Basketball Camps 2011 In Iowa
Today I witnessed an excellent high school game between two of the state’s finest programs. They played as part of the competitive Iowa State team camp. The game was close throughout as 5 points defined a huge lead. Baskets were exchanged often in the second half.
A good lesson for all of us made the difference in this game.
Twice in the last 21 seconds, the winning teams post player escaped his foe to tip in two missed free throws. Those four points were easily enough to seal the victory. In this situation a player must repeat what he has done hundreds of times in practice. All coaches preach that blocking out on the free throw is crucial to winning games. This lack of player toughness and concentration came at a huge price!
This is so important because for 31 minutes and 39 seconds, both teams poured out energy, emotion, and hard play. Both teams wanted to win. In the end, the team that made the effort won the game. Conversely, the team that did not do the little things lost in the end.
No matter how many plays we run, how many clinics we go to, or how many games we have won………..the ultimate test of endurance and success continues to be consistency in doing the little, fundamentals parts of the game. WE need each other to keep on top of our own coaching and command of the fundamentals. Coaching friendships based on honesty and challenging conversations are needed if we are going to give our players what they deserve……our best!
Randy Brown has passion for the game of basketball. He works as a basketball consultant and mentor for coaches. Visit him at http://www.coachrb.com for free resources, Q & A, newsletter, and coaching programs. A speaker and writer, he has authored 75 articles on coaching and is nationally published. His 18 years in college basketball highlights a successful 23-year career. Mentored by Basketball Hall of Fame coach Lute Olson at Arizona. Resume includes positions at Arizona, Iowa State, Marquette, Drake, and Miami of Ohio, 5 Conference Championships and 5 NCAA appearances. His efforts have helped develop 12 NBA players including Steve Kerr, Sean Elliott, and Jaamal Tinsley. To contact Randy, email him at rb@coachrb.com
The 700 Club – March 17, 2011
