First of all, let me start off by saying that this team totally caught me off guard. From my understanding they were supposed to be a sub-average team. I didn't scout this team and had no idea they would be that kind of treat to us. Those kids were shooters and had an aggressive, great defense on us. I usually have a game strategy coming in, but like I said, without scouting them and from what I heard, I really thought we would come out with a win. :-( I was surprised to say the least!
I have since found out that the BBA team we were playing was not the real BBA team we were supposed to be playing. A few of the players were "illegal" players. That sounds rough, but it just means that they were guest players....and their team was stacked a bit to play us. Nothing we can do about it now other than keep an eye out for that come end of season tournament. I will say it over and over again. I am pleased that we are playing in a division that is challenging us and forcing us to "learn". I am ok with losing from time to time! It makes us work harder and play harder! And it will only build character and make us better!
Now, onto the game...
The first two minutes went great. We came out with a bang....but that's about the only bang we had!
What am noticing a lot this year is how the boys are relying heavily on the PLAYS to make them open. Our boys are struggling to create their own plays and see the open areas on the court. We do A LOT of standing in our area. This is the hardest part of basketball but once the players begin to learn this..... the game of basketball will drastically change for them. We will be working on this A LOT this week in practice and in the upcoming weeks.
Oh---Our shooting??? It's TERRIBLE! I keep thinking it will come, but so far, we are not getting any better at shooting! HA! PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE! And when you practice, make it GAME LIKE!!! Don't try to be fancy or showy, just the jump shot or set shot is all we need at this level, but we have to get these shots to fall for us!!!
DEFENSE---This is usually our strong suit, but this past game I saw way to much "lazy" defense. My definition of lazy defense is when players aren't moving their feet to prevent or to get in front of their opponent and instead will use the upper body to try to stop them because they are a step behind----which usually will be a foul. WAY TOO MUCH OF THIS this past game!!!
PASSING---In this level ball the overhead, rainbow pass WILL NOT WORK. We should be making more bounce passes than any other pass. And whomever is recieving the pass MUST GO TO THE BALL (MEET THE BALL) before making a move. We had many turnovers due to this simple fundamental mistake. Not to mention, if we would GO TOWARD THE PASS----we could draw a few hustle fouls on our opponents, as well.
SET SCREENS and MOVE----- We spent a majority of our practice last week learning to properly screen and roll. Now---go do it!!! ALL THE TIME!!!:-)
We have many things to work on! But, EVERY TEAM, has many things to work on. My goal is to make us better ball players, build character, be respectable and competitive athletes and young men, and have some fun while doing it! We are still achieving those goals!!! So keep your heads up and keep at it!!!
The Boys Are Back!!!!
I can't be more thrilled about our game this past weekend!!! We have had a bit of bad luck in the last few games. We lost two games to Tenacity (currently the only undefeated team in our division) and to the Dawgs. Both games were close, but lacked enough to get the job done! But I am so happy to see that this team has FIGHT, DETERMINATION, and a NO QUIT ATTITUDE!!
This was a BIG GAME for us! I knew going in, that IF we could pull off a win against a team WE RESPECTED (that was undefeated, too) that it could be a turning point for our team and our season together. And yall didn't surprise me at all! Each player rose to the occasion! I could tell, as early from the pre-game meeting, that yall were there to WIN! Yall were listening and focusing on the game plan/strategies I was giving. Yall had the look of confidence on your face. Yall were excited to play, eager to play, and READY to play! Yall implemented well the things we worked on at practice (REBOUNDING and the 121 Press). Yall encouraged one another! Yall played together as a team!!!
We had over 30rebounds that game! THIRTY!!! That right there alone tells me we were hustling cos I am not sure the Bobcats got a chance to rebound.....cos we wanted it MORE!
Now, we did have a CRAZY shooting game! But that's okay. Yall are shooting at home daily----RIGHT? And that will come! And sometimes you just have "off" nights. But, our defense and hustle WON!!
This game was a big game for us to win. We are 2-2 now. At this point, we decide if we want to work hard to make this a winning season or not! But based upon what I saw Friday..... I bet we choose to start a BIG WINNING STREAK!!!! Let's do it!
****Pictures coming asap!!
This was a BIG GAME for us! I knew going in, that IF we could pull off a win against a team WE RESPECTED (that was undefeated, too) that it could be a turning point for our team and our season together. And yall didn't surprise me at all! Each player rose to the occasion! I could tell, as early from the pre-game meeting, that yall were there to WIN! Yall were listening and focusing on the game plan/strategies I was giving. Yall had the look of confidence on your face. Yall were excited to play, eager to play, and READY to play! Yall implemented well the things we worked on at practice (REBOUNDING and the 121 Press). Yall encouraged one another! Yall played together as a team!!!
We had over 30rebounds that game! THIRTY!!! That right there alone tells me we were hustling cos I am not sure the Bobcats got a chance to rebound.....cos we wanted it MORE!
Now, we did have a CRAZY shooting game! But that's okay. Yall are shooting at home daily----RIGHT? And that will come! And sometimes you just have "off" nights. But, our defense and hustle WON!!
This game was a big game for us to win. We are 2-2 now. At this point, we decide if we want to work hard to make this a winning season or not! But based upon what I saw Friday..... I bet we choose to start a BIG WINNING STREAK!!!! Let's do it!
****Pictures coming asap!!
Game #2---Need a Bounce Back
So Game #2 wasn't so hot! But I am pleased that we are finally playing some good competition. It looks like this division is gonna challenge us---which I am all for! I much rather be challenged and lose a few games than win every game and have no real competition!
Tenacity 26 Gunter 18
A few things I think (I hope) we learned from this most recent game....
1) Come READY to PLAY. This means that game face is on and preparation begins as soon as players enter the complex. I had noticed that when we were having our "pregame huddle" or "pregame discussion" this past game, I had spent much of my time asking players to pay attention and asking them to listen. Which meant that alot of the game strategy I has asked for wasn't implemented simply due to the lack of focusing or listening.
2) Hustle! Hustle! Hustle! We only hustled for maybe a full quarter. But, it was too far- too late. :-( This team out hustled us for 3.5 quarters, no doubt!
3) REBOUND! BLOCK OUT! We weren't crashing the boards.....and then when we did start crashing the boards.....we were "too soft" and allowed the other team to rip the ball from our hands. We need to be determined that IF the other team is gonna get that ball away from us---then they will be taking us with them! We need to get aggressive!
4) FOLLOW OUR OWN SHOTS! If anyone on our team shoots, we need to assume they will miss and be DETERMINED that we will get ALL MISSED shots and put them back in!
When it was all said and done, this Tenacity Team was just a team out to win. They came to play and they outplayed, out hustled, and out scored us. THAT SIMPLE! But we can beat this team..... NO DOUBT IN MY MIND we can beat this team! But it will take more than just our practice time.
Get outside and shoot daily! Get a bigger kid and a better kid to play you and to push you around (this will only make you better). And watch basketball!!! :-).
Here are a few things that I'd like to see you do before Monday of next week for HOMEWORK:
1) Make 150 shots daily (shot within your ranges)
2) Make 50 FT daily
3) Mikan Drill (where you shot alternating from block to block, as fast as you can without letting the ball hit the ground)- Ideally, shoot for 1 minute---break for 2 mins---shoot for another minute!
4) Once this weekend, go jog for 10-12 straight minutes. Easy pace but try not to stop running. If you do stop....stop your timer and don't count that time you walk towards your run.
