Sonya Elliott – Page 38 – Back on the Court

PeaceLoveBasketball Friday: “10 to Win” Rules of Defense

I love defense. When things aren’t going right on offense (maybe my shot is off or I’m having trouble handling the ball), the one thing that I can ALWAYS count on is my defense. It’s a little more difficult now that I’m not in great shape, but during my years on the court as a player I focused my energy on this part of the game, and as a coach I did the same. To help my players, I took what I have learned on the court, and from the coaches who I assisted (and those I read about and listened to at clinics) and put my favorites rules of defense together in a “10 to Win” list. If you play, or coach the game, these rules won’t be anything new to you, but it doesn’t hurt to have a reminder, and it’s always nice to have them all listed together in one place. When I was coaching, I had the list plastered around our locker room, as the Westside “10 to Win” Rules of Defense, to remind our players what we expected from them on the court every day in practice and in games.

See ball – See man

Always keep your eyes on the basketball as well as your player (point one hand at the ball and one hand at your man or on your man).

Jump to the ball on a pass

Unless you have been designated to face guard your player, you should jump in the direction of the ball when it is passed (still seeing your player and the ball at all times). This gets you in the right position for defending your man if he cuts, and it keeps you in good […]

PeaceLoveBasketball Friday: Get Ready for a Wild Ride

There is nothing more exciting than the playoffs. They are fun to watch, and to be a part of, because the level of talent increases, as well as the pressure, and anything can happen. We play basketball, and sports, and watch the games, because you never truly know what will happen.

Things can get crazy, and that’s why as a player, and as a coach, you have to go into every single game with intensity. I used to tell my girl’s, “Leave it all on the court ladies.” Meaning, give one hundred percent (and maybe a little more), and understand that if you give your best, that no matter the final score, you should have no regrets. Sadness and disappointment, yes, but regrets? No.

So if you’re a player or a coach heading into playoffs. Pull up you boot straps (or should I say tie up your hoop shoes) and get to work, give it your all, and have a blast. And, if you’re a fan…hold on for a wild ride.

Monday’s Pen to Paper: Celebrate Each Precious Moment

It feels like spring this morning. It’s cold and crisp but it’s lighter outside and there’s a different feel in the air. Oh, I know that this will not last long. That we will get hit again with day upon day of non-stop rain and darkness, I live in Seattle after all.

But does it matter? What is important is to take this spring teaser, this bright moment, and each precious moment in our life, and celebrate.

WRITING PROMPT #1: Write about those things that bring joy to your life.

WRITING PROMPT #2: When Eric reached the end of the trail he…