Can-Am 2010 Clinic Footage - Greg Kampe Set Play

Set play - 1-4 Ballscreen from Greg Kampe (Oakland Univ) at Can-Am 2010 Coaching Clinic. Coach Kampe provides some of the options and in additional footage he went through the counters for the play.



Interested in getting a copy of the Can-Am 2010 Coaching Clinic hosted at the University of Windsor? Clinic sessions for Greg Kampe (2), Dave Odom (3) and Chris Oliver (1) are available at a cost $30 for 2 DVD's and include shipping/handling (Please note the clinic footage is not professional quality but the audio and video are more than sufficient for learning from the coaches). Contact cobacamp@hotmail.com for more info or to order today.

Dribble Loop Play

Here is another play from our library of Can-Am Coaching Clinic footage. Head Coach of the University of Toronto, Mike Katz, shows you how to run the dribble loop play. Katz's teams are exceptionally well organized and efficient in their execution of their offensive sets and this play demonstrates many different scoring options.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StoFnAnVTRA

Offense - loop flare stagger

This movement begins with the first big coming back up to the ball side elbow, the trail post opposite the ball up top, and two wings near the free throw line extended. Coordinated action of the ball being pushed to the ballside wing, the ballside shooter clearing out (by looping the closest big and flaring the trail post screen), and the weakside shooter sprinting to the ballside corner. After cuts and screens, 2 now has room to work on the weakside (can curl the flare screen, from trail post 4, if chased).
On catch of the ball reversal to 2, the first big (5) dives to the new ballside. This must be a first quick look as 5 is looking to seal their matchup (with all other players outside). At same time, stagger screens are set by passer (1) and trail post (4) for the corner cutter (3) to catch and shoot at the three point arc. The two screeners must make contact on the chasing defender. Depending on personnel (and defensive reaction), there may be a look for a back door lob to 1 after they screen the corner.

Offense - sideline triangle play

The inbounder should be a good decision maker as well as a threat to shoot a 3 if they get the ball back from their inbounds pass. Set up is a triangle, with two ball-handlers at the base, a big at the top, plus a further big capping the triangle. The bigs are the original screeners, with 4 and 5 setting a double stagger for the weakside low player to sprint a cut and receive a pass at the 3 point arc. After screening, 5 cuts straight to the ball. Based on good timing, 1 sets a cross screen for 4 (to open them up coming to the ball above the low block on ballside). Options are shot by 2, a handoff back to 3, and dump downs to 4 or 1 (if they can seal defender). Work on timing, setting solid screens.

Keep it simple

Basketball is a wonderful sport, at times made better through complex systems and detailed technical teaching. However, when teams are struggling or important games are to be played, coaches remind their players that they should stick to fundamentals and keep the game simple. Teams, beyond the talent of individual players, succeed when they give strong consideration to the following:

• rebounding - on offense, fight hard for every board, be creative in pursuit
  
• rebounding - defensively, make contact and be sure to protect their hoop
• turnovers - defensively, force them then convert them in transition
• turnovers - on offense, limit (preferably eliminate) them, value the ball
  
• fouls - on offense, try and draw them and put the defense in early bonus foul trouble
• fouls - defensively, play tough and stay out of trouble
• screens - on defense, don't get hit by them, talk through them
• screens - offensively, set them low and solid, read and attack
  
• location - make opposition play offense in uncomfortable areas and ways
• location - play offense in attack areas, get passes inside the paint, get to the FT line
  

Offense - screener responsibilities

When screening on the ball, the screener has just as many responsibilities as the ball-handler that receives the screen. If the ball-handler needs to be patient (in the waiting and reading of the screen) then the screener needs to sprint to the screen in order to buy some time for that action to occur. As mentioned in a previous post, the screener must screen above the ball (further from the hoop) in order to cause enough of a defensive disruption. The screener must make contact with the defender and therefore needs to be low and wide enough (must take up space). A screener must have a strong basketball I.Q. - after all, they need to read both the defensive reaction as well as their ball-handler's decision. Screeners need to consider:

