andon mindrup

I’ve coached 80 AAU games (15-17U) this spring. Here are 4 main observations + solutions ⬇️ 1) Transition Turnovers Most players struggle to make the right read or simply get the ball on time, on target to a teammate ahead of them in transition. 2) Poor Decision Making in Paint Most players struggle to stop on two feet, play in control, or recognize help defenders and pass out to the right player. If I had $5 for every one foot contested floater/circus finish I’ve seen, I’d be a rich man. 3) Handling Pressure If you cannot handle the pressure and contact with a defender in your space, you will get eaten for breakfast. 4) Competitive Consistency Every kid is going to do it - you had a bad day, you feel lazy, you’re in a funk… if you’re able to show up game after game + week after week with the same motor and effort, you’re doing better than most. IQ Solutions: 🧠 In transition, look strong side kick ahead, then get middle, then look to skip it to other side. 🧠 SLOW DOWN in the paint. If you’re rushed, your brain can’t catch up. 🧠 Stop trying to “beat your man”. Pass and chase or alleviate pressure rather than getting baited into it. 🧠 Form habits of showing up with full effort. There is no “on/off switch”. Will this drastically affect your recruiting like inspirational Twitter coaches say? Probably not… but it affects whether you are a winner or loser. Physical Solutions: 🔑 Work on your transition passing in real situations. 🔑 Work on driving with the intention of playmaking rather than always scoring. 🔑 Work vs a real defender with high pressure defense. 🔑 Get in better shape - you become a loser when you can’t sustain your motor.