5) Watch some basketball games--- look for good block outs, good defense, following shots and good screen and rolls!!! :-)
5) Take pictures and send them to me so I can see that you have been doing your HW!!! :-).
Tenacity 26 Gunter 18
A few things I think (I hope) we learned from this most recent game....
1) Come READY to PLAY. This means that game face is on and preparation begins as soon as players enter the complex. I had noticed that when we were having our "pregame huddle" or "pregame discussion" this past game, I had spent much of my time asking players to pay attention and asking them to listen. Which meant that alot of the game strategy I has asked for wasn't implemented simply due to the lack of focusing or listening.
2) Hustle! Hustle! Hustle! We only hustled for maybe a full quarter. But, it was too far- too late. :-( This team out hustled us for 3.5 quarters, no doubt!
3) REBOUND! BLOCK OUT! We weren't crashing the boards.....and then when we did start crashing the boards.....we were "too soft" and allowed the other team to rip the ball from our hands. We need to be determined that IF the other team is gonna get that ball away from us---then they will be taking us with them! We need to get aggressive!
4) FOLLOW OUR OWN SHOTS! If anyone on our team shoots, we need to assume they will miss and be DETERMINED that we will get ALL MISSED shots and put them back in!
When it was all said and done, this Tenacity Team was just a team out to win. They came to play and they outplayed, out hustled, and out scored us. THAT SIMPLE! But we can beat this team..... NO DOUBT IN MY MIND we can beat this team! But it will take more than just our practice time.
Get outside and shoot daily! Get a bigger kid and a better kid to play you and to push you around (this will only make you better). And watch basketball!!! :-).
Here are a few things that I'd like to see you do before Monday of next week for HOMEWORK:
1) Make 150 shots daily (shot within your ranges)
2) Make 50 FT daily
3) Mikan Drill (where you shot alternating from block to block, as fast as you can without letting the ball hit the ground)- Ideally, shoot for 1 minute---break for 2 mins---shoot for another minute!
4) Once this weekend, go jog for 10-12 straight minutes. Easy pace but try not to stop running. If you do stop....stop your timer and don't count that time you walk towards your run.
5) Watch some basketball games--- look for good block outs, good defense, following shots and good screen and rolls!!! :-)
5) Take pictures and send them to me so I can see that you have been doing your HW!!! :-).
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| Practice! Practice! Practice!!! It can be fun:-) |
Open Gym--Friday at 1pm-2:15 at Old Elementary Gym
Team Practice Monday at 6pm at Old Elementary Gym with Coach Kyle
Team Practice Thursday at 6:30pm at Old High School Gym with Coach Kyle
Make up Game Saturday against The Dawgs at 7pm. Be there at 6:40pm.
Knocking the Rust Off
GAME #1- WIN Gunter 34/Xpress 22
It wasn't pretty but we did start our season off with a big win against a well respected team last night! I am not at all disappointed in our play, as I know that this is our first game. It took us a good three quarters to get our mojo going. In matter of fact, this was the first time we even ran the press and press breaker at all (since we haven't had a full court to practice on in the past couple of weeks). So considering that, I am pleased with how we worked out the kinks in this first game!! (Now, let's not have too many more kinks here on out! LOL)
A few things we need to be reminded of............
1. HUSTLE and STAY FOCUSED- Always know what defense we are in (usually a 3-2 zone, but sometimes a man).
2. BUST YOUR TAIL to get into our 22 Full Court Press---too many times, we simply just didn't hustle into our Press Positions, which caused us to get beat down the court. This shouldn't be happening with the quickness we have on our team!!
3. SET MORE SCREENS- Last night, I only saw us setting screens for the guy who was in possession of the ball. **I would like to see our wings go set a screen down low and pop a post out for the ball?? Or have a post, screen away and cut across the lane for a inside quick shot! **Very important, screen and ROLL!!!! Don't forget to ROLL!
4. BLOCKING OUT! I counted at one time that our opponent got 5 chances to shoot under their own goal.....we must get in a good block out position. Use your bodies to get a good position and keep our opponent away from the ball.
By fourth quarter, I could tell we were starting to "recall" some of the things that we had forgotten. The press looked great! The press break was working amazingly!! **That is, once we all were in the right positions.
And don't forget---every INBOUND DEFENSE we will defend as a man to man. If you see a man is not covered, yell to your teammates "MAN OPEN" so they can easily find him and get on him!
We still are a bit rusty with our shooting, but that will come!! And we need a bit more work on having better feetwork on defense....which we will work on this week at practice.
Again, I am pleased with what we accomplished with our first game of the
season. I expect to see much improvement with the weeks coming up!!
Can't wait!!! :-).
BTW: I will have stat sheets for you to see at practice this week! See ya Thursday!
It wasn't pretty but we did start our season off with a big win against a well respected team last night! I am not at all disappointed in our play, as I know that this is our first game. It took us a good three quarters to get our mojo going. In matter of fact, this was the first time we even ran the press and press breaker at all (since we haven't had a full court to practice on in the past couple of weeks). So considering that, I am pleased with how we worked out the kinks in this first game!! (Now, let's not have too many more kinks here on out! LOL)
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| Jump Ball-Game ONE |
A few things we need to be reminded of............
1. HUSTLE and STAY FOCUSED- Always know what defense we are in (usually a 3-2 zone, but sometimes a man).
2. BUST YOUR TAIL to get into our 22 Full Court Press---too many times, we simply just didn't hustle into our Press Positions, which caused us to get beat down the court. This shouldn't be happening with the quickness we have on our team!!
3. SET MORE SCREENS- Last night, I only saw us setting screens for the guy who was in possession of the ball. **I would like to see our wings go set a screen down low and pop a post out for the ball?? Or have a post, screen away and cut across the lane for a inside quick shot! **Very important, screen and ROLL!!!! Don't forget to ROLL!
4. BLOCKING OUT! I counted at one time that our opponent got 5 chances to shoot under their own goal.....we must get in a good block out position. Use your bodies to get a good position and keep our opponent away from the ball.
By fourth quarter, I could tell we were starting to "recall" some of the things that we had forgotten. The press looked great! The press break was working amazingly!! **That is, once we all were in the right positions.
And don't forget---every INBOUND DEFENSE we will defend as a man to man. If you see a man is not covered, yell to your teammates "MAN OPEN" so they can easily find him and get on him!
We still are a bit rusty with our shooting, but that will come!! And we need a bit more work on having better feetwork on defense....which we will work on this week at practice.
Can't wait!!! :-).
BTW: I will have stat sheets for you to see at practice this week! See ya Thursday!
Welcoming a New Season of Hoops
Let's Get This Season Started!?!?!
We have had a very slow start to this basketball season due to the extended football seasons (sharing athletes) and now due to extreme winter weather conditions. The good news is that has allowed me a little extra time to get caught up on this blog and such before actually starting our season!! :-).
First things first. I want to welcome a couple of new additions to our team: Chase Harrison #6 and Josh Magers #11. We are excited about having Chase and Josh with us this year.
Also, Davis Autry is playing full time for his homeschool team, therefore he will not be a full time player for us. However, don't be too surprised to see him pick up a few games for us and attend some of our practices. :-).
GOALS FOR THIS YEAR
1) Continue to grow our 8-9 players into a very well synced and competitive TEAM.
2) Challenge this team---if you look at our schedule, you will notice we are in a much more competitive league this year. I do think we will be put to the test often this year! I LIKE THAT!! This year won't be about winning all the time. It will be about learning to COMPETE.