• opposition coaches will be instructing their defenders to NOT get hit by the screen so emphasis needs to be placed on making defender contact
• must pay attention as the action may require a re-screen (which will happen quickly) based on movement, don't assume job is done after the initial screen
• if ball-handler accepts the screen and drives defender into it, then screener will need to roll if screen defender hedges or flare away if screen defender zones off to the lane
• if ball-handler rejects the screen (because of defender leaving a drive line) then screener will need to space away opposite or step back (as a fill) into space away from defenders
• if ball-handler splits the screen and the hedging defender (because the ball defender chased behind and the hedge defender left a gap) then screener should look to flare away from the two defenders (to open space)
• if screen defender zones off the action to the lane, and ball defender goes under the screen, then the screener should read and stay as the wall for the ball-handler to shoot behind
• overall, the screen must be aggressive and the screener should be a threat and space to an area that is effective and does not draw defenders to the ball
• screeners must always be aware that teams may trap the ball-handler and therefore need to be visible to the ball on all movement out of a screen
• all of this, and much more, is covered in great detail every summer during the weeks of intense basketball instruction at COBA
  

Offense - using ball screens

If players remember only one word when thinking about ball screens, it should be 'patience' (especially on the offensive side of the ball). Players need to remind themselves that they are not able to read and react with effective moves if they are hurrying and rushing the ball screen action. Yes, screeners do need to sprint screens, and ball handlers need to make a quick and decisive move (after their read) but overall the action needs to have patience as a guide. From an offensive standpoint, some ball screen scenarios follow:

• in every case, the screen needs to be above (further from the scoring hoop) the ball (conversely, the ball needs to begin below the screen)
• the player receiving the screen needs to be a good reader (of movement and defensive positioning)
  
• the ball handler needs to be patient and wait for the screen to be set (VERY important)
• the screener must get low and wide and take up plenty of space
• offensive players need to remember that hitting their OWN player is NOT a foul
  
• beyond making the correct read, the ball handler and screener must look to create space
• reject the screen - if the ball defender goes under the screen (with a plan to meet the ball on the screening side) and the screen defender hedges then both defenders should be far enough removed from the ball that the ball handler should look to attack the rim in a straight line (but may need to "sell" acceptance of the screen first)
• play behind the screen - if the ball defender goes under the screen (sold based on previous movement) and the screen defender zones off (drops to the lane) the screen then the ball handler will have the opportunity to use their screener as enough of a wall and then shoot behind that screen (a tough shot in basketball, needs to be practiced, very effective)
  
• accept the screen - if the ball defender chases over the screen then the ball handler will have the opportunity to attack their screener's outside shoulder and drive to the rim (not allowing space for the defender to get between the ball and the screen, thus keeping the defender behind the ball), the screen defender needs to then space to the right area away from the defense (either roll opposite or flare or pop back)
• split the screen - if the ball handler chases over top of the screener and the screen defender hedges but does not hang on to the screener then the ball handler will have an opportunity to split that gap between their screener and the screen defender (with the ball defender chasing behind them), again look to attack and the screener should space
  

Learn from games you watch

This time of the year offers plenty of basketball to be watched, whether on TV or in the gym. Beyond the enjoyment and scouting aspects, there is much personal learning that can take place. Based on what coaches see, they should take time to evaluate their own teams. Ask the simple question - "when I see movement such as those listed below, am I happy with how we run it or defend it?"

