I'm sure you have heard the old philosophy that free-throws win games. It's true. On every level, free-throws can be the determining factor between a win and a loss. It also can determine if a coach will leave a player on the floor in crunch time. Good free-throw shooters will always have a spot in the coaches rotation because they can be counted on.
The way to become an efficient free-throw shooter is to practice daily. It is important to practice and make sure you implement the B-E-E-F method. Your feet should be Balanced, shoulder's width apart, lead shooting foot slightly in front of the other. The Elbow should be directly in line with the knee on the lead shooting leg. The Eyes should be locked on the rim, focusing on the middle eyelets. Your focus should be to get the ball over the rim. Do not shoot the ball short. Lastly, Follow Through on your shot with your fingers pointed towards the rim. Always give the ball an opportunity to go in.
Shoot your free-throws in sets of 10. Keep a count of how many you make or miss. 10 sets of 10 is 100 free-throws. You should be able to get this done efficiently if you stay focused. Put pressure on yourself by creating game situations while you are shooting.(The score is tied, no time on the clock, this free-throw will win my team the state-championship) You will be surprised at how much this will help win in game situations. You may even end up in on similar to the one I described.
There no substitute to being a good free-throw shooter. Work hard and practice on your free-throw shooting!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Defense wins Championships
Kudos to the 2008-2009 Chicago Bulls on their season and namely the playoff series versus the Boston Celtics in the first round. The Bulls became a contender in the eastern conference this season after acquiring Brad Miller and John Salmons. They were key pieces to our overall success this year and worked well with Derrick Rose, Ben Gordon, Kirk Hinrich, Joakim Noah, Tyrus Thomas and the other Bulls players that contributed off the bench.
Through trade acquisitions and the NBA draft, it would be in the Bulls best interest add a low post player and a big wing player that both can defend. These two acquisitions would be the difference in the Bulls pushing past the first round into the Eastern Conference Championship. Boston, Cleveland and Orlando all have players that provide this type of presence.
It makes a big difference when a perimeter player drives the lane and there is a defensive enforcer clogging up the lane. It also changes the complexion of the game when a big wing player is cutting an offense player's angles to the basket off or forcing them to the baseline. Those defensive adjustments can and will discourage good offensive teams from attacking the basket and the lane.
Remember, defense wins championships from the youth level to the NBA!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Through trade acquisitions and the NBA draft, it would be in the Bulls best interest add a low post player and a big wing player that both can defend. These two acquisitions would be the difference in the Bulls pushing past the first round into the Eastern Conference Championship. Boston, Cleveland and Orlando all have players that provide this type of presence.
It makes a big difference when a perimeter player drives the lane and there is a defensive enforcer clogging up the lane. It also changes the complexion of the game when a big wing player is cutting an offense player's angles to the basket off or forcing them to the baseline. Those defensive adjustments can and will discourage good offensive teams from attacking the basket and the lane.
Remember, defense wins championships from the youth level to the NBA!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Fine Tuning the Fundamentals
Yesterday, I trained Drew Crawford, Naperville Central standout, 2008-09 Player of the Year in Du Page County and future Northwestern University student-athlete. Drew has played off at the Bulls Academy one season each year since he was a 6th grader and has developed into an excellent basketball player. Drew understands that in order to play basketball and be a contributor at the collegiate level he has to continue to fine tune his fundamentals. The ability to make simple plays and execute consistently makes a major difference in having individual and team success at the collegiate level.A player of Drew's caliber has accomplished a great deal in basketball and has mastered the basic skills. It is not necessary to re-teach the basics but to adjust certain things and focus on the small ones.
For instance, when a player catch the ball on the wing, make sure they look at the basket in triple threat and read the defender before making a decision to pass, shoot or dribble. It is not necessary for the offensive player to make a decision in hurry. Be patient. This gives the offense player an enormous advantage over the defender. The defender is at the offense player's mercy they cannot determine what the offense player is going to do.
When an offense player is shooting on the perimeter, it is important for them to focus on their footwork. Making baskets and gaining advantages on your defender can come down to footwork and the ability to create space. It also gives a player the opportunity to attack the gaps to the lane and the basket.
Practicing the proper footwork is essential for a player to gain an advantage to pass, dribble or shoot as well. At the college level, all players are quick and strong so the opportunity to get open shots are rare. You can create offense opportunities by having good footwork.
Remember, work on your game daily. If you are not, someone else who is gains on you!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
For instance, when a player catch the ball on the wing, make sure they look at the basket in triple threat and read the defender before making a decision to pass, shoot or dribble. It is not necessary for the offensive player to make a decision in hurry. Be patient. This gives the offense player an enormous advantage over the defender. The defender is at the offense player's mercy they cannot determine what the offense player is going to do.
When an offense player is shooting on the perimeter, it is important for them to focus on their footwork. Making baskets and gaining advantages on your defender can come down to footwork and the ability to create space. It also gives a player the opportunity to attack the gaps to the lane and the basket.
Practicing the proper footwork is essential for a player to gain an advantage to pass, dribble or shoot as well. At the college level, all players are quick and strong so the opportunity to get open shots are rare. You can create offense opportunities by having good footwork.
Remember, work on your game daily. If you are not, someone else who is gains on you!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Off-season workouts for young basketball players
It is important that young basketball players implement an off-season workout to compliment whatever other basketball activity they participate in. If its AAU, club or travel basketball, a player needs to focus on the individual weaknesses they need to strengthen for next basketball season in their respective school. The player that works daily to strengthen their weaknesses will get better and more confident overall.
Players should spend time daily working on their individual skills. Their is not an average time that should a player should spend but it should be quality time. It is important to maximize your time and work at game speed on all of your drills. Ball handling, shooting, footwork, etc. should all be executed at the highest level possible. Do not be concerned with making mistakes, practice makes perfect.
Do something basketball related daily.
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Players should spend time daily working on their individual skills. Their is not an average time that should a player should spend but it should be quality time. It is important to maximize your time and work at game speed on all of your drills. Ball handling, shooting, footwork, etc. should all be executed at the highest level possible. Do not be concerned with making mistakes, practice makes perfect.
Do something basketball related daily.
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
What is Kobe doing at the House of Hoops- Chicago?