3) To learn to properly press and break a press. **This year we are allowed to press the full length of the game!!
4) Create our own plays....not always depending on me to call the play but to have our players learn to "develop their own plays" as they see the court and work the defense!!
5) We are likely to be one of the shortest teams---so let's out hustle & defend and use our fundamental skills to out play our opponents.
6) HAVE FUN!!!! This is listed last, but it is the MOST IMPORTANT!!!
We open our season next week against a very well coached team, XPRESS. Zander, my son, plays for XPRESS in the Competitive League. This rec team of XPRESS is a B team to that team. They are used to running and gunning and pushing the ball. Their fundamental skills are still developing (much like our team) and they lack experience and teamwork, but they do not lack hustle and have already been playing some basketball this season!! I expect this to be a hard game to open with...and I do want to beat them!! HA!
As for the cancellation this past weekend....I will keep you up to date with when that game will be rescheduled.
Hope to see everyone Thursday at 6:30pm.
We have had a very slow start to this basketball season due to the extended football seasons (sharing athletes) and now due to extreme winter weather conditions. The good news is that has allowed me a little extra time to get caught up on this blog and such before actually starting our season!! :-).
First things first. I want to welcome a couple of new additions to our team: Chase Harrison #6 and Josh Magers #11. We are excited about having Chase and Josh with us this year.
Also, Davis Autry is playing full time for his homeschool team, therefore he will not be a full time player for us. However, don't be too surprised to see him pick up a few games for us and attend some of our practices. :-).
GOALS FOR THIS YEAR
1) Continue to grow our 8-9 players into a very well synced and competitive TEAM.
2) Challenge this team---if you look at our schedule, you will notice we are in a much more competitive league this year. I do think we will be put to the test often this year! I LIKE THAT!! This year won't be about winning all the time. It will be about learning to COMPETE.
3) To learn to properly press and break a press. **This year we are allowed to press the full length of the game!!
4) Create our own plays....not always depending on me to call the play but to have our players learn to "develop their own plays" as they see the court and work the defense!!
5) We are likely to be one of the shortest teams---so let's out hustle & defend and use our fundamental skills to out play our opponents.
6) HAVE FUN!!!! This is listed last, but it is the MOST IMPORTANT!!!
We open our season next week against a very well coached team, XPRESS. Zander, my son, plays for XPRESS in the Competitive League. This rec team of XPRESS is a B team to that team. They are used to running and gunning and pushing the ball. Their fundamental skills are still developing (much like our team) and they lack experience and teamwork, but they do not lack hustle and have already been playing some basketball this season!! I expect this to be a hard game to open with...and I do want to beat them!! HA!
As for the cancellation this past weekend....I will keep you up to date with when that game will be rescheduled.
Hope to see everyone Thursday at 6:30pm.
Dominating the Dawgs
WOW!!! These boys came out to play!!! O-MY-GOODNESS!!! I can't tell you how proud I am of them. They play AMAZING ball all the way around!
The Tiger defense was unbelievable. The guard combo of Bryson, Zander, and Mack was spectacular!!! The Dawgs couldn't penetrate or drive the ball on those boys very well at all! Superb job guys on great feet movement!!
And I can't tell you how impressed I was with our blocking and rebounding. The Dawgs very seldom got a second shot off because we had every man blocking out and jumping and grabbing that ball. If Davis or Zander weren't pulling down the rebounds, then another Tiger was! It's hard to beat a team that does this well!!
Our press break was excellently executed. We ran the court very well.....pushing the ball when we needed to and setting up an offense when we need to, too. Bryson and Zander worked really well together, running several screen and rolls, and they had some beautiful assist into our post.
Davis was a MONSTER underneath the boards...going up strong either for a great shot or rebound....and caught every pass the guards made inside to him!!
Zander was a dribbling maniac, dribbling through several guards with his head up to make some amazing assist.
Bryson was a defensive monster and executed many fast break and MADE his layups!
Jasek was a fierce post/guard who manhandle their big guy inside but did a great job boxing out!
Mack was our sub that came in to dominate on defense. Mack went to work overtime to help Bryson out with Bryson's driving point guard.
The Dawgs are a really good team! And I even told the boys that this team is actually a faster team than us.....which is the reason why I had to change up the game plan tonight. The Dawgs play with 4 quick guards and one big boy underneath. Mack came in as a sub and helped us pick up our quickness tonight. He did an outstanding job on defense tonight! Therefore, he gets player of the game!!
Scorers for tonight's game: Davis Autry 14, Zander Turner 13, Bryson Rigsby 6, Mack Whittaker 4, Jasek Hooker 2, Trey Phillips 2.
We go into the Championship game as "underdogs" on Wednesday night! We have something to prove and something we are playing for. If we keep up the good teamwork and the hard hustle, we can come out on top!!!
The Tiger defense was unbelievable. The guard combo of Bryson, Zander, and Mack was spectacular!!! The Dawgs couldn't penetrate or drive the ball on those boys very well at all! Superb job guys on great feet movement!!
And I can't tell you how impressed I was with our blocking and rebounding. The Dawgs very seldom got a second shot off because we had every man blocking out and jumping and grabbing that ball. If Davis or Zander weren't pulling down the rebounds, then another Tiger was! It's hard to beat a team that does this well!!
Our press break was excellently executed. We ran the court very well.....pushing the ball when we needed to and setting up an offense when we need to, too. Bryson and Zander worked really well together, running several screen and rolls, and they had some beautiful assist into our post.
Davis was a MONSTER underneath the boards...going up strong either for a great shot or rebound....and caught every pass the guards made inside to him!!
Zander was a dribbling maniac, dribbling through several guards with his head up to make some amazing assist.
Bryson was a defensive monster and executed many fast break and MADE his layups!
Jasek was a fierce post/guard who manhandle their big guy inside but did a great job boxing out!
Mack was our sub that came in to dominate on defense. Mack went to work overtime to help Bryson out with Bryson's driving point guard.
The Dawgs are a really good team! And I even told the boys that this team is actually a faster team than us.....which is the reason why I had to change up the game plan tonight. The Dawgs play with 4 quick guards and one big boy underneath. Mack came in as a sub and helped us pick up our quickness tonight. He did an outstanding job on defense tonight! Therefore, he gets player of the game!!
Scorers for tonight's game: Davis Autry 14, Zander Turner 13, Bryson Rigsby 6, Mack Whittaker 4, Jasek Hooker 2, Trey Phillips 2.
We go into the Championship game as "underdogs" on Wednesday night! We have something to prove and something we are playing for. If we keep up the good teamwork and the hard hustle, we can come out on top!!!
Gunter 5th Grade Select
The Gunter Tigers, coached by Mandy Turner, are dedicated to playing
all-out on offense and defense and getting better each and every practice.
The Tigers start the 2012 basketball season as a Frisco Field House league and tournament team.
These boys have been selected because of past association on Mandy's teams and their dedication to learning and playing hard.
.JPG)
The Tigers start the 2012 basketball season as a Frisco Field House league and tournament team.
These boys have been selected because of past association on Mandy's teams and their dedication to learning and playing hard.
Game 1 of the Playoffs
Game one of the playoffs got us off to a great start!!! I am very pleased with our ball playing. I am not sure if spectators could tell, but I actually made the boys STOP shooting that last quarter so we could work on our new plays:-). Ha!!! We could score at will against this team....so I thought it would be beneficial to slow it down to get some "practice" in.
