Newsletter Archives

July 2002 Ezine
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter

"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"

06/30/2002 July 2002 Newsletter Issue #1
Steve Pavlovic, Editor, Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
By subscription only! Welcome to the current issue of
"Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter"
You are receiving this newsletter because you
requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE
------------------------------------------------------------

=> Sponsorship Notice
=> Feature Article - Summer Break: A Time to Retool
=> Shooting - Keep your Players Close
=> Dribbling - Ball Handling Drills are a Must
=> Passing - The Weighted Ball Method to Better Passing
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Have a Pratice Plan
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information

------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------

Does your team need to improve their shooting? Do you need
to score more points? Did you lose some games by a few
points while missing easy shots? Then make sure you check
out my ebook "Coach Steve Pavlovic's Score More Hoops" at
http://www.scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Summer Break: A Time to Retool
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------

Well, June is here, the sun is out, basketball is the
furthest thing from your mind. But should it be? No way!
The summer months are the perfect time to reflect on your
past season and get ready for next season. Here's some ideas
for you:

1) Re-evaluate yourself as a coach.
Were there things you didn't fully grasp last season?
Defenses or offenses that were run against your team
that confused you? Take this opportunity to look back
at those scenarios and see what you could have done
differently.

2) Re-evaluate your team.
Did your players perform as you expected them to?
What areas does your team need to improve in? Jot down
some notes now, before you forget. Read up on drills
to help your team. You can work on these in a summer
league, if available to your team, or by handing out
note cards with suggested drills to your players, so
they can work on them individually.

3) Plan for next season.
If you are a returning coach, it's not too early to
think about next year. Would you like to run a
different offense or defense? Find one that suits
your team, and start thinking how your players will
fit. You can take your time and find one that's
right for your team without being rushed for time.
If you are a first year coach, you can start planning
also. Start outlining drills and skills that you
will work on for your team. Read and study drills for
your appropriate grade level. This will give you a
headstart come fall.

So don't waste this opportunity for you or your team. Take
an hour here or there(like on a rainy day!). It will really
pay off next season!

------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Keep your Players Close

Whether you are practicing with your players over the
summer, or they are practicing on their own, encourage them
to take shots close to the basket. Keep the range between
10 - 15 feet. When they are comfortable and hitting
consistently from that range, let your outside shooters move
back some. I've seen too many times where my outside
shooters work on their 3 point shots too much, then can't
hit the 15 footer. Make sure their routine includes the
closer jumpshots first!

------------------------------------------------------------
Dribbling - Ball Handling Drills are a Must

I always like to start off my practices with some ball
handling drills, and I highly recommend my players work on
it over the summer. Not all will do that, but I can
immediately tell in the fall who has! Just once or twice a
week for 15 minutes will make a big improvement. Here's
some simple ones to do:
Dribbling in place with their head up (left & right hand)
Dribbling up and down court or driveway
Passing ball around leg (left and right, builds up hand
strength and coordination)

------------------------------------------------------------
Passing - The Weighted Ball Method to Better Passing

If your team is like mine, they will occasionally throw
lazy passes. All too often, these passes are stolen and
converted into fast break baskets. To encourage strong
passes, I like to run some passing drills with a weighted
basketball. This makes them throw the ball harder, and
forces the pass receiver to keep their hands up and ready.
After a cycle of drills using this ball, I run the same
drills again with a regular basketball. The difference is
very noticable!

------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Have a Pratice Plan

It sounds like such common sense, that you are probably
thinking, "Tell me something I don't know!" Yet I still
see coaches running practices by the seat of their pants.
No one (even them) knows what is going to worked on, or what
is coming next. Ultimately, this leads to breaks in the
practice, as the head coach and assistants get together to
decide on the next drill. What a waste of time! Always
have a practice plan put together and go over it with your
assistants beforehand. You might even want to get your
assistants input before you put your plan together.
Nothing says you can't stray from the schedule, like if you
feel you need more time on a specific drill. But at least
everyone will know your course of action!

------------------------------------------------------------
Have a great month!!!
------------------------------------------------------------

Copyright 2002 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.

------------------------------------------------------------

Stephen Pavlovic
Send any comments or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com

August 2002 Ezine
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter

"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"

07/31/2002 ** August 2002 Issue **
Steve Pavlovic, Editor, Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
By subscription only! Welcome to the current issue of
"Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter".
You are receiving this newsletter because you
requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

** Feel free to forward this ezine to any coaches that you
think this would benefit, or direct them to:
www.scoremorehoops.com
so that they can sign up for this newsletter! **

Welcome to all new subscribers! This ezine is published
monthly, usually sent out on the first of each month.

------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE
------------------------------------------------------------

=> Sponsorship Notice
=> Feature Article - A Solid Base in Offense and Defense
=> Defense - Shuffle, but Don't Dance!
=> Dribbling - Head's Up
=> Rebounding - Some simple drills
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Be Patient With Your Team
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information

------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------

Does your team need to improve their shooting? Do you need
to score more points? Did you lose some games by a few
points while missing easy shots? Then make sure you check
out my ebook "Coach Steve Pavlovic's Score More Hoops" at
http://www.scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, A Solid Base in Offense and Defense
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------

There are many similar actions performed on both offense
and defense, none of them more important than your base.
By base, I mean the set up of your feet and legs, the
"foundation", so to speak, of your "basketball building".
Just as with a real building, it's strength is only as good
as it's foundation. So we must have a solid base to start
with, or our further actions will suffer.