I had the pleasure of meeting Kobe Bryant this weekend at the House of Hoops in the North Riverside Mall this weekend. The House of Hoops launched Kobe's new basketball shoe at the store this weekend. The Los Angeles Lakers played the Chicago Bulls this weekend and the Lakers stayed in Chicago before traveling to Oklahoma City for their game on Tuesday night. One of my best friends, Todd Ambers, is the manager of the House of Hoops- Chicago and coordinated the event and provided me with the opportunity for me to meet Kobe.
Kobe was a great person and a joy to speak with. His basketball intellect is extremely high and I asked him a few questions about playing for Phil Jackson, running the triangle offense and how he stays ahead of the curve on the court himself. Kobe explained to me that he does some form of sports performance and lifts weights daily. In addition, he shoots and MAKES 500 jump shots daily. He even does this workout on game days! I was amazed but not surprised because he clearly strives to be the best. I told Kobe that I worked with youth basketball players at the Chicago Bulls/ White Sox Training Academy in Lisle, Illinois and wanted to give them some advice from him. Kobe replied, "It is imperative to work on your game. Everyday that you don't, someone is gaining ground on you. There is no substitute for hard work and hard work overrides talent."
I had the pleasure of playing basketball with Michael Jordan when he made his second comeback to the NBA and he had the same work ethic. Kobe Bryant is the one NBA player that appears to have the desire and skill to achieve some of the milestones the Michael Jordan did while he was in the NBA. In my opinion, Michael Jordan is still the best to EVER play the game though. Michael's lifetime average of 32.3 points a game and six world championships will always hold a cornerstone in basketball history. He was also a Chicago Bull!
I am appreciative to have had the opportunity to meet Kobe Bryant but mostly to have had the opportunity to converse with him. I enjoyed speaking with him about basketball and having similar basketball philosophies.
Remember, there is no substitute for hard work!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
March Madness- "Feel the heat"
Tournament time is here for college hoops and the field of 65 will be determined after tonight's play in game between Alabama State vs. Morehead State. The brackets are set and everyone is eagerly awaiting the games on this upcoming Thursday.
In my opinion, there is not a clear cut NCAA champion this year. Connecticut, Pittsburgh, Louisville and North Carolina are all legitimate number one seeds but there are other good basketball teams that could push through to make a run for the championship as well. Memphis, Oklahoma, Duke, Kansas, Villanova are a few that will be in the hunt. The dark horses like VCU, Western Kentucky, Mississippi State, Xavier will all compete hard to push through their respective brackets as well to upset some higher seeds as well.
I am in a bit of a quandary as I select my picks for my NCAA pool. If I follow my heart, Chattanooga (my Alma mater) beats UConn to go on to the National Championship! You never know what may happen during March Madness!
Good luck on your pools and I hope your teams win!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
In my opinion, there is not a clear cut NCAA champion this year. Connecticut, Pittsburgh, Louisville and North Carolina are all legitimate number one seeds but there are other good basketball teams that could push through to make a run for the championship as well. Memphis, Oklahoma, Duke, Kansas, Villanova are a few that will be in the hunt. The dark horses like VCU, Western Kentucky, Mississippi State, Xavier will all compete hard to push through their respective brackets as well to upset some higher seeds as well.
I am in a bit of a quandary as I select my picks for my NCAA pool. If I follow my heart, Chattanooga (my Alma mater) beats UConn to go on to the National Championship! You never know what may happen during March Madness!
Good luck on your pools and I hope your teams win!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Thursday, March 12, 2009
The mid-range shot- "A lost art that can be mastered"
The three-point line and the slam dunk has been a major influence on many of today's young players. They have also set the offense limitations that many players possess as they become high school and collegiate players. While attending a high school game this season, I realized that most players do not understand how to create and make a mid-range shot.
The three-point line was implemented into high school basketball the year after I graduated from Thornwood High School in South Holland, Illinois. We were taught daily in practice to catch in triple threat, read the defender's feet, create space by attacking the outside shoulder, take one or two hard power dribbles and pull up for a 12 to 15 foot jump shot. Our perimeter offense was based on screens and back cuts but when you caught the basketball on the wing, you were supposed to look to attack your defender. This translated to the college level when I played at Chattanooga. Even though the three-point line was in play, we were taught not to settle. Our coaches would repeatedly tell us, "Don't let your defender off of the hook, attack him and force him to play you." Looking for the mid-range jump shot will also cause the defender to commit fouls to stop an effective shooter. The result of the defender fouling the offensive player is a trip to the free-throw line. I was never a three-point shooter but scored three-point baskets by making the two point shot a drawing a foul on my defender. I would go to the free-throw line to complete the three-point play.
Mid-range shooting has to be practiced and taught. The easiest way for a player to master becoming a solid mid-range shooter is to shoot the ball for 12 to 15 feet at game speed. The player should work out of five spots on the floor: left and right corner, left and right wing and the top of the key. Start out of triple-threat position facing the basket. Pump fake the basketball with a jab step toward the basket, (keep your pivot foot down) take one or two hard power dribbles to get into the 12 to 15 foot range for a jump shot. You should MAKE 20 shots from all five spots. (Total of 100 shots)
Remember, without hard work there are no results. The mid-range shot can be the difference in a player being an real scoring threat or an average offensive player. It will help your point production and give you an opportunity to help you team.
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
The three-point line was implemented into high school basketball the year after I graduated from Thornwood High School in South Holland, Illinois. We were taught daily in practice to catch in triple threat, read the defender's feet, create space by attacking the outside shoulder, take one or two hard power dribbles and pull up for a 12 to 15 foot jump shot. Our perimeter offense was based on screens and back cuts but when you caught the basketball on the wing, you were supposed to look to attack your defender. This translated to the college level when I played at Chattanooga. Even though the three-point line was in play, we were taught not to settle. Our coaches would repeatedly tell us, "Don't let your defender off of the hook, attack him and force him to play you." Looking for the mid-range jump shot will also cause the defender to commit fouls to stop an effective shooter. The result of the defender fouling the offensive player is a trip to the free-throw line. I was never a three-point shooter but scored three-point baskets by making the two point shot a drawing a foul on my defender. I would go to the free-throw line to complete the three-point play.
