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January
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
12/31/2006 ** January 2007 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 - NBA Refs
=> Shooting - Use More Knees When Tired
=> Defense - Communicate
=> Book Review - Maravich
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Using Your Timeouts
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
See all you can get with my "Score More Hoops Series":
www.scoremorehoops.com
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
Make sure to browse the Archives for any issues you might
have missed! I have updated them with the most recent issues.
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, NBA Refs
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
I don't watch a lot of NBA basketball, I really prefer to
watch college and high school games. But one thing that the
NBA refs are doing this year that I think is good is
assessing technical fouls to players when they start arguing.
I think this is long overdue, and many of these high priced
players think they are owed something when they are on the
court. Play by the rules and quit complaining!
I think this action will help the youth game. How, you
might ask? By showing that it is NOT good to give refs a
disgusted look and complain loudly. The last few years I
have noticed an increase in the complaining by players.
I see some players that complain about every foul, traveling
call, or violation. Hopefully this will show them that showing
up a ref is not going to get them anywhere.
As a coach, we must all remember that the refs are there to
administer the rules during a game. Though we may not always
agree with them, there is a correct way to question a ref, and
it doesn't involve yelling and screaming. The yelling part tells
your players that it is OK for them to do this too. So talk
to your players, and make sure that both you and them stay in
control, and keep your head in the game!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Use More Knees When Tired
Have you noticed how many shots fall short as a game goes
on? That is because as players get tired, their body can't
use as much power to shoot the ball. Though the shot may be
on line, it will hit the front of the rim and bounce off.
I always remind my players to use more knees when the
shoot as they get tired. This will give them the extra
boost that they are missing. During practice, I will make
my players run sprints or sets of lines before we do our
shooting drills to emulate game conditions. This helps them
when we get into the 4th quarter and they start getting
really tired!
----------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Communicate
Players must communicate with each on defense, just as they
do on offense. Many players feel they can't talk on the court,
but I keep telling my players that communicating is the key
to a good defense!
Many things need to be communicated so your defense doesn't
break down. Calling out who has what player, telling your
teammates when a player is cutting through, calling out picks,
these are all important things that need to be told. If not,
your team is not going to be prepared. Set up drills during
practice to force your players to call things out on the
floor. Once they get in the habit, it will become much easier
during a game and will definitely help your team!
------------------------------------------------------------
Book Review - Maravich
Last month I received an email from author Marshall Terrill
asking if I would be interested in doing a review of his new
book on Pete Maravich, titled "Maravich". Growing up, Pete
always amazed me with his basketball abilities, so I was
excited to read more about him. This book is unique because
the authors got to sit down with Pete's widow, Jackie, to get
many personal stories and background info.
I would highly recommend this book to all my subscribers!
The authors interviewed over 300 players, coaches, and
journalists to really get some great info. From his early days
to his time at LSU, plus his time in the NBA, you'll see what
he had to overcome to succeed. Pete died at the early age of
40, but his way of passing and shooting still inspires players
today. This book also lists many of his stats and records.
So check out this new book, you can see it at
www.sportclassicbooks.com See what current and former players
say about Pete, this is one book you will be glad that you sat
down to read!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Using Your Timeouts
Timeouts are a chance for your team to regroup, get a quick
breather, or set up a special play. It depends on your league
how many of these you get during a game, so make sure to
check the rules, especially during a tournament!
Though you don't want to use all of your timeouts right away,
don't be afraid to take one a few minutes into the game if
things aren't going well. Better to do it than to be down
a huge deficit. Also, if your players look tired, take a
tiemout to let them catch their breath. You should use your
timeouts to your advantage, after all, you can't carry them
over to the next game!
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone! Have a Happy New Year!
------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
February
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
01/31/2007 ** February 2007 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 - Keep Your Team Focused
=> Shooting - Use Consistent Method
=> Rebounding - Free Throws
=> Defense - Take an Angle
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Carry First Aid Supplies
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
See all you can get with my "Score More Hoops Series":
www.scoremorehoops.com
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
Make sure to browse the Archives for any issues you might
have missed! I have updated them with the most recent issues.
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Keep Your Team Focused
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
Welcome back! I hope you and your team are enjoying a great
season. Even if you are struggling, there is still time to
get your team to improve!
One problem I notice as we approach the last 6 weeks of our
season is that my player's minds start to wander and lose
focus. In our case, it led to a 4 game losing streak where
we didn't play well. So what can be done about that?
First, realize that your players are young, and there will
be times that they are not there mentally. Hopefully these
times will be very few! But to keep your players focused, I
have a few tips. At practice, try rearranging your entire
schedule. Something that you always do at the beginning of
practice, do last. Mix things up, and try some different
drills. If your players have been through a tough week, cancel
a practice so they can recharge, or make it a practice with
shooting contests, etc. This way they are still practicing and
improving, but in a relaxed manner. The last tip I have is to
talk to your team. Compliment them and let them know that they
are trying hard, but that they need to keep there mind on
basketball if they want to continue being successful on the
court.