The first place we must have a solid base is when we shoot.
As I discuss in detail in my ebook, a solid base is very
important to a successful shot. The feet and legs should be
shoulder width apart. Any wider and you will be off balance.
Any closer together and you will feel awkward when you bend
your knees to shoot. Try it out and you'll see what I mean!
Since this is part of the power source of our shot, it is
essential that you have a good base, or your shot will
suffer.

The second place you must have a solid base is on defense.
The same principles apply as above. If your feet are too
close together, you will probably get your feet tangled if
you need to make a quick move. If they are too far apart,
you will not be able to move into position to cut off the
offensive player. Once again, a good base would be to keep
your feet shoulder width apart. That will keep your body
in balance and ready to move in any direction.

The third place a solid base is required is in rebounding.
We will discuss rebounding more in upcoming issues, because
it is an often overlooked and misunderstood subject.
Rebounding is more than just jumping to grab a missed shot.
It is the process of keeping an opposing player away from
the basket and allowing your team to gain control of the
ball. This is accomplished by using your body to make
yourself big. It starts with a solid base, shoulder width
apart, and using the lower part of your body to keep your
opponent away from the ball. Keeping a solid base will
prevent your opponent from just moving you out of the way.
Your body will be in balance and your opponent will have to
either go around you or foul you to get to the ball.

So no matter what action you are performing on the court,
emphasize the concept of a solid base to your players. It
is the key building block to any successful team.

------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Shuffle, but Don't Dance!

The quickest way to get around on defense is by using
short, quick steps. Stay low to the ground and shuffle,
making sure that the legs don't cross. As you shuffle, the
feet should stay shoulder width apart. Don't let your feet
hit together! If they do, you'll start doing what I call
the "Bunny Hop". Your entire body will come up and you'll
look like you are hopping instead of shuffling. So to play
good defense, stay low, knees bent, and take short, quick
steps. You'll be able to guard your opponent much better!

------------------------------------------------------------
Dribbling - Head's Up

One point I can't emphasize enough is to teach young
players to keep their eyes off the ball when they dribble.
This is why I stress ball handling drills with my players,
concentrating on keeping their heads up. Last month, I gave
you some simple drills to do with your players. No matter
what age, always remember to review these or similar drills.
Learning to dribble with their heads up will help your
players to see the whole court so they can find their open
teammates, and see where the defense is set up at. It will
improve your team's offense tremendously.

------------------------------------------------------------
Rebounding - Some Simple Drills

To learn the basics of blocking out, you must first learn
about staying between your man and the basket, and using
your lower body to stay there.

Drill #1 - Coach at the free throw line, players with their
backs to the basket. On the whistle, players
quickly turn toward basket, feet shoulder width
apart, knees bent, hands either in front of body
to grab ball, or hands at side with palms facing
back to find offensive player. Don't let hands
go farther back than the body!

Drill #2 - Put a ball in the center jump circle. 1 Player
is offense, 1 is defense. Players face each
other outside circle. On the whistle, defender
turns and gets into rebounding stance, while
offensive player tries to get around. Object
is to stay low, shuffle, and use your lower body
to keep offense out. Don't use your arms to
wrap aroung offense, that is a foul! Goal is to
keep the offense out for 3-5 seconds.

Drill #3 - 1 line of players at free throw line extended,
other line at baseline of same side. Player at
baseline passes to first player near free throw
line, who will take a jump shot. Player who
threw pass will come out to block out this
shooter and get rebound.

For drills #2 and #3, an incentive can be added, such as
the first player with 5 rebounds doesn't have to run laps,
etc. This will keep everyone's attention, and will help to
simulate a game situation.

------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Be Patient With Your Team

Whether it's summer or the beginning of next season,
remember to have patience. It would be nice if all your
players came back and could tell you they practiced all their
skills for 2 hours everyday, but that's not going to happen!
Get them back into the groove slowly, not expecting the
highest level of play immediately. This doesn't mean that
you let any mistakes go uncorrected. But give them a
practice or 2 to get back into a basketball frame of mind.
Work on the basics, whether it be ball handling or
conditioning. Once you have their attention, it will be a
better scenario for both you and your team!

------------------------------------------------------------
Have a great month!!!
------------------------------------------------------------

Stephen Pavlovic

Send any comments or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2002 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------

September 2002
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter

"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"

08/31/2002 ** September 2002 Issue **
Steve Pavlovic, Editor, Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
By subscription only! Welcome to the current issue of
"Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter".
You are receiving this newsletter because you
requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

** Feel free to forward this ezine to any coaches that you
think this would benefit, or direct them to:
www.scoremorehoops.com
so that they can sign up for this newsletter! **

Welcome to all new subscribers! This ezine is published
monthly, usually sent out on the first of each month.

------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE
------------------------------------------------------------

=> Sponsorship Notice
=> Feature Article - Get in Shape with a Purpose
=> Defense - Keep an eye on your opponent's midsection
=> Dribbling - Left and right hand
=> Passing - Review technique
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Find out any Health Concerns
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information

------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
I've added some free coaching resources to the website!
There is a PDF file on dealings with parent problems, which
is a must-read for any coach. There are PDF files for
an attendance sheet and roster. Feel free to download and
use any of the info, and pass it along to any other coaches
or parents that you think it would help.

