So, you are getting ready for your first basketball camp. That’s a big deal! It’s normal to feel a bit excited and maybe a little bit nervous. This camp is a chance to pick up new skills, meet other players, and just have a good time on the court. This guide will walk you through what you can expect, from getting ready before you go to making the most of your time there, and even what to do once it’s all over. Get ready to hit the court and have a cracker of a time at what will likely be the first of many basketball camps!

Key Takeaways

• Always pack your bag the night before camp starts to avoid a last-minute rush.
• Be ready to learn new things and try out different drills, even if they feel a bit tricky at first.
• Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and keep your energy up.
• Don’t be shy about asking your coaches questions; they are there to help you get better.
• Remember to have fun and enjoy playing basketball with everyone at camp.

Before You Go: Preparation is Key

Getting ready for basketball camp? It’s more than just showing up with your shoes. A bit of planning can make the whole experience way better. Let’s run through what you need to think about before you head off.

Packing Essentials for Camp

Okay, so what exactly should you chuck in your bag? Here’s a quick rundown:

• Basketball shoes: Obvious, but make sure they’re broken in. Blisters are not your friend.
• Sports clothes: Think shorts, t-shirts, socks. Enough for each day, maybe a couple of extras.
• Water bottle: Staying hydrated is super important. Get a good, reusable one.
• Towel: For showers and mopping up sweat. Microfibre ones are light and dry fast.
• Toiletries: Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant – the usual suspects.
• Sunscreen: Even if it’s not super sunny, protect your skin.
• Hat or visor: Keep the sun out of your eyes during outdoor sessions.
• Snacks: Some healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up between meals. Think fruit, nuts, or muesli bars.

Don’t forget any medication you need, and make sure the camp staff know about it. It’s also a good idea to label everything with your name.

Mental Preparation and Goals

Camp isn’t just about drills and skills; it’s also a chance to grow as a player and a person. Think about what you want to get out of the experience.

• Set some goals: What skills do you want to improve? What do you want to learn?
• Be open to new things: Try new positions, new drills, new strategies.
• Be prepared to work hard: Camp can be intense, but the rewards are worth it.
• Think about teamwork: Basketball is a team sport. Focus on how you can contribute to the team.
• Have a positive attitude: A good attitude can make all the difference. Even when things get tough, try to stay positive and encouraging.

It’s also worth having a chat with your coach or parents about any concerns you have. Are you nervous about being away from home? Unsure about the skill level? Talking it through can help ease your mind. Remember, everyone’s there to learn and have a good time!

What a Typical Day Looks Like

Okay, so you’re probably wondering what a day at basketball camp actually looks like, right? Well, it’s usually pretty structured, designed to help you improve your skills and have a good time. Here’s a general idea:

Skill Development Drills

Expect a fair chunk of your day to be dedicated to drills. These drills are designed to improve your fundamental skills like dribbling, shooting, passing, and defence. Coaches will usually break you up into smaller groups based on age and skill level, so you’re working with people at a similar stage. You might be doing cone drills to improve your agility, shooting practise from different spots on the court, or passing drills to work on accuracy and teamwork. It can get pretty intense, but it’s all about getting better.

Teamwork and Scrimmages

After the drills, it’s time to put those skills into practise. This usually involves scrimmages, which are basically practise games. You’ll be divided into teams and get to play against each other, trying out the things you’ve been learning in the drills. This is a great way to improve your game sense and learn how to work with others on the court. Coaches will be watching and providing feedback, so pay attention and try to implement their suggestions. It’s not just about winning; it’s about learning and improving as a team.

Off-Court Activities and Learning

It’s not all basketball, all the time. There’ll usually be some off-court activities scheduled as well. This could be anything from watching game film and discussing strategy to doing some team-building exercises.

Some camps also incorporate classroom sessions where you’ll learn about things like nutrition, sports psychology, and injury prevention. These sessions are just as important as the on-court stuff, as they help you develop as a well-rounded athlete. Plus, it gives you a chance to rest your legs a bit!

