Ep 320 Optimizing Practice Time: Effective Drills and Player Development in High School Basketball

High School Hoops (Coaching High School Basketball)

https://teachhoops.com/

Welcome to another episode of High School Hoops, hosted by Steve Collars from the 5th Quarter Studio in Madison, Wisconsin. Today, Steve is joined by Coach Tom Cannon to discuss optimizing practice time with effective drills and modern coaching techniques.

Introduction and Personal Background

The episode kicks off with casual banter about lawn care, reflecting the off-season nature of their recording. Coach Tom Cannon, who has extensive coaching experience, shares insights from his practices and experiences.

Main Discussion: Wasted Drills and Modern Coaching Approaches

The core topic is the concept of "wasted drills" and the shift towards more game-like, play-based training. The conversation explores the balance between traditional drills and modern coaching methods.

Key Points:

1. Debate on Drills: The term "drills" has become somewhat controversial in modern coaching circles. While some advocate for a play-based approach, Steve and Tom emphasize the importance of drills for fundamental skills.
2. Game-Based Learning: Modern coaching trends favor short-sided games and in-play learning to develop skills in a more realistic context. However, this approach might not address specific deficiencies in a team's abilities.
3. Balancing Both Approaches: Steve and Tom agree that while game-based learning is valuable, drills are necessary for teaching specific skills and preparing for certain game situations. For instance, a team must practice defending against specific plays, which requires drilling.

Examples and Practical Applications

Steve and Tom share practical examples from their coaching experiences, highlighting the need for creativity and flexibility in practice planning.

Key Points:

1. Rebounding Drills: Tom emphasizes that rebounding is more about effort and feel than structured drills. However, Steve suggests incorporating situational drills to improve rebounding instincts, such as varying shooter positions and requiring rebounds without the ball hitting the floor.
2. Specific Skill Sets: Preparing for games against strong opponents (like North Carolina vs. Duke) requires focusing on specific skill sets, such as closing out shooters or handling out-of-bounds plays. This preparation can't be fully achieved through game-based learning alone.
3. Efficient Practice Planning: Both coaches discuss the importance of mapping out the season and planning practices to maximize efficiency. This includes incorporating both traditional drills and modern techniques to ensure comprehensive player development.

Conclusion and Coaching Philosophy

Steve and Tom conclude by emphasizing the need for a balanced approach in coaching. While it's crucial to adopt innovative methods, traditional drills still play an essential role in building a strong foundation for the team.

Key Points:

1. Avoiding Overcoaching: Coaches should avoid overcoaching and allow players the freedom to develop their instincts and make decisions during games.
2. Adapting to Team Needs: Each team is different, and coaches must adapt their strategies based on the team's specific strengths and weaknesses. Flexibility and responsiveness are key to effective coaching.
3. Importance of Fundamentals: No matter how advanced the coaching techniques become, the fundamentals of basketball remain critical. Drills help reinforce these basics, ensuring that players are well-rounded and prepared for any situation.

Thank you for joining us on this insightful episode of High School Hoops. Stay tuned for more discussions on coaching strategies and player development in the ever-evolving world of high school basketball.

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