Mid-range shooting has to be practiced and taught. The easiest way for a player to master becoming a solid mid-range shooter is to shoot the ball for 12 to 15 feet at game speed. The player should work out of five spots on the floor: left and right corner, left and right wing and the top of the key. Start out of triple-threat position facing the basket. Pump fake the basketball with a jab step toward the basket, (keep your pivot foot down) take one or two hard power dribbles to get into the 12 to 15 foot range for a jump shot. You should MAKE 20 shots from all five spots. (Total of 100 shots)
Remember, without hard work there are no results. The mid-range shot can be the difference in a player being an real scoring threat or an average offensive player. It will help your point production and give you an opportunity to help you team.
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
March Madness- "Ready or not, it's here!"
All college basketball fans know that March Madness has begun. I was given my cue last night while watching the College of Charleston vs. Chattanooga for the Southern Conference Championship. Chattanooga defeated College of Charleston to win the SouCon championship. The last conference championship was won by the Chattanooga Mocs in 2005.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is my Alma mater and where I played collegiate basketball from 1987-1991. I was fortunate to receive an athletic scholarship and win a conference championship in during my freshman season which was 1987-88. We played Marshall University in the Sou Con Championship and went on to the NCAA tournament to play in Atlanta in the first round. Our bracket was Bradley, Auburn, Oklahoma and Chattanooga. I watched Bradley's standout and former NBA player, Hersey Hawkins score 44 points vs. Auburn in a defeat! Hersey had 31 points in the first half and 13 in the second. It was an amazing game.
Chattanooga played Oklahoma in the first round. Oklahoma's starting lineup had three NBA basketball players: Mookie Blaylock, Harvey Grant and current Chicago Bulls TV color commentator, Stacey King. At halftime, the score was 48-44 Oklahoma! They had been scoring 100 points all season and blowing teams out. Oklahoma ended up defeating us by a 12 point margin but we played a great game. It was an experience that I will always cherish and never forget.
Congratulations to my Chattanooga Mocs for making the 2009 tournament and best of luck in the tournament! The Mocs pride continues to run deep...Let the games begin!
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is my Alma mater and where I played collegiate basketball from 1987-1991. I was fortunate to receive an athletic scholarship and win a conference championship in during my freshman season which was 1987-88. We played Marshall University in the Sou Con Championship and went on to the NCAA tournament to play in Atlanta in the first round. Our bracket was Bradley, Auburn, Oklahoma and Chattanooga. I watched Bradley's standout and former NBA player, Hersey Hawkins score 44 points vs. Auburn in a defeat! Hersey had 31 points in the first half and 13 in the second. It was an amazing game.
Chattanooga played Oklahoma in the first round. Oklahoma's starting lineup had three NBA basketball players: Mookie Blaylock, Harvey Grant and current Chicago Bulls TV color commentator, Stacey King. At halftime, the score was 48-44 Oklahoma! They had been scoring 100 points all season and blowing teams out. Oklahoma ended up defeating us by a 12 point margin but we played a great game. It was an experience that I will always cherish and never forget.
Congratulations to my Chattanooga Mocs for making the 2009 tournament and best of luck in the tournament! The Mocs pride continues to run deep...Let the games begin!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Johnny "Red" Kerr- the man, the myth, the legend.
I am writing today's blog with a very heavy heart. While I was writing last Thursday's blog about Norm Van Lier, Johnny "Red" Kerr was passing through this basketball life to basketball heaven. It is ironic that both men passed away on the same day and the impact it has left on the basketball world and Chicago is tremendous.
Johnny "Red" Kerr was a basketball legend. Most people knew him as a University of Illinois basketball standout, three time NBA all-star that played in the same conference as George Mikan and Wilt Chamberlain, first Chicago Bulls head coach and legendary Chicago Bulls broadcaster. As the Chicago Tribune's Chicago Bulls sports writer Sam Smith wrote, "Johnny "Red" Kerr was the original iron man." He packed his lunch pale and went to work every single day like most Chicagoans do.
My connections with Johnny "Red' Kerr were through working for the Chicago Bulls. I was the Coordinator of Player Marketing for the Chicago Bulls and I handled the appearance and endorsement opportunities for the current and former basketball players. Mr "Red" (is how I referred to him) was the MC for a Chevrolet event for the Chicago Bulls top draft pick, Elton Brand. It was Elton's rookie season and Chevrolet had offered him and the Bulls the same endorsement deal that Michael Jordan received as a rookie. Ironically, it was a Scottish holiday and Mr. "Red" made sure that everyone knew it. Mr. "Red" wore a kilt and a hat to represent his Scottish heritage. A six foot ten inch man with a kilt on! He asked me had I seen better legs on a 6"10 guy and I quickly said no. Mr."Red said that he knew he didn't have pretty legs but didn't care. He was not trying to please us anyway! We had a ball laughing with Mr. "Red" that day. I also found out that Mr. "Red' was a south sider and grew up on 67th and Racine. He went to Tilden High School, which had rich basketball tradition that Mr. "Red helped create. He was and remained true to his roots that carried through his playing days and broadcast career.
I am truly honored to have had the opportunity to work with and know Johnny "Red" Kerr. He is Chicago Bulls basketball and I will miss him dearly. He is the grandfather of Chicago Bulls basketball and a cornerstone of the NBA. Mr. "Red" and "Stormin" Norman are looking down from basketball heaven rooting the Bulls on forever!!!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Johnny "Red" Kerr was a basketball legend. Most people knew him as a University of Illinois basketball standout, three time NBA all-star that played in the same conference as George Mikan and Wilt Chamberlain, first Chicago Bulls head coach and legendary Chicago Bulls broadcaster. As the Chicago Tribune's Chicago Bulls sports writer Sam Smith wrote, "Johnny "Red" Kerr was the original iron man." He packed his lunch pale and went to work every single day like most Chicagoans do.
My connections with Johnny "Red' Kerr were through working for the Chicago Bulls. I was the Coordinator of Player Marketing for the Chicago Bulls and I handled the appearance and endorsement opportunities for the current and former basketball players. Mr "Red" (is how I referred to him) was the MC for a Chevrolet event for the Chicago Bulls top draft pick, Elton Brand. It was Elton's rookie season and Chevrolet had offered him and the Bulls the same endorsement deal that Michael Jordan received as a rookie. Ironically, it was a Scottish holiday and Mr. "Red" made sure that everyone knew it. Mr. "Red" wore a kilt and a hat to represent his Scottish heritage. A six foot ten inch man with a kilt on! He asked me had I seen better legs on a 6"10 guy and I quickly said no. Mr."Red said that he knew he didn't have pretty legs but didn't care. He was not trying to please us anyway! We had a ball laughing with Mr. "Red" that day. I also found out that Mr. "Red' was a south sider and grew up on 67th and Racine. He went to Tilden High School, which had rich basketball tradition that Mr. "Red helped create. He was and remained true to his roots that carried through his playing days and broadcast career.
