Training Journal
Carson's session notes and progress updates
Rhythm & Flow
Today we spent time focusing on Carson’s leg positioning and follow-through, and that will now become part of his homework. We also noticed that he is still getting his palm on the ball at times, so I suggested form shooting with a checklist to help clean up those habits before they start creeping back in. Getting back spin on the ball was explored. I really believe a consistent daily routine — even just 20 minutes of focused work — will make a big difference. I also recommend that he record his sessions so he can track both his progress and the occasional regression. We introduced more rhythm into his game as well, using a 1-2 step on his catch, rip, catch, and jab series. Another area of emphasis is making his pump fakes more believable. Lastly we did some defensive slides.
Homework:
- Jump rope making sure his knees stay inline with his hips and feet. (25 x left, 25 x right, and 25 both every other day)
- Form shooting - stay balanced do not lean, knees behind toes, hips back, hold follow through, shooting and guide separate and finish on toes, back spin. (50 daily) with or without hoop.
Progress
Carson has come a long way. During form shooting, his upper body and legs are doing what they need to do, which is great progress. The next step is getting that same balance and leg involvement when he is shooting on the move, so he can stay underneath himself more consistently. His follow-through and guide hand have improved a lot. We also worked on passing, including how to hold the ball in triple threat and how to make the right types of passes. His homework will be really important because it is all rooted in fundamentals. Moving forward, we will start to add in defense and stance work to build alongside his ball handling.
Homework:
- Jump rope. Lunges. Hip series. Quick feet.
- Record video from NJB game.
Transition
We worked on transition offense, focusing on proper spacing after both made and missed baskets. As a wing, Carson worked on running wide lanes and showing hand targets, while at point guard he focused on pushing the ball up the middle and scanning the floor. We also covered press break responsibilities, whether as the guard or the screener, including setting screens and rolling. In transition, we worked on the three-point shot with reads, especially recognizing closeouts, along with baseline drives that led to kickout passes and passes to the opposite corner. Offensively, the goal is to keep repeating these situations so Carson becomes more comfortable and confident. He does a great job talking through what we are working on, and I want to keep encouraging him to use more basketball terminology as he learns.
Footwork
We continued working on Carson’s wide, balanced stance, with emphasis on staying over his mid-foot and keeping his right shoulder slightly forward. We also focused on his hips and knees bending together to improve balance and overall posture. His hand targets are getting better as well — showing open hands helps him communicate with teammates and makes passing easier for both the passer and receiver. In the shooting work, we practiced shooting on command moving both away from and toward the basket, which will continue to improve as his lower body becomes more stable. We also worked on shooting on command while dribbling around, where his reactions were strong, but he still needs to get his feet organized more consistently. One big positive is Carson’s communication and understanding — he does a great job listening and applying what is being taught, and I like how much he improves from workout to workout. Defense will be a bigger focus in the next session.
Off-Season Shooting Calendar
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