A game sense or games approach to coaching basketball emphasizes small-sided games and learning by playing. It is a method of teaching the game of basketball by focus on tactical awareness. Skills are trained in the context of the game and not in isolation. Players are more active participants in their learning and spend more time on task learning by doing.

1. GAME SENSE
TO COACHING BASKETBALL
AproductionofBasketballImmersion

2. Learn the Skill - Learn the Tactics - Play the Game
Skill Based Approach to Coaching Basketball
Games Approach to Coaching Basketball
Play the Game - Learn the Tactics - Learn the Skill

3. The players develop an understanding of the
game and identify the technical and tactical
skills required.
If necessary the coach may intervene to
assist players with technical skills or discuss
tactical aspects.
Players practice the skills in conditions that
relate to the game.
Players are introduced to a game requiring skills that
are both tactical (what to do) and technical (how to do it)

4. ADVANTAGES OF
GAMES APPROACH TO COACHING BASKETBALL
- Promotion of game activities very early on in skill development.
- Players perceive the tasks associated with the sport as easier.
- Mass participation of team members in each and every activity or drill.
- Players view this approach as more fun, exciting and engaging.
- Maximize activity time.
- Allow players the freedom to play without rigid systems that limit decision-
making opportunities.
- Everyone can participate and succeed in because individual needs are met by
modifying games to suit varied skill levels.
- Can use small-sided games as a progression in the exploration and
development of a strategic approach to the game.
- Each player is challenged but at the same time achieves success.

5. Step 1: Play a modified game
Step 2: Help the players discover what they need to do
Step 3: Teach the skills of the game
Step 4: Practice the skills in another game
HOWDOIIMPLEMENT
AGAMESAPPROACH?

6. A COACH NEEDS TO ASK
(Before intervening)
If I intervene,will I make
adifference?
If I give the player some
time and direction, will
they find the answers for
themselves?

7. How to instruct
Stop to Teach – “Foul” in our practices means
teaching needs to happen.
Questions and Feedback Delay – Allow them time
to think and answer questions.
Instruct – Add your expertise and suggestions
about possible solutions to the problems you
present.

8. GAMES APPROACH COACHING TIPS
Use three-on-three and four-on-four drills within the games approach
because more players can become involved and constantly active.
It is OK for a coach to introduce the activity in a no defense breakdown
before then rapidly moving into competitive games but do so in a big
picture context.
Use a “numbers advantage in drills to help with the ease that players
can perform the new tactical skills and experience success.
Change parameters to force players to make decisions and make them
solve their own problems
Coach-centered drill oriented practices are often boring and
consequently less engaging to the players so let them learn by playing.
Players develop increasing independence from the coach be being
actively involved in the learning process so chose your interventions
wisely.
Practices should be designed to develop the thinking, understanding, and
decision-making skills that are required to play well.
Players should have input to the coach and help the coach make
decisions.

9. LEARN
MORE
ABOUT HOW BASKETBALL IMMERSION
TEACHES USING A GAMES APPROACH
INCLUDING MANY SAMPLE DRILLS AND
METHODS FOR DEVELOPING DECISION
MAKING
CLICK HERE