Here’s a sample schedule to give you a better idea:

• Morning: Skill development drills (dribbling, shooting, passing)
• Afternoon: Teamwork drills and scrimmages
• Evening: Off-court activities (film study, team building)

Keep in mind that this is just a general outline, and the specific schedule will vary depending on the camp. But hopefully, this gives you a good sense of what to expect.

Making the Most of Your Experience

Basketball camp isn’t just about drills and scrimmages; it’s a chance to grow, learn, and connect. To really get the most out of your time, consider these points.

Asking Questions and Seeking Feedback

Don’t be shy! The coaches are there to help you improve. If you’re unsure about a drill, a technique, or anything else, ask. Seriously, ask! It’s way better to clarify things in the moment than to keep doing something wrong. Feedback is a gift, so embrace it.

• Actively seek feedback from coaches during and after drills.
• Prepare specific questions beforehand to make the most of feedback sessions.
• Listen carefully and take notes on the advice given.

Remember coaches have seen it all before. They can spot areas for improvement that you might not even realise exist. Use their expertise to your advantage.

Building Connections with Coaches and Peers

Camp is a great place to make new mates and build relationships with coaches. These connections can be super helpful down the track, both on and off the court. Chat to people during breaks, support your teammates during scrimmages, and just generally be a good sport. You never know where these connections might lead.

• Participate in team-building activities with enthusiasm.
• Offer encouragement and support to your fellow campers.
• Initiate conversations and get to know people’s backgrounds and interests.

It’s not just about basketball skills; it’s about building character and learning how to work with others. Plus, having a good network of basketball buddies makes the whole experience way more enjoyable.

After Camp: Continuing Your Growth

Basketball camp is done and dusted, but your development doesn’t stop there! It’s time to take what you’ve learned and put it into practise. The real growth happens after the camp, as you integrate the new skills and knowledge into your regular training routine.

Asking Questions and Seeking Feedback

Don’t be shy about reaching out to the coaches from the camp. Most coaches are more than happy to provide additional guidance, even after the camp has finished. Consider sending a follow-up email with specific questions about your game. Ask for drills you can do at home or advice on areas where you can improve. Remember, feedback is a gift – use it to your advantage!

Building Connections with Coaches and Peers

Camp is a great place to make new connections. Keep in touch with the coaches and players you met. They can be a valuable source of support and motivation as you continue your basketball journey.

Consider forming a small group with other campers to practise together regularly. This can help you stay accountable and make the training process more enjoyable.

Here are some ways to maintain those connections:

• Join a local basketball club or team.
• Follow coaches and players on social media.
• Attend local basketball events and tournaments.

Wrapping Things Up

So, there you have it. Your first basketball camp is a big step, and it’s totally normal to feel a bit unsure about it all. Just remember, everyone there wants to help you get better and have a good time. You’ll pick up new moves, meet some cool people, and probably get a bit tired, but it’s all part of the fun. Just show up ready to give it a go, listen to your coaches, and enjoy the experience. You’ll be surprised how much you learn and how much fun you have out on the court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I bring my own basketball to camp?

Bringing your own basketball is often a good idea, as it ensures you have a ball that feels familiar and allows for extra practise during downtime. However, most camps will provide basketballs for drills and games, so it’s not always a strict requirement. You should check with the camp organisers beforehand to be absolutely sure.

Do I need to bring a water bottle?

It is highly recommended that you bring a reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is super important, especially when you are being active all day. There will be opportunities to refill your bottle throughout the day, so you can keep yourself topped up and ready to go.

Is this camp suitable for beginners?

Most basketball camps are designed for players of all skill levels. Whether you are just starting out or looking to improve your existing skills, the coaches will work with you to help you get better. The main goal is to learn, have fun, and develop your game.

What kind of clothing and shoes should I wear?

You should wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows for a full range of movement. This includes shorts or track pants, and a t-shirt or jersey. Make sure your basketball shoes are supportive and comfortable, as you will be doing a lot of running and jumping.

What if I feel a bit nervous or shy?

