Tuesday, June 30, 2009

BASKETBALL CONCEPTS FROM THE CELTICS' KEVIN EASTMAN

Kevin Eastman is one of the best teachers in the game. Currently an assistant with the Boston Celtics, here some samples of his thoughts for players:

Paul Pierce says 2 players: coaches can teach you but you have 2 take it to the gym; even the pros understand this & work after being taught.

The best shooters in the game have to be the best shot fake players as well; the shot fake has to become a valued weapon for the shooter.

In order to reach our dreams we have to first deal in reality; reality is the foundation of fulfilling our dreams.

Footwork and balance should come before speed; get comfortable with your feet; basketball is a game of footwork; feet give you the advantage.

The faster u go; the faster u play the game; the more likely u are 2 miss too many things; play at a speed that will allow u 2 see the game.

Working with Vince Carter he believes the best shooters always have two hands ready to catch ball; believes you are quicker into your shot.

Great teaching term; on difficult square up shots; player needs 2 stick his landing; no off balance/kick legs, etc; stick landing w/ balance.

With Vince Carter this week; he had a great statement: "the faster you go the more you miss"; great quote for players to think about!

The higher level you go as a player the more you have to limit wasted motion on your moves; defenders are stronger, faster, better.

We have to eliminate as much "social shooting" as we can with today's players; if you are working on your shot then really work on your shot!

Get around people who will stretch you and not those who simply agree with you or do not have the capacity to stretch you.

The NBA has a marketing item that says "where amazing happens"; but I can tell you amazing doesn't JUST HAPPEN! Lots of preparation needed!