I am truly honored to have had the opportunity to work with and know Johnny "Red" Kerr. He is Chicago Bulls basketball and I will miss him dearly. He is the grandfather of Chicago Bulls basketball and a cornerstone of the NBA. Mr. "Red" and "Stormin" Norman are looking down from basketball heaven rooting the Bulls on forever!!!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Thursday, February 26, 2009
"48 Minutes of Intensity"- A tribute to Norm Van Lier"
The Chicago sports world lost a great man today. Former Bulls great and Comcast Sports Net Bulls commentator Norm Van Lier passed away at the age of 61. Norm's nickname was "Stormin" Norman and he lived up to it as a player. Norm was a feisty point guard who was always mixing it up and diving for loose balls on the court. He was a solid play maker and managed to maintain double-figure scoring seven of the ten years he played in the NBA. Norm's "intensity" on defense was the attribute that set him apart and made him a three-time All-Star as well.
I was fortunate to work with Norm Van Lier at Sports Channel (Comcast Sports Net) and the Chicago Bulls. I also considered Norm as a basketball mentor and friend. Norm lived his life with "intensity" and was not afraid to share his point of view on Chicago Bulls basketball. His wealth of basketball knowledge gave him the permission to speak his mind about whomever and however he chose. Norm wanted today's basketball player to understand that playing hard every practice and game is mandatory. He would point out the players that did not do it and hold them accountable to adjust it. He was "old school" and there are not enough people that share his philosophy. Norm also was one of my celebrity guests at the grand opening of our Schamburg Bulls basketball programs at the Schaumburg Sports Center and a host of other Chicago Bulls sponsored events throughout the years.
I had the pleasure of being coached by Norm in a pre-game scrimmage at the United Center a couple of years ago. Norm was intense as a coach and pushed our team to play hard even though it was a scrimmage. He gave me a compliment about the way I played defense. This was a surreal moment for me because I grew up emulating Norm! I truly appreciated it because the compliment came from Norm Van Lier. I grew up and am currently a die-hard Chicago Bulls fan and watched "Stormin" Norman when I was a little guy. My godfather, Flynn Robinson, was a Chicago Bull for about a year with Norm Van Lier. Flynn was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers and there was no cable TV at that time to watch my godfather play. Even though he was my godfather, my dad's rule was that we pulled for home team anyway. My formal basketball years were then developed watching Norm and his backcourt mate, Jerry Sloan play for the Chicago Bulls. The were both as tough as nails and arguably one of the best backcourt tandems ever in the NBA. They played tenacious defense and made it hard on their opponents at all times. I grew trying to emulate Norm's style of play.
As youth, grade and high school coaches, it is important to demand your players to play hard every practice and game. They will appreciate you for it and will maximize their opportunities on the basketball court in the future. There is no substitute for players giving "48 minutes of intensity" or however many minutes of "intensity" you play at your game level. Players, give your best effort at ALL times. Don't ever let it be a question about your desire and will to play the game of basketball!
"Goodbye Norm! I am going to do my part in carrying on your basketball philosophy!!!"
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
I was fortunate to work with Norm Van Lier at Sports Channel (Comcast Sports Net) and the Chicago Bulls. I also considered Norm as a basketball mentor and friend. Norm lived his life with "intensity" and was not afraid to share his point of view on Chicago Bulls basketball. His wealth of basketball knowledge gave him the permission to speak his mind about whomever and however he chose. Norm wanted today's basketball player to understand that playing hard every practice and game is mandatory. He would point out the players that did not do it and hold them accountable to adjust it. He was "old school" and there are not enough people that share his philosophy. Norm also was one of my celebrity guests at the grand opening of our Schamburg Bulls basketball programs at the Schaumburg Sports Center and a host of other Chicago Bulls sponsored events throughout the years.
I had the pleasure of being coached by Norm in a pre-game scrimmage at the United Center a couple of years ago. Norm was intense as a coach and pushed our team to play hard even though it was a scrimmage. He gave me a compliment about the way I played defense. This was a surreal moment for me because I grew up emulating Norm! I truly appreciated it because the compliment came from Norm Van Lier. I grew up and am currently a die-hard Chicago Bulls fan and watched "Stormin" Norman when I was a little guy. My godfather, Flynn Robinson, was a Chicago Bull for about a year with Norm Van Lier. Flynn was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers and there was no cable TV at that time to watch my godfather play. Even though he was my godfather, my dad's rule was that we pulled for home team anyway. My formal basketball years were then developed watching Norm and his backcourt mate, Jerry Sloan play for the Chicago Bulls. The were both as tough as nails and arguably one of the best backcourt tandems ever in the NBA. They played tenacious defense and made it hard on their opponents at all times. I grew trying to emulate Norm's style of play.
As youth, grade and high school coaches, it is important to demand your players to play hard every practice and game. They will appreciate you for it and will maximize their opportunities on the basketball court in the future. There is no substitute for players giving "48 minutes of intensity" or however many minutes of "intensity" you play at your game level. Players, give your best effort at ALL times. Don't ever let it be a question about your desire and will to play the game of basketball!
"Goodbye Norm! I am going to do my part in carrying on your basketball philosophy!!!"
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Pick and Roll- the most efficient offensive play in basketball
The Pick and Roll is one of the oldest, but most effective offensive plays in basketball. John Stockton and Karl Malone of the Utah Jazz, ran the pick and roll to perfection. They are both future Hall of Fame basketball players and two of the 50 Greatest Players to ever play in the NBA. The Pick and Roll was the primary source of offense and gave both players scoring opportunities that opposing players had difficulty defending.
The "ball handler" dribbles the basketball toward the "screener" for the pick to be set. The "ball handler" has to utilize the pick by coming directly off of the "screener's" shoulder, making sure there is no space for the defender to slide through. If the defender is able to slide through the pick, the pick and roll immediately breaks down.
