In this article Ryan Krueger relays his recent revelation involving the art of spacing.  As he transitions from the NBA to the college game, the term becomes less cliché and more important.  Krueger details some sets where slight adjustments in spacing have created large improvements on the court.

Do you want to take your game to the next level?  If so, follow Keith Williams's advice.  In this article, he lists those skills necessary for guards and posts to rise in the ranks of basketball prowess.  With these skills mastered, the sky is the limit.

Rick Torbett describes the Read and React Offense, a complete offensive system that has taken him 5 years to develop.  This second article fleshes out the theory and rationale following the foundations laid in the previous article.  Both of these articles are available right now at betterbasketball.com where you can also find a preview of the Read and React as well as video testimonials from some of basketball’s greatest minds and coaches already running it.

Rick Torbett describes the Read and React Offense, a complete offensive system that has taken him 5 years to develop.  This first article is Torbett’s light hearted telling of the origins of the Read and React as well as some of its basic concepts.  In the next few weeks, a more in depth article will be posted fleshing out the theory and rationale.  Both of these articles are available right now at betterbasketball.com where you can also find a preview of the Read and React as well as video testimonials from some of basketball’s greatest minds and coaches already running it.

In this article, Brian Morehouse breaks down the post workout he puts his post players must perform each week.  This program focuses on ball handling, free throws, quickness, shooting, and finishing creatively near the rim.

In this article, Ken DeWeese lists those skills and traits he expects from his guards.  If you can master this list, then you are well on your way to being a really good point guard.  If not, honestly evaluate yourself and start working.

Phil Robinson describes the way he uses the basic 2-3 Zone to launch a variety of defensive looks.  If utilized properly and executed well, these disguised defenses can easily throw offensive players off of their games.

Mike Taylor breaks down 4 Post Drills that he uses religiously with his team regardless of the time of year.  Used in the off season, these drills can develop a post player's skill set, while integrating them into an in season practice plan can keep those skills sharp.

Ryan Krueger describes the Pinch Post, another offensive action commonly run in the NBA since it is so difficult to defend.  Especially when good shooters are in the mix, this set is a great addition to any offensive system.

We all know that defense is largely a product of effort.  Keith Williams breaks down strategies for perimeter defenders that goes beyond, "Give it your all."  Shut down your opponent with these tips.

VanHoose, a high school coach and star center of the West Virginia Wild describes some tips for newly appointed head coaches.  Having recently accepted a head coaching job in Kentucky, JR has lived the advice he gives and any new coach struggling to find his or her place can benefit from it.

In this article, Dr. Tom Ryan examines the rise of new statistical techniques and positions within the NBA.  Dr. Ryan questions whether this trend should trickle down throughout the college and high school ranks as well and wants the opinion of the BB readers.  So, check out the article and respond with your thoughts.

Coach Lucien VanKersschaever, winner of 7 Belgian Division 1 titles and 5 Cups of Belgium, breaks down his 3/4 Zone Press.  Implement this defense to change the pace of the game and capitalize on your opponent's mistakes.

Staff Athletic Trainer for the University of Wisconsin-Madison Karen Bloch explains the most common causes of ACL injuries.  With a primer on jumping biomechanics, any player can drastically reduce the potential for this season ending injury.

Inman, who intimately understands the frustrations of poor free throw shooting teams, ponders the question as to whether clutch free throw shooting is hereditary.  With a few slight alterations to form, Inman believes you or your team can improve your FT percentage and begin to successfully close out games.

Tredell Dorsey explains the concept of periodization as it relates to a basketball specific strength regimen.  In this, part 2, he discusses specifically how training of one's motor abilities (strength, speed, and endurance) dovetails with the annual plan covered in part 1 of this series.

In this article, Brian Morehouse breaks down the perimeter workout his guards perform during the off-season.  This program focuses on ball handling, free throws, quickness, as well as the many facets of shooting needed to excel on the perimeter.

In this article, Keith Williams details the workout he created for Steve Francis this off-season.  Included are tips for beating defenders off the dribble as well as an innovative move rated for NBA use only.  If you want to increase explosiveness and your ability to get to the basket, the off-season is the time to do it.

