Written by Coach Andre Allen (United States Basketball Academy China)
As a basketball player and coach, I was always taught that there are two special traits that every basketball player should have. These two traits will help you flourish and have the upper hand in almost every situation. The two are characteristics are:
1. STRONG MINDSET: A strong minded basketball players is resilient and won’t give up when things get rough. Instead, they will stay focused after a mistake and learn from it. A great mind also includes having high basketball IQ, knowing when to make the right read. This could be a pass, shot, or being in the right position on defense to help your teammate. Mental toughness is also key to being a great player. You will show leadership verbally and lead by example. Strong minded players always believe and follow their coaches directions. You should also give input and advice when the team needs it. Strong minded players are always confident no matter the situation. They always learn and educate themselves on new material. The best players and coaches always find ways to stay sharp and ahead of their competition. Strong minded players stay calm in pressure situations which is very crucial. Whether the team is in a close game or down big, a strong minded individual always maintains a winning mindset. When things go wrong, they make the most of a negative situation by learning from mistakes. Strong minded people can turn a negative situation into a positive one by learning from it. A strong mindset helps you remain engaged every play and give your team confidence to win and improve daily.
2. GREAT FOOTWORK: Great footwork is extremely valuable and needed to have proper technique on the basketball court. It allows you to do many things that are essential in basketball such as helping you defend players of multiple positions. It will help you contain fast guards and also enable you to guard the post. Great footwork is also very vital when it comes to shooting the ball. Your stance is key because you want to be balanced and have a nice wide base (i.e. Klay Thompson). Having tremendous footwork also allows you to create separation on offense and conduct many moves that are used in the game such as quick crossovers, a strong pivot, jab steps, euro steps, and step back jumpers. Not to mention it benefits you on jump stops and makes your floaters more efficient. Great footwork also helps you have efficient post moves on offense such as the up & under, dunking, the drop step, and hook shots. Wonderful footwork allows you to sprint faster and work on your agility. Most great players are agile and have stability in their lower body which is very critical when changing direction quickly on offense and defense. Lastly, great footwork helps prevent injury by putting you in the proper landing positions by putting less stress on knees, legs and hips.
