Great teams, tightly woven at the seams, I deem to be just stuff of dreams? In this "new" day has the team really shrunk, to the whims of him or her---maybe good day , maybe funk? Is “give it to me. get back on D” the "superstar" philosophy?
If it’s not the best shot for the team each trip, then don't expect to win (and please don't mention a "chip"). There should be no mystery of chemistry. Simply check the annuls of basketball history.
In science, chemistry is the study of matter, energy and the interactions between them. In social life, we generally think of chemistry as the manner in which people interact in a benevolent way. In sports, chemistry is the relationship between the parts of a team and the outcomes of their interactions--whatever they may be.
Those great Celtic teams, the 1975, Rick Barry led NBA Champion Golden State Warriors, the Show-time Lakers and the UnbeataBulls all had talented players, but more importantly, outstanding team chemistry. It’s the same for all levels. Developing chemistry should be the number one consideration in assembling a team and subsequently, positioning them for success.
What are the keys to team chemistry?
MPT: The right Materials or mix of players ( not necessarily Superstars). I do believe that players should decide who gets to play based on performances in practice and games. However, coaches should ultimately determine what mix of players puts the team in the best possible position for success generally, and moment to moment.
Pressure, or adherence to KYP, KYC, KYL and KYG principles (as they relate to optimal team outcomes). KYP (know your personnel), KYC & L (know your own capacities and limitations); KYG (know and execute the Game plan).Lastly,
Time to develop cohesiveness and a team personality. Unfortunately, too many folks are into player replacement instead of player development. Everyone seems to be chasing the next megastar to make things brighter. Many times teams can find greater value by allowing their present team components a chance to mature. We know It doesn’t take a team of superstars to make a quality team...only quality players.
This full-court expedition in hopes of unearthing a gem of a player (eye roll). It may be better (lol) to process the ores already available to you?
What are Quality Players?
Quality players are skilled players that make quality basketball decisions. Both are achievable--although developing and/or tweaking players is a tough proposition. It’s also difficult to determine which players to invest in. There are so many factors. The process can become complex quickly.
The most critical factors are the proficiency and efficiency levels of any given player. Proficiency denotes absolute skill value and efficiency is the effectiveness of skill application during play--which of course includes environmental factors; "practice players" do exist (laughs).
Below is a useful system in helping players gain a truer sense of their games at face value.
Evaluations are twofold: Rating players (1-5) according to defined roles as an Efficiency Rating (ER); and Rating players (1-5) according to their capability or PTAG (Physical & Technical skill-set, Application (of those two), and Grit-factor). No performer can escape his or her PTAG. This is the starting point for individual player assessments and also of determining how the team puzzle ultimately fit together.
True player development should advance the player without compromising team chemistry. Therefore, there are times when you must look outside your current environment for answers. Mostly, I think Red Auerbach and Al Green had it right.... “Let’s stay together!”
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