Features

December 21, 2017

Five-out spread continuity counters aggressive man defense

by Ryan Freeman, Burlington Williams High School, North Carolina
This five-out spread continuity offense can be utilized in a variety of situations. We have implemented this offense to counter aggressive man-to-man defense, use some clock when holding the lead, provide our best player some... more »
December 13, 2017

‘Horns’ set increases floor spacing for better shots

by Michael Murphy, Next Level Performance, Buffalo Grove, Illinois
Basketball teams on all levels have designed plays where there are two post players near the top of the key and two shooters in the corners. Each post player sets a ball screen, giving the... more »
December 8, 2017

A tribute to the strength of coaches

by Ken Mannie, columnist
It has been said that life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage. Two undeniable and highly visible characteristics of great coaches are their indelible courage and inner strength. All aspects and categories of... more »
December 5, 2017

How to turn around a failing program

by Robert H. Brimmer and Joni M. Boyd, contributing writers
Losing happens. Sometimes, losing happens too often and for too long, whether it’s over the course of a season or several years. Overcoming a losing season or a losing program can be a tremendous challenge... more »
December 1, 2017

13 tips to sharpen your daily practice plan

by Marty Gaughan, contributing writer
A major part of coaching is the ability to prepare your players and your team. That process takes place on the practice floor. The limited time you have for practice is sacred. It’s the time... more »
November 30, 2017

Considering alternatives to switching on screens

by Rick Elia, contributing writer
A varsity coach once was explaining why he demanded that all teams in his program switch on all screens. “You know,” he says at one point, “John Wooden and Denny Crum switched on all screens.”... more »
November 20, 2017

A four-out, one-in offense that overwhelms defenses

by Nick Lusk, contributing writer
Our teams have won eight conference championships, completed four undefeated seasons, put together a 52-game winning streak and compiled a 205-14 record over the past 11 seasons. All of that success began when I switched... more »
November 16, 2017

Final preparations for the new season

by Henry Barrera, contributing writer
Coaches and players all over the country are diligently working to get ready for the upcoming season. I’m personally entering this year with great anticipation as we’ve continued to refine what we do and how... more »
November 7, 2017

Competitive shooting drills to challenge players

by Justin Remington, Martin Luther King High School, Riverside, California
Pushing the pace of your players during practice, or forcing them to compete against one another, properly prepares them for game-time situations. Here are two drills you can implement into your system, helping them improve... more »
October 30, 2017

Teaching your players to get tough

by Kevin Hoffman, Editorial Director
The most important virtue for any basketball player is talent. But what’s talent without the competitive spirit, or toughness, that consistently motivates your team and drives it to victory? Teaching your team to play tough... more »