Are You Watching?

Playing the game of basketball is hands down the best way to get better, but that's not always possible. When you aren't playing, are you talking about it, reading about it, and are you WATCHING it. From the pros on down, there is valuable lessons to be learned just by watching the games. You can pick up new moves, learn about the various rules of the game (From one level to another it can be very different), and you can definitely learn what not to do. The bottom line is the more you watch the more you absorb. You hear the term "High basketball IQ"... That's just a fancy way of saying somebody that "knows" the game and knowledge of the game is one of the factors that can keep you on the court. It will help increase your playing time!

For any youth basketball player, I would suggest you get out to some local high school games as well as watching the pros and college games. The high school level is much more in line with the style, skill, and athleticism that most youth players are at. If you can get to a good cross town rivalry game you will enjoy a competitive and spirited community focused on something positive happening. I fear, in a lot of places, we have lost that local sense of pride in our high school athletic programs. I know in Ventura County, where I live, there are quite a few that are still alive and thriving. In the city of Ventura, the Buena, Ventura games always pack the house. Games like these can be very inspiring for the younger elementary and middle school players. It gives them something to look forward to and work towards. And it gives them a great sense of the increased speed, skill, and complexity of the game at the next level.

Again, the best way to get better is to put the time in doing it, but spending a good amount of time just watching sure can help too... Especially if you have somebody to watch with who can help you break down the various aspects of what you are seeing.

So put down the electronics and turn on a game, or better yet, get out and see some games live!