This past weekend I had the opportunity to put on a two day Run & Jump Press Clinic in the Cleveland area. The coaches were outstanding, while the players put in tremendous work, learning well, the “Method to the R&J Madness!” When running these clinics, I am always reminded to keep it SIMPLE because I believe the Run & Jump Press is easy to teach and easy to learn.
The 3R’s (Run-Rotate-Rebound) – Believe it or not, we must teach players how to RUN! So many need to learn how to pivot, how to step and push off, and how to shuffle and run at the same time. Next, we need to instruct them the importance of ROTATION while the ball is in flight, and the use of proper angles. Teaching players to GO first and LOOK second is a pure fundamental. Finally, we need to drive the importance of total dominance of the boards as your opponent will miss more shots, so we need to REBOUND those misses! Rebounding is a passion and a collective effort.
The 3P’s (Position-Pressure-Protect) – As with all full court and halfcourt defenses, understanding POSITION on the floor in relation to the ball and getting into those positions as quickly as possible is extremely important. Getting off-the-ball players to the rim line and below the level of the ball is fundamental. The better the position, the better the defense. Next comes the relentless PRESSURE on the ball, making the ball handler uncomfortable. Then through jumps and traps the pressure is ratcheted up even further. Finally, PROTECTING the rim must become an absolute.
The 3NO’s (NO Fouls-NO Lay Ups-NO Offensive Rebounds) – Having a full understanding of what factors will negate the Run & Jump Press needs to be a constant reminder to the players. FOULS will certainly hurt no matter what defense you employ. Teach the players NOT to reach. A GREAT game goal is to have fewer fouls than your opponent. Not allowing free runs at the rim is paramount to your success. We simply cannot give up LAY UPS! Finally, once again, we MUST REBOUND those misses and there will be many. Through opponent fatigue and stress, some really good shooting teams can be neutralized!
COACH EDDIE ANDRIST 