• side or wing ballscreen
• quick ball reversal to low post entry
• slip to the rim (out of ballscreen) by a big
• high ballscreen
• split (of ball and screen defender) by a ball-handler
• perimeter shot opened up by a back side screen after a skip pass to weakside
• dribble handoff at the wing
• lane penetration to a kick out pass
  

Strategy - plan for special situations

At all times, coaches should know which players need to be in the game and why. They should also have some deliberate and strategic play calls at their disposal. The following represent a small list of the many eventualities for which every coach must have a plan:

• who to put in if the best player/shooter/defender/ball-handler/rebounder is hurt or has too many fouls (for that stage of the game)
• a late game three pointer is needed
• end of shot clock or game clock out of bounds play (sideline and/or baseline)
• an intentional miss of a free throw (which side, where is positioning, what is movement, how to miss)
• up by three points with little time left on the game clock and the opponent has the ball (to foul or not)
• down by five with enough time for two expected possessions
• subbing offense for defense and vice versa (if possible based on stoppage of play)
• a small and fast lineup (which five players should be in the game)
• type of trap or defense to promote a turnover and recovery of the ball
  

Random thoughts for this time of year

At this point in the season, more than ever, some components of play are crucial to team success. In no particular order, attention should be paid to the following:

• with a fastbreak emphasis, guards MUST get rebounds - first steps after a missed shot (or a score) are very important
• on a transition wing pass ahead on the break, emphasize an attack to the middle to put basket pressure on the defense
• on penetration, the emphasis must be placed on sprinting cuts, making the proper read, and shooters spaced in positions where the ball can see them (don't get three in a row with ball and defender)
• every practice, an assistant should meet with each point guard and review their checklist - turnovers, rebounds, effectiveness, leadership
• reinforce the use of concentration cues in timeouts in order to gain focus - allow players 15 seconds for water and settling, then cue them for priorities with a "listen up"
• as the late Jim Valvano said, "never give up" - no matter how the quarter or half is going, the next one can always be better (if your team is willing to work and play to it's strengths)
  

Offence - overload cross screen

The action commences out of a traditional 3-2 set with the ball high. The next movement is based on the post match-up that we want and where that match-up is located (5 or 4). 1 dribbles off the top at the wing that is opposite our desired post (in this example, we have 5). The push by 1 sets 2 and 3 in motion, with 2 using the screen set by 4 and then screening in to the lane for 5. The opposite wing, 3, does not space for 1 up top (that will be saved for 2) but sprints to the ballside corner (spaced for a kick out corner catch and shoot). After screening for 2, our 4 then sprints up the lane to reset a high screen for 2.

5 uses the screen set by 2 in the lane. 2 uses the second (now high) screen set by 4. The responsibility now falls to 1 to make the proper read of the defensive help and then make the right pass. Options are to 5 establishing inside, to 2 shooting behind the screen of 4, to 4 on a weakside roll/slip, and to 3 for an open shot. If 1 hits 5 inside then they need to remember to space for a kick out pass from the post.

Offence - loop flare screen plus movement

Here's a look that offers some simple yet effective movement off the top. Great for teams that understand and incorporate good spacing principles, as well as for teams that have an intelligent 2 that reads defenses well.

The action begins with four out and the post above the ballside block. 1 dribbles at 2 which causes 2 to move - in this case, a loop exchange with 1. Knowing that the action is coming their way, 3 clears to the opposite side of the floor and spaces to the corner. The movement of 3 means that 4 moves in space to a wing spot. While that is taking place, 5 has sprinted up and positioned for a location screen that enables 2 to use that screen (after looping). 2 must read the defense and, depending on how they are handled, either curl hard off the screen or flare. If you can't get the ball to 2 then look to enter to 5 who can then run a deep handoff exchange with 2 and look to play off that action. 5, depending on the defensive reaction up top, may have open shooters in 3 or especially 4 on the weakside, and may also have the look for 1 diving off the top.

Offence - high ball screen

For coaches that like to run a high ball screen action, this is a good set based on a five out formation. Instead of being at the rim, 5 is a trail post (like 4) at the wing. Perimeter players are spaced to the corners. 5 sets a high ballscreen for ballhandler 1 (another great opportunity to teach offensive and defensive reads based on ballscreen). 1 uses the ballscreen, reads appropriately, and attacks. 4 fills for 1, and for high low. 5 rolls in space to the rim (based on action of 1). If 4 does receive the ball up top, they can attack or run ballscreen/handoff with the corner 3 player at the wing. Keep it simple - teach good spacing, screens, and proper reads.

