basketball stars picture: IMPORTANCE OF FUNDAMENTALS

Coaching and playing basketball revolve around fundamental skills. It would seem that both coaches and players should spend most of their efforts and concentration on these basic skills. However, it is our belief that this is far from the case. Most attention is given to the peripheral elements of the game—everything from the hoopla surrounding the game to the emphasis on style (instead of execution and substance) when playing the game. Even though many people stray from the fundamental core of basketball, the game is and should always be rooted in the basic skills.

Players, coaches, and spectators have a variety of reasons for their interest in basketball. However, it seems that everyone who shares a love for the game has several things in common. Most of us enjoy the struggle of true competition—the individual rivalry as well as the group contest. Close games and competitive balance can exist only when teams with lesser talent function better as a team or possess better fundamental skills.

The ability to develop a sound philosophy of playing or coaching is also rooted in a solid foundation of fundamental skills. It has often been stated that “what one does isn’t as important as how well one does it.”

Execution of basic skills is necessary to carry out any plan or strategy. The ability of any individual or team to utilize their strengths and avoid their weaknesses (to stick to their own game) is highly dependent on the use of basketball basics.

The beauty of basketball is rooted in the development of all your players’ fundamental skills. Teach them to execute the skills correctly first (do it right), then execute them at game speed (do it quickly).

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