Find out my unique perspective on shooting in 5 easy steps.
Check out my ebook "Coach Steve Pavlovic's Score More Hoops"
at http://www.scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Get in Shape with a Purpose
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
Well it's almost time! Some teams will be starting in
September, others in October. But it's time to start
putting a plan together. Time flies when you're having fun!

I always stress defense with my teams. I'm a firm believer
that defense wins games. So to play tough defense, my
players must be in shape. I get them in shape both
physically and mentally.

Mentally, I get my players into a basketball frame of mind.
A long layoff over the summer must be replaced by mental
toughness. They must be thinking about basketball now, no
time for daydreaming. I constantly give them a mental image
of what I want them to accomplish. Repeating a key point or
buzz word also helps jog their memory. And yes, sometimes a
stern correction for making the same mistake multiples times
will help them focus on the basketball season. Get them
thinking your way!

Physically, my players must be in shape to play the tough
man-to-man defense that I expect. We do a lot of running
and shuffling drills. But I never have a drill just to run.
I always make sure it has a purpose. If you are going to
make them run lines or laps, have them dribble a basketball.
This way they must concentrate on dribbling, they are still
getting into shape, and they stay focussed. Just running
with no purpose gets boring very fast. You can then quickly
lose their attention and practice is no longer productive.

So look at your drills before you practice and ask
yourself if it has a basketball purpose. If not, modify it
so you can accomplish 2 tasks at once.

------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Keep an eye on your Opponent's Midsection

As you start reviewing your defense, remind your players
not to stare an offense player in the eyes or stare at the
ball. A simple head fake could cause you to lose your person
you were guarding. Instead, focus on the midsection or hips
of their body. They can't go anywhere without that!

------------------------------------------------------------
Dribbling - Left and right hand

Dribbling drills are important, especially at the
beginning of the season. No matter what age group, pay close
attention to both the right and left hand in these drills.
Don't assume that your team knows how to dribble. If they
haven't picked up a ball in a while, they might need some
work now. Have the players focus on their weak hand and get
60% of the work with that hand. It will pay off for your
players later in the season.

------------------------------------------------------------
Passing - Review technique

Review the proper passing techniques with your team:

1) Hands on the sides of the ball
2) Ball is at your chest in the middle of your body
3) Make sure you step toward your target
4) Extend hands to throw pass
5) Finish with thumbs facing down

A simple drill to run is to set your players across from
each other, about 10 feet apart. You can then work on the
chest, bounce, and overhead pass. Try to match players
that are close in ability, so that no one gets hurt and
balls aren't flying all over the gym.

------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Find out any Health Concerns

The first thing I do when my team has its first practice
is to find out from either the players or their parents about
any health concerns. With younger players, I always check
with their parents. I want to know who has asthma or any
other condition that I need to watch out for. If the player
needs an inhaler, I want to make sure they always have it at
practices as well as games. This way I am prepared and not
caught off guard. I can keep a closer eye on these players.
The last thing I want as a coach is for something to happen
to one of my players!

------------------------------------------------------------
Have a great month!!!
------------------------------------------------------------

Stephen Pavlovic

Send any comments or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2002 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------

October 2002

-----------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter

"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"

09/30/2002 ** October 2002 Issue **
Steve Pavlovic, Editor, Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
By subscription only! Welcome to the current issue of
"Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter".
You are receiving this newsletter because you
requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

** Feel free to forward this ezine to any coaches that you
think this would benefit, or direct them to:
www.scoremorehoops.com
so that they can sign up for this newsletter! **

Welcome to all new subscribers! This ezine is published
monthly, usually sent out on the first of each month.

------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE
------------------------------------------------------------

=> Sponsorship Notice
=> Feature Article - Defense is the Key to your Season
=> Shooting - Keep your elbow straight
=> Defense - Have your palms up
=> Dribbling - Learning the crossover dribble
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Be prepared for emergencies
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information

------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
I've added another free coaching resource to the website!
This is a PDF file on the subject of man-to-man defense.
As you know, I really like my teams to play man-to-man
defense. Read an article I have put together on the
"man-to-man vs. zone defense debate." See what you think!

Now is the time to refresh your memory on shooting.
Check out my ebook "Coach Steve Pavlovic's Score More Hoops"
at http://www.scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Defense is the Key to Your Season
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
Since my first ebook, "Score More Hoops" has come out, I
have spent a lot of time developing my other basketball
interest, which is playing defense. My new ebook, "Defend
The Hoop" is almost ready to go. In it, I will show you
how to teach your players to play tough and agressive
man-to-man defense. As your players get older, more and
more of them can put the ball in the hoop. But not all of
them can play great defense. This is why I stress the
fundamentals of defense with my teams. I want to give my
team an advantage over all the others.

When I first started playing basketball, shooting was not
one of my greatest assets. I had a tough time, being small
and not having a lot of power. But I quickly learned that
even when I was having an off night offensively, I could
still contribute on defense. That not only helped my team,
but helped keep me in the game and off the bench!

I always tell my players, no matter whether their shot is
falling or not, they must always have a good night
defensively. Players will get driven by or lose their person
sometimes, but they must always hustle. Unless you are sick,
you should be able to hustle all the time.

