The game of basketball is played in an open environment. This means the environment is random and chaotic. Many of the skills used are not repeated in exactly the same way because of the changing environment.
Many coaches and programs teach drills in a closed environment which don’t transfer over to real game-like conditions. An example of a closed environment drill would be three man weave. The problem with these drills is that after initial learning the players memorize the drill. Like in school when you memorize the answer to the test.
Unfortunately in basketball you can’t memorize the answers you have to be able to play and make decisions in zero seconds. You don’t know what the other player is going to do its random and chaotic so practicing in a closed environment is like a zoo tiger living in the jungle. It can’t survive.
At Hoop Dreamz we use a games approach to teaching. We create competitive game-like challenges for our players. We use small-sided (1 on 1, 2 on 2, 3 on 3) drills to increase decision making and time on task for each player. Small-sided games are played in an open environment. These games lead to better 5 on 5 play.
As a coach we can shape the play so we emphasize key elements of skill development. As our programs progress through the season we continue to improve the play by adding more challenges and restrictions, which continues to enhance the learning and takes the development to the next level.
The best part is the kids absolutely love it cause they are playing, having fun, and learning how to play. Kids want to play basketball not drill basketball.
Our games approach to teaching basketball gives kids the opportunities to think, explore, learn and create. My goal is to stimulate them to go for it and make mistakes because that’s how we all learn. Learning is messy and I encourage all my players to train ugly. It’s the fastest way to improve.
After participating in a Hoop Dreamz program your child will be better at playing basketball not just doing drills. They will have more confidence in making decisions and solving problems. And most importantly a new belief system about learning and just going for it. We all know that not fearing failure and mistakes makes all the difference in succeeding.
Thanks and hope to see you on the court.
– Coach Billy
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