Player Tips

Improve your basketball IQ with these articles, tips, and strategies to become a better basketball player! Work hard at improving your basketball skills ... but don't forget to train your basketball brain!
 
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How to Score Off a Ball Screen

How to Score Off a Ball Screen

Ball screens can be an a very effective tool in an offense. In order to use them the right way the ball handler needs to be able to read and react to each ball screen situation. The defense can choose between several different tactics when guarding a ball screen. They can show, switch, trap, go under, flat switch, etc.  it usually depends on where … [Read more...]

Becoming a Great Shooter

Becoming a Great Shooter

I have been blessed with the ability to shoot a basketball. Even from a young age I was able to consistently take and make shots. Over the years I have had coaches help me with my shot and I have made self adjustments to my shot as well. I believe that I shoot the ball better now then I ever have before. One thing I love to do is shoot 3 … [Read more...]

The Secret to Team Success is on a See-Saw

The Secret to Team Success is on a See-Saw

Do you remember playing on a see-saw when you were younger? The secret to enjoying team success is often found in orchestrating a similar transfer of weight - and the experience can be just as exhilarating (or as scary) for you as a coach or team leader as you watch the action and movement occur. The see-saw you may recall from a playground … [Read more...]

Stuff Great Basketball Players Should Think About – Dreams vs. Goals

Keys to the Gym

PGC Coach Dena Evans discussing dreams vs. goals. This video is part 1 of 2. View part 2 here. … [Read more...]

Stuff Great Basketball Players Should Think About – Dreams vs. Goals II

Keys to the Gym

Part 2 of 2 video's where PGC Coach Dena Evans discusses dreams vs. goals; specifically needing to revisit your dream from time to time. You can view part 1 here. … [Read more...]

A Great Leader Will Keep Hammering Away at the Rock

A Great Leader Will Keep Hammering Away at the Rock

If you want to be a leader, hammering away at the rock in front of your teammates without interruption or frustration is perhaps the most inspiring thing you can do for your team. Results are just a symptom that reflects the quality people, purpose, and process that your organization has put in place.  Successful team leaders are those who … [Read more...]

Habits of Good Point Guards – Race the Ball

Keys to the Gym

Video of Coach Dena Evans in a PGC Basketball classroom session discussing the concept that point guards "Race the Ball".   … [Read more...]

Habits of Good Point Guards – Racing With Control

Keys to the Gym

Video of Coach Dena Evans in a PGC Basketball classroom session discussing the concept of "Racing with Control".   … [Read more...]

Take Only Very Easy Shots

Dick and Coach DV

Here's an excerpt from There's Only One Way To Win, a book Dick DeVenzio wrote about his dad, the legendary Coach Chuck DeVenzio, better known as "Coach DV."  Dick played for his dad in high school, where their undefeated 1967 Ambridge team has been called the best in Pennsylvania history. Basketball coaches are typically fond of talking about … [Read more...]

Speak Up! Losing is a Symptom of Quiet Team Leaders

Speak Up!

Is your team losing more than it should?  It may be time for your team leaders to speak up, for often the poor performance you are experiencing is a symptom of the best voices being too quiet. Years ago I had the pleasure of working at the Point Guard College with Dena Evans, who does a terrific job of educating athletes with information that … [Read more...]

To Be a Great Teammate – Identify Your Role

To Be a Great Teammate – Identify Your Role

For your team to be successful, what are the two things you most need to contribute? If you cannot answer that question immediately and with confidence, you are not yet as influential a teammate (or leader) as you should be. Think of the physical talents you possess. Is your strength ball-handling? Rebounding? Shooting? Quickness and Defending … [Read more...]

So Much More to Give…

So Much More to Give

Are you really working at basketball as hard as you possibly can? When I was a high school athlete, I thought I was doing everything I could to become a great basketball player.  Little did I know, the first day I joined my college teammates for an individual workout session, I was on the sideline puking after 15 minutes of working out.  These … [Read more...]