Building Toughness

PORTLAND, Ore. – The first time VCU coach Shaka Smart instructed his players to prepare for the season by playing as many full-court games of 1-on-1 as possible, guard Briante Weber admits he and his teammates had some doubts. Shaka Smart has stressed defense this season and VCU stood tall as it stopped Wichita State in the closing seconds. “A little hesitancy?” Weber said. “No, there was a lot of hesitancy. We thought the idea of 1-on-1 full court was a little absurd.” The near-daily 94-foot games of 1-on-1 in the summer and fall left VCU players so exhausted they often recuperated in the locker room for up to 90 minutes after each workout, but they’re reaping the rewards of that arduous conditioning now.

As coaches, we think of many different ways to make our teams tougher. Playing full court games of 1-on-1 is a great way to build a players physical and mental toughness. In any drill you do during practice or a workout, ask yourself how this drill is going to improve your players physical and mental toughness. Be creative, think outside the box, and keep it simple. Basketball is a simple game. Playing full court games of 1-on-1 is simple.
Link to the full article on VCU and Shaka Smart