Keeping your players focused can be difficult at times, but
hopefully these tips will help you and your team stay on the
right track!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Use Consistent Method
One of the main issues that I see with young players is that
they never shoot the ball the same way twice. Every shot
has some different twist or movement. This leads to some
shots going in and some shots being way off!
I keep stressing to my players, the only way the ball will
go in the basket consistently is if you shoot it the same
way every time. So practice the shooting technique, especially
without the ball so that you really get the feel and get your
muscles trained. It will really help your team make more
shots.
----------------------------------------------------------
Rebounding - Free Throws
It can be frustrating as a coach to see your opponent miss
a free throw, then get the rebound and score a quick bucket.
his is one of those areas that gets neglected as coaches just
run out of time to go over this, but take a few minutes and
review this rebounding with your team.
The key if you are on the lower blocks is to step on an
angle in front of your opponent. Players have a tendency to
step right toward the basket, then the ball goes over their
hands and to their opponent. Take an angle to block them out
and your team will get many more rebounds.
If you are in the second set of blocks and your teammate is
shooting, stay toward the far side of your slot so that your
opponent has a harder time blocking you out.
Take a few minutes and review this at your next practice. It
will really help your team during a game.
------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Take an Angle
When you are guarding an opponent, whether it is full court
or half court, make sure you drop step and take an angle as
the offensive player advances toward you. Going directly
sideways will many times result in a foul, or the offensive
player getting by you.
During practice, work on this method. You can perform a
shuffling drill while doing the drop step, or you can set
up a simple 1-on-1 drill to give a more realistic situation.
Either way, stress to your team about staying between their
player they are guarding and the basket.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Carry First Aid Supplies
Most places that you play at will have some type of first
aid supplies, but why take a chance? I make sure I have some
band-aids and a few disposable ice packs (the ones you squeeze
to activate).
If the school we are at has these supplies and we need them,
that's great. But at least I am prepared in case a player
should scrape a knee or twist an ankle. I hope it doesn't
happen, but it is better to be prepared!
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone!
------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
March
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
02/28/2007 ** March 2007 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 Something Out of Every Game
=> Shooting - Use the Backboard
=> Rebounding - Don't Stand Under the Basket
=> Fast Break - Follow For Rebound
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - End of Season Talk
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
See all you can get with my "Score More Hoops Series":
www.scoremorehoops.com
** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
Within the next week I will be releasing my new basketball
directory! I will be sending out an email to all subscribers
with a special deal when it is ready. This directory has
over 100 links to great basketball resources, including
plays, drills, and other coaching resources. Keep an eye
on your inbox for this upcoming release!
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Get Something Out of Every Game
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
Can you believe that the season is winding down? I don't
know about yours, but mine went very fast. My 7th grade team
has just finished, we ended with a final record of 20-9. The
thing I am most proud of is that every player improved and
got quality playing time throughout the season!
One thing as coaches that we have all been through is either
having a huge lead or a huge deficit against an opponent. What
do you do? My philosophy is that no matter what, we want to
accomplish something every time we play. So even if we are
winning big, I will slow the game down, but I will emphasize
how to run the offense correctly and make sure players are
going to their correct spots. We will also work on reversing
the floor, so I will make them do that a few times every
offensive trip. This helps our offense run smoother for
upcoming games, plus I don't run up the score on an overmatched
opponent.
I will do the same type of thing if we are losing big. I will
still stress our defense, and try to set a goal, maybe that
we limit an opponent to under a certain number of points for the
quarter. This way we are still working on getting better, even
if there is no way we are going to win the game. Once again,
improiving our defense will help us in upcoming games. So even
though we may not win the current game, it will help us in
future games!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Use the Backboard
How many times have you seen one of your players make a great
move to the basket and then miss the shot because they didn't
use the backboard! I don't know why players like to make it
harder on themselves, if they see that on TV or what, but it
can get very frustrating.
On any drive or inside shot, your players should be looking
at putting the ball off of the backboard. I tell mine to aim
right inside the upper corner of whatever side they are on.
That doesn't gaurantee that every shot will go in, but a lot
more of them will go in!
----------------------------------------------------------
Rebounding - Don't Stand Under the Basket
One thing to watch is if your players are standing under the
basket or being pushed there. The younger the players, the
more this seems to happen.
As I tell my players, the only time you will get the ball
standing under the basket is if it goes through. Any missed
shot will go over their head. Stress to your players that
when they go to block out, they need to be near one of the
blocks or the center of the lane. Then they can make contact
and with their hands out and ready, go for a rebound.
------------------------------------------------------------
Fast Break - Follow For Rebound
Whether a player makes a steal or is getting a pass off of
a fastbreak, I always want the rest of my team hustling down
court. Why? Because many times the layup or shot will not go
in, so I want to beat my opponent to getting the rebound, and
hopefully an easy basket.
If there is a player in front of the player that has the ball
they should go to the opposite block, looking for a pass. If
the players are trailing the play, stop in the middle of the
lane and be prepared to grab a rebound. Do not follow right
under the basket, because you won't get the rebound!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - End of Season Talk
As the end of the season is approaching, I will have one
final practice with my team. It is a relaxed time, we usually
order pizza and pop and talk about the season. It's always
interesting to see what the player's think about the season!