While it’s natural to feel a bit nervous before a new experience, try to focus on the exciting parts. You will learn new skills, meet new mates, and play a lot of basketball. Remember that everyone else is there for the same reasons, so you are all in it together. Just relax, have a good time, and give it your best shot!

What does a typical day at camp look like?

Camp days are usually packed with a variety of activities. You can expect warm-ups, skill-building drills focusing on things like dribbling, shooting, and passing, team games and scrimmages, and often some off-court sessions about strategy or teamwork. There will also be breaks for rest and lunch.

Basketball isn’t just about slam dunks and fast breaks – it’s also a powerful way to teach kids collaboration and teamwork. At our basketball camps, they build trust, communication, and adaptability while learning to share, support, and problem-solve together. These skills help your kids grow into confident, capable adults. Let’s explore how it all comes together on the court.

Working Toward Team Success

One of the first lessons young players learn is that basketball is never a solo sport, as even the most talented players need support, structure, and cooperation to succeed. Teaching your kids that the team’s success depends on each person doing their part helps them understand the importance of roles and responsibilities. They begin to appreciate that effort, hustle, and unselfish play all contribute to a win, even if their name isn’t on the scoreboard.

Developing Communication Skills

A strong basketball team is built on communication – calling for passes, switching on defence, or simply offering encouragement during a challenging game are all part of the sport’s language. When your kids practise these skills on the court, they often feel more confident off the court. They become better listeners, clearer speakers, and more aware of the power of positive words. These communication habits are especially important during childhood, when social skills are still developing.

Building Trust and Sharing the Spotlight

Passing the ball when you could take the shot isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most powerful lessons in trust. Your kids learn that sometimes the best play is the one that helps someone else score. That means trusting teammates to follow through and celebrating their success as much as their own. Over time, this builds mutual respect, a deeper understanding of fairness, and a team-first mentality that benefits everyone.

Learning Adaptability and Mental Resilience

Every game brings surprises, from missed shots, unexpected turnovers and fast breaks to shifts in momentum. Basketball teaches your kids how to respond to these moments with resilience and focus. So instead of giving up, they learn to regroup, support each other, and keep playing with intent. This kind of adaptability is a vital life skill, helping your kids manage stress, bounce back from setbacks, and maintain a positive attitude when things don’t go to plan.

Encouraging Positive Growth On and Off the Court

Teamwork in basketball isn’t just about what happens during a game; it’s about building a mindset that carries into all areas of life. When your kids learn how to work well with others, they’re better equipped to handle group projects at school, collaborate with peers, and navigate relationships with empathy and understanding. Basketball becomes more than a sport; it becomes a training ground for life, shaping players into well-rounded individuals who know how to lead, support, and grow with others.

A Foundation That Lasts

The beauty of collaboration and teamwork is that it doesn’t fade when the final whistle blows. The lessons learned through basketball, such as trust, communication, adaptability, and resilience, stick with your kids long after leaving the court. Whether they continue with the sport or move on to new challenges, they carry those developed skills with them, ready to contribute, connect, and succeed in any team they join.

Confidence is the foundation of success, both on and off the basketball court. For young athletes, self-esteem plays a crucial role in how they perform, interact with teammates, and handle challenges. Developing confidence, however, takes time and intentional effort, but it’s a skill that can be nurtured through positive reinforcement and targeted strategies.

Help Them Understand Their Feelings

Encouraging young athletes to reflect on their emotions is a vital first step in building confidence. Help them identify what they feel – whether it’s pride from a successful play or frustration from a mistake.

Ask questions like:

• What went well during today’s game?
• What could you have done differently?

This reflection helps young athletes see mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures, fostering resilience and a growth mindset.

Set SMART Goals

Setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely (SMART) goals provides young athletes with a clear path to success. Goals give them something tangible to work toward, keeping them focused and motivated. For example:

• Instead of “I want to improve my shooting,” try “I will practice free throws for 15 minutes daily for the next month.”

