Being a competitor or a participant. There is a difference.

Shooting or Ballhandling? 

We often talk about which skill is more important or better to have as a player.

After those skills, what about change of speed?

Change of speed is an amazing way to keep defense off balance, create space, and make the right plays.

Watch how Tony Parker comes off the screen and then burst into a down hill drive to the rim. He is also tough with the basketball by wrapping it up to keep defense from stealing the ball.

In the video it is such a simple play. 

A player drives - passes it out - and shoots a shot. 

The skills are used to make the right decisions

1. The ballhandler is able to rip the ball through and read the defenses feet to attack baseline
The wrong decision is to drive back to where the ball comes from - into the crowd of teammates and defenders.
2. The ballhandler initiates contact on the D with their shoulder, thus creating some more space. Also, drives with confidence and patience.
3. The ball handler gets deep penetration, both feet in the paint, but is aware of defense and does not force the shot
The wrong decision is to force the shot up on two defenders which could result in a transition offense for the other team.
4. The shooter is in position to receive the on-time, on-target pass to hit a knock down 3 point shot.


Making the simple, effective, and correct plays is an important skill.