Author: USA Basketball

USA Basketball: Fundamental Coaching Principles

While anyone can grab a whistle and call themselves a coach, effective coaching involves understanding player development, implementing progressive coaching techniques, having knowledge of skill-appropriate drills, and committing to safety standards.

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 31: Photos from the USAB Youth Clinic at the Doolittle Senior Center in Las Vegas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2014 NBAE (Photo by Tom O'Connor/NBAE via Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 31: Photos from the USAB Youth Clinic at the Doolittle Senior Center in Las Vegas. (Photo by Tom O’Connor/NBAE via Getty Images)

As the national governing body for basketball in the United States, recognized by both the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), USA Basketball is responsible for youth basketball initiatives that address player development, coach education and safety.  Therefore, USA Basketball has developed a Player Development Curriculum to help the youth coach teach essential basketball skills.

logo

Essential Skills to Teach Players
The USA Basketball Player Development Curriculum guides players through a four-level system of basketball progress. Each level consists of skills and drills in eight basketball categories: ball handling & dribbling, footwork & body control, passing & receiving, rebounding, screening, shooting, team defensive concepts, and team offensive concepts. The eight skill categories permeate each level, with drills advancing as players improve their performance. While all skills are important to become a complete player, the three skills that you should incorporate into every training are footwork & body control, passing & receiving, and shooting.

Read More