5 Ways to Overcome a Tough Losing Streak

Winning is fun and losing is not. There’s no question about that. The teams that figure out a way to move out of the loss column the fastest will have a successful season and will bounce back after a tough losing streak. If you find your team stuck, check out these 5 ways you can overcome a tough losing streak.

1. Film Study

Studying film can be very humbling at times but, it’s always extremely fruitful in the long run. And just having a coach or player verbally reiterating something that's happening on the court doesn’t always connect in the best way. Film never lies though. From an individual standpoint, it's very easy to see where the improvements can be made and also where the opportunities lie within the game. Coaches are able to see strengths and weaknesses and evolve their team's gameday strategy after watching film of themselves and opponents.

2. Have Fun

Everyone knows losing streaks are no fun. And one of the hardest things to figure out how to do is still have fun when the losses are piling up. Naturally, players are nervous to come to practice after a loss because they are worried about their coach's reaction to the previous game. Try to keep the mood light so there is no fear but, be sure to accompany that with expectations on what needs to be done. It is possible to utilize drills that are fun for players while building skills during the season. Make sure to sprinkle those drills and fun games into practices to remind players that basketball should be fun.

3. take things one step at a time

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. A common mistake coaches make is trying to fix everything all at once. Usually when a team is on a losing streak there is more than one thing that's affecting ideal on-court play. Sometimes, coaches can make the mistake of trying to work on everything negative at one time. What this oftentimes does is overload players and really defeats the purpose of focusing on corrections. It can also make players feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel. It’s a doom and gloom attitude. One effective way to look at a losing streak is to take things one step at a time. It’s impossible to eat an elephant in one bite and that's the same reasoning to take when correcting your team's weaknesses.

4. Positive thinking

Mindfulness is an afterthought for most players. The idea around telling yourself “you are worthy and capable” seems cheesy but, studies have shown it equates to success. For players, it's very hard to think positively when you’re getting beat on the court night after night. It can weigh on you and cause embarrassment. Coaches and parents can help counter this by speaking life and positivity into their players. This may include one-on-one meetings or simply highlighting successes during practice. Everything is impactful when a team is on a losing streak.

5. skill development

In my opinion, skill development is the best way to help teams overcome a losing streak. It’s very hard to dedicate time during the season for skills work but regardless, it remains extremely important in a player's overall growth. One way to help players grow is by using training equipment like Dr. Dish shooting machines that can be used before, during or after practice. Focusing on skills like shooting and building confidence can help players get out of a funk and heading in the right direction. During a losing streak, players can feel like they lack the tools to be the best version of themselves and this is why giving them the tools like Dr. Dish are important. Even a minimal amount of growth can create immediate and long term success.

Remember that the season is long and there is a ton of time spent on the court between players and coaches. Make it as enjoyable and competitive as you can. Implement the 5 areas above and see how quickly the rest of your season can shift in a positive way!