Offense - team objectives

All coaches, based on their respective philosophy, have points of emphasis and objectives for their teams. As mentioned previously, those points will be based on personnel, desired style of play, and a host of other factors. On the offensive side of the ball, consider stressing the following to achieve success:

• want to get a shot EVERY possession, so we must take care of the basketball (that concept of possession value requires constant reinforcement)
• ideally want a layup or post up - if not available then need crisp ball movement (always preach and appreciate the unselfish extra pass)
  
• need to generate three point shots that come as a result of inside out passes (again the emphasis of patience after post reception and shooters moving/spacing)
• want to change sides of the floor because defense is strongest on the first entry (ball pressure and help side is in place - need to break that down and beat in recovery)
  

Offense - post play fundamentals

Post players need strong fundamentals in order to be effective close to the rim. They must put in the necessary individual work and repetitions to establish good footwork. Beyond their feet, post players must use their hands wisely, and exercise good common sense. Mentally, the challenge for players that do most of their work in the paint is that they need to play both urgently and patiently. With respect to positioning, sealing, and receiving the ball, some suggestions for post players follow:

• need to have bent knees, a wide base, and feet wider than shoulders
• arcing with your feet
• based upon where the passer gives you the ball, the passer is telling you where you are open
• must control the HIGH foot - whatever side the defender goes to, post player needs to sit on that front thigh
• if defender is fronting the post, the offensive player needs to get both arms up so they eliminate the possibility of being called for a push off
• anytime there is a post feed, the game needs to slow down - react to the post feed but emphasize patience for the post (to allow the match-up to develop)
• you can hide a lot of things in basketball but you can't hide somebody who is not a good receiver of the basketball
  

End of game - the comeback

We've all experienced this scenario. It's late in the game, our team is trailing by a small margin, the game is exciting, the crowd is yelling, your team is battling, the game could be decided by a single late play. This situation should be fun, and will be if you are prepared and remain poised. This is the time when the hard work and preparation in practice should shine through in your team. As for the strategy of the moment, the coach has many tools available in order to craft a win out of the opportunity. Coaches need to be mindful of the following:

• remain patient - based upon the time and score, understand how many possessions remain for your team
• in order to get into your offence quickly, have some full court quick hit plays ready
• philosophically, players must attack the rim and put themselves at the free throw line (in both the attack and the free throw, importance is just as much mental as physical)
• use your assistants - have a clear understanding of team and player foul counts for both teams
  
• to help with setting up pressure, sub players at free throws and dead balls
• in FIBA play, remember the clock stops after made baskets under two minutes
• if expecting full court defensive pressure, an option is to have a time out pre-called after being scored upon - if under two minutes in a FIBA game, your team inbounds the ball from midcourt and can enter the ball either front or back court (hence reducing pressure and advancing the ball half the distance)
• know what the other team is likely to do if they are up or down by a few points (think, what would you do if you were them?)
• do you have a plan for the scenario of having just scored to go up by 3 points - are you fouling in order to get the ball back after opposition free throws?

Offense - thoughts for post players

Whether in transition or in the half court, no matter what teams run on offense, strong post play is a significant contributing factor to success. Playing in the post requires a specific mindset. In the post, every practice or game, it is a war - players must be prepared to battle. They must be tireless workers, and always be looking to gain an advantage. Just as they need good physical balance, post players also require mental balance - they need to play with both an urgency and patience at the same time. Want to be strong in the post? Consider the following:

• be aggressive, must WANT the ball
• the game slows down in the post (on catch of the ball)
  
