There are a ton of different ways to get better during the offseason, but most players find themselves asking which ones will produce the most results. Let's take a look at 10 different things players can do to maximize their development this offseason.
SHOOT AND WORK ON BALL-HANDLING
Two of the most important skills players should always focus and work on include shooting and ball-handling. The offseason is a great time to try new things and experiment with new individual skill development. Getting reps up in a variety of ways will help increase your shooting success come game time. This is due to an increase in comfort level on the court from practicing prior.. Oftentimes, players find themselves in situations on the court that are unfamiliar. Because of this, they typically won’t excel at the level that is hoped for or desired. It’s important for players to practice stationary shots, on the move shots, coming off screens, and individual shooting moves. Game-like reps is the solution to this common issue.
Noah Taylor (13 years old) put up 75,000 reps last summer alone.
Ball-handling also goes hand and hand with individual moves and the ability to create shots. Players that want to open up more scoring opportunities need to increase their ball-handling abilities. Lastly, players, be sure to practice ball handling in the open court, under pressure and stationary. These are all situations you’ll find yourself in when your season starts.
STRENGTH TRAINING, CONDITIONING, AND INCORPORATING AGILITY DRILLS
Outside of shooting and ball-handling, there are a few different things players should focus on like strength training, conditioning, and agility. These areas will help players become even better within their skill set. Most of the time young players can coordinate access to a weight facility at their high schools, but if not, there are still options to get stronger. Try going to a park and use the pull up bar or do push ups on any of the platforms. You can even practice your landing and jumping plyometrics using your own body weight at the park. There is never an excuse not to get better. The same thing goes with agility and conditioning drills. Focusing on quickness and endurance will only help you take your game to the next level, it'll also help you prepare for any situation that comes your way.
A Conditioning Drill from Former NBA Champion Byron Scott
STUDY THE GAME, WORK ON MENTAL TOUGHNESS, EAT HEALTHY, AND GET PROPER SLEEP
Some other focuses this offseason include training outside of actual on the court action. Making sure you are eating and sleeping well will help with health and the ability to train in other areas everyday. Some kids like to stay up all night playing video games and then wonder why they don’t have energy to get up in the morning to train. Energy comes from sleep and eating properly, so try your best to understand what you’re putting in your body on a daily basis. It really makes the difference especially as you get older and continue to push your body to the limit. Another huge thing to focus on is your mental health.
For young players there is a lot of stress that comes with school, life, athletics and more. Making sure priorities are in order and understanding what your mind and body can handle is important. The game of basketball in general can only be mastered if you can master your own mind. Parents, be sure to communicate with your kids on their goals and also talk through pain points they may be experiencing during both the season and off season.
SHOOT SOME MORE
Last but not least, shoot some more and repeat. The ability to shoot the ball is one of the most important skills in basketball and if you can knock down shots you can play for any coach in the world. Try finding training tools like Dr. Dish Shooting Machines to help you maximize your time on the court while also holding you accountable in your training. These machines are one of the best ways to see results and accelerate skill development.
Elise and Mia Boulton Used. Dr. Dish to Lead the State of Iowa in Shooting Percentage
Remember the only person that can make you great is yourself. Continue to work hard in the offseason and focus on the 10 things to maximize your potential come next season. Most importantly make sure to train hard, train smart, and train with a purpose!