I always maintain a positive tone as we go over what we
wanted to accomplish and what we have accomplished. Then I
let them know what needs to be worked on. Will all of them
practice as I recommend? Of course not, but the ones who
really want to improve will practice. And that will reflect
when they come to be evaluated for next year's team!
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone!
------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
April
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
03/31/2007 ** April 2007 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 - Teamwork is the Key to Success
=> Shooting - Not From the Middle of the Body
=> Dribbling - Ball Fakes to Get by Defender
=> Defense - Don't Use Your Forearm
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Review Some Game Films
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
See all you can get with my "Score More Hoops Series":
www.scoremorehoops.com
See info on my new basketball directory there too!
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
Make sure to browse the Archives for any issues you might
have missed! I have updated them with the most recent issues.
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Teamwork is the Key to Success
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
I hope everyone is enjoying the NCAA Tournament! It's my
favorite time of the season, the level of play just goes way
up as the tournament progresses.
One thing that you can see is that successful teams are
ones that focus on teamwork. It's true that teams all usually
have an outstanding player or two, but everyone needs to get
involved for that team to advance.
That is the same at the youth level. Even though you might
have an outstanding player on your team, everyone needs to be
involved on both the offensive and defensive ends. If not,
your opponent will key on that one player and shut them down.
So as you practice and go through drills, keep that in mind.
Every player should have some type of role on the team. Not
everyone will be a 10 point-a-game scorer, but they need to be
a scoring threat. The only way they will score at all is to
understand the offense, know their options, and be able to
use the correct shooting form. That is all things that you as
a coach need to impress upon all of your players!
So keep that in mind as you coach. You don't want to have
just one player try to take over a game, that rarely works.
But a group of 5 players on the floor, all working together,
will be hard for your opponent to stop.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Not From the Middle of the Body
A tendency that players have is to receive a pass from a
teammate in the middle of their body, then turn and shoot
with the ball still in that same position. What normally
happens is the shot misses to one side of the basket or the
other.
To get your players out of this habit, work on a simple
drill. Have them catch a pass, square up, and get the ball
off to the side with their elbow and arm straight up and
down in line with their leg. Don't have them finish the shot
at this point. Keep repaeting this drill until it becomes
natural for them to catch the pass and get in good shooting
position. At that point, add the actual shot back in and
monitor their progress.
----------------------------------------------------------
Dribbling - Ball Fakes to Get by Defender
I have talked before about protecting the ball from a
defender, but what about if you still have your dribble and
a defender is playing you tight? That's when you want to use
a ball fake and dribble right by that defender!
To do this, you must first make a believable fake the
opposite way that you intend to go. Once the defender moves
in that direction, you can take a big step with the leg
closest to the defender, which will seal them off, and take
a dribble to get by them. Make sure you keep your head up
at this point to see if you have an open lane to the basket
or if a teammate is open.
------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Don't Use Your Forearm
Sometimes instead of a player moving their feet to get in
front of an offensive player, they will use their forearm to
slow that player down. You can't do that! A few years back
that was a specific focus to eliminate this practice, but I
still see defenders doing it, and referrees calling fouls
because of it!
This is caused because of 2 reasons: players not taking a
good angle, or players getting tired during a game. Either way,
review with your team how to drop step and take an angle to
cut off an offensive player, have the hands ready, palms up,
so that if the ball is put in front of them, they can knock
it away for a steal and an easy lay-up at the other end.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Review Some Game Films
If your season has finished, you hopefully have a little
free time now! If you have some games that were taped during
the season, now is the time to select a few of them and
analyze each player.
I usually pick a few games that I know we played very well,
then a few that we player not so well. I will make a list
as I go along of what players did correctly and what needs
to be worked on. I do this while the season is still fresh in
my memory. Then by writing notes, I will know what I need to
really focus on come the start of next season!
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone!
------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
May
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
04/30/2007 ** May 2007 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 - Half Time Talk
=> Shooting - Getting Squared Up
=> Passing - Finding the Open Player Quickly
=> Defense - Stay Low
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - A Summer Plan for Players
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
See all you can get with my "Score More Hoops Series":
www.scoremorehoops.com
See info on my new basketball directory there too!
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Half Time Talk
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
A question that I have been asked a number of times recently
is about half-time talks. What do you say to your team? How do
you say it? Let me tell you what I have found to be the best
approach to take.
First, get your team to a quiet area. Most places have locker
rooms, but if they don't, pull your team on the side to cut
down on distractions. Let your team catch their breath and get
something to drink, then have them sit while you talk to your
assistant coaches. Have one coach keep track of how much time
is left before the 3rd quarter starts, you don't want to spend
all of your time on one point and not cover everything.
Once you decide on your adjustments, present it to your team,
diagramming whatever they need to know. This isn't the time
to carry on about mistakes that have been made. Point out what
needs to be changed and move along, you can talk about the
mistakes in your next practice. Tell them what has been
working and to continue doing those things. Then ask if they
have any questions. If there is still some time left on the
clock, let them shoot so they are ready when the horn sounds.