• the lowest player is the strongest player - need to be lower, wider, longer
• do NOT worry about blocked shots - score, draw a foul, or get the ball back
• make and maintain contact (for a proper read, need to know location of defender)
• finishing school - follow through with EYES and hands
• must have a jump hook and be able to shoot that hook from an 11-12 o'clock position
• EVERY shot needs to be considered a potential rebound (eyes on the ball)
• need to have a go-to move, a counter, AND a third move - must have enough to get it done
• develop a European Post style of play - play big down low, have a three point shot, be effective with dribble drive attack
  

Thoughts on pace, pressure, intensity

Whether on offense or defense, coaches want their teams to play at a certain pace. That tempo is based on your team, your philosophy, personnel available, the opposition, the game conditions, and several other variables. Some thoughts on intensity, tempo, and pressure follow:

• dictate tempo with defense and transition
• control tempo with offense and rebounding
• when coaches teach pressing, they need to focus on teaching rotations - once players know the fundamentals of defensive rotation, any press can then be adapted or added
• Defense = System + Attitude (must teach it and demand it)
• it is okay to set the intensity level for your team as long as your players understand that you are doing so because you want them to be successful (it is much more effective for your players to choose a high intensity level without your involvement)
• in order to teach your players to LIVE LOW (play and stay down), use ball-handling drills such as stationary figure 8 dribbles that maintain a good low player stance
• when bringing the ball up against a quick, ball-pressure, defensive point guard try and find a way to change the match-up of who defends the ball coming up the floor (i.e. have a different player bring the ball downcourt) or enter the ball early and high into your offense
  

Offence - penetration and kick

On offense, there are several keys to an effective penetration and kick attack. Coaches should emphasize:

• sprint all cuts and fill positions with a purpose (nothing easy for the defense)
• bring speed to all screens
• make use of the six perimeter spots - two each of corners, 45 degree wings, and elbow extended
• on penetration, the four players without the ball must be moving (harder for defense to react and recover - beat them on recovery from help)
• post players need to move with their hands high - cut, react, and roll
• on the weakside of the floor, the ball must always be able to see you
• teams need to work on defensive balance and offensive rebounding from day one
• after the kick out pass, pause in the lane to read the next attack and maintain proper spacing
  

Learning from BIG games

Big games are part of every team's schedule. You have to prepare for them. Kentucky and Louisville had a well publicized one yesterday. As much as it was not necessarily the best game ever, in a way it was - because it was real. Yesterday's big game in Lexington proved that sports are played by people, not robots. There may have been moments during the game when the two coaches wished they had robots on the court executing, but the learning and teaching of young men would not have happened.

Yesterday's much-hyped game between two historic rivals provided many lessons for coaches and players alike:

• there is no such thing as TOO MUCH work on individual fundamentals such as shots from in close, layups, footwork (offence and defence), passing, box-outs, close-outs, staying on your feet when defending up fakes, etc.
• players are NOT robots, emotions play a role in their games and those emotions need to be self-controlled (so that their coach is not forced to remove a player 8 seconds in to the game in order to have a nose to nose discussion about maintaining a cool head)
• teams can NEVER GIVE UP, whether they are down 13-1, 25-12 or any other score, there is always an opportunity to fight back and be up 42-41 after plenty of dedicated play
• teams need to always be working on small and large group concepts of spacing, talking, proper rotations, defending ballscreens, group rebounding, trapping, etc.
• given the pace of play and expended energy, proper hydration becomes even more important (to maintain energy, prevent cramps, etc.), especially for the players that will log the most minutes
  
• in order to best replicate a high stakes game versus a tough opponent/traditional rival in an away gym with an unfriendly crowd, practices must resemble chaos with multiple odds stacked against a group of five players that they must then battle through with poise
• a disruptive full court defence must be practiced - yesterday's game proved that a tough D is effective against even the most highly rated and determined point guards (in practice, it also serves to better prepare your own point guard for what they should expect to see from tough opposition - in that way, it is mutually rewarding)
• you don't always have to buy professional dvd's about certain aspects of the sport - taping an important game for your own viewing pleasure and analysis is equally, if not more, beneficial