I have ALWAYS pressed. Not just the Run and Jump Press but pretty much I have used all of them. I have ALWAYS been that coach that wanted to take the fight to the opponent. I NEVER wanted to sit back and play chess. (600) wins, (3) National Collegiate Championships with (6) Final Fours, and (2) Gold Medals, I do believe the press has been good to me. So how about you coach?
When I speak at clinics, I ask the coaches to raise their hands if they press. About 60% say they do. Then I ask the other 40% what they do if they were down ten with a minute to go. Of course, they pressed. The bottom line is that WE ALL PRESS.
So- WHAT’S THE PLAN for those of you that might NOT want to press? How do you settle in with a philosophy that you can live with and also help you become more successful? Here are some thoughts, beliefs, and the process that you can try this upcoming season.
- PRESS THE FIRST THIRD OF THE SEASON. Teams will not be ready to handle you early as they are getting their team together. Pressing will give you an early advantage.
- BACK THE PRESS OFF IN THE MIDDLE THIRD. Now that teams are ready for you, focus more in your half-court defense and lock down their offense. Your players will be fresh mentally and physically as they have more energy now that they are operating mostly on half the floor.
- PICK THE PRESS UP THE FINAL THIRD OF THE SEASON. Now you must get ready for the playoffs and the press must be ready. Build some momentum and some execution during this phase by incorporating the press back into your scheme.
I have used this approach from time to time and it has been successful. GIVE IT A LOOK COACHES! If I can be of service, just let me know. All the Best!!
COACH EDDIE ANDRIST 