A half-time talk is very important. Keep your cool, no matter
how your team is playing, and straighten out what you can. It
could very well lead to a big win or a second half comeback!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Getting Squared Up
One thing that all good shooters have in common is that
they keep their shoulders square to the basket. That gives
them a good look at the basket and gets the ball right on
target.
If you get a chance, watch some of the NBA playoffs. Good
shooters in the league make some great shots, many times
falling away from the basket. The key is that they are
squared up, so the ball goes where they are expecting it to
go.
Stress to your players about keeping their shoulders squared.
Many times younger players will turn their shoulders to give
themselves extra power, when instead they should be getting
their powere from their legs. This is why it is important
to start your players shooting in close until they get the
right technique down, then slowly move them farther back.
----------------------------------------------------------
Passing - Finding the Open Player Quickly
How many times as a coach do you see an open player, but by
the time you yell it out, that player is covered! Whether it
is in your offense or on a fastbreak, teach your team to get
the ball to an open teammate as quickly as possible.
One drill I like to do is a 5 on 4 drill. 5 players are on
offense and 4 players are on defense. Have the defense play
man-to-man defense, so someone is open. The offense must find
that open player quickly and score. This drill will teach your
players to keep their heads up and to hit the open player
with a pass before the defense can rotate.
------------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Stay Low
A principle to stress on defense is to get your players to
stay low. By having the knees bent and keeping a low center
of gravity, a defender can move quickly in either direction.
To teach my players this technique, I will match my players
up and get them to perform a 1-on-1 drill full court. I will
usually give them only the middle lane of the floor to use.
The defender must stay low and cut the dribbler off, then
dropstep and cut them off at the next line. This prepares my
team well for guarding their opponent in a halfcourt defense.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - A Summer Plan for Players
As we are approaching summer vacation, I know coaches all
want their players to improve their game. It's great to say,
"Make sure you practice!", but that doesn't really tell your
players what you want done.
Take the time to get your players a plan. For example, you
can tell your guards: dribble with the left and right hands
for 30 minutes a week, shoot 100 free throws and 100 jump
shots, or whatever you think they need. Make it challenging,
yet make it realistic so they will try to accomplish these
goals. By having a plan, your players will hopefully do more
than just run around and shoot 3 pointers!
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone!
------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
June
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
05/31/2007 ** June 2007 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 - Summer Workouts
=> Shooting - Indoors or Outdoor Practices
=> Passing - The Skip Pass
=> Fastbreak - Stay Apart
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Keep Your Players Cool
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
See all you can get with my "Score More Hoops Series":
www.scoremorehoops.com
See info on my new basketball directory there too!
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Summer Workouts
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
Can June be here already? The kids will be out of school
pretty soon, and if they are like mine, they will be bored
within a few weeks. What a great time to practice some
basketball!
As I talked about last month, you want to give your players
some specific things to work on, not just tell them to
practice. And even better than doing that is to actually get
your team together for some practice sessions. With vacations
and all of the other activities it will be hard to get
everyone together at the same time, but working together in a
group is a great way to improve. Teammates can force each other
to get better and improve their skills. Working together as a
team will give everyone some added motivation.
Even if you only get a handful of players, you can work on
dribbling and defensive slides. Then you can work on shooting
with a defender. It's much easier to shoot when unguarded, but
during the season, there will always be a defender on you, so
you might as well get used to it now!
Just be sure to also throw in some fun drills. You want to
accomplish a goal of course, but you also want the players to
keep working and coming back. Whether it's a shooting contest
or free throw contest, let them unwind at the end of the
session. If they have put out a good effort as you, the coach,
have asked, then they deserve it!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Indoors or Outdoors
Sometimes it is difficult to get into a gym during the
summer. A custodian might not be available, or the school
might be refinishing the floor. Is it OK to practice outside?
My first response is always that it is best to practice
inside. Unless you are in an outdoor tournament, you will
be playing your games indoors, so you want to get used to that
setting. Practicing outside means taking variables like the
wind into account, which can effect your team when they do
get to play inside a gym.
But if practicing outdoors is your only alternative, then
by all means do it! It is better to practice there than not
at all. And sometimes in early morning or evening, it might
actually be a little cooler outside than inside. You can still
work on your basics outside, and on a nice calm day, it really
shouldn't make that much of a difference.
----------------------------------------------------------
Passing - The Skip Pass
One thing that I see more of at the high school level and
above is the use of the skip pass. What is a skip pass? That's
when the ball is thrown from one side of the court to the other,
basically skipping the logical pass to someone in the middle
lane. Teams use this more and more to get an open shot on the
weak side of the court.
When would you show your team a skip pass? I would wait until
at least 7th grade. They need to be strong enough to throw a
good overhead pass, plus they need to be able to see over the
defense. Your receiver also must be able to square up quickly
and be able to hit that outside shot. I would also recommend
that your team only throw this against a team that is sagging
into the lane, as this pass can be picked off easily if it is
lobbed or not thrown hard enough.
------------------------------------------------------------
Fastbreak - Stay Apart
One thing that you can learn from the NBA game is how to run
a fastbreak. Every team wants to push the ball down the court,
trying to get a quick basket. But they all have something else
in common too!