Stress defense with your team and it will make your
offense even better. A good tough man-to-man defense will
lead to steals by your team or turnovers by your opponent.
Either way, it can mean some easy buckets, and in a lot of
cases, a change in the momentum of the game.

I would encourage you to stress defense in your early
season drills. It will not only get your players in shape,
but help them get in a "defense" frame of mind. That doesn't
mean you should neglect your offense though. Keep a good
balance between reviewing both of them. You'll need your
team to perform well in both areas!

------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Keep your Elbow Straight

One of the problems I see players of all ages have is
that their elbow and shooting arm are not straight. The ball
must be positioned to the side of the body, not the middle of
the body. If the ball is in the middle, your natural
tendency will be to push the ball to one side or the other.
Keeping your elbow straight up and down in line with your
shooting leg will put the ball on a straight path. Try it
and see what I mean!

------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Have your Palms Up

When playing defense, make sure your players have their
palms facing up. The reason is that they can pop the ball
upward from someone dribbling in front of them. This method
means you will make contact with the ball, and not the
player's arm or wrist. Reaching with your palms down
usually results in a foul being called, because contact with
the offensive player is usually made. And many times even if
there is no contact, a referee will still call a foul,
because they assume there is contact. So use your palms
facing up, and flip your wrist to make those great steals.

------------------------------------------------------------
Dribbling - Learning the Crossover Dribble

Once your players learn the basic left and right hand
dribble, and can do it while advancing the ball, you can
teach them the crossover dribble. This is a simple move
that will come in handy to keep a defender off balance and
help your players to get around them.
The way to perform this goes as follows:

1) Get into a proper stance for dribbling.
2) Start dribbling the ball with the left or right hand.
3) Have the opposite hand out ready to receive the ball.
4) While continuing to dribble, sweep the ball across your
body to the other hand, which will now take over the
dribble. Don't stop the ball and catch it, that will
lead to you losing your dribble or committing a
turnover.
5) Adjust your body so that you have once again created
a dribbling pocket, which means the ball side leg is
about a half step behind the opposite leg. This gives
you a place to dribble, and helps protect the ball.
6) Now get the hand without the ball ready to receive it
back again and repeat the process.

Once your players can do this in place, here's a few
drills to get them moving:

1) Get in correct dribbling position. On the whistle, have
them sweep the ball to the other hand and continue
dribbling. Let them go for 5 seconds, then blow the
whistle again so they can do the crossover back the
other way. Focus on using the body to protect the
dribble, especially 5) and 6) from above.

2) Same as Drill 1), except using movement. Line players
up along baseline in 1 or 2 rows. On the whistle, they
will proceed down the court using the crossover dribble.
On the next whistle, they will stop while continuing
their dribble. Once again, focus on proper technique,
especially, keeping the dribble below the waist. Stress
that this is not a race. Make them focus on doing it
correctly, taking it slow at first.

3) Line up cones about 5 feet apart going down the court.
Players start single file, they will use the
crossover dribble to get around the cones. Start the
players going to either the right or the left. That
should also be the hand they start out dribbling with.
When they get around a "defender", they should use the
crossover dribble to get the ball to the other hand.
Continue around the cones, and down the court in this
manner.

------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Be Prepared for Emergencies

Whether you are a first time coach or a veteran coach, you
need to be prepared for the unexpected! Here's some things I
like to keep in mind in case of an emergency:

Evacuation plan for building I am practicing in.
Have a cell phone with or know where phone is in building.
Emergency numbers of police and fire department.
Contact and emergency numbers of my players and coaches.
Carry or have available to you a medical kit.

Hopefully you don't need most of these, but it's better to
be safe than sorry. Remember, the safety of the children is
your primary concern.

------------------------------------------------------------
Have a great month!!!
------------------------------------------------------------

Stephen Pavlovic

Send any comments or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2002 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------

November 2002
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter

"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"

10/31/2002 ** November 2002 Issue **
Steve Pavlovic, Editor, Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
By subscription only! Welcome to the current issue of
"Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter".
You are receiving this newsletter because you
requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

** Feel free to forward this ezine to any coaches that you
think this would benefit, or direct them to:
www.scoremorehoops.com
so that they can sign up for this newsletter! **

Welcome to all new subscribers! This ezine is published
monthly, usually sent out on the first of each month.

------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE
------------------------------------------------------------

=> Sponsorship Notice
=> Feature Article - Don't rush - Do a few things right
=> Shooting - Keep your shoulders squared
=> Defense - Cut off those baselines and sidelines
=> Rebounding - Get yourself into position
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Keep everyone informed
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information

------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
If you haven't checked out my site lately, take a look!
Check out my ebook "Coach Steve Pavlovic's Score More Hoops"
at http://www.scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Don't rush - Do a few things right
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
There never seems to be enough time from when you have your
first practice and your first game. Whether it be
conditioning, offense, or defense, there is so much to go
over! Too many times though, I have seen coaches try to cram
everything into their player's heads before their first game.
Then they are surprised when the team doesn't play well in
it's first few games. Is it any wonder?
There is only so much your players are going to absorb.
You can lecture all you want, but only a portion will be
remembered before your team gets overwhelmed. So what is a
coach to do?
I can tell you what I do. I make sure that conditioning is
at the top of my list. Then I make sure to review all the
basics, especially ball handling, shooting, and defensive
position. I then go over a basic offense, a basic out of
bounds play, and a basic defensive scheme. I leave it at
that! I go over this the first few games, trying to do a few
things well, rather than giving my team a lot and having them
perform nothing well. I want them to do a few things very
well before we move on and add more options. I also don't
worry about wins and losses the first few games. I am
looking for improvement. If we improve and execute the basics,
the wins will take care of themselves.
There will be plenty of time to add and build on the basics.
So don't rush into everything. Start off slow. Your team
will benefit in the long run!