Tracking progress toward these goals fosters a sense of accomplishment and directly boosts their confidence while celebrating milestones reinforces dedication and highlights the value of their efforts.

Find a Role Model

Role models inspire young athletes to dream bigger and work harder, so encourage them to find someone they admire – whether it’s a professional player, a coach, or even a teammate. Role models can teach valuable lessons, for example:

• Skills and techniques to improve their game.
• A strong work ethic and perseverance.
• Positive sportsmanship and respect.

Seeing someone they look up to overcome challenges and succeed can motivate young athletes to believe in their own abilities.

Encourage Independence

Give them opportunities to make decisions, take responsibility for their actions, and solve problems on their own. Independence on the court, for example, deciding when to take a shot or how to approach a defensive play, empowers them to feel capable and in control.

However, while guidance is important, it’s also essential to avoid micromanaging. Instead, let them navigate challenges and find their own solutions. Success achieved independently often has the most profound impact on self-esteem.

Recognise Achievements

Recognise both small victories and major milestones, whether it’s mastering a new skill, showing teamwork, or maintaining a positive attitude. Praise, however, should be specific and genuine. Instead of a generic “good job,” try “I noticed how focused you were during practice today, and it really paid off in your passing.” This reinforces their hard work and makes them feel valued.

Confidence Is a Game-Changer

Confidence on the court is more than just a skill – it’s a mindset that can transform a young athlete’s experience. Fostering self-reflection, setting achievable goals, encouraging independence, and celebrating successes lets them develop the self-esteem needed to face challenges with determination and positivity. Confidence built on the court will extend far beyond the game, empowering young athletes in every aspect of their lives.

For a quarter of a century, Brett Rainbow has been a pivotal figure in Melbourne’s basketball scene. As the director and head coach of Tomorrow’s Stars Basketball, Brett Rainbow has left an indelible mark on the sport, personally training an astounding 50,000+ players over the course of 25 years.

The Numbers Speak Volumes

• Years in operation: 25
• Players trained: 50,000+
• Holiday basketball camps: 250+
• Special guest coach: 200+ teams
• Location: Melbourne, Australia

Building Tomorrow’s Stars Today

Brett Rainbow’s commitment to basketball goes beyond mere coaching. His company, Tomorrow’s Stars Basketball, has become a cornerstone of youth basketball development in Melbourne, Australia. Through his guidance, thousands of young athletes have honed their skills, learned the value of teamwork, and cultivated a passion for the game.

The Rainbow Effect

Brett Rainbow‘s impact extends far beyond the numbers. His coaching philosophy likely emphasizes:

1. Fundamental skill development.
2. Character building.
3. Mental toughness.
4. Strategic thinking on and off the court.
5. Physical fitness and endurance.

A Melbourne Institution

Tomorrow’s Stars Basketball, under Brett Rainbow‘s leadership, has become synonymous with quality basketball training in Melbourne, Australia. The company’s longevity is a testament to its effectiveness and the trust parents and players place in Brett Rainbow‘s methods.

Community Impact

With currently over 50,000+ players trained; the ripple effect of Brett Rainbow‘s work is immeasurable.

These players have gone on to:

• Compete at various professional levels of the sport.
• Become coaches and mentors themselves.
• Carry the lessons learned into their personal and professional lives.

Looking to the Future

As Tomorrow’s Stars Basketball continues to thrive, Brett Rainbow‘s legacy in Australian basketball is secure. His dedication to the sport and the development of young athletes serves as an inspiration to coaches and players alike.

The Next 25 Years

With such a strong foundation, one can only imagine the heights that Tomorrow’s Stars Basketball will reach in the coming decades. Brett Rainbow‘s vision and passion for the game continue to light the way for aspiring basketball players across Australia and beyond.

Brett Rainbow‘s story is one of commitment, impact, and the power of dedicated coaching. Through Tomorrow’s Stars Basketball, he has not only trained players but has also helped shape the future of the sport in Australia. As the company moves forward, the stars of tomorrow will continue to shine brightly under his guidance.