What is that? If you watch a break, thye always have players
spaced apart on the floor. You won't see 2 players running side
by side, if you do, one of them will get to the other side of
the court. If the offense has the numbers, they then force the
defender to pick up the dribbler or sag on the other player.
Either way, it will a lot of time lead to an easy basket. So
remember to stress spacing to your players, stay apart but be
ready for a quick pass and a shot!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Keep Your Players Cool
As the weather gets warmer, be careful with your players! No
matter where you are practicing, take the conditions into
account. If it is hot and humid, don't run a lot, keep movement
limited. Make sure your players hydrate themselves with water
frequently.
I like to practice in the early morning or later in the
evening. If you can find an indoor facility with air
conditioning, that's great! But practicing early or late will
usually mean cooler weather. It is more comfortable for your
players, not as dangerous with the heat, and you can get more
accomplished.
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone!
------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
July
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
06/30/2007 ** July 2007 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 - Be a Teacher
=> Shooting - Watch the Technique
=> Passing - Get a Good Angle
=> Press Break - Keep Someone Back
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Develop Your Assistants
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
*******************************************************
As I promised, I am giving my subscribers a new report,
"5 Steps to an Effective Halftime" for F*R*E*E!
You can download it at:
http://www.scoremorehoops.com/halftime_bonus.htm
*******************************************************
Summer is a great time to learn new coaching techniques!
See what my "Score More Hoops Series" can do for you:
www.scoremorehoops.com
Have a question on basketball? Email me at:
steve@scoremorehoops.com
and I'll cover it in an upcoming ezine issue!
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Be a Teacher
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
Well, how is your summer going? Hopefully it's not too
busy and you have some time to devote to basketball!
If you are like me, you are probably involved with some
type of clinic, camp or basketball league.
One thing I stress to any new coaches, and even some
veteran coaches, is to remember that they are a teacher.
During summer basketball especially, make sure that you
are patient with the players as you are teaching them new
skills and refining their old ones.
Why do I bring this up? I have seen some coaches in
summer league really get on their kids and expect too much
out of them. Don't get me wrong, I want my players to
perform at their besy whenever they walk onto the court.
But take the time and be patient, even if it means going
over things multiple times. This is the time you can relax
and really be a teacher of the game of basketball to your
players. By being patient, they will in turn be more
relaxed and able to perform that skill a little bit
easier, without being uptight and worrying that you as
their are going to be upset with them!
Now don't confuse this with letting your players goof
around, we never want to do that! If your players aren't
paying attention, then they need to be reminded about
why they are there. But by thinking of yourself as a
teacher, and putting out that type of attitude toward
your players, you will get a lot more development out
of them. That will lead to a team that will be better
with these skills in the fall, and that's when things
really count!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Watch the Technique
One thing I have noticed in our summer league is how
players shots have changed. My players are growing, and
with that their techniques have changed too. Sometimes
this is good, and sometimes it is not.
As my inside players grow, I want them to get the ball
up higher to shoot. The days of them shooting with the
ball at their stomach is over, that will get blocked most
times. So I stress that the ball is moved up, especially
when they get an offensive rebound.
I also watch for any bad habits that might be developing.
For instance, some players start bring the ball up high,
but they bring it back behind their head. This can lead to
a shot being blocked from behind, so I want to correct this
before a player gets too comfortable with this technique!
Also, as players get stronger, they have a tendency to not
bend their knees as much. This may work sometimes, but as
your players get tired, the shot will start to fall short.
So take the time to look at each of your players
shooting techniques. Get them back on the right track
before they get into some bad habits that you will have to
break during the upcoming season.
----------------------------------------------------------
Passing - Get a Good Angle
One thing that drives me crazy as a coach during the
season is to see a player throw a lazy pass from one
side of the court to another. This pass usually gets
picked off, as the defender has plenty of time to make the
steal, and can most times get an easy layup at the other
end.
Why is this pass thrown? I still don't know! All of our
offenses are designed so that a guard have rotated up top,
and this is the person that should receive the intermediate
pass. If that person is not open, then I instruct my
players that they can dribble the ball and exchnge with
this guard on top. This way they are getting a much better
passing angle to their teammate on the other side of the
court. Getting this angle also cuts down on the ability
of the defense to make a steal. By cutting down on this
type of turnover, we have a better chance on scoring, and
ultimately winning the game.
------------------------------------------------------------
Press Break - Keep Someone Back
Breaking a press is very important when you get to the
junior high and high school ages. If you can't break a
press, you will be in for a long night. But there is
another important aspect of breaking a press that a lot
of teams neglect, and that is keeping someone back to
trail the play.
There are 2 reasons that we want someone trailing the
play. First, if a wing gets in trouble with the ball, we
want a safety there so we have someone to reverse the
ball to. The second reason is in case we turn the ball
over during the press break. We might get the ball to
the middle of the floor, then have a pass get stolen.
In this case, by having a player back, we can hopefully
slow down or stop the other team's fastbreak until we
get our teammates back on defense.
So as you review whatever type of press break that you
run, stress to the appropriate player about staying back.