------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Keep your shoulders squared

Besides not having their elbow straight, the next problem
I see the most in shooting is not being squared up to the
basket. Players are in such a hurry to receive a pass and
shoot the ball that they don't take a split second to square
up. By rushing the shot, they are not in correct shooting
position and the shot usually is off target.
I work with my players often to get squared up to the
basket. We run drills where our players receive a pass and
have to square their shoulders and make sure their elbow
is straight. Then we add a defender to simulate a game
situation. After a short time, you will see a definite
improvement.

------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Cut off those sidelines and baselines

There is nothing more frustrating than to see your team
playing great defense, then let a player go past them on
the sideline, or drive the baseline. It just seems to take
the wind out of your sails!
I always tell my teams that the baseline and sideline are
like extra defenders. An offensive player can't dribble
outside of them. Use them to your advantage.
Whenever we perform any defensive drills, I make my players
get to these lines and put their foot on it. Not next to it,
but right on it. This way, there is no way an offensive
player can get by without knocking you over or stepping out
of bounds.
------------------------------------------------------------
Rebounding - Get yourself into position

In order to get a rebound, your players must react as soon
as the shot goes up. Too many times, players stand around
and watch the shot go towards the hoop. If it doesn't go in,
the odds are that their opponent has gone toward the basket
to get the rebound.
I stress to my team that they can't be spectators. They
must get into rebounding position immediately upon release
of the shot.
Here are some guidelines for teaching the steps to
rebounding:

1) Play normal defense, then turn to block out when the
shot goes up.
2) Establish a good base and make contact with your
opponent. You can do this by feeling with the palm
of your hand, or making contact with your backside.
You are not grabbing your opponent or knocking into
them. You are just making sure you know where your
opponent is and that they don't get around you.
3) Stay low and be ready to use your body, not your arms,
to stop your opponent from going around.
4) Keep your eye on the ball, time your jump, and
extend your arms toward the ball as it comes off the
backboard or rim.
5) Make sure you go up agessively and grab the rebound
with both hands.

------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Keep everyone informed

In your free "15 Characteristics of a Successful Youth
Coach", I talk about communications. I can't stress
this point enough. People today are so busy with their jobs,
their children, and other sports that they have a hard time
keeping their schedule straight. The last thing they need is
a surprise practice or game that you forgot to tell them
about.
As soon as you get information on practices or games, get
it to your players as soon as possible. Stress to your
players how important it is that they give that sheet to
their parent's immediately! This helps teach the player
to be responsible.
I would also encourage you to meet with the parents at the
beginning of the season. Let them know when your normal
practice nights will be, as well as when your games will be,
if you know that. Explain to them that there might be times
when they only get short notice, especially if you are in a
tournament. Explain any team rules you have. Be upfront with
the parents, and they will help make your season successful!

------------------------------------------------------------
Have a great month!!!
------------------------------------------------------------

Stephen Pavlovic

Send any comments or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2002 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------

December 2002
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter

"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"

11/30/2002 ** December 2002 Issue **
Steve Pavlovic, Editor, Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
By subscription only! Welcome to the current issue of
"Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter".
You are receiving this newsletter because you
requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

** Feel free to forward this ezine to any coaches that you
think this would benefit, or direct them to:
www.scoremorehoops.com
so that they can sign up for this newsletter! **

Welcome to all new subscribers! This ezine is published
monthly, usually sent out on the first of each month.

------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE
------------------------------------------------------------

=> Sponsorship Notice
=> Feature Article - Players Must Practice to Improve
=> Shooting - The Lay-up
=> Defense - See More than Just the Ball
=> Passing - Have Your Hands Ready
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Let Your Assistants Help
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information

------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------

My new ebook on defense is now available!!! Check it out at:
www.scoremorehoops.com/defend_the_hoop.htm

------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Players Must Practice to Improve Their Skills
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------

I don't know about your basketball program, but ours is
growing so fast that we don't get as much practice time as
we used to. I know some teams can get in the gym almost any
time they want. We are lucky to get in twice a week. How can
you get your team to accomplish everything you want them to
in such a short period of time? How can you go through all the
drills that you need to prepare your team?

It's difficult, but it's not impossible. I make sure that
I show them a lot of basic drills: dribbling, passing,
shooting, even defensive shuffling. Then I constantly stress
to them the need to work on these drills on their own at home.
Just 15 minutes or so a few times a week will help them
improve their skills. These are things that once you get into
playing games end up being neglected at practice anyway. So
it's a real benefit for them to do this.

Will they all do it? Of course not! The players that do
will stand out from the others. In just 3 weeks of practice
so far, I can tell which players are working on their own
and which haven't picked up a ball since the last practice.