The "ball handler" proceed to dribble off of the "screener's" shoulder towards the basket. The "screener" then seals the defender on his outside hip and "rolls" towards the basket with his or her outside hand up for the pass. The "ball handler" has to make the decision to pass the basketball to the "screener" if he or she is open. If the "screener" is not open for the pass then the jump shot should be open for the "ball handler."
This is a simple play coaches can run at the youth and high school levels to get player open layups and jump shots. Remember, keep the game simple and players will execute!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
The "ball handler" dribbles the basketball toward the "screener" for the pick to be set. The "ball handler" has to utilize the pick by coming directly off of the "screener's" shoulder, making sure there is no space for the defender to slide through. If the defender is able to slide through the pick, the pick and roll immediately breaks down.
The "ball handler" proceed to dribble off of the "screener's" shoulder towards the basket. The "screener" then seals the defender on his outside hip and "rolls" towards the basket with his or her outside hand up for the pass. The "ball handler" has to make the decision to pass the basketball to the "screener" if he or she is open. If the "screener" is not open for the pass then the jump shot should be open for the "ball handler."
This is a simple play coaches can run at the youth and high school levels to get player open layups and jump shots. Remember, keep the game simple and players will execute!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
"Shooting the Rock with Barack- Part 2
This past Sunday, I was granted the opportunity to play basketball with the President of the United States, Barack Obama. I was on a short list of guys that President Obama requested to play with and while he was in Chicago and I was honored to join him.
We met at 10:30am and secret service people were everywhere. There were police setting barricades and helicopters flying around to secure the location for the president's arrival. President Obama arrived at 11:00am sharp with his Chicago White Sox hat on looking like a "true" south sider! He greeted everyone personally and proceeded to get ready to play basketball!
The teams were split and there were four groups of players. President Obama and I were not on the same team this time though. He and I started out playing on different courts and we both won our games. We would play against each other in the second game because both of our teams won in the first games.
We began playing the second game against the President's squad and it was tight! President Obama scored the first three baskets for his team. (A jump shot and two layups) We were down 3-1 early in the game. Our teams battled defensively through the game and that limited the open scoring opportunities for everyone. The score of the game was 10-10 and game point was 11. I brought the ball up the court on the dribble and passed it inside to my teammate for a layup which was blocked. The President's squad drove the ball down the floor and turned the ball over to one of my teammates. My teammate proceeded to throw me the ball as I ran toward our basket. I caught the basketball and dribbled it as my defender dropped back to defend the basket. I stopped and pulled up for a 19 foot jump shot and hit the bottom of the net! We beat the President's team by one basket! President Obama was one of the first people to congratulate me on making the shot. He also was fired up at his teammate for giving me an open look at the basket. President Obama called me the "bionic man" because I wear a knee brace due to my chronic knee problems. I thought it was hilarious and everyone shared in the laughter when he said it.
When we finished playing, President Obama thanked everyone for attending and told us he looked forward to playing with us again soon. We all thanked him as well. One of the the guys yelled to the President, "When will you fly us out to D.C. to play at Camp David?" President Obama replied, " It may be sooner than you think."
Stay tuned........
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
We met at 10:30am and secret service people were everywhere. There were police setting barricades and helicopters flying around to secure the location for the president's arrival. President Obama arrived at 11:00am sharp with his Chicago White Sox hat on looking like a "true" south sider! He greeted everyone personally and proceeded to get ready to play basketball!
The teams were split and there were four groups of players. President Obama and I were not on the same team this time though. He and I started out playing on different courts and we both won our games. We would play against each other in the second game because both of our teams won in the first games.
We began playing the second game against the President's squad and it was tight! President Obama scored the first three baskets for his team. (A jump shot and two layups) We were down 3-1 early in the game. Our teams battled defensively through the game and that limited the open scoring opportunities for everyone. The score of the game was 10-10 and game point was 11. I brought the ball up the court on the dribble and passed it inside to my teammate for a layup which was blocked. The President's squad drove the ball down the floor and turned the ball over to one of my teammates. My teammate proceeded to throw me the ball as I ran toward our basket. I caught the basketball and dribbled it as my defender dropped back to defend the basket. I stopped and pulled up for a 19 foot jump shot and hit the bottom of the net! We beat the President's team by one basket! President Obama was one of the first people to congratulate me on making the shot. He also was fired up at his teammate for giving me an open look at the basket. President Obama called me the "bionic man" because I wear a knee brace due to my chronic knee problems. I thought it was hilarious and everyone shared in the laughter when he said it.
When we finished playing, President Obama thanked everyone for attending and told us he looked forward to playing with us again soon. We all thanked him as well. One of the the guys yelled to the President, "When will you fly us out to D.C. to play at Camp David?" President Obama replied, " It may be sooner than you think."
Stay tuned........
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Sportsmanship- another key to success
Sportsmanship in youth sports is not being stressed enough. It is an important ingredient in the development of an athlete. There are a number of talented athletes playing sports but you hear stories about the lack of character and discipline that some athletes fail to possess. It is very unfortunate because they probably did not have a coach that stressed to the athlete the importance of having a good attitude and being coachable.
Basketball coaches should stress sportsmanship for the youth basketball player to make them accountable for their actions. It should not matter how much talent a player has in regard to making the player adhere to rules and have a positive attitude. Children look to adults for discipline no matter what the may say or do. As coaches, it is our job to give them a solid foundation so they can succeed on the basketball court and in life.
A basketball player's attitude can and will determine their altitude! Don't let your basketball players sell themselves short. Make sure they are conducting themselves properly on and off the court!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Basketball coaches should stress sportsmanship for the youth basketball player to make them accountable for their actions. It should not matter how much talent a player has in regard to making the player adhere to rules and have a positive attitude. Children look to adults for discipline no matter what the may say or do. As coaches, it is our job to give them a solid foundation so they can succeed on the basketball court and in life.
A basketball player's attitude can and will determine their altitude! Don't let your basketball players sell themselves short. Make sure they are conducting themselves properly on and off the court!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Triple threat position- The key to being a true offensive threat
In the grade, middle and high school I have watched this season, there are only a few players that are truly using the triple threat position on offense. A player can pass, dribble or shoot out of triple threat position. The offensive player is in total control when in triple threat position because the defense can only anticipate what they are going to do.