We have plenty going on at Tomorrow’s Stars in the coming months, with exciting opportunities for basketball players and fans of all ages.

Our September Holiday Camps are shaping up to be one of our best yet, with 4 camps being held across 2 locations.

With cost-of-living pressures continually rising, Brett and the team want to give back to those who have supported TSB over the years, as well as make the camps more accessible to more people during these tough economic times.

The Box Hill basketball camps are popular every school holidays, but this September, you can get the deal of a lifetime, with spots are available for just $99!

For this amazing price, you get 2 full days on court with the coaches (12 hours total) having fun and learning new skills. Plus, all participants get a free t-shirt. In the history of TSB, there has never been an offer this big!

So, tell your friends and come down to what promises to be an amazing experience over the term 3 holidays. This will sell out fast, so book now!

In December, we are heading to Los Angeles for our annual USA Basketball Tour. This year promises to be epic, with a 2-week itinerary that includes:

• 2x NBA games + VIP fan experience.
• Visit to Lakers training facility
• 1x NCAA college game + VIP fan experience.
• 1x NFL Football game + VIP fan experience.
• Disneyland, California Adventure & Universal Studios.
• Warner Bros Studio Backlot private tour.
• Hike to the Hollywood Sign.
• Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood Walk of Fame & Beverly Hills.
• 2x Basketball tournaments.
• And more…

If this sounds amazing, unfortunately our 2024 tour is already sold out.

But the good news is you can register interest for our 2025 Basketball Tour here.

Finally, if you’re needing to work on your game, we understand it’s an ongoing process that requires a lot of hard work and dedication. That is why we have now released our Private Training subscription plans.

Choose a 6-month or 12-month plan to get unlimited training sessions and lots of other benefits, to help you reach your full potential on the court. Open to all ages and skill levels.

Food is the fuel for your body, so it’s essential to choose wisely, especially for young athletes. That’s because eating the right foods increases energy levels, improves endurance, and speeds up recovery times. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in young basketball players’ performance and overall health, so it’s important to get it right.

This means young athletes need a balanced diet to support their intense training schedules and growth. So, here are some nutritional tips tailored for young basketball stars to help optimise their performance at both basketball training and during game time.

Balanced Meals Are a Priority

A balanced meal provides the essential nutrients needed for energy and recovery, so focus on meals that include a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates are the primary energy source for athletes, while proteins are essential for muscle repair and growth, and healthy fats support overall health and energy levels.

Avoid foods high in acidity or very spicy, as these can cause discomfort and digestive issues during games. Instead, opt for whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to provide sustained energy and nutrients.

Timing of Meals

Timing meals correctly is just as important as the choice of food. There should be enough time for the player’s food to digest before a game or practice session – eating a huge meal right before playing can lead to sluggishness and discomfort. Ideally, a substantial meal 2-3 hours before a game, consisting of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and some fats, is recommended. For example, a chicken and vegetable stir-fry with brown rice is a great option.

Everyone’s metabolism is different, so some players might need a light snack closer to game time, such as a banana or a handful of nuts, to maintain energy levels without feeling too full. Understanding how each player’s body responds to food ensures everyone benefits from a balanced diet tailored to their needs. When it comes to food – one size doesn’t fit all!

Keep Hydrated

Staying hydrated is crucial for preventing fatigue during a game or practice session. However, young athletes should drink water throughout the day, not just during practices or games but also before, during, and after physical activity. For longer sessions or particularly hot days, an electrolyte drink can help replenish lost minerals and keep hydration levels balanced.

Also, avoid sugary drinks and sodas, as they can lead to energy crashes and don’t provide the necessary hydration. The best choice is plain water or a sports drink with balanced electrolytes.

Post-Match Nutrition

Recovery is just as important as preparation because, after a game or intense practice session, young athletes need nutrients to repair muscles and restore energy levels. A post-match meal or snack should include both protein and carbohydrates. Some recommended options include a smoothie made with Greek yogurt, fruit, and a teaspoon of honey or a chocolate milk drink, both providing a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients to support post-match recovery.