These aren't difficult things to perform. Some simple
dribbling and ball handling drills can be done outside on the
driveway, in the garage, or even in the basement. Passing
drills can be done with a parent or a brother/sister. Some
shooting drills can be done when the weather is warm, if not,
I encourage my players to go through their shooting motion
without a ball, infront of a mirror. Then they can evaluate
their technique and make sure they are shooting correctly.

So how can you get your players to do this? I have a few
ways. The first is to address it with the parents at your
team's parent meeting. I explain to the parents how important
it is for their child to practice on his/her own. This gets
many of them to do it and quit watching TV or playing video
games! Another thing I do is to reward my team for working
on their own. If I can tell they are putting in the extra
effort, I'll let them scrimmage each other a little longer
than normal. Players always like that!

I'm sure you can think of even more ways to convince your
players. But the most convincing argument is that it will
help make them a more complete basketball player.

------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - The Lay-up

The lay-up is the easiest shot in basketball, yet
probably the most missed shot. How many times has one of your
players made a nice drive to the basket, only to bang the ball
off the backboard? It gets frustrating for both players and
coaches.

When learning to shoot lay-ups, I show the players to plant
the inside foot while extending their shooting hand and
bringing up their shooting side leg. They need to have a
straight elbow, as well as having their shoulders squared to
where they are shooting. They also need to aim inside the
square on the backboard. You can even get them to practice
this technique without a ball.

I always stress using the backboard. Some players like to
lay the ball in, but I see many shots like this missed. The
backboard is there to help on this shot. Take advantage of
it! The other problem is shooting the ball too hard. I tell
my players that the faster they are moving toward the basket,
the lighter they must lay the ball off the backboard. Once
they understand these two concepts, they will make many
more lay-ups.

------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - See More Than Just the Ball

Whether your team plays man-to-man defense or zone, they
must be aware of everything going on around them on the
court. Players focus on where the ball is, which yes, is
important. But just as important are the players without
the ball. They are cutting, exchanging, setting picks,
anything to get open for a good shot. So your players must
be alert for this. I work with my players on keeping their
eyes moving so they see what's coming. I also work with them
on never completely turning their back to the weak side of
the court. They need to be aware that someone from the weak
side is probably coming over to receive a pass. If my team
is alert, the weak side defenders can stop someone from
coming over, or at least communicate to the strong side
defenders that something is about to happen. A strong
defense needs all 5 players on the floor to be involved.

------------------------------------------------------------
Passing - Have Your Hands Ready

In any drills we run, I stress to my players about having
their hands ready. Over the years, I have seen numerous
players miss catching easy passes because their hands were
at their sides. I have even seen some get hit upside the
head with the ball because they couldn't react to the
ball quick enough.

Have your players run any drills with the hands out as
though they are catching a pass. Like I tell my players,
it takes more energy to put your hands down and bring them
up again, as it does to just leave them up and ready.
Usually when I phrase it that way, since it sounds like a
shortcut, I can get them to start doing it. And the
dropped and fumbled passes go way down as well!

------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Let Your Assistants Help

Most of you as coaches probably have some type of assistant
coaches to help out. Take advantage of this. You can use
your assistants to divide up drills into separate groups,
work with individuals who need more attention, or give them
a specific area to watch while running a drill or play. I see
too many times where assistant coaches are not given any
responsibility. The head coach just takes for granted that
the assistant is doing something. Don't get caught in this
trap! Lay out exactly what you would like each assistant to
do during a practice, and give them something to do during
the game, like watching your offense or defense or talking
to players about something they weren't doing when they come
out of a game.

Doing this will benefit your team in 2 ways. First, they
will be on the same page as the head coach. Second, they
will be learning and can take over if the head coach is
gone, or can become a head coach themselves one day.

Assistant coaches are a valuable resource. They are an
extra set of eyes for the head coach and can give input
to many situations. A good assistant coach makes the
head coach and the entire team a success.

------------------------------------------------------------
Have a great month!!! Merry Christmas and see you in 2003!!!
------------------------------------------------------------

Stephen Pavlovic

Send any comments or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2002 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------

January 2003

------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter

"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"

12/31/2002 ** January 2003 Issue **
Steve Pavlovic, Editor, Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
By subscription only! Welcome to the current issue of
"Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter".
You are receiving this newsletter because you
requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

** Feel free to forward this ezine to any coaches that you
think this would benefit, or direct them to:
www.scoremorehoops.com
so that they can sign up for this newsletter! **

Welcome to all new subscribers! This ezine is published
monthly, usually sent out on the first of each month.

Happy New Year everyone!!! Hope 2003 is a great year.

------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE
------------------------------------------------------------

=> Sponsorship Notice
=> Feature Article - You Must Move on Offense too!
=> Dribbling - Use Your Fingertips for Control
=> Rebounding - Use Your Backside
=> Defense - The Drop Step
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Develop All of Your Players
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information

------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------

My new ebook on defense is now available!!! Check it out at:
www.scoremorehoops.com/defend_the_hoop.htm

Also, my website has been awarded a "Golden Web Award"!!!
Check it out at the bottom of my site.

------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, You Must Move on Offense too!
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------

I spend a lot of time instructing my players to be
aggressive on defense. I want them on the floor for loose
balls, blocking out, and applying pressure man-to-man defense.
Standing still on defense is a sure way to get beaten. But I
also remind my players that they must move on offense too.

