How to Stand Out on Your High School Team
If you want to be a highly competitive high school basketball player in your province or region, here are five essential objectives to set.
In order to be successful, one must be willing to outwork their competition. This means having an intense, focused, and no-nonsense attitude on the court. Furthermore, it is important to take charges, dive for loose balls, run the floor, and apply pressure to the ball when defending. Lastly, effective moves to the hoop are key in order to be successful.
Be powerful. Outstanding high school basketball players are not simply pushed around. They control the tempo, intensity, and rhythm of the game. You determine where you want to go or not go on the offensive, not your opponent. On the defensive, you decide where your opponent goes. You disrupt his or her game. Train to use your body to impose your WILL both offensively and defensively.
You must understand the system that your coach has in place for success. Some teams have a made rule that their point guard may only have three turnovers per game. If you take too many risks on that team as a point guard, you will be benched. Know what the coach values and adjust your playing style accordingly. Does the coach prefer a more conservative approach? Or do they want a run and gun style? Seeing the big picture and learning how to play within the system is key.
The ability to be strong, fast, and quick is what separates high school athletes who will go on to play at the college level. It is important to train your body so you will not get beat on defense or get too tired on offense. However, it is also important to learn the technical and tactical skills that are specific to each sport. The most effective way to train for speed in high school is by playing your sport regularly and learning from your coach on how to improve your technique.
Modesty and setting the example are key. Look out for your team by being unselfish and not worrying about credit. Over time, you will be rewarded for completing the small tasks and helping others.