Developing point guard skills is a tedious, careful and time consuming process. Coaches can cultivate excellent point guards if they first take the right approach to the mental aspect of the game. Great point guards are tough, selfless, they understand the game and are mentally strong. A winning point guard is in command when the game is up and improves all other players with his presence.

Players are never too young to start learning the truths of the game. Starting with the fundamentals, a young player should be comfortable dribbling, passing, shooting, and playing defense. As players develop physically, they also gain knowledge of how to play. This development is key for point guards because their position is the most important on the court. A good point guard arms the team.

The following eight skills are necessary for great bases:

  • Study and understand your teammates-The point guard more than anyone on the court knows each of his teammates inside and out. He knows all the roles of the team and has as a priority to enhance each of their strengths. He knows how to put them in situations where every player can be successful. For example, a pole player is instructed to post on the blocks and not float to the perimeter. Your skills and ability will impact the team more playing around the basket. Roles are crucial for good teams and the point guard can solidify team unity with good leadership skills.
  • Be the coach on the court and in the locker room-A good point guard embraces his coach’s philosophy of play and instills it on the court. Knowing what the coach wants and does not want is a rare trait among players. For example, if the philosophy of a team is to shoot as many 3-point shots as possible, the point guard needs to get the ball into the shooter’s hands in the scoring areas frequently. If the style of play is to push the ball to the ground, then the point guard must organize the break, push it hard and attack the defense. The term “on-court coach” belongs to the great point guards.
  • Earn the trust of the players– For a team to follow a leader, they must believe that he would do anything for them. Not only should you play extremely hard, but you can also motivate your teammates to do the same. Without confidence in their floor general, a team is left vulnerable.
  • Set the tone in practice-Your foundation should understand how a successful practice is carried out and what the goal of the practice is. By serving as a role model, you can set the pace for good practice. On the contrary, when a leader is not willing to give it his all, the team will suffer from bad practice.
  • Knowledge of every possible situation-Understanding what to do in each situation is the duty of a great base. You need to know who is in the game and how you can prepare your teammates to be successful. Offensively, the game plan must be developed to perfection. Good shots, smart passing and good projection are essential and can be dictated by the point guard. The point guards are responsible for knowing the time and the score at all times, the importance of each possession and controlling the tempo. You need to be aware of what is happening and what needs to be accomplished at both ends of the floor. A good test is to see a leader take over a game the moment they win. When their team runs out of time-outs, the great players take it upon themselves to do whatever it takes to win.
  • Disinterest-Many coaches interpret this to mean that point guard shouldn’t be looking to score. This is not the case, especially if scoring is one of your point guard’s strengths. Altruism means that you will sacrifice your game at times to find better opportunities for your teammates. Great point guards always improve others on the court because of their presence.
  • Defensive leadership-A great assist for a teammate for a layup is great, but it can’t match the impact of a solid defensive game. The defense wins games and by taking over or forcing a rotation, any player helps his team win. Sometimes it is more difficult to inspire teams to play defense. Players love offense and tolerate defense. A great point guard can lead a team to take possession of the defensive end of the court.
  • Managing success and defeat in perspective-Athletic competition is a constant flow of ups and downs. Young players are often greatly affected by the outcome of games. By developing a solid point guard, you will provide your team with a partner who can keep them grounded. Winning often creates team complacency, and a good point guard can keep success in perspective. On the contrary, a defeat can be difficult for a team. Good point guards are capable of lifting the team with their toughness and work ethic. This feature is the foundation of all great bases.

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