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Message: [QUOTE="BlueMAB, post: 2868156, member: 920"] I agree to an extent. I start with the basics. I don't let the kids dribble the ball and force them to pass and move. Since most coaches run zones, the kids/teams who can learn to make quick passes, move, and find open space, will pick apart a zone. Before we learn any plays, we teach them how to beat a zone, how to pass and move, etc etc. They aren't allowed to dribble the ball for the first few weeks outside of drills. The best way to beat a press and a zone is when the ball never touches the floor, so that's what I teach. Once they are allowed to dribble I only allow them to shoot coming off a pick, or only allow them to shoot if they got open from a pick off the ball, or on a give and go etc. Something that incorporates what they've been taught. Usually I have two sets, with 2 variations, that lead back to the original and allow for a reset. I do this because we usually have no problem picking apart a zone, and when the defense goes man I like them to practice running sets that still involve motion. Also, when you're blowing a team out, it's easy to bring them into the huddle and tell them to run both plays twice before anyone shoots. You can slow the game down, get some practice, and not make it insultingly obvious that that is what you're doing. Everything gets hectic late in close games and kids panic. I like to have something they've practiced in my pocket. Until recently, we have traditionally had a decent feeder program, so by the time the kids are in 6th, 7th grade, they have been taught the value of moving without the ball and moving the ball around quickly and with intent. I agree with you fundamentally, i just think they should learn at least 1-2 plays. I cringe at the coaches that call a play every time down the court. Let the kids create and play on their own. [/QUOTE]

Verification: First name of men's bb coach