Moving on offense is just as important. You must be
aggressive going to the basket. Going half speed won't cut
it. A defender will come over and cut off your lane. You then
run the risk of loosing the ball, or having to pull up to
take a jump shot. A player must find an opening in the
defense and take advantage of it quickly.

Movement is also essential to receive a pass. If you are
a perimeter player, and the defense is sagging in, this
won't be a problem. But playing against a team that is
applying pressure defense, or if you are an inside player,
you will have to move to get open. Whether it is
establishing position with your body in the post, or
making a cut to get open on the wing position, you must
move to become an open target.

Players many times think they are open when they really
aren't. I like to tape a few games each year and show it
to my players. Then they begin to understand that just
because they moved a step or two, doesn't mean they have
lost the defender. This visual aid helps reinforce what I
have already told them. Then when we practice these drills,
the players realize how important a good move is to receive
a pass. And you can't score if you don't get the ball. That
fact alone is usually enough to make players want to make
cuts to get open!

------------------------------------------------------------
Dribbling - Use Your Fingertips for Control

One of the hardest things to get younger players to
understand is the use of the fingertips when dribbling. I
see players start out by slapping the ball with their fingers
or their palm. This will obviously not help with controlling
the dribble. Only by using the fingertips will a player
become a proficient ballhandler.

How do you get your players to do this? A lot of practice
and patience! I have my players do a variety of ball handling
and dribbling drills. Players that are having problems are
given more attention by my assistants. I also have them do
drills where they pass the ball around one leg or the other,
concentrating on the ball being comtrolled by the fingertips.
Players will gradually grasp this concept, and then we
proceed with more movement on our dribbling drills. It may
take some time, but it is a basic concept that every player
must know.

------------------------------------------------------------
Rebounding - Use Your Backside

Do you shout "Block out!!!" to your team, only to watch them
turn to get into rebounding position, leave a large gap
between themselves and their opponent, and their opponent gets
the rebound? This is very frustrating to watch. Many players
think that just turning around and seeing their opponent
they are guarding is enough when blocking out. But it isn't.

You must make contact with your opponent. That is the only
way to know for sure where your opponent is at and where they
are going to. The best way make contact is with your backside.
Make that initial contact with your backside and you can
essentially seal them off from the basket. Stay low and use
your backside to not let your opponent go around you. A few
rebounds might go long, and your opponent may very well get
them. But the majority of the time, the rebound will either
come to you, or if your opponent does get a hand on it, they
will most likely be called for an over the back foul.

So set a good solid base and make contact with your
opponent. This way, you won't get pushed around or pushed
under the basket, and you'll grab a lot more rebounds.

------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - The Drop Step

One thing you must realize as a good defensive coach is that
you sometimes have to give up ground in order to get the
advantage back. Did that sound confusing? What I mean is that
you can't always stop a player from making a move to the
basket. So in this case, you must retreat some to get back
in front of your opponent. The quickest and easiest way to
do this is with the drop step.

Let me give you an example while I explain the drop step.
Let's say your opponent has the ball at the top of the key
and starts to drive to the basket. You see that you can't
just slide straight over, because the player has gotten a
slight jump on you. If you do, you will either commit a foul
or the player will blow right by you for an easy lay-up.

But this is where the drop step comes into play. To execute
this, you simply take your leg (the leg that is on the side
that the offense is going to), and instead of shuffling
straight across, move this leg back and angle over to stop
the offensive player. You are really picking up your leg and
dropping it back. You are retreating on an angle, yet you
are getting back in position to regain the advantage and stop
the offensive penetration.

------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Develop All of Your Players

Our team lost a tough game last week. We fought back and
took the lead with about a minute left, only to lose by a
point on a last second shot. Yet after the game, I felt
proud of my players. They are starting to come together as a
team and everyone contributed in one form or another.

But the team we played didn't do this. They had one good
ballplayer that we just couldn't contain. Part of that was
our weak side help, which we have since corrected. But it
really puzzled me why this coach let this player bring the
ball up the floor and take most of the shots, while the
other players stood around. And when they did get the ball,
they looked like they didn't know what to do with it!

As a veteran coach, I know we will beat this team in the
future. As players advance, one player can't control a game
as much. It takes a team effort, which we are starting to
get from our players. But I couldn't help feel sorry for that
other team. If they all don't learn the basic skills now,
when are they ever going to learn them?

This is why I always remind the coaches at our school to
develop all of their players. I would rather give up a few
victories at the lower grades. Develop as many players as
you can so that by the time they are in 7th or 8th grade,
you will have a team that understands the game, not just
1 or 2 players. Remember, basketball is a team sport. Work
with all of your players. You'll be pleasantly surprised
how some average players will step forward and mature. That's
great for both themselves and your team!

------------------------------------------------------------
Have a great month!!! Good Luck in 2003!!!
------------------------------------------------------------

Stephen Pavlovic

Send any comments or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2003 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------

February 2003

------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter

"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"

01/31/2003 ** February 2003 Issue **
Steve Pavlovic, Editor, Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
By subscription only! Welcome to the current issue of
"Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter".
You are receiving this newsletter because you
requested a subscription. Unsubscribe instructions
are at the end of this newsletter.

