Page 4 - Player Development Project Timberwolves
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What I Believe in Between the Lines
Ball handling
Pounding the basketball
Guys who can handle the basketball bounce it hard. The harder you bounce it, the more control you have over it because it is in your hands more often. Any ball handling drill should emphasize pounding the basketball.
Handle the ball under pressure
Guards must be able to handle pressure while seeing the floor and making the right decisions. This is why I believe this has to be worked on. Too many guys can handle it by themselves, but cannot get away from pressure.
Get to spots
Good ball handlers can get to any spot on the floor, at least in a 1 on 1 setting. Control of the ball, strength, deception are all keys for a guard to guard to go where he wants. Good guards get to their spots no matter what.
Finishing
Eyes on the target
Players are more accurate when able to see their target. It is important for players to have their heads up as they drive to the basket, not just to read the defense but also to be able to lock in on the target while finishing.
Perimeter Players must master different finishes
It is important for guards to be able to finish in the paint at a high rate. In order to do so, they need to be able to execute different finishes. Good guards can extend around shot blockers, use reverse finishes, scoop finishes, goofy foot finishes, veer finishes, inside hand finishes...
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