The other component that makes the triple threat position dangerous is for players to always face the basket. Facing the basket gives the offensive player an advantage to look for a shot, see passing lanes and seams to the basket. It is important for players to discipline themselves to catch and face the basket every time they catch the basketball on the perimeter. A good defender will not guard a player to shoot the basketball that is not in triple threat position. You will become predictable and liability if you are not at least a threat to shoot the basketball.
Offensive players, remember to stay in triple threat position when you are offense. I will give you an immediate advantage over your defender and you are a threat to pass, dribble and shoot at all times.
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
The other component that makes the triple threat position dangerous is for players to always face the basket. Facing the basket gives the offensive player an advantage to look for a shot, see passing lanes and seams to the basket. It is important for players to discipline themselves to catch and face the basket every time they catch the basketball on the perimeter. A good defender will not guard a player to shoot the basketball that is not in triple threat position. You will become predictable and liability if you are not at least a threat to shoot the basketball.
Offensive players, remember to stay in triple threat position when you are offense. I will give you an immediate advantage over your defender and you are a threat to pass, dribble and shoot at all times.
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Lincoln Way North vs. Bolingbrook
Tonight, two Bulls Academy players face off against one another on the high school circuit. The Lincoln Way North Phoenix will host the Bolingbrook Raiders tonight at 7:30pm. Junior guard, Kendall Salley and the Phoenix will take on University of Wisconsin senior guard Diamond Taylor and the Raiders.
Coach Bob Curran of Lincoln Way North is a long time friend and Coach Rob Brost of Bolingbrook is a good friend and former Supervisor of Basketball Operations at the Bulls Academy. Both men are excellent basketball technicians and provide good structure and discipline for their teams. t
Both young men have compete against one another here at the Bulls Academy and I expect to see the same sportsmanship during their high school game tonight. I feel like a proud father watching his boys play against on another! I am extremely proud of both players regardless of the outcome of the game!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Coach Bob Curran of Lincoln Way North is a long time friend and Coach Rob Brost of Bolingbrook is a good friend and former Supervisor of Basketball Operations at the Bulls Academy. Both men are excellent basketball technicians and provide good structure and discipline for their teams. t
Both young men have compete against one another here at the Bulls Academy and I expect to see the same sportsmanship during their high school game tonight. I feel like a proud father watching his boys play against on another! I am extremely proud of both players regardless of the outcome of the game!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Kudos to Bulls Academy High School Players
There have been several Bulls Academy players featured at their respective high schools over the past week. I have had the opportunity to see these young men play over the past week and wanted to recognize their efforts:
-Stephen Bardo- University of Chicago Labratory High School
-Drew Crawford- Naperville Central High School- Player of the week, Chicago Sun-Times, last week.
-Clay Foster- Hinsdale Central High School
-Jordan Gipson- University of Chicago Labratory High School
-Malcolm Herron- Downers Grove South High School
-Zeke Upshaw- University of Chicago Labratory High School
-Kendall Salley- Lincoln-Way North High School
Good look to all of my Bulls Academy players. (boys and girls) I or one of my basketball staff members look forward to seeing you all on the court before the end of your high school season!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
-Stephen Bardo- University of Chicago Labratory High School
-Drew Crawford- Naperville Central High School- Player of the week, Chicago Sun-Times, last week.
-Clay Foster- Hinsdale Central High School
-Jordan Gipson- University of Chicago Labratory High School
-Malcolm Herron- Downers Grove South High School
-Zeke Upshaw- University of Chicago Labratory High School
-Kendall Salley- Lincoln-Way North High School
Good look to all of my Bulls Academy players. (boys and girls) I or one of my basketball staff members look forward to seeing you all on the court before the end of your high school season!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Monday, January 26, 2009
Ball Handling
Ball Handling is another essential component to be an effective offensive basketball player. It is important to stress ball handling to young basketball players in order for them totally develop their offensive basketball skills. The best way to become a better ball handler is to handle the ball consistently. Daily repetition is the key to success to being a better and effective ball handler.
Good basketball players can handle the basketball with either hand. Strong ball handlers know what type of dribble move to use depending on the situation. Dribbling around cones, executing a spin move, rocker step, cross through the legs, reverse pivot, in and out, etc. All of these moves should and must be practiced at game speed to have the ability to execute them in game situations.
Ball handlers must learn to handle the basketball playing against a defender in order to learn how to protect the ball. It is important for ball handlers to remember to keep the ball low and use their body for separation between the ball and the defender. (basketball, ball handler, defender) Footwork is essential in ball handling as well.
Big guys (forwards and centers) should learn to handle the basketball as well. They should execute the same ball handling drills as small guys (guards) are. In practice, big guys (forwards and centers) should work on ball handling independently from the small guys (guards). It will help their confidence and they will compete with players that are working at the same level.
A player that can handle the basketball is hard to defend and very valuable to their team. Remember, work hard and at game speed and you can improve your ball handling! You have to spend time daily in order to see improvement.
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Good basketball players can handle the basketball with either hand. Strong ball handlers know what type of dribble move to use depending on the situation. Dribbling around cones, executing a spin move, rocker step, cross through the legs, reverse pivot, in and out, etc. All of these moves should and must be practiced at game speed to have the ability to execute them in game situations.
Ball handlers must learn to handle the basketball playing against a defender in order to learn how to protect the ball. It is important for ball handlers to remember to keep the ball low and use their body for separation between the ball and the defender. (basketball, ball handler, defender) Footwork is essential in ball handling as well.
Big guys (forwards and centers) should learn to handle the basketball as well. They should execute the same ball handling drills as small guys (guards) are. In practice, big guys (forwards and centers) should work on ball handling independently from the small guys (guards). It will help their confidence and they will compete with players that are working at the same level.
A player that can handle the basketball is hard to defend and very valuable to their team. Remember, work hard and at game speed and you can improve your ball handling! You have to spend time daily in order to see improvement.
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Passing- "An important but forgotten skill"
Passing is currently the most neglected skill in basketball today. There is not enough emphasis put on the importance of passing and the need to be a good passer. Good coaches will explain to a player that the quality of a pass determines the quality of a shot. In order score, the defense has to be be moved or shifted. A good pass is the most effective way to accomplish this action.
