How to Become a Basketball Coach

Basketball is a sport that has expanded around the world. There's always a need for new coaches who have a desire to teach the game. Between kids leagues, summer leagues, middle schools, high schools and beyond, there are thousands of basketball teams that all need at least one person who wants to become a basketball coach.

Instructions

    • 1

      Set a goal for what level you want to coach. Decide if you want to be a high school, college or professional coach. By knowing what level you want to reach you can focus on what you need to know to get there. Each level provides a drastically different set of challenges and in order to move up to the next level, you have to master the previous level.

    • 2

      Learn all you can. Not every coach is a genius. Even NBA coaches have fans and pundits second guessing them and begging for their removal. You will have to understand a couple of basic offensive and defensive sets. Know the rules and watch as much basketball as you can in person where you can observe coaches.

    • 3

      Start small. In order to become a basketball coach you have to find a team that needs you. It is doubtful that the team that needs you is a college team or even a high school team. In order to land that first coaching job, you might have to start as a volunteer for a children's recreational league team.

    • 4

      Look for opportunities to move up the ladder. Schools frequently hire people to coach who are not teachers. Apply for every job you can whether it is middle school or high school. Have a concept for your style of coaching and communicate it to whoever you interview with. Communicating a philosophy can go a long way to overcoming a lack of experience.

    • 5

      Network with other coaches. Obviously, head coaches have assistant coaches. If other coaches know you and respect you, it may create opportunities to be hired on as an assistant.

    • 6

      Be patient. It is unlikely you will become a basketball coach tomorrow and be coaching for a division one college team next week. Be prepared to spend significant time at each level of coaching as you move towards your goal.