The 5 Most Effective Basketball Team Training Solutions

With countless tools out there, it can be hard to know what equipment you should be incorporating into practices to maximize your players’ training experience. During our recent survey of over 500 coaches, we asked what basketball training solutions they’ve found to be the most effective throughout their years coaching.

If you’re looking for new equipment or new ways to enhance and gamify your team’s training, check out the top 5 most effective training solutions. And how you can incorporate them into your team’s routine, if you’re not already utilizing them.

1. Basketball Shooting Machine

40% of coaches said they have found a basketball shooting machine to be the most effective training solution when it comes to maximizing practice time and getting quality reps. But, not just any shooting machine. The top coaches around the world are choosing Dr. Dish as their #1 training partner. Why? 

Because Dr. Dish’s lineup of machines bridge the gap between time saved and quality reps while providing teams with more fun and motivation. So your team’s exact needs are met every time. From getting up a high volume of reps, to next level analytics, or the ultimate training experience, there’s a truly Dr. Dish machine for every single team.

If you’re ready to maximize your team’s time on the court, explore our entire lineup. You can also see the Dr. Dish Rebel+, All-Star+, and CT+ in action here.

Not sure which Dr. Dish is right for you? Take our Product Finder Quiz and instantly get matched with your perfect shooting machine.

2. Game Analysis Technology

Being able to watch game footage is crucial to identifying areas of improvement. Which is why game analysis technology was voted the second most effective solution by coaches. Options like Hudl are widely known and used because of the instant data and analytics they provide coaches and players after every single game. Hudl provides a few different packages if you’re hoping to improve how your team is learning from film. Not only will you receive game analytics, your community can also watch your game live, supporting the team whether they’re home or away.

3. Defensive Training Equipment

The 3rd most effective training solution among coaches is defensive training equipment. This could be anything from blocking pads to pop-up defenders. And the purpose of this equipment? Simulate in-game defensive situations to help improve players’ offensive skills and performance. And for teams who split up during practices for skill work, drills, etc., these solutions can help act as a body when there aren’t enough players. Have current defensive equipment that needs a refresh? Amazon has several affordable options for pop-up defenders and blocking pads. Looking for all new defensive equipment? There are also options out there for defender dribbling aids as well as ones to assist when working on defensive like:

• Agility Reaction Lights
• Reach Control Bands
• Defensive Movement Belts

4. Strength Training and Conditioning Equipment

Next of the list of most effective solutions are strength training and conditioning/cardio equipment. Some schools might not have access to a weight room, a great option could be purchasing free weights specifically for your team. If you’re looking for lift and workout inspiration, download our free 12-page Strength Training Program for players of all ages. 

Conditioning and cardio equipment are equally important so your players can also build stamina. Ladders and cones are great options if you don’t have access to treadmills or other standard cardio equipment. Not sure what to do from there? Or looking for new conditioning drills? Check out our free Conditioning Drill Book for 10 drills and games that you can easily incorporate to make conditioning more fun for your team.

5. Ball Handling Equipment

And the 5th most effective training solution? Ball handling equipment! Coaches who utilize ball handling gloves, dribbling goggles, etc., saw significant improvement in their players’ ability to effectively handle the basketball during games. This equipment may not seem necessary, but if you have a younger team who still need significant skill development it should be a consideration. Have an older team but still want to help push their skills? Consider weighted basketballs as well as incorporating footwork to your practice routine.

If you’re not already using these solutions, it’s never too late! And if budget is a concern, fundraising is always a great option for getting extra funds. Plus, it’s always a good team building activity! Check out 25 easy and unique fundraiser ideas to help get your team the equipment they deserve.