Fraser Dewar breaks down the concept of team performance analysis as it relates to the team statistical comparison. In this article, an analysis is formulated based on the six game series of the 2005/2006 NBA Finals focusing on shooting percentage versus various types of defense.

Ryan Krueger discusses how he and the NJ Nets prefer to defend against the high pick and roll.  As more and more teams are integrating aggressive screening into their offensive schemes, the need for effective defensive tactics increases.  Add Krueger's strategies to your team's defense to stop being abused by the pick and roll.

In this article, Mike Taylor describes 7 tips for adding Spur-like efficiency to your team's end game situations.  Since many games are won and lost in the final minutes, incorporating just a few of these tips into your practice plan could dramatically increase the number in your W column.

In this article, Steve Hawkins remembers his training under John Wooden who would go as far as teaching a player the correct way to tie his sneakers.  Now a head coach, Hawkins uses that attention to detail when dealing with his own players, finding that an emphasis on balance can often cure mid-season slumps.

In this article, Keith Williams explains techniques for improving what he calls the most under-developed skill in basketball - proper utilization of the weak hand.  Even on the highest levels of the sport, the weak hand is simply that - WEAK.  Become a more dangerous player by adding the versatility of playing with either hand.

Inman shares his insights on running and countering the Matchup Zone.  Early in his career, Inman discovered an obvious weakness in his team's ability to attack zones, but from that failure he developed a new philosophy which ultimately led him to the State Championship.

VanHoose, a high school coach and star center of the West Virginia Wild details a team preseason strength and conditioning program.  Coaches, use this program, broken down day by day to get your players into peak condition before your first game.  Players, get a head start by implementing these strategies into your summer workout.

Tredell Dorsey explains the concept of periodization as it relates to a basketball specific strength regimen.  In this, part 1, he details the division of the training year into periods, the purpose of which being for athletes and teams to peak at the most opportune times.

In this article, Ken DeWeese lists those skills expects in his post players and wing players. With summer quickly approaching, identify those items on the list that are not second nature, get in a gym, and turn those weaknesses into your strengths.

In this article, Steve Hawkins examines the lost art of screening.  He breaks down those fundamentals necessary to excel as a screener, avoid fouls, and get your teammates open.  He also explains why often times players who are great screeners make great rebounders as well.

In this article, Amy Freel promotes an often overlooked nutritional necessity, Vitamin-D.  Although naturally produced within the body, outside sources are vital to athletic as well. Among the most respected sports nutritionists in the country, she has conducted professional presentations for the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, and guest lectured for graduate and professional courses.

In this article, Keith Williams runs through a passing refresher course.  Often, especially at lower levels of the sport, passing gets ignored since it isn't as glamorous as scoring.  Here Williams emphasizes its importance by breaking down the most common passes and giving 15 quick tips on improving passing efficiency.

Kelvin Sampson explains the main factor in maintaining a team's focus and ability throughout the extended basketball season.  Although highs and lows will occur, motivation and effort are constants necessary for an already successful team to improve to its full potential.

Bo Ryan explains how teams can overcome bad stretches - both during a season and within a single game.  Especially when it comes down to tournament time, a bad stretch can end a season.  Improve your chances by preparing your team to counter failing offense with consistent D. This article was provided exclusively for Better Basketball by College Insider.

Phil Robinson, who has 40 years of coaching experience on various levels, defines "free throws" as not only unchallenged attempts at points, but also free time for coaches to call interesting and valuable sets.  Some of these techniques and sets off of a missed or made free throw might even help you win a game.

Moose Miller, retired NBA player and first contributor to the Online Magazine, passed away last night due to kidney failure.  He was a jovial, humorous man who will be missed by the basketball community as a whole and specifically by his friends here at Better Basketball.  Here is that first article, taken from an interview with Moose almost 10 months ago.

New Jersey Nets Assistant Coach Ryan Krueger answers a reader's question regarding basketball's mental game.  In this article, he details three ways he encourages his highest level players to increase their basketball intelligence.

Lute Olson explains why the cliché expression, 'Defense Wins Championships' rings true.  Also, he details the differences between the defensive mentality on the main levels of the sport - high school, college, and the pros.