Basketball players need to be trained on how to properly throw two-handed chest passes, two-handed bounce passes, two-handed overhead passes. The baseball pass is for situations a player may need to get the ball up the court over the defense. These skills are mastered by practicing these passes in using them in game situations.
The fundamental rules of passing are: 1. If you have a clear path between you and your teammate, pass the ball. 2. If your teammate is ahead of you, pass the ball. 3. Do not pass-fake to open teammates, pass the ball. 4. Passing is not a last resort. A player should not pass the basketball as a last resort if they cannot shoot the ball. Pass the basketball to your teammate to get your team the best quality of a shot.
It is important to work on passing the same way you work on ball handling, shooting and footwork. Passing will make you a multi-dimensional player instead of a one-dimensional player. Good basketball teams work on passing and take pride in it as well.
Remember, being a good passer will make you a great teammate! If a player cannot pass, the basketball dies in their hands!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Basketball players need to be trained on how to properly throw two-handed chest passes, two-handed bounce passes, two-handed overhead passes. The baseball pass is for situations a player may need to get the ball up the court over the defense. These skills are mastered by practicing these passes in using them in game situations.
The fundamental rules of passing are: 1. If you have a clear path between you and your teammate, pass the ball. 2. If your teammate is ahead of you, pass the ball. 3. Do not pass-fake to open teammates, pass the ball. 4. Passing is not a last resort. A player should not pass the basketball as a last resort if they cannot shoot the ball. Pass the basketball to your teammate to get your team the best quality of a shot.
It is important to work on passing the same way you work on ball handling, shooting and footwork. Passing will make you a multi-dimensional player instead of a one-dimensional player. Good basketball teams work on passing and take pride in it as well.
Remember, being a good passer will make you a great teammate! If a player cannot pass, the basketball dies in their hands!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Effort- The Key to Success
Attention all High School basketball players:
There is a lot of parody in high school basketball this season. In my opinion, the 2008-09 Illinois High School State Championship for boys is open and ready for the taking. The issue is that most high school players lack consistency in effort in their practices and games. This is a major key for players when the game is on the line and they are forced to execute under pressure.
Many of the high school players I have watched this season will have an outstanding game followed by a mediocre or bad game. Most players equate having a good or bad game by how many points they scored. Scoring is important. The score would not be kept in basketball games it were not. The other component that is often overlooked is giving consistent effort. This is an intangible that off sets a bad scoring night. This keeps players on the basketball court at crunch time as well.
Close basketball games are won by players having the ability to execute plays. The ability to execute plays comes from practicing hard and being consistent with their effort. It seems simple but it requires a discipline that many high school players lack. College coaches expect players to have this quality along with talent.
Remember, consistency in practice and games is the key to success!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
There is a lot of parody in high school basketball this season. In my opinion, the 2008-09 Illinois High School State Championship for boys is open and ready for the taking. The issue is that most high school players lack consistency in effort in their practices and games. This is a major key for players when the game is on the line and they are forced to execute under pressure.
Many of the high school players I have watched this season will have an outstanding game followed by a mediocre or bad game. Most players equate having a good or bad game by how many points they scored. Scoring is important. The score would not be kept in basketball games it were not. The other component that is often overlooked is giving consistent effort. This is an intangible that off sets a bad scoring night. This keeps players on the basketball court at crunch time as well.
Close basketball games are won by players having the ability to execute plays. The ability to execute plays comes from practicing hard and being consistent with their effort. It seems simple but it requires a discipline that many high school players lack. College coaches expect players to have this quality along with talent.
Remember, consistency in practice and games is the key to success!
Yours in Basketball,
Coach Stewart
Thursday, January 8, 2009
"The fruits of labor"- from hard work in the gym.
Ironically, I had blogged yesterday about our Shooting Camp class here at the Chicago Bulls/White Sox Training Academy in Lisle and objectives covered in the class. Proper mechanics and techniques along with practice and confidence makes clutch shooters! Davidson's sophomore phenom Stephen Curry is the epitome of a clutch shooter. Davidson University played Duke University last night on ESPN. Duke defeated Davidson 79-67 lead by Jon Scheyer (Glenbrook North) and sophomore Kyle Singler with 22 points a piece for Blue Devils.
Davidson's Stephen Curry lead all scorers with 29 points. He scored 21 points in the second half and almost orchestrated a comeback for the Davidson Wildcats in Durham on Duke's home court. It was the most points Duke allowed any opposing player this season. What impressed me the most about his play was his poise, court awareness and ability to flat out shoot the basketball! Stephen did most of his scoring in the paint, mid-range areas and free-throw line. He did not shoot the three well last night though (he made one three-pointer). Stephen also had 8 rebounds and 6 assists in the game as well. His overall confidence and ability to shoot the basketball gives him an advantage over opponents in any game he plays in.
I first heard about Stephen Curry from my former college basketball coach at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Mack Mc Carthy. Coach Mc Carthy is currently the head men's basketball coach at East Carolina University. Coach Mack told me that Stephen Curry was a good as any college basketball player in the nation. Coach explained that his ability to score, footwork, ball handling, passing skills and overall basketball IQ was that of a professional basketball player.
Stephen's father is Dell Curry, former NBA basketball player. Dell attended Virginia Tech University and was a sharpshooter in the NBA for many years. I am sure Stephen has been the benefactor of being the son of an NBA player but here is the real story. When Stephen was 15 years old, he was 5-8 and skinny. His dad took him off of the AAU basketball circuit and kept him involved in individual workouts. He also worked on sports performance training while playing club basketball to apply the skills he was reinforcing. Stephen developed into a stellar player but was not highly recruited. He grew to 5-11 as junior and his skills were getting even better! Stephen still could not obtain a scholarship because he was not on the AAU circuit! He was better than most of the players that were being recruited by major college programs.
The summer of his senior high school season, Stephen grew to 6-3 but was still very skinny. His basketball skills and overall game was top-notch, but he still was not offered a scholarship to a major university. Virginia Tech, his dad's Alma mater offered Stephen and opportunity as a walk-on basketball player. He had scholarship offers from some mid-major division I and a cluster of division II and III schools. Stephen committed to Davidson University, a mid-major college in Davidson, North Carolina that has great academics. Davidson is the Southern Conference which is the same one that my Alma mater is in. As a freshman, Stephen took Davidson deep in the NCAA tourney last year. The Wildcats are 10-3 this year and they are almost guaranteed to represent the Southern Conference in the NCAA tournament this year as well.