We did a great job passing the ball and fast breaking. We were able to expose the Run N Gun lack of defense and took full advantage of it. The guards did excellent getting the ball low and Davis Autry killed it underneath (18pts). I also saw lots of great blocking out and rebounding (which is what will help us win the next two games, as we haven't been doing a great job on rebounding in our most recent games).
This game will be nothing like we will face tomorrow against the Dawgs. The Dawgs are a quicker and scrappier team than us. The Dawgs WANT to WIN!!! But we are a better fundamental team. If like we know we can, we will come out ahead. But we must be making our shots and working the ball around the horn. Our post have got to work to get open and we must blockout and rebound each time. We have to be smart and aggressive on offense. And we can't let this little, fast team take it to the hole each time. We just move our feet.....and steal the ball when we can!
I am expecting to run a press tomorrow and to be pressed tomorrow!!
We can do this!!!! We have the skills necessary, we just need to bring hustle and heart!!!
We did a great job passing the ball and fast breaking. We were able to expose the Run N Gun lack of defense and took full advantage of it. The guards did excellent getting the ball low and Davis Autry killed it underneath (18pts). I also saw lots of great blocking out and rebounding (which is what will help us win the next two games, as we haven't been doing a great job on rebounding in our most recent games).
This game will be nothing like we will face tomorrow against the Dawgs. The Dawgs are a quicker and scrappier team than us. The Dawgs WANT to WIN!!! But we are a better fundamental team. If like we know we can, we will come out ahead. But we must be making our shots and working the ball around the horn. Our post have got to work to get open and we must blockout and rebound each time. We have to be smart and aggressive on offense. And we can't let this little, fast team take it to the hole each time. We just move our feet.....and steal the ball when we can!
I am expecting to run a press tomorrow and to be pressed tomorrow!!
We can do this!!!! We have the skills necessary, we just need to bring hustle and heart!!!
Defeated is Temporary
"Being defeated is often a temporary condition.
Giving up is what makes it permanent."
We had some good things going for us in the first half of the game. The 3-2 zone (with a minor adjustment to the corner game) seemed to work well. We were able to contain for the most part. Our plays were being ran properly, screens made and set very well. But we just could not finish our shots! And we did not block out at all! Our rebounding game and our shooting lost the game for us tonight. It was not our lack of hustle (except for the rebounding). And our teamwork was much better tonight, too.
We have an uphill battle to climb right now, though. In the last 2-3 games, we stopped being an offensive threat. Here are a few things we have been good at in the past---but struggling with now!
--Not going to the hole STRONG and with DETERMINATION!!!
--We are still dribbling a little bit too much. I would like us to pass a whole lot more, working the perimeter until we get the defense shifted out of place for a nice jumper or into the post.
--The post have been struggling to finish their shots and moves, too. The guards are working really hard to get the ball down low....but we really need some aggressive post moves and to go up strong (and off the backboard) shots. ***I can't remember the last "and one" play we have had!!!! ??? :-(
--And when we go up for a layup, we are not finishing it. Follow through!!!
--And I can not say it enough----BLOCKING OUT and GRABBING those rebounds has to happen! We have been fumbling the ball around way too much. We even looked surprised to see the ball land in our hands??? We need to expect the ball to be in our hands and grab it before making a move.
--Meet the ball being passed to you. Our post have been getting in a bad habit of moving away from the ball being passed to them (assuming they will catch it) and trying to make a move before they actually have control of the ball. Go towards every ball being passed to you. This will ensure a good pass and will also draw fouls on any defensive player, too!
--And make those free throws! THEY ARE FREE! We missed 11 free throws tonight!
I admit, I am a bit nervous about how we will finish up this season. We were playing much better ball over a month ago. But we seem a bit slow, not going hard at 100%, and even timid! We seem to be losing some focus. But, I truly believe in this team!!! Every single player on this team, I believe in! And, I do know that every player on this team has HEART!
I want us to take this loss and turn it into something positive! Let's work really hard every day until the last day we play basketball. Do the extra....like shooting everyday or going really hard at PE or pay attention at practice or even go watch the High School team and find someone playing your position and watch and learn from them! The extra will pay off!!! Stay off 8ft goals. And stop jacking around with long shots at PE. Do the EXTRA!!!
But just know.......from here on out, we are playing every game like it's our last!!!! The next game could be our last! However, I think we would all agree that we'd like to make it to the championship and WIN the CHAMPIONSHIP!!! We can do this! But it will take focus, heart, teamwork, and determination.
Scorers for tonight's game: Zander Turner 8, Bryson Rigsby 5, Davis Autry 4, Jasek Hooker 2
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Jasek Hooker!! Jasek Hooker is recognized for his hustle last night and playing with all heart! He had some great steals and did well defensively. Good job Jasek! Bring that to the tournament with you:-).
Galatians 6:9
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
We need to clean up
Cleaning your room is sometimes more than just having a "clean room."
Sometimes it is your parents teaching you responsibility, discipline, or
to be organized.
Playing basketball is more than just making a basket.
As coaches, we want to teach lessons that will make better PLAYERS and a better TEAM.
When we left tonight's game against the Tigers, we left a MESSY room. :(
Instead of running plays correctly, instead of looking to pass, instead of listening to the coach's instructions, instead of slowing down... many players very selfishly "tried to score" and hotdog.
There are 5 players on the court. The ball should touching their hands and players should be talking, moving, and working together.
Zander and Davis, our two season-top scores, RARELY were passed the ball. They ONLY touched the ball when they stole or rebounded and only scored when fouled.
Many players got a pass, dribbled, then shot. Or rebounded, then shot. NEVER looking for the next pass. While Zander and Davis sat WIDE open in the paint... One low, one hi.
Players and parents often remember the points they scored but not the points they missed or the assists missed. Tonight we had a lot of missed assists.
Monday, and the year-end-tournament, players and parents will see 5 players on the court who will "look" to pass first and run plays and listen to their coach's instructions.
I will expect players to run pick-and-rolls, give-and-goes, bounce passes, set screens, re-set for another play, and around-the horns. Any "head down" dribbling and quick shooting will have players sitting and watching.
Let's finish the year strong and not fall into the "let ME score" mentality. It's MESSY!
Players of the game: Trey 10 points and Zander 10 points (7-for-7 free throws)
Playing basketball is more than just making a basket.
As coaches, we want to teach lessons that will make better PLAYERS and a better TEAM.
When we left tonight's game against the Tigers, we left a MESSY room. :(
Instead of running plays correctly, instead of looking to pass, instead of listening to the coach's instructions, instead of slowing down... many players very selfishly "tried to score" and hotdog.
There are 5 players on the court. The ball should touching their hands and players should be talking, moving, and working together.
Zander and Davis, our two season-top scores, RARELY were passed the ball. They ONLY touched the ball when they stole or rebounded and only scored when fouled.
Many players got a pass, dribbled, then shot. Or rebounded, then shot. NEVER looking for the next pass. While Zander and Davis sat WIDE open in the paint... One low, one hi.
Players and parents often remember the points they scored but not the points they missed or the assists missed. Tonight we had a lot of missed assists.
Monday, and the year-end-tournament, players and parents will see 5 players on the court who will "look" to pass first and run plays and listen to their coach's instructions.
I will expect players to run pick-and-rolls, give-and-goes, bounce passes, set screens, re-set for another play, and around-the horns. Any "head down" dribbling and quick shooting will have players sitting and watching.
Let's finish the year strong and not fall into the "let ME score" mentality. It's MESSY!
Players of the game: Trey 10 points and Zander 10 points (7-for-7 free throws)
And Everybody Scores!!!!