VanHoose, a high school coach and star center of the West Virginia Wild breaks down the post workout he runs his player's through.  Here, he describes five basic post moves along with their counters so that players can always keep defenders guessing.

Bill Self emphasizes both the role and importance of senior players.  According to Self, when given a choice, most coaches would give up some talent for the uncoachable attribute of leadership.  Usually a coach finds that in seniors, which makes them vitally important.

VanHoose, a high school coach and star center of the West Virginia Wild breaks down the post workout he runs his player's through.  With drills to improve shooting accuracy, conditioning, as well as physicality, this workout when done consistently can improve any post player's game.

Tredell Dorsey gives an introductory look at flexibilty - its proper definition, proper categorization, as well as a handful of tips for athletes.  In order to reach peak performance, a proper flexibility routine is necessary.

Willis Wilson explains his theory of why free throw shooting has eroded from the skill set of today's players.  He then gives tips to mentally and physically improving your free throws so that when the game goes down to the wire, you can knock down the big ones.

LaMont McIntosh, who finished 6th in scoring in Belgium's professional league last season gives a peek into the window of European basketball.  In this article, McIntosh explains the strategies he uses to stay ahead of the mental game.  Incorporate these tactics into your season preparation to get the most you can out of every situation.

John Giannini, in this article, explains the importance of having good assistant coaches.  He also details some of those attributes that he is looking for in a coach in order to improve the team and keep him sane.

Mike Glenn, NBA sharp shooter in the 70s and 80s, discusses the confidence of a shooter as well as some tips on developing that mentality and even getting teammates to buy into one's shooting ability.  Glenn, nicknamed "The Stinger" because of his ability to "sting" the nets with his shot reached a shooting percentage of .588 while with the Atlanta Hawks.

In this article, Amy Freel along with Kerri Cooper a dietetic intern describe the risks and returns of ergogenic aids for basketball players looking for a competitive edge.  Freel is the director of sports nutrition at VT. Among the most respected sports nutritionists in the country, she has conducted professional presentations for the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, and guest lectured for graduate and professional courses.

In this article, Keith Williams discusses mental training.  Every drill imaginable can be done in the practice gym or in the driveway, but great players have that quality of basketball IQ or mental toughness that separates them from the rest.  Develop that quality and your game could explode.

In this article, Brian Morehouse breaks down the post workout his team performs on a regular basis during the off-season.  This program improves footwork, mid-range scoring ability, and ball handling, all the while getting in that always necessary conditioning.

New Jersey Nets Assistant Coach Ryan Krueger explains the benefits of a team having a terminology of its own.  He also breaks the NBA code revealing the terms and meanings that are most often used in the pros.  Add some of these to your team's collection.

Tredell Dorsey answers a subscriber's question regarding the "right" time for young players to get into the weight room.  In this article, Dorsey details a regimen beginners should employ as well as the dangers to avoid.

In this article, Ken DeWeese details the way he spends the first portion of every one of his practices.  This routine incorporates passing, shooting, and ball-handling into a concise program that fosters skill development and concentration while getting players loose.

Following an unsuccessful attempt to repeat as State Champions, Inman discusses how true success can be found in the losses as well.  In a game sometimes too caught up in the importance of wins, Inman suggests that it's the people, the process, and ultimately the game that are truly important.

Dr. Czech, a published sports psychologist who works with players in the NBA, MLB, and NFL, describes those traits common to successful people.  After studying this topic for innumerable years, Dr. Czech has created an acronym which can help players at all levels achieve their basketball and life goals.

Hall of Famer Rick Barry answers the following question from a subscriber.  "Being a great scorer yourself what was your read when the defender played you in that middle area where he can challenge both the shot and the drive and what can someone who lacks size do to get their shot off when the defender is in that area?"

Rick Duckett answers this question from a reader - "I am a guard that plays on the perimeter for my high school team.  I was wondering if you could help me and all the other players who have problem with their mental game.  What steps can I take to improve the mental part of my game?"

