Skill Development Clinic Series on Penetration and Screening Concepts

Key Topics

1. Importance of establishing sound and positive habits in players
2. Receiver spot principles and actions (driver, drifter, diag, dunker, drag)
3. Techniques for catching and shooting off the catch (jump stop, footwork, balance)
4. Defensive positioning and closeouts (high hands, short steps, plugging gaps)
5. Progression from 1v1 to 2v2 and 3v3 gameplay
6. Screening principles (set up, smart, separate) for both cutter and screener
7. Defending screens (hand-heel-hip, pushing through, avoiding getting screened)
8. Switching on screens and attacking the switch

Insights and Takeaways

• Players will revert to their habits under pressure, so instilling good habits is crucial
• Catching in a jump stop allows players to be balanced and make quick decisions
• Defensive positioning and communication are key to effective team defense
• Progressing from isolated drills to small-sided games develops decision-making
• Screening actions create advantages for the offense, but must be executed properly
• Defending screens requires discipline and aggression to avoid getting screened
• Switching on screens can be effective, but must be communicated and executed well
• Attacking a switch can create mismatches and scoring opportunities for the offense

Conclusions

1. Focus on developing sound fundamental habits in players, especially under pressure.
2. Emphasize the importance of catching in a jump stop and being balanced on the catch.
3. Implement defensive principles like high hands, short steps, and plugging gaps.
4. Progress from isolated drills to small-sided games to develop decision-making.
5. Teach screening principles (set up, smart, separate) for both cutter and screener.
6. Defend screens aggressively with hand-heel-hip technique to avoid getting screened.
7. Practice switching on screens and attacking the switch to create advantages.
8. Encourage players to be creative and make decisions within the team's principles.

Overall, the clinic focused on developing well-rounded players who can execute fundamental skills, make sound decisions, and contribute to effective team play on both ends of the floor.