** Feel free to forward this ezine to any coaches that you
think this would benefit, or direct them to:
www.scoremorehoops.com
so that they can sign up for this newsletter! **

Welcome to all new subscribers! This ezine is published
monthly, usually sent out on the first of each month.

------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE
------------------------------------------------------------

=> Sponsorship Notice
=> Feature Article - Don't Forget the Basics
=> Shooting - Remember to Follow Through
=> Passing - Use Ball Fakes
=> Defense - Pointing Technique
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Use Diagrams to Explain
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information

------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------

My new ebook on defense is available!!! Check it out at:
www.scoremorehoops.com/defend_the_hoop.htm

Also, my website has been awarded a "Golden Web Award"!!!
Check it out at the bottom of my site.

------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Don't Forget the Basics
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------

Well, every team should be into full swing by now! I know
the teams at our school have been playing since November
and will continue until the first week of March. And if you
are like most teams, you have a lot to go over between games,
and not enough practice time. What do you do???

No matter how tempting it is to spend a whole practice
reviewing what went wrong in the last game, or to prepare for
an upcoming game, you as a coach must find time to practice
the "basketball basics": dribbling, passing, shooting, and
defense. The younger the players, the more time you must
devote to the basics. I have found over the years that if
you don't focus on the basics, players will develop bad
habits. These habits get harder to break as a player gets
older. So I spend more time on basic drills, helping to
create a good basketball foundation for future years.

But don't think that I don't review our games! I will take
some time to review what we did well and what we need to work
on. I will then take an area that we need to work on, and
use some basic drills to get my point across. Our last game,
we didn't throw passes particularly well. So after showing
how I wanted the pass thrown, I put my team through a basic
passing drill, the "star drill". This got them to get their
hands ready and to catch passes and move quickly.

I find this method works well. It helps us review our game
problems and still go back to the basics. By keeping the
drills simple, players not only understand better, but are
able to perform the task better. I do this with shooting,
dribbling and defense too. When we take our time to review
our offensive and defensive game plans, I remind our players
what we need to concentrate on and what we have just worked
on. This method definitely improves their basketball skills
and their understanding of what we are trying to accomplish.

------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Remember to Follow Through

A very important part of the shooting process that is often
neglected is the follow through. As a player releases the ball,
it should roll off the fingertips and the wrist should snap
through. If not, there won't be any rotation on the ball. I
refer to these shots as a knuckleball, as you can read the
manufacturers name on the ball as it goes through the air!

A player must make a mental note to perform the follow
through. I tell my players to act like their hand is
following the ball right into the basket. By giving the
ball the proper rotation, even a shot that is a little off
will a lot of times spin on the rim and into the basket.
This "shooter's roll" as it is sometimes called is a direct
result of following through.

So make sure to watch your players as they practice their
shots. A flat shot or a shot with no rotation can be easily
corrected with this simple technique. I even have my players
focus on this as they practice their shooting technique
without the ball. I have noticed a lot of improvement by
using this method, as they concentrate on their technique
rather than the ball going in the basket.

------------------------------------------------------------
Passing - Use Ball Fakes

A problem that many grade school players have is
telegraphing their passes. The defender sees exactly where
they are looking, and steps into the passing lane to steal
the ball. This leads to a lot of frustration for the
offensive player, and a breakaway layup for the defense!

I work with my players a lot on this problem. The most
effective way to handle this is by using ball fakes. I
tell my players to keep the defense off balance. A simple
look away, or a ball fake to another player will keep the
defense honest. This works especially well if you are
having problems getting the ball to the wing positions.
A ball fake will draw the defenders away from your intended
target. You can fake a pass the post or the opposite wing.
If you can burn the defense with this once or twice, they
will think twice before they cheat out again. Then you can
get into your offensive series the way you had planned!

------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - The Pointing Technique

As you know, my teams play man-to-man defense. I can't
stress enough how well this helps them to learn the basics
of defense. They are then prepared to play any time of other
defense, whether be a straight zone or a matchup zone.

The main point I stress to my players is keeping track of
the player they are guarding. Players sometimes have a
tendency to turn their back on the player they are guarding
because they are only paying attention to the ball. But as
coaches, we know this can't happen.

I have my team use what is called the "pointing technique".
This involves the players who are not guarding the player
with the ball. It simply involves pointing one hand at the
player with the ball and one hand at the player they are
guarding. When done correctly, this forces the player to
keep track of both, and keep them both in his sight. It leads
to a better defensive effort and less players getting loose
for an easy shot. I stress this whenever we are doing any
2 on 2 drills, and even during any srimmaging.

------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Use a Diagram to Explain Plays

I have found over the years that players understand plays
and drills better when they can visualize them. I think most
people are like that. Yet I still see many coaches who don't
use an erasable board or a notepad to diagram plays before
or during a game. Is it any wonder that the players don't
follow the coach's instructions?

I always use an erasable board and marker. It comes in
handy before the game and during timeouts. Heck, my
assistants even use it when talking to a player that we
have taken out of the game. Showing the player exactly where
they should line up on offense or defense leaves no doubt
and no room for a misunderstanding.

If you don't have a board, a pen and paper will work just
as well. Even a piece of chalk and a board will do.
Anything to help your players comprehend what you want and
get an advantage on the court!

------------------------------------------------------------
Have a great month!!!
------------------------------------------------------------

Stephen Pavlovic

Send any comments or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com

------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2003 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------

March 2003