This might not be the same player each time, depending
how you run your break. But keep reminding them, it will
defintely help come game time.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Develop Your Assistants
Summer is a great time to let your assistant coaches take
the reins and run things. I am still around, but more in an
administrative manner. This gives my assistant coaches a
chance to work with the kids more, and I think it helps my
players to hear a different voice and different phrases.
I have noticed this helps my assistant coaches in 2 ways.
First, they are prepared to take over the team if I am not
there for some reason. Second, it will help them in the
future for when they take over their own team, as some of
them will do. So this turns out to be a win-win situation
for the players and the coaces, plus it gives me more time
to work with the players on an individual basis.
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone!
------------------------------------------------------------
*******************************************************
As I promised, I am giving my subscribers a new report,
"5 Steps to an Effective Halftime" for F*R*E*E!
You can download it at:
http://www.scoremorehoops.com/halftime_bonus.htm
*******************************************************
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
August
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
07/31/2007 ** August 2007 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 - What Offense and Defense Should You Use
=> Shooting - Move Ball Higher
=> Dribbling - Handle Ball With Authority
=> Rebounding - Go Up Strong For Ball
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Use the Internet to Find Info
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
See all you can get with my "Score More Hoops Series":
www.scoremorehoops.com
Check out my site for basketball resources, and my article
that was published in "Coach And Athletic Director" magazine!
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, What Offense and Defense Should You Use
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
Another month has come to a close! As we move into August,
the school year is getting ready to start, and I start
fielding a number of basketball emails. Feel free to ask me
any basketball related questions!
One question that I get asked a lot is: "What offense and
defense should I use?" That is always a difficult question
to answer, because I need some background information. For
instance, what age level are you coaching? If it is younger
than junior high, I encourage coaches to keep it very simple
but to also have some structure to it. You can put in a motion
offense when players get to be 12 or 13 years old, or add an
offense with a lot of options.
Another thing that influences what type of offense you should
run is the talent level that you have. If your team catches
on quickly and can perform the necessary skills, then you
can give them a more advanced offense. But if they are
struggling with the basics, then you need to run a simple
offense that they can execute.
As far as defense, I encourage teams to play man-to-man
defense. I think that defense is the most effective defense,
and it is a great way to teach all aspects of defense.
However, the league and age group you are coaching may not
allow you to play that, or you may not have a group of
players who can play it.
Bottom line is this: you as a coach must decide what is
best for your team as far as what offense and defense to use.
You are with them the most and know what they are capable of.
Start them off with something basic, then look to challenge
them with something a little more advanced if you think they
are ready. An eager group of players will surprise you!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Move Ball Higher
When players are first starting out shooting, the ball
usually starts out at the waist. This is fine when a player
is young, but as they get older, the ball must continue to
move up higher. The next step would be to have the player
move the ball to shoulder height, then finally over the
head. The ball still needs to be to the side, with the
elbow straight.
Why is it important for the ball to be moved higher? As
players grow, it is harder to shoot over a defender without
getting a shot blocked. By moving the ball higher, there is
less of a chance of that. This pertains to both perimeter
players and post players, As anyone who gets an offensive
rebound should learn to keep the ball high and go right
back up to the basket with it.
----------------------------------------------------------
Dribbling - Handle Ball With Authority
As a coach, you can usually tell after watching a player
take a few dribbles if they are comfortable handling the
ball or not. If it is an opposing player, I will adjust my
defense to sag back a little if the player is quick off the
dribble, or apply more pressure if the player has trouble
with the ball.
I spend a lot of time going over dribbling drills and skills
with my team. I want to make sure eveyone can dribble the
ball effectively. I tell them to dribble the ball hard and
under control, showing that they are in charge and that the
ball is not going to be taken away from them very easily.
This sends a message to the other team that they are in for
a game, and that we aren't going to dribble out of control
with our head down. Handling the ball well with authority
and confidence and also lead to your offense running much
smoother.
------------------------------------------------------------
Rebounding - Go Up Strong for Ball
One thing I really stressed in our summer league this year
was to go up strong for rebounds. There are 2 mian parts to
this: getting position first, then timing your jump and grabbing
the ball.
Getting position is very important. You want to be close to
the basket, without being under it of course, and have
position inside of a defender. It doesn't do you much good to
be standing behind a bigger player, that will just lead to a
foul being called on you if you go over their back.
The second part is timing your jump and grabbing the ball.
You should have position inside of a defender, and use your
lower body to seal them out. Then as the ball comes off of the
rim, jump toward the ball with your arms extended, grabbing
the ball with both hands. With an offensive rebound, you can
look to go right back up with the ball, if not, look to get the
ball to an outlet and start a fastbreak.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Use the Internet to Find Info
I am constantly on the internet looking for basketball
information. No one ever learns everything there is to know
about this game! One resource to use is my website:
www.scoremorehoops.com On my site, I also have links to other
coaching websites, and they also link back to me.
What information am I looking for? Really anything!
Sometimes I will be looking for a specific drill, but most
times I am looking for different drills, offenses, and
coaching methods. I also look at many basketball products.