Such a fun game for all the boys Saturday morning against Run-N-Gun!!! The Gunter Tigers coasted past their competition today! It wasn't much of a match at all, but it sure was fun to get so many shooting opportunities:-).
We were able to use this game to practice our new KK play, which allowed us to utilize our outside, perimeter game. Every player was able to take advantage of this new play, which allowed EVERYONE on the team to score..... And we scored BIG!!!! We scored 5 three pointers!!! Bryson, Zander, and Mack all put up some three pointers!
Our whole team contributed in scoring, which is why the players of the game this week are ALL OF THE GUNTER TIGERS!!! Scoring for us were: Bryson Rigsby 9, Kyle Watson 8, Zander Turner 7, Jasek Hooker 6, Davis Autry 6, Ethan Watson 4, Trey Phillips 4 and Mack Whitteker 3.
This week we gear up for some more competitive basketball. We play Friday night against the Tigers (3-3) at 9pm and then the undefeated Bobcats (game of the season) the following Monday night. We will only practice Tuesday night of this week!!!! So come ready for a good, hard practice!!!
Let's finish our season STRONG!!!!!
We were able to use this game to practice our new KK play, which allowed us to utilize our outside, perimeter game. Every player was able to take advantage of this new play, which allowed EVERYONE on the team to score..... And we scored BIG!!!! We scored 5 three pointers!!! Bryson, Zander, and Mack all put up some three pointers!
Our whole team contributed in scoring, which is why the players of the game this week are ALL OF THE GUNTER TIGERS!!! Scoring for us were: Bryson Rigsby 9, Kyle Watson 8, Zander Turner 7, Jasek Hooker 6, Davis Autry 6, Ethan Watson 4, Trey Phillips 4 and Mack Whitteker 3.
This week we gear up for some more competitive basketball. We play Friday night against the Tigers (3-3) at 9pm and then the undefeated Bobcats (game of the season) the following Monday night. We will only practice Tuesday night of this week!!!! So come ready for a good, hard practice!!!
Let's finish our season STRONG!!!!!
Gunter vs. Dawgs
We have been looking forward to this game all season! And it was a great game! It wasn't our BEST ball, but it was definitely good basketball. I felt like we won that game because we are a better and more disciplined team. The Dawgs were a bit scrappy. They were faster than us....and even at times, their two guards out hustled us. But the Gunter Tigers demonstrated better fundamental basketball, which gave us a victory of 26-20.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GAME:
-Excellent half court defense all the way around for the Tigers.
-Some great assist to the inside post from our guards.
-Full Court Press break took a bit to get going, but once it got going, the Dawgs couldn't handle our press break!
-Fourth quarter blocking out and rebounding was exceptionally good. If we would have done that kind of rebounding throughout the game, we would have beat the Dawgs by 15plus.
THINGS TO WORK ON BEFORE MEETING THE BOBCATS or BEFORE TOURNAMENT TIME
-Our full court press was not effective at setting the side traps.
-Too much dribbling.....and dribbling into the lane with 3 or more guys on you to force a shot that wasn't open. Not only was the shot not open, but the shooter now puts himself in jeopardy of not getting the rebound either, therefor it is a wasted possession. There is a time and place for driving the lane.... we will work on this, this week.
-In good basketball.....there are NO over the paint passes when defense is in the paint. TOO RISKY. It will get pick off and stolen by the opponent if they are a good team.
-A bit too much standing for the guards who did not have the ball. We need to learn to screen even when we are not running a "play".....and speaking of plays. We needed to run our plays I called, but again, we spent a little too much time dribbling.
Players of the Game this week are.......
Jasek Hooker---Two things stuck out about Jasek yesterday. One - he had to play many different positions, which requires a lot of listening and paying attention at ALL TIMES. He moved from all positions yesterday and did a great job for us!! Two - when I pulled Jasek to give him instruction or some basketball correction, his response was always positive, without excuses and he always went back into the game doing exactly what I asked. Very coachable!!! Good job Jasek!!
Zander Turner---Zander is what I consider the silent player. He may not stand out to those who don't know much about basketball. But for those who do know the game can appreciate his team play efforts. I would like to recognize him for his leadership for our team. He helps me to lead this team and is very good about staying in control even in OUT OF CONTROL situations. He had some great assists, great steals, and great shots!
Bryson Rigsby---I want to acknowledge him for his amazing man-to-man defense on the Dawg's point guard! He did an excellent job on moving his feet and worked the guard overtime! He had a tough job on defense but handled it very well!!
Game Scores
Zander Turner 9, Davis Autry 8, Jasek Hooker 6, Kyle Watson, and Bryson Rigsby 1
I hope to post pictures soon from this game!!! See everyone Tues at 7:15 at the OLD HS GYM.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GAME:
-Excellent half court defense all the way around for the Tigers.
-Some great assist to the inside post from our guards.
-Full Court Press break took a bit to get going, but once it got going, the Dawgs couldn't handle our press break!
-Fourth quarter blocking out and rebounding was exceptionally good. If we would have done that kind of rebounding throughout the game, we would have beat the Dawgs by 15plus.
THINGS TO WORK ON BEFORE MEETING THE BOBCATS or BEFORE TOURNAMENT TIME
-Our full court press was not effective at setting the side traps.
-Too much dribbling.....and dribbling into the lane with 3 or more guys on you to force a shot that wasn't open. Not only was the shot not open, but the shooter now puts himself in jeopardy of not getting the rebound either, therefor it is a wasted possession. There is a time and place for driving the lane.... we will work on this, this week.
-In good basketball.....there are NO over the paint passes when defense is in the paint. TOO RISKY. It will get pick off and stolen by the opponent if they are a good team.
-A bit too much standing for the guards who did not have the ball. We need to learn to screen even when we are not running a "play".....and speaking of plays. We needed to run our plays I called, but again, we spent a little too much time dribbling.
Players of the Game this week are.......
Jasek Hooker---Two things stuck out about Jasek yesterday. One - he had to play many different positions, which requires a lot of listening and paying attention at ALL TIMES. He moved from all positions yesterday and did a great job for us!! Two - when I pulled Jasek to give him instruction or some basketball correction, his response was always positive, without excuses and he always went back into the game doing exactly what I asked. Very coachable!!! Good job Jasek!!
Zander Turner---Zander is what I consider the silent player. He may not stand out to those who don't know much about basketball. But for those who do know the game can appreciate his team play efforts. I would like to recognize him for his leadership for our team. He helps me to lead this team and is very good about staying in control even in OUT OF CONTROL situations. He had some great assists, great steals, and great shots!
Bryson Rigsby---I want to acknowledge him for his amazing man-to-man defense on the Dawg's point guard! He did an excellent job on moving his feet and worked the guard overtime! He had a tough job on defense but handled it very well!!
Game Scores
Zander Turner 9, Davis Autry 8, Jasek Hooker 6, Kyle Watson, and Bryson Rigsby 1
I hope to post pictures soon from this game!!! See everyone Tues at 7:15 at the OLD HS GYM.
We Have Some Competition!!!!
We do remain undefeated.....but it looks like we have some competition coming up. Last night the experienced Celina Bobcat team defeated the Dawgs. At this point, we are ranked number one in our league, with Celina sitting 4-0, right behind us. The Dawgs are third. But the next few games will put us to the test. It won't be a walk in the park at all. Take a look at the chart......