Hungry for Victory

Focusing on balanced meals, proper timing, hydration, and post-match nutrition ensures that young basketball players have the energy and strength they need to perform at their best and recover safely. Eating the right foods at the right time will only leave you hungry for victory when you step on the court!

So, you’ve made the decision to get into basketball? Congratulations on choosing an exciting sport to participate in, and for joining the 450 million + people who are already involved.

Whether you’ve got mates already playing or you’ve been lured in after watching current stars such as Steph Curry or Jason Tatum, it’s important to take a few things on board to help you get off on the right foot.

Get suitable attire

By this, we don’t mean that you need the hottest jersey of your favourite player (but that’s a sweet investment to get you started) but more about having safe and comfortable clothing and accessories. Clothes that aren’t too loose is important and avoid shorts with pockets, as fingers can get caught in them – and they’re actually banned for competitive play. Invest in a good pair of basketball boots that are comfortable and supportive. You’re going to be changing direction and jumping a lot, so you need to look after your feet and ankles. Likewise, a pair of ankle braces can also help you avoid injury – and there’s nothing worse than spending a month on the sidelines after rolling your ankle.

Get fit

Basketball is an aerobically challenging sport with constant running up and down the court. So getting into shape is crucial. Going for regular runs can help improve your fitness, but also interval training (where you alternate between bursts of fast and slow speeds) is also recommended. Being optimal fitness will also help minimise the risk of injury.

Source a good coach

Whether you’re playing competitive games or just building your skill set, finding a good coach is crucial. A one-on-one private coach is perfect for working with you when you’re just starting out, as they can give you a range of great drills to help, as well as ensuring you do them properly. Mastering the right techniques is a lot easier if you know how to do them the correct way.

Warm up adequately

Before training sessions or games, it is always important to warm up. This not only gets your body loose and ready for physical activity but also minimises the risk of injury. Gentle jogging, stretching and shooting and passing will get your heart rate up and your head focused for the session.

Jump and then jump some more

Basketball players love to focus on shooting, which is obviously a very important element of the game. However, jumping is also a crucial action, necessary for shooting, but also rebounding and blocking shots on defence. NBA legend Charles Barkley was only 6 foot 5, but was one of the leagues best rebounders. As a youngster, he jumped back and forth over a fence, hundreds of times a day. If you practice your jumping from an early age, you will develop strength and timing that will hold you in great stead for your entire basketball career. We also offer a Jump Program for anyone interested in a targeted program to help their leaping ability.

Practice Practice Practice

When it comes down to it, the best way you can get started with basketball, and the best way to improve, is to practice. Even the greatest players in the world are continually working on their craft. Steph Curry is the world’s best shooter (possibly ever) but he still takes a minimum 250 shots a day – at least 2000 shots per week. Likewise, Magic Johnson, one of the games’ best ever point guards, didn’t become brilliant by accident. As a kid, he used to take a basketball wherever he walked, dribbling to school, dribbling to the shops, dribbling to his friend’s house. He mastered the art of dribbling the ball by practicing over and over again.

If you work on the fundamentals, and continually practice them, it will set you on a really good path to becoming a solid basketball player.

Like with many sports, basketball has evolved significantly since it was invented some 130 years ago back in Springfield, Massachusetts. There are now 2.2 billion players and fans around the world, and as participants push the boundaries of the sport, we will see more changes as the story of basketball continues to be written.

Here are 12 fascinating facts in the story so far.

1. Baskets were really baskets
   
   Back in 1891 when Phys Ed teacher James Naismith was looking for another sport for his students to play during the colder months, he hung actual peach baskets from the balcony of the gym. Each time someone scored a goal, they had to pull out a ladder and climb up to retrieve the ball. That’s likely would have meant for some extra stoppages in play!
   
   
2. Olympic Sport
   
   The first time basketball was ever played as an Olympic sport was at the Summer Games in Berlin, Germany in 1936. Twenty-one different countries competed, and America ended up winning the Gold.
   
