I’ve coached basketball long enough to know one truth: guessing doesn’t cut it. Too many times I’ve squinted at a player’s form, trying to decide if their arc looks better or if they’re just getting lucky with a few makes. That’s why I started exploring technology that takes the guesswork out of coaching. One tool stood out immediately: the smart basketball.
Many of us take for granted that in some towns, basketball is already the heartbeat of the community. But in other areas, basketball is barely on the radar. As a coach, I believe it’s our job to change that. I share how I’ve seen coaches ignite passion, create structure, and grow a strong basketball community. Whether you’re in a small Midwestern town where baseball and soccer dominate, or a suburban area where video games pull kids away from sports altogether, the process of building a basketball community comes down to consistency, passion, and connection.
Do I spend most of this time teaching plays, or do I stick to the fundamentals? Finding that balance in basketball practice is one of the biggest challenges we face, and over the years, I’ve realized it can make or break how our players develop. I have wrestled with this exact question. The goal of this post is to help you find that sweet spot in your basketball practice routine.
Improving decision making on the court is more than just a basketball skill. It is the backbone of how young athletes learn to read the game, adapt under pressure, and trust their instincts. I share the methods I use to guide players toward becoming smarter, more composed athletes. If you want to help your team thrive in pressure situations, then you’ll need to focus on building decision making habits that last a lifetime.
Should youth basketball practices be open or closed practice sessions? It’s a hot-button issue in today’s coaching landscape. I break down the pros and cons of each approach and offer real-world tips to help you manage parent presence during practice—without sacrificing player development.
In youth basketball, the movement between a and b teams can make or break a season. Getting player placement right isn’t just about who can dribble better or score more points—it’s about building confidence, improving development, and protecting team morale. I share my personal coaching experience on why handling transitions between a and b teams is one of the most delicate, yet powerful tools you can use to grow your players and your program.
Unlock the key to stress-free team naming in AAU basketball and discover how it impacts player and parent dynamics. Are your current methods creating unwanted complications? Dive into my insights and streamline your approach now.
Teaching youth basketball offense can feel overwhelming—especially if your players seem to bunch up and ignore all the beautiful plays you’ve worked so hard to design. I’ve been there. One week we’re flowing in practice, the next, we’re stepping on each other’s toes during a game. That’s why teaching player spacing is the foundation I always come back to. In this blog, I’ll walk you through why spacing isn’t just another concept—it’s the engine that drives everything else in your offense.
Every youth basketball coach dreads the news of a player being injured, which can sideline them for months and disrupt team dynamics. This blog dives deep into the art and science of injury prevention, offering insights that can help keep your players healthy on and off the court.
What does it truly take to nurture elite-level youth basketball players today? In an ever-evolving sports landscape, I uncover the strategies that balance on-court success with the broader development of young athletes. This blog is your go-to guide for fostering talent while also strengthening an athlete personal brand without extinguishing the joy of the game.