I have been watching the Dawgs most of the season. The Dawgs are alot like us, but may be a bit quicker. We have a better inside game, though. We must bring our A Game to beat the Dawgs this week....and yes, we will need to keep after it in the gym to be able to beat the Bobcats in the last game of the season.
We should remain number one IF we win this week. But if we lose, we could drop to number three:-(. We want to remain number ONE for the good seeding in the end of the year tournament!!!
Let's work HARD this week!!!
We should remain number one IF we win this week. But if we lose, we could drop to number three:-(. We want to remain number ONE for the good seeding in the end of the year tournament!!!
Let's work HARD this week!!!
How About Them Subs!!!! Gunter vs. Mustangs
Instead of a player of the game.....how about we just highlight our subs!!!! If you were able to be see this game, you would have seen that our first quarter was WEAK. A little sloppy on our passes, not running our plays, not catching the ball, missing easy shots, etc. And I usually don't like to sub until we get some kind of (what I call) MOJO going. What is MOJO? It's our rhythm of the game and each game is different depending on our opponents---Will we be slowing down the ball more to run plays? Will we be running and gunning? Will we work the perimeter? Or work it down low? MOJO is getting our strategic plan in action for defeating a team.
But the first quarter came and went. And to be honest, we never got our MOJO.....at least not until I starting putting our subs in. Trey Phillips, Mack Whitteker, and Ethan Watson did an EXCELLENT job today. They were listening to me! They were hustling! They were WANTING and READY to play ball! When their feet hit the floor, they left no hustle on the bench! Mack's aggressive defense (moving and shuffling his feet) caused the MUSTANGS to have several turnovers. In addition, Ethan and Trey worked the wing spots on the press and had some great steals on anticipating passes. And, Trey did an awesome job, running the floor and getting wide for some great assist and made baskets under the bucket---He even was a game HIGH SCORER of 10points!!!! I couldn't ask for a better group of subs than what I saw today!! Job well done boys! You brought the MOJO!
Scorers for Gunter: Trey Phillips 10, Davis Autry 9, Zander Turner 8, Bryson Rigsby 6, and Kyle Watson and Jasek Hooker both scored 2 each.
Our Gunter Tigers remain undefeated in league play and took a win over the Mustangs, 37-17. But next week, we will be put to the test because we play the undefeated, former competitive Dawgs. I have no doubt that we are capable of winning this game, but we must ALL be there READY and HUSTLING and PLAYING AS A TEAM to be able to come home with a victory again. We can't leave any hustle at home next week.
***HOMEWORK FOR EVERYONE! Shoot everyday!! And shoot like you would shoot in game (power up, set shots, hard drives, etc). Be sure to work on being in control, and squared to the basket, as well! We forced way too many shots today and took shots off balanced and not squared.....and missed way too many easy shots.
But the first quarter came and went. And to be honest, we never got our MOJO.....at least not until I starting putting our subs in. Trey Phillips, Mack Whitteker, and Ethan Watson did an EXCELLENT job today. They were listening to me! They were hustling! They were WANTING and READY to play ball! When their feet hit the floor, they left no hustle on the bench! Mack's aggressive defense (moving and shuffling his feet) caused the MUSTANGS to have several turnovers. In addition, Ethan and Trey worked the wing spots on the press and had some great steals on anticipating passes. And, Trey did an awesome job, running the floor and getting wide for some great assist and made baskets under the bucket---He even was a game HIGH SCORER of 10points!!!! I couldn't ask for a better group of subs than what I saw today!! Job well done boys! You brought the MOJO!
Scorers for Gunter: Trey Phillips 10, Davis Autry 9, Zander Turner 8, Bryson Rigsby 6, and Kyle Watson and Jasek Hooker both scored 2 each.
Our Gunter Tigers remain undefeated in league play and took a win over the Mustangs, 37-17. But next week, we will be put to the test because we play the undefeated, former competitive Dawgs. I have no doubt that we are capable of winning this game, but we must ALL be there READY and HUSTLING and PLAYING AS A TEAM to be able to come home with a victory again. We can't leave any hustle at home next week.
***HOMEWORK FOR EVERYONE! Shoot everyday!! And shoot like you would shoot in game (power up, set shots, hard drives, etc). Be sure to work on being in control, and squared to the basket, as well! We forced way too many shots today and took shots off balanced and not squared.....and missed way too many easy shots.
Field House New Year's Tournament
The GT boys played some good ball this
weekend! WOW! It was super fun! I have been waiting for us to
mesh and start playing together as a team.....and it finally came
together this weekend! Even though we lost by just 1 point in the
tournament championship game (to a respectful Competitive Team), I left
Frisco Fieldhouse that evening very proud of our boys for their efforts and what we accomplished that weekend!
They played with a lot of heart, lots of hustle, and did everything I
asked them to do. I'll take a lost gladly when we play like
that---any day! That's good stuff! And to be honest with you, we needed
the beating!!! It's a great "HUMBLING LESSON" for all of us
considering we have been dominating our league competition.
.JPG)
So a quick look back at our weekend playing at the New Year's Tournament.....
We began our tournament with a very weak MIS team, which I believe if I did my research right, might have been a private school team. We had a great time beating this team 51-9 and yes, the boys earned white headbands for reaching 50pts scored!!!! Even though this was a blowout....this game was a great warmup for the boys and got us to mesh really well!! We even tried a few new plays and ran a 2-3 zone some (which we never run defensively). And every player scored this game......
Bryson scored 13, Zander and Kyle scored 9, Davis 8, Jasek and Ethan scored 4 each and Mack and Trey contributed 2.
Our second match up was against a good team in our own league division, Run N Gun. These boys were big, fast, and athletic. In matter of fact, this team is actually a football team learning to play basketball. They gave us a better game. But, we still dominated both on offensive and defense. During this we did a great job getting our ball down low. And our post did an EXCELLENT JOB finishing the great passes. When I went back to look at the books, I smiled at the fact that the books were dictating a well disciplined-played game because our post had the most points. When that happens, it usually means one of two things....great rebounding by the post, and great assist from your guards to the post. Our guards assisted several made shots into Davis and Kyle and even Zander at times. We out ran, out scored, out hustled this team for a 36-12 victory.
Points Made by---Davis Autry 20, Kyle Watson 8, Zander Turner 7, Bryson Rigsby 4 and Jasek Hooker 2.
We closed the books on our first two games and landed in the CHAMPIONSHIP GAME with a very well respected, higher level team from the FieldHouse, Court of Dreams. Court of Dreams may not be the best team at the FieldHouse but they are among the best! I was anxious to see how we would play and do against a team that plays year round, that is much more experienced that us. And our boys matched up perfectly with this team! If my memory serves me right...we got an early lead on this team 7-0. But they made a slow come back and by half time they were leading by 1. After half time, it was back and forth. Both teams played great defense. Both teams executed the right plays at the right times. Both teams consisted of hustlers. It was a fun game to watch and a great game to coach! It came down to the last few seconds, a couple of free throw shots, and a last second shot. We came up one point short of a championship victory (28-27).
Points Made: Davis Autry 10, Kyle Watson 8, Zander Turner 5, Bryson Rigsby 2
The score may have reflected a loss. But, there is no way we will hang our heads low about that! We will not be disappointed in this loss because I am very pleased with every player's hustle and game play this weekend. This weekend we became a basketball TEAM! And we have proven we can compete with some of the best 5th grade teams around!!! We gained much more than a 2-1 tournament record this weekend. We made a name for our little Gunter team and possibly earned some respect too.
We had fun! We got better! That's a WIN in my book!
