As a basketball trainer at A&K Skill Development, I’ve had the opportunity to work with many talented young players. One of the most important lessons that I try to instill in them is that basketball is not just a physical game, but also a mental one. In other words, having a high basketball IQ is just as important as having the physical skills to shoot, dribble, and pass.
So, how can young players boost their basketball IQ and outsmart their opponents on the court? Here are some actionable steps that both young players and their parents can take to improve their basketball knowledge and game intelligence.
Watch and analyze game footage
One of the best ways to learn about basketball is by watching the game being played at a high level. Encourage young players to watch NBA or college games, paying attention to how the players move on the court, how they set up plays, and how they react to different game situations. You can also watch game footage together and pause it at key moments to analyse what just happened and what the players could have done differently.
The more games you watch the easier it’ll be to pick out what to pay attention to. Learn from the good and the bad, the most watched part of the game are highlights, showcasing the best shots and most entertaining plays, however there are still very good plays that end in a miss or a turnover which can be learnt from. Byanymeans basketball has a great video illustrating this point with examples.
Check it out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5lW8E17EY0.
Practice game situations
Basketball is a game of many different scenarios, and young players need to be able to react quickly and make good decisions under pressure. One way to do this is by practicing game situations, such as fast breaks, 1-on-1 defense, and executing set plays. By practicing these situations over and over again, young players will develop their instincts and be better prepared to handle them during real games.
Develop basketball-specific skills
While basketball IQ involves more than just physical skills, it’s important for young players to develop their basketball-specific skills as well. This includes things like shooting, dribbling, passing, and rebounding. Encourage young players to work on these skills both on their own and during team practices.
If you are looking for more drills try out our instagram page https://www.instagram.com/ak_bball/?hl=en
Learn from experienced players and coaches
Young players can learn a lot from experienced players and coaches who have been in the game for a long time. Encourage them to talk to their coaches and ask questions about game strategy, and to seek advice and guidance from older players who have already been through the ups and downs of competitive basketball.
Study game theory and strategy
Finally, it’s important for young players to study game theory and strategy. This includes things like offensive and defensive concepts, player positioning, and identifying weaknesses in opponents. Encourage them to read books or watch videos about basketball strategy, and to ask their coaches and experienced players for advice and guidance.
In summary, basketball is not just a physical game, but also a mental one. By focusing on developing their basketball IQ, young players can improve their decision-making, reaction time, and overall understanding of the game. The actionable steps outlined in this post provide a roadmap for young players and their parents to follow in order to boost their basketball knowledge and game intelligence. With hard work, dedication, and a focus on both physical and mental skills, young players can take their game to the next level and achieve their goals on the court.