What was once considered a fun, learning, and healthy activity for kids has now turned into a contest to win the most games and gain the most publicity. The big losers in this situation are not only the kids we coach, but also us, the coaches, because we are relentlessly inundated with materials and ideas from publicity and sales-driven entities. Without thought and information to the contrary we incorporate their ignorant perspective into our own. However, if you know the underlying myths and absurdities widely promulgated that inhibit your growth as a coach, you can achieve more than you ever dreamed.
Fundamentals are the building blocks of basketball.
Everything done in a game depends on the execution of basic skills. Proper execution of team skills depends on fundamentals, not how well you practiced the plays. More sophisticated skills like looking for a place to cut, communicating with the passer, and timing are other skills involved in this seemingly simple play. Not being able to perform any one, only one, of the basics will prevent proper execution. To successfully teach players, coaches need to work on each fundamental, not throw zillions of skills at players in one fell swoop.