.JPG)
.JPG)
So a quick look back at our weekend playing at the New Year's Tournament.....
We began our tournament with a very weak MIS team, which I believe if I did my research right, might have been a private school team. We had a great time beating this team 51-9 and yes, the boys earned white headbands for reaching 50pts scored!!!! Even though this was a blowout....this game was a great warmup for the boys and got us to mesh really well!! We even tried a few new plays and ran a 2-3 zone some (which we never run defensively). And every player scored this game......
Bryson scored 13, Zander and Kyle scored 9, Davis 8, Jasek and Ethan scored 4 each and Mack and Trey contributed 2.
Our second match up was against a good team in our own league division, Run N Gun. These boys were big, fast, and athletic. In matter of fact, this team is actually a football team learning to play basketball. They gave us a better game. But, we still dominated both on offensive and defense. During this we did a great job getting our ball down low. And our post did an EXCELLENT JOB finishing the great passes. When I went back to look at the books, I smiled at the fact that the books were dictating a well disciplined-played game because our post had the most points. When that happens, it usually means one of two things....great rebounding by the post, and great assist from your guards to the post. Our guards assisted several made shots into Davis and Kyle and even Zander at times. We out ran, out scored, out hustled this team for a 36-12 victory.
Points Made by---Davis Autry 20, Kyle Watson 8, Zander Turner 7, Bryson Rigsby 4 and Jasek Hooker 2.
We closed the books on our first two games and landed in the CHAMPIONSHIP GAME with a very well respected, higher level team from the FieldHouse, Court of Dreams. Court of Dreams may not be the best team at the FieldHouse but they are among the best! I was anxious to see how we would play and do against a team that plays year round, that is much more experienced that us. And our boys matched up perfectly with this team! If my memory serves me right...we got an early lead on this team 7-0. But they made a slow come back and by half time they were leading by 1. After half time, it was back and forth. Both teams played great defense. Both teams executed the right plays at the right times. Both teams consisted of hustlers. It was a fun game to watch and a great game to coach! It came down to the last few seconds, a couple of free throw shots, and a last second shot. We came up one point short of a championship victory (28-27).
Points Made: Davis Autry 10, Kyle Watson 8, Zander Turner 5, Bryson Rigsby 2
The score may have reflected a loss. But, there is no way we will hang our heads low about that! We will not be disappointed in this loss because I am very pleased with every player's hustle and game play this weekend. This weekend we became a basketball TEAM! And we have proven we can compete with some of the best 5th grade teams around!!! We gained much more than a 2-1 tournament record this weekend. We made a name for our little Gunter team and possibly earned some respect too.
We had fun! We got better! That's a WIN in my book!
.JPG)
Tournament Time
Are we ready for this??? I admit, no practicing in the last week sure makes me a bit nervous for this tournament. But I am also excited to meet up with some REAL COMPETITION this weekend. These teams are legit teams that we will be playing! I think we will be "humbled" this weekend, to say the least! Win or lose....it will be good for us! And it keeps us playing some through the break!
Here is a link to the tournament!! http://fhusa.sportstech.net/Scheduler/public/PrintPage.aspx?Contestid=580&p=3
Let's have fun and get better this weekend!!!! :-)
See yall at 8:45am tomorrow at the Fieldhouse!
Here is a link to the tournament!! http://fhusa.sportstech.net/Scheduler/public/PrintPage.aspx?Contestid=580&p=3
Let's have fun and get better this weekend!!!! :-)
See yall at 8:45am tomorrow at the Fieldhouse!
Homework Challenge Completed!!!
I had three boys complete the Homework Challenge; Davis Autry, Jasek Hooker and Zander Turner! Excellent job boys and your prizes await for you at the tournament this Saturday.
(Zander did all of his homework today in the ice/cold and in Todd's heavy snow boots-haha!)
I loved the videos and photos the boys sent me too!!! Take a look:-).
(Zander did all of his homework today in the ice/cold and in Todd's heavy snow boots-haha!)
I loved the videos and photos the boys sent me too!!! Take a look:-).
Christmas Break Homework
Hey Team!!!! First of all, Merry Christmas!!!! May God bless you and your family this season!!! :-).
I am blogging just for the fun of it!!! Actually, I thought I would come up with some crazy HOMEWORK for you crazy boys!!!! You know, a little challenge to keep you playing during the break!!! So here is the deal. I have a some cool prizes for those who accept, attempt, and accomplish these challenges below.....
Challenges include......
1) Do one around the world (5 around ankle, knees, waist...sooo on up the body and back down), 10 quick hands, 10 shuffles and a MADE left hand lay up and finish with a MADE free throw within ONE MINUTE. Record it and send it to me at 903-818-7722.
2) Everyday make 20 free throws. If you want to make 40 in one day and take a day off the next.....go ahead!!! As long as you MADE 80 free throws by Thursday evening and your parents can verify it and send me a text before 5pm on Thursday, the challenge is completed. ----*** I am trusting you and your parents to be honest about this.
3) Send me a picture of you dribbling TWO BALLS at once!!! Try to dribble two balls at once for 5mins a day!!!!
4) Finally---Send me a picture of your favorite Christmas Gift
I am blogging just for the fun of it!!! Actually, I thought I would come up with some crazy HOMEWORK for you crazy boys!!!! You know, a little challenge to keep you playing during the break!!! So here is the deal. I have a some cool prizes for those who accept, attempt, and accomplish these challenges below.....
Challenges include......
1) Do one around the world (5 around ankle, knees, waist...sooo on up the body and back down), 10 quick hands, 10 shuffles and a MADE left hand lay up and finish with a MADE free throw within ONE MINUTE. Record it and send it to me at 903-818-7722.
2) Everyday make 20 free throws. If you want to make 40 in one day and take a day off the next.....go ahead!!! As long as you MADE 80 free throws by Thursday evening and your parents can verify it and send me a text before 5pm on Thursday, the challenge is completed. ----*** I am trusting you and your parents to be honest about this.
3) Send me a picture of you dribbling TWO BALLS at once!!! Try to dribble two balls at once for 5mins a day!!!!
4) Finally---Send me a picture of your favorite Christmas Gift
Game 3- Tigers vs. Frisco Flash
COAST!!! That's the word that describes our game play yesterday against the Frisco Flash. I really wish I could say it was because we went "Coast to Coast" on this team, but it isn't. Unfortunately, the boys were in "coast mode"....lacking 100% hustle. The boys were satisfied with the win, as well as am I. However, I am not satisfied on not giving 100% at all times.
A few things that showed a lack of hustle:
1) Instead of sprinting back on defense, we simply jogged back on defense, allowing this team to actually set up an offense and at times allow them to drive the lane.
2) We also lacked the hustle of going after loose balls. Instead, we stood in one place just waiting and hoping that a teammate would go get the ball.
3) We lacked following our shots and/or rebounding. If we missed a shot, we stood, flat-footed, just watching and waiting for someone to rebound....but no one (except Kyle Watson) was going after the ball.
4) We didn't aggressively penetrate the lane and when we did, we didn't go in STRONG. Instead, we would drive the lane and go in for a shot/layup not squared up and not in a good/strong position. Players must have control of the area where the shots are taken from...
We will have bad games. We will have games where we can't buy a basket. But I really want to teach the boys that we will not have games where we don't go in giving 100% hustle. We were clearly a better team than this team. We are better dribblers. We have a much more organized defense. We are much faster. But, we let this team look like they could compete with us.
Luckily we came out with a victory!!! Next time we might not be as lucky. Therefore...we will continue to get better and will learn from this game---- ME INCLUDED!!!!
