Want Smarter, More Adaptable Players?

My Friends, 

Most coaches think players make the same mistake because they lack skill.

Others say it’s because they lack basketball IQ.

I’d say, both are wrong.

Ever been frustrated by a player making the same mistake over and over again? If so, this week’s Stuff edition is for you.

At SAVI we define a skill as the right thing at the right time.

The thing is the technique and execution of the shot, the cut, the dribble move, the pass etc.

The right time is when to apply that solution to the relevant problem, it’s the read, decision, the basketball IQ.

If a coach teaches either of these things in isolation, a technique or a read, it’s an incomplete formula that leads to frustration. This is why we keep repeating ourselves without any observable change in the player.

The transfer from training to competition is most seamless when players are taught technique and reads together.

For example, if we are getting out-rebounded and we focus only on boxing out, we will remain frustrated when we don’t become better rebounders. If we box out late, or box out the wrong player, or box out at the expense of grabbing and pursuing the ball, then we still lose the rebounding game.

So how do you create a training environment that marries technique, commonly referred to as skill, and decision making, commonly referred to as sport IQ?

Don’t just teach your players skills. Teach them how to think and apply skill.

The best practice environments simulate game-like challenges and develop creativity, decision making, and adaptability. These environments are often referred to as “wicked” environments. They are dynamic, challenging and rarely follow pre-determined patterns.

Why does this matter?

Games are wicked environments. When we develop reading machines and creative problem solvers, we prepare the athlete for the game. Game smarts win real games. Drill smarts don’t transfer well and result in frustration and stagnation. It is not just about execution. It is about recognition. Players who can spot advantages and adapt to changing situations give your team an edge.

How do you build these environments?

1. Pattern recognition
   Players must learn to see the patterns that they will need to seize and solve in the game. So, design drills that force players to recognize and exploit advantages and solve disadvantages. Use small-sided games that place players in common patterns with more frequency. This will make your practice more efficient. The SSG’s also provide more space that will allow them to experience success faster.
   

2. Messy wins
   Creativity grows in chaos. Drills like the Scramble, RaceCar, Lava, Gulf Coast all force players to think on the fly. (Check them out in our SAVI Drill Book here) These are all games built in a “wicked” environment. The traditional start of a neutral shell drill, with controlled passes, and scripted positioning are the opposite of this, it’s a “kind” environment. It’s THE factor that limits game transfer, the game is rarely perfect, there’s almost always some mistake and messiness. Teach players learn how to capitalize on advantages and recover when they are disadvantaged.
   

3. Flip the court…or field :)
   Move away from lecture-heavy teaching and slow walkthrough implementation. Flip the court away from being centered around YOU as the coach. Move toward interactive learning. Put the ATHLETES at the center, force them become active problem solvers and co-create the solutions. When players explore solutions together, they build a deeper understanding of the game and shared consciousness. 

4. Sticky language
   Use consistent, memorable language like “chill before fill” so players can quickly recall key concepts in live play. When you build language specific to your program, especially language your team co-creates, it will become a part of your everyday conversation, and more memorable. Remove any words used in their previous experience with other teams, so you can associate exactly what that word means to your team right now.

Together we can build better players and smarter teams.

Let’s grow the game. 🏀 We’re here to help.
- Stay SAVI, Tyler Coston

P.S. If you liked this, you’ll love our SAVI Coaching Podcast, The Hours. We provide coaching insights every week for your drive or workout. Subscribe here.

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