In this article, Mike Taylor breaks down the various offensive systems used in the Bundesliga.  The youngest Head Coach in the German Bundesliga this year, Taylor guided his ratiopharm Ulm team to a record setting 29-1 season and a 2.Bundesliga South Championship in 2005-2006.

With past experience as General Manager of the USBL's Long Island Surf and as an international coach for many years, Ed Krinsky knows the intricacies of every level of the game.  In this article, he explains a system for high schools to best aid seniors in the recruitment process.  With the supplied forms and good cooperation, a school can help its players make a wise college decision.

In this article, Amy Freel breaks down the pros and cons of every type of water on the market.  Now, you can know what you are drinking.  Freel is the director of sports nutrition at VT. Among the most respected sports nutritionists in the country, she has conducted professional presentations for the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, and guest lectured for graduate and professional courses.

New Jersey Nets Assistant Coach Ryan Krueger discusses the necessity and techniques involved in successful closeouts.  Use these drills to properly train yourself or your team to stop both the shot and drive after that extra pass.

Torbett answers the following question from a subscriber. "Coach, we see the trapezoid lane in International play.  Do you think the trapezoid is a better lane design and if so should we adopt it in American basketball?  Also, are there any other differences between International and American rules that would benefit us in the States?"

Barlow answers the following question from a reader.  "I am a high school coach and recently my team was involved in a nail biter.  After the buzzer sounded, a player received a technical foul for unsportsman like conduct.  I guess when it comes down to it, my question is this - does a referee have any official authority once the clock strikes 0?"

Bill Fleming, the President and GM of a minor league team, cuts dozens of pro players every year. In this article, Fleming breaks down the Kareem Abdul Jabar's classic sky hook including the step by step mechanics and the reasons it is so effective.  To this day, NBA scouts are looking for a post man who has mastered the sky hook.

Sherry Winn, in her first article for the Online Magazine, describes the attitude and belief system that she instills in her players regarding overcoming obstacles.  Over the years, Winn has devised a method for addressing issues with communication and openness before they cripple a season.

Dwight Davis, in part 2 of this article, details the elements of defense that initially defined him as a player. Here, he discusses the basics of defensive mentality and positioning.  Davis was drafted third overall in the 1972 NBA draft to the Cleveland Cavs, where he played for five seasons.

LaMont McIntosh, who finished 6th in scoring in Belgium's professional league last season gives a peek into the window of European basketball.  In this article, McIntosh details the options and correct reads off of a fade screen - a screen used often in European leagues, but is equally effective in any league.

With past experience as General Manager of the USBL's Long Island Surf and as an international coach for many years, Ed Krinsky knows the intricacies of every level of the game.  In this article, he describes a simple way to disguise offensive play calling by using a variety of audible signals.

In this article, Byron Samuels breaks down his philosophy on team building.  Since a team works best as a unit, Samuels gives ten tips for creating a system that unifies a team by reinforcing the proper leadership and the proper priorities.

In this article, Keith Williams discusses the shortcomings of today's players.  Too often in the game nowadays, players do not put in the time or effort to truly develop themselves as a thinking player.  Williams even gives several examples of how a player can improve simply by respecting the game.  Keith Williams spends extensive time training various NBA and International players including Steve Francis and Gilbert Arenas.

In this article, Amy Freel along with Meredith Byrne a dietetic intern shed light on the question of whether a Vitamin B supplement can increase an athlete's daily performance.  Freel is the director of sports nutrition at VT. Among the most respected sports nutritionists in the country, she has conducted professional presentations for the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, and guest lectured for graduate and professional courses.

Melissa Barlow, top WNBA and PAC 10 Women's Referee, explains the mentality and emotion of all of college basketball's participants come February.  When teams are fighting for spots in the tournament, whether you know it or not, referees are fighting for post-season berths as well.

In this article, Brian Morehouse breaks down the perimeter workout his team performs on a regular basis during the off-season.  Designed to improve ball handling, shooting, and conditioning, this program allows a player to work on a variety of skills in a condensed timeframe.

Rick Duckett, in this article, outlines the steps to running a successful man-to-man defense highlighting necessary points of emphasis.  Duckett is currently an Assistant Coach at the University of South Carolina.  On top of his responsibilities in recruiting, scouting, and working with the perimeter players, Duckett oversees the academic area for the Gamecock's student athletes.