Now---for the good stuff! Kyle Watson was one team player who was giving a 100% the entire game. Kyle is working hard at practice and in the games. He is learning to go up strong. He is listening to what the coaches are telling him to do, and he is trying to implement it in his play. Kyle Watson played his heart out yesterday!!! EXCELLENT JOB KYLE!!! Kyle gets PLAYER OF THE GAME this week by a long shot! Kyle scored 9 points and had several rebounds.
Other Scores from Game Three: Zander Turner 12, Mack Whitteker 4, and Jasek Hooker, Bryson Rigsby, and Trey Phillips all contributed 2pts each!!!
This week, I will text you all in regards to when we will practice......as GYA is on Christmas Break and not having practices. Our team will have a few practices over the break to get us ready for the New Year Tournament on Dec 29/30th.
A few things that showed a lack of hustle:
1) Instead of sprinting back on defense, we simply jogged back on defense, allowing this team to actually set up an offense and at times allow them to drive the lane.
2) We also lacked the hustle of going after loose balls. Instead, we stood in one place just waiting and hoping that a teammate would go get the ball.
3) We lacked following our shots and/or rebounding. If we missed a shot, we stood, flat-footed, just watching and waiting for someone to rebound....but no one (except Kyle Watson) was going after the ball.
4) We didn't aggressively penetrate the lane and when we did, we didn't go in STRONG. Instead, we would drive the lane and go in for a shot/layup not squared up and not in a good/strong position. Players must have control of the area where the shots are taken from...
We will have bad games. We will have games where we can't buy a basket. But I really want to teach the boys that we will not have games where we don't go in giving 100% hustle. We were clearly a better team than this team. We are better dribblers. We have a much more organized defense. We are much faster. But, we let this team look like they could compete with us.
Luckily we came out with a victory!!! Next time we might not be as lucky. Therefore...we will continue to get better and will learn from this game---- ME INCLUDED!!!!
Now---for the good stuff! Kyle Watson was one team player who was giving a 100% the entire game. Kyle is working hard at practice and in the games. He is learning to go up strong. He is listening to what the coaches are telling him to do, and he is trying to implement it in his play. Kyle Watson played his heart out yesterday!!! EXCELLENT JOB KYLE!!! Kyle gets PLAYER OF THE GAME this week by a long shot! Kyle scored 9 points and had several rebounds.
Other Scores from Game Three: Zander Turner 12, Mack Whitteker 4, and Jasek Hooker, Bryson Rigsby, and Trey Phillips all contributed 2pts each!!!
This week, I will text you all in regards to when we will practice......as GYA is on Christmas Break and not having practices. Our team will have a few practices over the break to get us ready for the New Year Tournament on Dec 29/30th.
Game 2- Gunter vs. Heat
It's always hard to tell how much you are improving when you play a much weaker team. This team was athletic and hustled well. They did great with stopping us from fast breaking (which is what usually separates us from other teams). When I went to look at the books, the Heat Team only earned 8pts. The rest of the points were foul shots or lucky throw up three pointers from beyond NBA three point line (HAHA). So really, I kind of count this win as a blow out (40-22 win)!!
Here is what pleased me tonight, as a coach...... Take a look at what I wanted to work on this past week and let's see how we have improved in just one week.
Last Week's Focus List:
1) Transitioning into a man defense. We struggled to ever really run a true man defense at any time. Our man defense looked sooo much better tonight. We did much better with transitioning from man to 3-2 zone. Great communication too!! :-)
2) Full court layups---with correct rebounding positions of other players. We didn't have many fast break layups, but we did have in the lane drives and we made majority of our layups from what I recall.
3) Free Throws---to my surprise we gave up way too many free throws. I don't have the books in front of me, but if I recall correctly, we made 3 out of 12?? OUCH! We improved from 22% to 50%. Still need to get that over 70%, but it's progress!!!! :-)
4) OFFENSE.....our offense plays were not ran much at all, and when we did run them, they were forced and OPEN HOLES were overlooked. This is still something I want to focus more on. But I did see some moments of excellent executions of a few plays. Tiger (aka Motion) worked well when the guards would pause to look down low:-). Slowing down, less dribbling and more passing is something I want to work on when it comes to offense. Sometimes we go into "FLIP-OUT MODE" and miss scoring opportunities.
5) Passing---must learn to bounce pass more.
6) Inbound Play positioning for the post. EXCELLENT TONIGHT ON INBOUND PLAYS AND POSITIONING!
So, after going back and looking at this list, I am very happy with our performance tonight! We still have SOOOO much more to work on. I think my biggest fear is PRESSING, as we haven't had the opportunity to use our press.
PLAYER OF THE GAME!!!!
Two players stuck out in my mind for PLAYER OF THE GAME tonight......
1) Bryson Rigsby----He did an amazing job taking it to the hole when it was available and had some great bounce passes inside for some great assist tonight! Excellent defense too..... Keep moving those feet:-) B had 9pts
2) Davis Autry-----Excellent on the boards and took great care of the ball after rebounding!!! Davis had 11pts, all which were earned well!! I am seeing Davis learning to GET BIG under the basket!! He made it look so easy too:-)
Other Scores for this game were: Zander Turner 9pts, Kyle Watson 4pts, Jasek Hooker 5pts, and Trey Phillips 2pts.
.JPG)
Here is what pleased me tonight, as a coach...... Take a look at what I wanted to work on this past week and let's see how we have improved in just one week.
Last Week's Focus List:
1) Transitioning into a man defense. We struggled to ever really run a true man defense at any time. Our man defense looked sooo much better tonight. We did much better with transitioning from man to 3-2 zone. Great communication too!! :-)
2) Full court layups---with correct rebounding positions of other players. We didn't have many fast break layups, but we did have in the lane drives and we made majority of our layups from what I recall.
3) Free Throws---to my surprise we gave up way too many free throws. I don't have the books in front of me, but if I recall correctly, we made 3 out of 12?? OUCH! We improved from 22% to 50%. Still need to get that over 70%, but it's progress!!!! :-)
4) OFFENSE.....our offense plays were not ran much at all, and when we did run them, they were forced and OPEN HOLES were overlooked. This is still something I want to focus more on. But I did see some moments of excellent executions of a few plays. Tiger (aka Motion) worked well when the guards would pause to look down low:-). Slowing down, less dribbling and more passing is something I want to work on when it comes to offense. Sometimes we go into "FLIP-OUT MODE" and miss scoring opportunities.
5) Passing---must learn to bounce pass more.
6) Inbound Play positioning for the post. EXCELLENT TONIGHT ON INBOUND PLAYS AND POSITIONING!
So, after going back and looking at this list, I am very happy with our performance tonight! We still have SOOOO much more to work on. I think my biggest fear is PRESSING, as we haven't had the opportunity to use our press.
PLAYER OF THE GAME!!!!
Two players stuck out in my mind for PLAYER OF THE GAME tonight......
1) Bryson Rigsby----He did an amazing job taking it to the hole when it was available and had some great bounce passes inside for some great assist tonight! Excellent defense too..... Keep moving those feet:-) B had 9pts
2) Davis Autry-----Excellent on the boards and took great care of the ball after rebounding!!! Davis had 11pts, all which were earned well!! I am seeing Davis learning to GET BIG under the basket!! He made it look so easy too:-)
Other Scores for this game were: Zander Turner 9pts, Kyle Watson 4pts, Jasek Hooker 5pts, and Trey Phillips 2pts.
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