The Intangibles

Last Saturday we had a scrimmage. Per NCAA rules I cannot disclose who we scrimmaged or any particular stats; I can, however, discuss the qualities of the team which I liked and those which I disliked.

It became immediately apparent that the Golden Eagles have not yet learned how to discern the difference between the first shot and the first best shot. We teach our players to take good shots which are defined by high percentage shots. A high percentage shot would be a lay-up, a one-on-one shot in the post, or an uncontested shot which a player can make 50% of the time. We have a better opportunity to win if we take good shots on every offensive possession.

It is often difficult in the early part of our season to run a solid offense because we run a motion offense which requires the players to think and read the defense. It is much easier to run a patterned offense where players run to a spot. When we ask them to actually watch their defender rather than the ball, it requires concentration and effort. The rules of the offense define the parameters of the offense but not the actual plays. The players have to make choices on their own each time we have an offensive possession. It is a slow learning process which means that early in the year we tend to look sloppy on offense.

Defensively, we need 100% of the players to learn the concept of team defense. We still have a few who are concerned about whether or not the player they are matched up with scores. We must erase that belief system and replace it with one which emphasizes helping teammates, rotating to the open player, and contesting every shot. If an opponent is able to penetrate to the basket without defenders rotating to stop her, then we are going to allow high percentage shots. It is tough to win ball games this way.

The things I loved about the scrimmages were not actual offensive or defensive qualities; they were more intangible characteristics which are essential to winning and tougher to teach than offense or defense. This team has unity--the desire for the team to win even if it means that one of them is not going to be the star or even receive playing time. They are willing to cheer for their teammates and assist them in whatever way is possible. They have leaders who care and who are willing to step up and do or say what is necessary in the leadership role. They have tremendous work ethic and determination--a willingness to do whatever is necessary to get better.

I believe the success of this team is going to be determined by the maintenance of the intangibles. We will continue to work on our technical and tactical weaknesses, but our true strength is going to come from our togetherness. Embracing WE, Including me!