What Is Coaching Philosopy in Basketball?

Basketball coaching philosophy encompasses experiences as a player, student and observer of the game. Developing a philosophy becomes important as it defines a basketball coach's approach, attitude, strategy and teaching style during practice and game situations. In addition, a basketball coaching philosophy defines the relationships between players and their coach. The core of a coaching philosophy lies in the fundamentals of basketball and the way in which a coach teaches these skills.

  1. Development

    • When developing a basketball philosophy, coaches must consider what goals they want to accomplish as a coach and what defines a successful season or team. In addition, coaches must also think about the fundamentals on which they wish to focus. If a coach wishes to emphasize defense, rebounding and blocked shots, the team's performance will reflect these skills during practice and games. Thinking about what's important as a basketball coach and what that coach wants to teach his players lays out the foundation of his basketball philosophy.

    Teaching

    • One of the primary aspects of a basketball coach's philosophy includes teaching. A large part of a coach's job features the style in which he trains his players. Some coaches take a hands-on approach and run up and down the court with their players. Others maintain distance and teach by directing players, watching film or giving instruction. A coach's personality and demeanor also comes into play as some coaches remain calm and reserved throughout most games and practice, while others are more intense, passionate or animated.

    State of Play

    • Offensive and defensive strategies also form part of a coach's philosophy. Some basketball coaches enjoy a quick tempo and thrive for fast-breaks, full-court presses and trapping players on man-to-man defense. This type of offensive game requires a lot of conditioning and a talented bench. Other coaches prefer a more calculated game at a slower pace, where basketball players run a half-court offense with more control over the ball at every possession. In determining the style of play, coaches must take into consideration the strengths and weaknesses of his players.

    Character

    • In addition to fundamentals of basketball, a coach's philosophy also features sportsmanship, character and the "team" concept. A cooperative team environment helps strengthen a team's unity and develop a strong work ethic, sense of responsibility, commitment and loyalty. Coaches make players aware of life lessons and measures of success both on and off the court.

    Coaches

    • Some of the most well-known basketball coaches successfully developed and implemented their philosophy over many years. NBA coach Phil Jackson, who won championships with the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers, proved successful with a coaching philosophy that is well-known for pulling concepts from Zen and Buddhist mentalities. Duke University coach Mike Krzyzewski's revered coaching philosophy earned respect from players and other collegiate coaches as his record includes four NCAA championships. Other coaches with well-known coaching philosophies include long-time UCLA coach John Wooden, former Celtics coach Red Auerbach, former L.A. Lakers, New York Knicks and Miami Heat coach Pat Riley and Tennessee Lady Vols coach Pat Summit.