Take some time and check out my site and my links to my
coaching partners sites. You are bound to learn something
new that will help you and your team!
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone!
------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
September
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball
Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball
coaches"
08/31/2007
** September 2007 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 - Evaluating Your Team
=> Shooting - Less Movement is
Better
=> Dribbling - Use Dribbling Glasses to Keep Head
Up
=> Rebounding - Keep Ball High
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Plan Out Your
Practices
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
See all you can get with my "Score More Hoops
Series":
www.scoremorehoops.com
Check out my site for basketball resources, and my
article
that was published in "Coach And Athletic
Director" magazine!
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Evaluating Your Team
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
Welcome back! Since we are starting September, I
think most
students are back in school, which means basketball season
is
not too far away!
One thing that a lot of coaches go through at the
beginning
of the season is a team evaluation. If it is a team that you
are returning with, you know what type of talent you have
coming back, and you can compare that to the teams that you
played last year. But remember to hold off on any judgement
until your team starts practicing. Players who have worked
in the off-season will be a pleasant surprise, as well as
players who have grown a few inches. You will know after a
week of practice what area your team has improved in and
what
areas need work.
If you are taking over a new team, the evaluation
process
will take a little longer. Make sure to look closely at all
of your players, as a young, uncoordinated player at 8 or 9
might turn out to be a good ballplayer at 12. Also, try
working your players at different positions to get a good
look at their potential. The main thing is to be patient and
not prejudge a player's skills or what position they should
play.
The beginning of the basketball season is a time when
all
coaches and players should be optimistic. Look at your team
in a positive light and encourage them to play their best.
That vote of confidence, as well as your evaluation, should
lead to a great season!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Less Movement is Better
I see many players who have all types of movements
when
they shoot. Whether it be the ball moving or their body
turning, you as a coach need to break any bad habits before
they get too used to it.
I always teach players that I am coaching that the
less
moving parts on their shot, the more likely the shot will
go in. The more movement there is, the more likely
something will go wrong!
Especially at the beginning of the season, work on
the
proper shooting form. You will notice from my ebooks, I
promote a very simple, yet very effective, shooting method.
I would encourage you to have your players go through their
shooting form without a ball until they get it correct. Once
their muscles and mind are trained on doing this correct,
then
add a basketball. Return to practicing shooting form without
a ball for players who fall back into any bad habits. You
will find this technique will greatly improve your team's
shooting.
----------------------------------------------------------
Dribbling - Use Dribbling Glasses to Keep Head Up
One problem that I see many younger players have is
looking
at the ball when they dribble. This is a habit that must be
changed quickly. By looking at their dribble, a player can't
see where they are going, where the defense is at, or where
their own teammates are located. Nothing good is going to
happen if one of your players is dribbling with their head
down.
But there is hope! There are products out there
called
dribbling glasses. These fit with a headband and have an
extended part below the eye that stops a player from seeing
their dribble. By working with these during practice, and
on their own, a player will soon start dribbling with their
head up. It will really improve their skills, whether they
are a point guard or a big man driving to the basket!
------------------------------------------------------------
Rebounding - Keep Ball High
One area I really focused on during our summer league
was
rebounding. I wanted my team to be aggressive going for the
ball, both on the offensive and defensive boards. We really
improved, but there is room for more improvement which I
will
focus on as we begin our season.
The technique I will focus on the most is keeping the
ball
up high when we get a rebound. Too many times we would grab
a
rebound, then bring the ball down and get it knocked out of
our hands. So as I will stress to my team, keeping the ball
up
high will eliminate that. It also will help you get a shot
off
quicker on an offensive rebound, and be able to get an
outlet
pass quicker for a fastbreak when we get a defensive
rebound.
A simple drill to start off will be getting my players to
grab
a rebound off the backboard, pivoting toward one side of the
floor, and throwing an overhead outlet pass to a coach to
simulate a fastbreak.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Coaching Tip of the Month - Plan Out Your Practices
As the season gets closer and I know what dates and
times
I will be able to practice, I will start setting up some
practice schedules. This will benefit both you and your
team.
This helps me as a coach start planning under a more
relaxed set of circumstances, instead of waiting until the
day before our first practice. It also helps me so that I
can make sure I cover all of the areas I want to cover
before
we play our first game. It really helps me stay organized!
This also helps my team. There is much less down
time, as
I am not standing around deciding what to do next at a
practice. It is all layed out, which gives my players more
practice time and less standing around. This keeps them
focused on our current skill we are practicing, and more
focus and more reps will definitely help your team
improve.
------------------------------------------------------------
Good Luck to everyone!
------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights
Reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------
October
2007
------------------------------------------------------------
Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
"A newsletter of proven tips for youth basketball coaches"
09/30/2007 ** October 2007 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 - ** Special Subscriber Deal **
=> Feature Article - Share Your Expectations
=> Shooting - Back to the Basics
=> Defense - Get Into Shape
=> Press Break - Teach This Before Pressing
=> Coaching Tip of the Month - Take Notes
=> Subscribe/Unsubscribe information
------------------------------------------------------------
SPONSORSHIP NOTICE
------------------------------------------------------------
**** SPECIAL SUBSCRIBER OFFER!!! ****
From now until October 15, 2007, I am running a "Subscriber
Deal" where you can get my "Score More Hoops Combo Pack" for
a special price of only $14.95! That's $8 off of the regular
price of $22.95. This deal is a special "Thank You" to all of
my subscribers!
