My "B" team, the team I coach, finished 4-4. Being a "B" team coach, you never really know who you're going to have to play night in and night out. Thankfully, I normally did. I tried to get the guys as much playing time as they could and still let us be successful. I think we only lost to one team that I think we should have beaten.
This was probably the most fun year I have had coaching. It's not because we won a lot of games. It's because of the kids. Everyday, they came to practice with smiles on their faces and a hard working attitude. We had fun, but we also got down to business. I had a lot of fun getting to know them.
Some things I learned this year -
- There is no substitute for not having 2-3 ball handlers. If you don't have a ball handler that can handle the ball and get your team into a flow offensively, you will not win many games. People always talk about whether to pick a point guard or a center. I will always vote point guard.
- One of the most underrated things is the ability to handle pressure.
- Another of the most underrated things is the ability to get open. If you don't understand how to get open, things will be bad for your team.
- A coach must continue to stress process over product. This is what you can control. If you can get your kids to buy into the process of winning vs. just winning, you will be more successful. Better Every Day is a good philosophy. Or Improve Daily.
- KISS - Keep It Simple Stupid. One thing I learned is that less is more. Teach kids to play basketball vs. teaching kids to run plays. I think we did this this year.
I hope to continue this blog a little more often now that the season is over and I can watch some college games.
Thanks for reading. Leave a comment if you'd like.
