Youth Basketball Coaching Tips

Basketball is one of the most popular sports played worldwide. This widely viewed sport is played in almost every school of the US. Emphasis is given on coaching the basketball players in the budding stage. Coaching needs patience, empathy and of course, hard work. When it comes to coaching young players, the task becomes even more challenging. It requires time, practice, and passion for them to transform into world-class players. Thus, coaching is a long-term activity and a serious profession.

Tips for Youth Basketball Coaching

Coaching players for basketball, starts at the age of 7-8 years. The youngsters to be coached for basketball are divided in three age groups or levels. Children between 7 and 10 years of age are included in the level 1. The level 2 is for 10-12 year old kids and the 12-14 year old kids are included in level 3.

Level 1
The players from this age group are taught the basic rules and techniques of the game. They are initially familiarized with the court, rules, moves, etc. A child generally spends 4 years in this level and moves forward to the second one. Older children, around 10-12 years of age, are eligible for level 2. However, they start off by spending a bit of time in level 1. It depends on their ability to catch up with the other players of same age. In the first level, emphasis is given on layups, footwork, shooting form, ball handling etc.

While practicing layups, the coaches should keep a close watch on the coordination between the hands and legs. The left leg should be used to jump when laying up with the right hand and vice versa. The players should get enough practice with both hands for layups.

Footwork too is an important aspect of basketball. It needs a lot of time to develop proper footwork. Attention should be given to the activity of pivoting, triple threat positioning and jump stops. Ball handling and shooting need to be developed properly, since the shooting techniques that develop at a young age are difficult to change later.

Level 2
Though the techniques of playing basketball don't change in the next levels, they are more refined and advanced. However, some new techniques such as rebounding, are introduced at this stage. More cuts (curl cut, back cut) are taught to the players. Emphasis should be given on improving the defensive techniques. Small baskets and balls can be used for the convenience of the players.

Level 3
In this level, the players are taught the advanced techniques in basketball. Along with the basic cuts, advanced and sharper cuts can be incorporated in the players' arsenal. Advanced passes like the 'behind-the-back' pass, 'dribble' pass and 'pick & roll' pass, should be introduced. Footwork should be given more time, no matter how experienced the player gets. For players to get used to professional basketball, bigger balls and baskets should be used at this stage.

Coaching is never an easy job. To perform well in a job or task ourselves is relatively easy as compared to bringing out the best in others. The coach is more of a guide, an inspiration and a source of motivation for the team. Thus, to enter the field of coaching, one should be prepared for the challenges.