   
3. Two leagues became one
   
   The NBA was originally formed in 1949 when the National Basketball League (NBL) and the Basketball Association of America (BAA) merged together. In 1967, a rival league, the ABA, commenced, but folded nine years later. The ABA attempted some variations on the rules. Some of these ended up being adopted and are still used in the game today.
   
   
4. Most points for a player in a game
   
   The most points ever scored in an NBA game was by Wilt Chamberlain who finished one night against the Knicks in March 1962 with 100 points.
   
   
5. Three pointers
   
   The three-pointer now plays such a huge part of modern-day basketball. But it actually wasn’t a thing in the NBA until the 1979-80 season, where they borrowed the idea from the ABA.
   
   
6. Dribbling wasn’t allowed
   
   When the game was first invented players had to pass the ball from where they caught it. Luckily this rule didn’t stick around for too long and dribbling became a part of the sport from about 1897. Netball has kept this tactic and it still remains one of the most popular sports among all ages.
   
   
7. Fouls were originally permitted
   
   For the first 20 years of the game fouls were actually permitted. From 1910 players were then permitted to commit 4 fouls, which was updated again in 1946 to the five fouls as we now know it. In 1989, the NBA updated this to 6 but FIBA rules still only allow 5 before the player is sent off.
   
   
8. Basketball Sneakers had to be partially white.
   
   Basketball sneakers have always been a point of interest for players as well as a part of fashion for many years. League policy mandated that each player “must wear shoes that not only matched their uniforms, but matched the shoes worn by their teammates.” Thanks to Michael Jordan back in 1984, who decided to accept a fine each time he wore his signature Jordans, which were originally black and red. The NBA eventually changed its stance and now any colour is acceptable.
   
   
9. Why is a Basketball orange
   
   Basketball originally started the game using a soccer ball. This progressed to a brown leather ball, but quite often it would be too hard to see blending with the floor or players uniforms, so was eventually dyed to be the orange colour many of us now use.
   
   
10. Most points for a team in a game
    
    The most points ever scored in an NBA game by one team is 186. This was by the Detroit Pistons against the Denver Nuggets in December 1983. It was a triple overtime thriller with Denver losing by 2 points. This match also ended up being the most combined points scored by both teams in a game with a total of 300 points.
    
    
11. The First Slam Dunk
    
    There’s no denying that dunking is one of the most exciting parts of the game. The first person to dunk was in 1944, a 7ft tall center who played for Oklahoma, who was pinned by defenders under the ring and accidentally stuffed the ball in the basket. Dunking actually ended up becoming banned in the 1960’s for about 10 years, mostly because Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was dominating with this move. Luckily this ban didn’t last!
    
    Our founder Brett Rainbow won 3 straight NBL Slam Dunk titles in the 1990s. If you’d like to slam it like him, check out our basketball jump program.
    
    
12. Most points in total for a player in the NBA
    
    The title of the most total points in the NBA goes to “The King” Lebron James who currently has 38469 total points, and counting! He only recently took this title from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on the 7^th February 2023.
    
    As basketball continues to grow in popularity, the rules will likely keep evolving. To make sure you always know the game inside and out, and be the very best you can, spend time training. 

With the Christmas holidays in full swing, everyone has been enjoying a hard-earned break, especially after another challenging year.

This doesn’t mean you should stop practising basketball over the holidays. As the saying goes:

“Someone out there is working harder than you right now”.

Putting the effort in during your time off is what helps you develop as a basketballer and outperform your competition.

While there may be no school games or club competition during the summer, there are lots of things you can do to help you get a step ahead of others.

Stay Fit

This is perhaps the most important thing to work on during an extended break. Starting the new year in peak fitness gives you a huge advantage as lots of other players will be slow and rusty when the new season starts. While it won’t directly impact your skills, being able to run faster up the court and jump higher than your opposition will help you stand out, which could be the difference between making the top squad or not.

Going for a run every day will ensure your aerobic fitness is maintained. Squats, lunges and push-ups also help with fitness and strength. And be sure to eat healthy and get plenty of sleep.