Access this deal by going to this special link:
http://www.scoremorehoops.com/subscriber_special_deal.htm
Hurry, this deal expires on October 15, 2007.
Thanks for your support!
************************************
------------------------------------------------------------
Check out my site for basketball resources, and my article
that was published in "Coach And Athletic Director" magazine!
Also, check out the *F*R*E*E* sample of my new
"Coaching Your Own Child" ebook!
------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURE ARTICLE, Share Your Expectations
by Steve Pavlovic
------------------------------------------------------------
As the weather starts getting cooler, basketball season is
about ready to start! We have had a few open gym sessions to
allow the players to get some practice, by the end of
October we will be playing some games. So it's time to get
another exciting season started!
One of the first things I do is to sit down with my players
first and share my expectations on the new season. This will
include what I would like to see the team accomplish, what we
will work on and learn, and what rules they need to be aware
of. This way, my team knows from day 1 what I expect of them
and what they can expect from me. I will also talk to them
about what their goals are, both as a team and individual
improvement goals.
Before the first practice, I will also sit down with my
assistant coaches and do the same thing. This way the entire
staff is on the same page. I will also get input from my
assistants about what they would like to see and incorporate
that into my overall season game plan.
I will also have a parent meeting at the end of one of the
first practices. I like to do this to introduce myself and
the coaching staff and to meet all of the parents. I will
also share with them what to expect for the upcoming season.
I also give them a chance to ask questions and address any
concerns. I will give them as much information as I can
about games and tournaments, and get them updated info as
soon as it becomes available. I will also go over the team
rules again, so both parents and players are clear on these.
Communication is a very important part of basketball. By
being open and telling your team and their parents what to
expect will help head off any misunderstandings. Good
communications among players, parents, and coaches will help
start off a great season!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Shooting - Back to the Basics
At our first practices, I will notice 3 types of players:
those that have practiced a lot in the offseason, those that
practiced some, and those that haven't touched a ball since
last March. I'm sure you will see the same thing!
So the first thing I always do is review our shooting
basics. This will benefit all of your players, as all
player's shots can be fine-tuned. It also makes sure that
all of the players are shooting the same, and correct way.
What should you go over? As I go into detail in my
"Score More Hoops" ebook, make sure that the feet are
shoulder-width apart, shoulders are squared, ball is to
the side and at least shoulder height, and the elbow and
shooting arm are in a straight line with your leg.
Make sure that you do this early in the season. You don't
want your players to get into any bad habits. By doing this
now, your team's shooting will improve as they work on their
shot and become more comfortable with the technique.
----------------------------------------------------------
Defense - Get Into Shape
One aspect that always helps my team is that we are in shape.
No matter what grade level, I want my players to outlast our
opponent in the 4th quarter. Being in shape doesn't happen
by accident! Playing tough man-to-man defense takes some
training and some stamina.
As you set up your practice schedules for the first few
weeks, keep in mind drills to get your players in shape.
This not only includes running sets of lines and laps, but
doing defensive shuffling drills. One-on-one drills will
not only help your team get into shape, but it will also
reinforce how they need to play defense. So by doing drills
like that, you are not only getting into shape, but also
working on your defense, so you are getting multiple benefits.
A word of caution: keep an eye on your team and give them
frequent breaks. Start slow and build up, don't expect that
your team is going to run 20 laps the first practice! Use
common sense, give water breaks, try to make it fun, and
your team will respond with positive results.
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Press Break - Teach This Before Pressing
If pressing is allowed in your league, I see many coaches
wanting to take advantage of it. But they make the wrong
decision by focusing on pressing first, without knowing
how to break a press. So if their opponent scores and
presses, they are lost as to how to get the ball inbounds.
My theory has always been to teach the press break first.
This way if we are pressed, we know how to handle it. The
other reason is that by teaching the press break, my players
are shown where the weak spots are in most presses. This gives
them an advantage when we do press, as they know where they
need to cover the most.
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Coaching Tip of the Month - Take Notes
Whether it is a practice or a game, I take notes shortly
afterward. What worked, what didn't work, who did well, what
we need to work on in upcoming practices. Anything that might
help my team is written down.
I do this so I don't forget. If a few days have passed, the
memory might get a little foggy, and you might miss
something important. So I write down my notes right away and
go over them with my assistants before the next practice or
game. I can then use this information to put in specific
drills for a practice, or make changes to a game plan.
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Good Luck to everyone!
*Please make sure to check out my "Special Subscriber Deal"
that I mentioned earlier in this newsletter. It's a great
deal that will really help your team to succeed! *
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Stephen Pavlovic
Send any questions, comments, or ideas to me at:
Steve@scoremorehoops.com
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Copyright 2007 by Stephen Pavlovic. All rights Reserved.
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November
2007
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Coach Steve Pavlovic's Coaching Basketball Newsletter
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