Kevin Eastman defensive teaching

Thanks to Coach Rich Stoner for the reminder of these excellent points from Kevin Eastman (Boston Celtics Asst. Coach). At a recent coaches' clinic, Coach Eastman outlined some pertinent thoughts regarding transition defense. As one of the premier teachers in the game today, Coach Eastman emphasizes the following components of transition defense:

• TALK, TALK, TALK
• get back and get set
• apply intelligent pressure
• keep the ball out of the paint
• only give up a contested two point attempt
• GANG REBOUND
• take care of the paint, the ball, and 3 point attempts
• be a "hit first" team
• close out properly and help (SPRINT to both)
  

Chicago Bulls' new coach

There really is no such thing as "an overnight success story." Need further proof? Read the following story in the Chicago Tribune about Tom Thibodeau, the new head coach of the Chicago Bulls. Yet another great coach from the Boston Celtics organization. A wonderful compliment paid to Coach Thibodeau by Joakim Noah (former Florida Gator standout), "you can tell he's somebody who made no side deals. He definitely had to earn everything he got."

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/basketball/bulls/ct-spt-1027-bulls-chicago--20101026,0,6821312.story

Letting players coach

Recognizing the valuable learning that takes place when players teach, Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers commented "it makes them think, which is good." In a weekend Boston Herald article, Coach Rivers outlined why he has allowed the players to run their scrimmages over the past few days. The concept of role reversal has worked in the coach's favour, as evidenced when he offered "they get frustrated when guys don't execute, and then I say 'yeah, that's how I feel all day.' It's a good learning tool for everyone." The complete Herald article follows:

http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/celtics/view/20101024doc_rivers_allows_team_to_run_scrimmages_coach_plays_along/