4. What should we do less?
Stop turning the basketball over. Among the worst offensive offenders are live-ball turnovers. They cause high points per possession. That might mean "falling in love with easy."
5. What one change in practice will impact winning most?
Handling pressure is critical to winning at many levels. Advantage-disadvantage isn't new. Five offense versus seven defenders forces pass and cut development.
Maybe the solutions don't belong for you. But the questions should. If we can't see it, ask a trusted friend or ally. Remember Oscar Wilde's wisdom, "Your friends stab you in the front."
Summary:
- What should we subtract?
- What should we add?
- What should we do more?
- What should we do less?
- What one practice change helps?
Lagniappe. When we're told how to elevate our condition, own it and control it.
Dawn Staley was asked, "What's the one event that changed everything for you?"
— Coach AJ 🎯 Mental Fitness (@coachajkings) May 18, 2024
She immediately named ONE time.
She said, "It was a huge life lesson for me because I had never 'failed' that bad."
She chose the hard route and the results were "plentiful".
In 1992, Dawn… pic.twitter.com/DdYqTA7Vg7
Lagniappe 2. Raising your standards increases performance.
SHOOTERS MINDSET
— Steve Dagostino (@DagsBasketball) May 18, 2024
A couple ways you can build a shooters mindset is to increase your standard when shooting during training.
1. We don’t miss 2 shots in a row. If you miss ‘come back with a make’
2. What is your baseline for makes in a row. If you can hit 5 in a row… pic.twitter.com/dOprKC0TYL
Lagniappe 3. Jump!
Here’s a quick and easy routine I’d recommend all athletes do…
— Julian Lo Casto (@JulianLoCasto) May 7, 2024
Let’s turn those lower limbs into SPRINGS
1. Extensive pogo x30 secs
2. SL Extensive pogo x30 secs
3. Intensive pogo x8 secs
4. SL Intensive pogo x8 secs
5. Drop jump x4
2-3x per week = ⚡️🔑 pic.twitter.com/KcCJxGQqan