In my opinion, Stephen Curry is currently the best basketball player on the collegiate level. He is only a sophomore, but I think he is ready for the NBA at the end of this college basketball season. He is the model for what can be achieved through having the talent but directing it the correct way to be the best player you can be. He was not highly recruited out of high school and went to a small college, but will be an NBA basketball player. The sky is the limit for him if he continues to implement the same work ethic and toughness that has helped him achieve his current status. It also helps that he is obedient, a hard worker and follows the direction of his parents, coaches and instructors.
Remember, basketball players are made in the gym!!
Yours in Basketball,
Larry Stewart
Davidson's Stephen Curry lead all scorers with 29 points. He scored 21 points in the second half and almost orchestrated a comeback for the Davidson Wildcats in Durham on Duke's home court. It was the most points Duke allowed any opposing player this season. What impressed me the most about his play was his poise, court awareness and ability to flat out shoot the basketball! Stephen did most of his scoring in the paint, mid-range areas and free-throw line. He did not shoot the three well last night though (he made one three-pointer). Stephen also had 8 rebounds and 6 assists in the game as well. His overall confidence and ability to shoot the basketball gives him an advantage over opponents in any game he plays in.
I first heard about Stephen Curry from my former college basketball coach at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Mack Mc Carthy. Coach Mc Carthy is currently the head men's basketball coach at East Carolina University. Coach Mack told me that Stephen Curry was a good as any college basketball player in the nation. Coach explained that his ability to score, footwork, ball handling, passing skills and overall basketball IQ was that of a professional basketball player.
Stephen's father is Dell Curry, former NBA basketball player. Dell attended Virginia Tech University and was a sharpshooter in the NBA for many years. I am sure Stephen has been the benefactor of being the son of an NBA player but here is the real story. When Stephen was 15 years old, he was 5-8 and skinny. His dad took him off of the AAU basketball circuit and kept him involved in individual workouts. He also worked on sports performance training while playing club basketball to apply the skills he was reinforcing. Stephen developed into a stellar player but was not highly recruited. He grew to 5-11 as junior and his skills were getting even better! Stephen still could not obtain a scholarship because he was not on the AAU circuit! He was better than most of the players that were being recruited by major college programs.
The summer of his senior high school season, Stephen grew to 6-3 but was still very skinny. His basketball skills and overall game was top-notch, but he still was not offered a scholarship to a major university. Virginia Tech, his dad's Alma mater offered Stephen and opportunity as a walk-on basketball player. He had scholarship offers from some mid-major division I and a cluster of division II and III schools. Stephen committed to Davidson University, a mid-major college in Davidson, North Carolina that has great academics. Davidson is the Southern Conference which is the same one that my Alma mater is in. As a freshman, Stephen took Davidson deep in the NCAA tourney last year. The Wildcats are 10-3 this year and they are almost guaranteed to represent the Southern Conference in the NCAA tournament this year as well.
In my opinion, Stephen Curry is currently the best basketball player on the collegiate level. He is only a sophomore, but I think he is ready for the NBA at the end of this college basketball season. He is the model for what can be achieved through having the talent but directing it the correct way to be the best player you can be. He was not highly recruited out of high school and went to a small college, but will be an NBA basketball player. The sky is the limit for him if he continues to implement the same work ethic and toughness that has helped him achieve his current status. It also helps that he is obedient, a hard worker and follows the direction of his parents, coaches and instructors.
Remember, basketball players are made in the gym!!
Yours in Basketball,
Larry Stewart
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
2009 Winter programs- Shooting Camp
Happy New Year!!
Our 2009 basketball programs have begun and I look forward to seeing the Bulls Academy basketball players back on our beautiful basketball courts! The Christmas and New Year's break was great, but basketball players are made in the gym!
Shooting Camp begins tonight for 5-10 year old participants at the Chicago Bulls/White Sox Training Academy in Lisle. Shooting Camp is a 4 week class that meets once a week on Tuesdays for an hour and a half from 5:00-6:30pm for this age group. We also offer Shooting Camp on Thursdays for an hour and a half from 5:00-6:30pm for the 11-17 year old participants as well. The first class for that age group begins Thursday, January 8, 2009. The cost is $105.00 per participant.
Our objective is to work with the participants in developing the basic shooting techniques that are necessary to be an effective shooter. Shooting is developed through practicing proper basketball mechanics and techniques at ALL ages! Participants will work on balance, straight elbow (straight), eyes (focus), follow through and footwork while gaining confidence in their shooting. Players that can shoot the basketball on any level will be on the floor at crunch time. Good shooters are not born but made. Shooting is an art and it has to be practiced correctly on a consistent basis.
Our goal is to make each player a clutch shooter in game situations. We look forward to seeing you on our courts soon! Remember, basketball players are made in the gym!!
Yours in Basketball,
Larry Stewart
Our 2009 basketball programs have begun and I look forward to seeing the Bulls Academy basketball players back on our beautiful basketball courts! The Christmas and New Year's break was great, but basketball players are made in the gym!
Shooting Camp begins tonight for 5-10 year old participants at the Chicago Bulls/White Sox Training Academy in Lisle. Shooting Camp is a 4 week class that meets once a week on Tuesdays for an hour and a half from 5:00-6:30pm for this age group. We also offer Shooting Camp on Thursdays for an hour and a half from 5:00-6:30pm for the 11-17 year old participants as well. The first class for that age group begins Thursday, January 8, 2009. The cost is $105.00 per participant.
Our objective is to work with the participants in developing the basic shooting techniques that are necessary to be an effective shooter. Shooting is developed through practicing proper basketball mechanics and techniques at ALL ages! Participants will work on balance, straight elbow (straight), eyes (focus), follow through and footwork while gaining confidence in their shooting. Players that can shoot the basketball on any level will be on the floor at crunch time. Good shooters are not born but made. Shooting is an art and it has to be practiced correctly on a consistent basis.
Our goal is to make each player a clutch shooter in game situations. We look forward to seeing you on our courts soon! Remember, basketball players are made in the gym!!
Yours in Basketball,
Larry Stewart
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