Monday, April 9, 2012

NABC Clinic Notes: Part I - Dwayne Stephens (Michigan State)

This week I'm going to be posting one entry each day regarding the 2012 NABC Final Four Convention. These notes are compiled from 5 different clinics I attended during the convention and will include my own thoughts and ideas in italics. I'm happy to discuss any of these ideas with anyone who needs more clarification - just leave your e-mail in the comments section!

First up is Coach Dwayne Stephens from Michigan State University. Coach Stephens has been listed as one of the top Division I assistants in the country and talked about some of the ideas they build their program around.

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·         “Our guys live on the Shootaway”
·         There’s a reason the word “distraction” has such a negative connotation when it comes to athletes.
o   You have to have talent that gets along and is on the same page.
·         The best way to assure you know what’s going on with your team is to spend time withyour team.
o   Show them you care about them as people.
§  Stop into dorms to say hi, play video games, etc.
§  “Know the girlfriend. Know the boys. Know the hangouts.”
·         Make an effort to talk to the girlfriend and the boys.
o   Guys will be who they hang out with
·         “Point guard should know who will be open to throw ahead to within the first two steps.”
o   “Two or less dribbles if you’re going to throw ahead.”
·         “If point guards don’t run, nobody else will.”
·         Most important thing after a bucket is the outlet.
o   “On time, on target.”
·         When screening, get “skinny” where you want the defense to go – they’ll take the path of least resistance.
·         When bigs leave the block, they create easy opportunities for a dig.
o   This applies to pushing guys off the block when you’re on defense as well.

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