Preparing for the Playoffs

My favorite moment as a young athlete was going to the section playoff game as an 8th grader. Two teams were playing that were both ranked in the state of Minnesota. Both teams had star players that everyone knew and were excited about. Not only did they have great players, but two of the best coaches in Minnesota history. That game changed my perspective on hoops and motivated me beyond belief. It was such a special moment in my life. One thing that stood out to me was how prepared both teams were from both a player and coach perspective. Below I’ll highlight 5 things players and coaches can do to prepare for the playoffs this year.

Attention To Detail

One thing I realized more and more as I got older and played at higher levels was how important the small details were in each and every game. Remembering the plays my coach drew up and secondary options if those plays didn’t work. Staying locked in on defensive assignments and trying to take away any small advantage the opponent had. Being disciplined when things weren’t flowing the way I’d hoped they would, and also processing what was happening on the court throughout the entire game. The details were always what won close games and gave winning teams the advantage. Players - be sure to lock in on everything because it could be the difference between your season ending or continuing further into your playoff run.

Effort and Energy

I can’t preach enough how important effort and energy is throughout the season but it’s an absolute must during playoff time. Every person in the entire gym is juiced up and excited and if you’re not at that level you’ll get ran through in a heartbeat. You have to make the small plays even when they seem like they don’t matter. Diving on the floor, going after a loose ball, boxing out and going for every rebound are simple ways to impact the game positively. If every player provides an extra boost of effort and energy your team will rise to the occasion and be extremely hard to beat especially if shots are falling!

Back Pocket Plays

Coaches, this is huge! You need to have several different back pocket plays during playoff time. Everyone is scouted and for the most part everyone knows what your team does. Throw in a new BLOB, SLOB or half court play to mix things up during different periods of the game. That doesn’t mean change what got you there but having a few new options will help expand your arsenal when it really counts. Here at Dr. Dish we’ve created several different playbooks to check out including our Game Winning Playbook, our SLOB and BLOB playbooks. Check them out to help give your team an advantage when it really counts.

Expect The Unexpected

You never know what each game will bring you. Coaches often process the game over and over in their heads trying to figure out flow and strategy but sometimes things that are out of anyone's control can happen throughout the course of a game. Foul trouble, missed shots, injury, technicals, and sickness are all part of the game. Be sure to always remain calm and have a plan in case these things unexpectedly happen. Every player should be ready to go if their number is called. Every coach should have a focus and an assignment they have ownership of during the game. By doing this you’ll be prepared no matter what and ultimately give your team the best chance at success.

Enjoy The Moment

Lastly, enjoy the moment and have fun. Make sure your players, staff, and parents know this as well. Everyone wants to win but the reality is that only one team will be the champion. The journey is what really counts and is the most important when it's all said and done. Make the experience enjoyable while remaining focused on winning and in the end, no matter the result, everyone will be content knowing they tried their hardest!

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