Keep Shooting

It’s easy to lose fitness when you take time off. But it’s also easy to lose your touch when it comes to shooting. The best shooters in the game take on average 300-500 shots every day. Steph Curry of the Golden State Warriors recently became the all-time leading 3 point shooter in the NBA. And he attributes this achievement to hard work and practice. Even though he is the best shooter ever, he still takes 100 shots before every game!

If you don’t have a ring at home, walk down to your local high school and spend an hour putting the ball through the hoop. You will be the envy of the other players when you return to basketball training.

Dribble Dribble Dribble

If you can’t get shots up every day, dribbling is one of the best things to practice. All you need is a basketball and yourself. Being able to handle the ball is an important skill no matter what height you are.

As a kid, Lakers legend Magic Johnson had a basketball in his hand wherever he went. He dribbled to the shops. He dribbled to his friends’ house. He even slept with a basketball! If you live and breathe the game, it becomes a part of you.

Watch Footage

Improving your game isn’t just about taking action. It’s also about learning. Watching old tapes (or should I say YouTube videos nowadays) of the best players can help you see the best way to execute the fundamentals, and help you visualise what is needed to be successful.

For post moves and footwork, we recommend taking a look at Hakeem Olajuwon and Tim Duncan. For jump shooting we recommend Steve Kerr, Mark Price, Ray Allen, Klay Thomson and of course his backcourt mate, Steph Curry. For defence check out Dennis Rodman, Gary Payton, Scottie Pippen and Olajuwon again. And for rebounding, you can’t go past Rodman, Wes Unseld and Moses Malone.

We hope you find these tips useful. Have a fantastic Christmas break and keep loving the game!

Over the years, you will likely have a number of basketball coaches, some good, some bad. One thing that remains constant, however, is that your coaches will be some of the most influential people on your basketball career.

Whether or not you see eye to eye with a coach, there are a number of actions you can take to ensure you get the most out of the relationship and maximise your chances of success.

1. Always be clear

Being clear on your goals and your expectations is crucial for an optimal relationship with your coach. Letting the coach know what you’re hoping to accomplish and what you believe your strengths and weaknesses is crucial to help avoid conflict. It will also open the lines of communication with your coach, so he or she can easily portray what their expectations of you are, and what their ultimate goal for the team, and for you as an individual, is.

2. Always show respect

Perhaps the most important part of good communication with your coach is respect. In the majority of cases, your coach isn’t trying to make you go through hell or punish you. They have a master plan and want to get the best out of you and the best out of the team. Sometimes, the team goals will mean your individual goals will be put off to the side, but this shouldn’t give you fuel to be rude or disrespectful to the coach. Ensure all conversations with your coach are polite and considerate. This is important whether it’s a coach who oversees your game or a coach who manages private training sessions for your basketball.

3. Honesty is the best policy

Similar to always being clear, being honest is another critical part of maintaining a good relationship with your coach. If something is bothering you as a player, then it’s important to be upfront about it. Don’t hold a grudge and let it build up inside you. A coach isn’t a mind reader, and they will actually value and appreciate you expressing your views. As above, make sure you do it in a respectful way. Being honest with your coach will also help ensure the conversation flow both ways is opened, and you will receive honesty from them in return.

4. Trust the process

This mantra became synonymous with the development of Philadelphia 76ers big man, Joel Embiid. After sustaining a serious injury prior to debuting in the NBA, the 76ers organisation asked both the fans and Joel himself to ‘trust the process’. And the same can be applied to players of any standard. If your coach isn’t giving you as much court time as you feel you deserve, trust that there is a reason for this.

Many players have to earn their dues to get the court time they desire. Don’t get disheartened or angry, but rather keep working hard and taking care of the things within your control. And most importantly if you DO need to speak up about any concerns, do it in an honest, respectful way.

If you can apply all the aspects mentioned above, the communication with your coach will be optimal. And no matter whether you are perfectly matched or have struggles getting on the same page, you will see a relationship form that benefits both player and coach positively.