Bill Fleming, the President and GM of a minor league team, cuts dozens of pro players every year. Fleming follows up his previous article on how to get through Veteran's Camp with this article describing the etiquette required for success once a player has made a minor league team.  With the next step being the NBA, every move made is an important one - Fleming details the dos and don'ts.

New Jersey Nets Assistant Coach Ryan Krueger explains the proper attacks off a side pick and roll when encountering a defense trying to "blue" the screen.  Although "blue" is an effective form for defending such a screen, it has its weaknesses as well which should be accurately read and efficiently exploited.

Dwight Davis, in this article, details the elements of defense that initially defined him as a player. Before becoming a prolific scorer, Davis' aggressive defense earned him a spot on the team and those techniques served him well even into the NBA.  Davis was drafted third overall in the 1972 NBA draft to the Cleveland Cavs, where he played for five seasons.

In this article, Jim Davis outlines those skills that are necessary to emphasize first when developing as a player.  He calls ball handling the "great equalizer" and thus places it high on the list.  Davis led his Clemson University women to the NCAA tournament in 14 of his 18 years as head coach.

In this article, Dr. Tom Ryan examines the difficulty in charting an individual's defensive performance.  With so many variables to contend with, the perfect answer is not available, but Ryan explains a system that tends to work well.

Phil Robinson, who has 40 years of coaching experience on various levels, discusses the intimate dynamic between a head coach and his assistants and offers tips to improve any coach.  When each person plays his role correctly, the result is a unified leadership creating a positive environment in which players can flourish.

Melissa Barlow, top WNBA and PAC 10 Women's Referee, discusses how and why the referee's point of view seems to change as the season wears on.  In this article, Barlow answers the question, "Do refs change the way they call the game deeper into the season or in a heated conference match up?"

Mekisha Parks describes the defense that brought her 10U girls' team an AAU Championship.  For those coaching younger players, Parks' ideas for team defense can transform a team with energy and few skills into a championship level contender.  In her short career as a coach, Parks has accumulated two League Championships, an AAU State Championship, an AAU National Championship Berth, and a YBOA National Championship Appearance.

In this article, Mike Taylor explains those techniques he uses to break his team out of mid-season staleness.  Use these tips to add a spark to your team when the season has worn them down.  The youngest Head Coach in the German Bundesliga this year, Taylor guided his ratiopharm Ulm team to a record setting 29-1 season and a 2.Bundesliga South Championship in 2005-2006.

In this article, Amy Freel discusses the importance of and amount of carbohydrates needed for an athlete to achieve peak performance.  Freel is the director of sports nutrition at VT. Among the most respected sports nutritionists in the country, she has conducted professional presentations for the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, and guest lectured for graduate and professional courses.

Dr. Patrick Cohn, who is a leading authority on sports psychology, has worked with numerous players of all levels, and runs peaksports.com. In this article, he differentiates between confidence and expectations, the latter of which can hinder a player's performance on the court.

In the final part on this topic, Coach Spirk describes those key contacts - the program, the players, and the people - who could greatly influence a player's desire to attend a certain school.  Every player's priorities differ, get all the information you can before committing.  Mary Beth Spirk is a previous winner of the Women's Basketball Coaches Association National Coach of the Year award.

In part 1 of this article, Keith Williams describes the training strategies he uses to develop players in their transition from college to the pros concentrating specifically on shooting on the perimeter and in the post.  Keith Williams is currently the head coach of the ABA's Maryland Nighthawks.  He also spends extensive time training various NBA and International players including Steve Francis and Gilbert Arenas.

Bill Fleming, the President and GM of a minor league team, cuts dozens of pro players every year. In this article, Fleming focuses on how to act once you've made it to Veteran's Camp.  Although, specifics deal with those looking to reach the pros, the techniques apply to all levels of players trying to make the team.

Current Belhaven College Head Coach and former University of Alabama Assistant Tom Kelsey diagrams 6 full court drills he uses to train individual defenders.  Although the emphasis rests on defense, these drills give the offense an opportunity to concentrate on ball handling and getting open without the ball.