Email if interested at [email protected]

⁠Teachhoops.com⁠

⁠WintheSeason.com

Visit https://teachhoops.com/ for comprehensive player safety resources, injury prevention protocols, and evidence-based strategies that help you protect your athletes while building competitive, physically prepared basketball programs. In this episode, we tackle a practical yet often debated question in basketball coaching circles: should you require or strongly encourage your players to wear ankle braces, and what does the research actually say about their effectiveness in preventing the most common basketball injury—ankle sprains? This isn't just a safety decision; it's a coaching philosophy question that involves balancing player preference, parental concerns, budget constraints, and your responsibility to minimize preventable injuries that can derail seasons and affect young athletes long-term.

We explore the evidence supporting ankle brace use: research showing significant reduction in ankle sprain rates, particularly for players with previous ankle injuries who face dramatically higher re-injury risk, the biomechanical support braces provide during the constant cutting, jumping, and landing that basketball demands, and testimonials from programs that have implemented mandatory brace policies with measurable injury reduction. You'll hear counterarguments too—concerns about reduced ankle strength development, player complaints about comfort and restriction, the financial burden on families (quality braces cost $30-80 per pair), and questions about whether proper strength training and proprioception work might be equally or more effective for long-term ankle health.

This episode provides practical guidance for implementing an ankle brace policy in your program: how to communicate the rationale to players and parents, whether to make braces mandatory or strongly recommended, how to help families afford quality braces through team orders or fundraising, what brands and models actually provide meaningful support versus cheap alternatives that offer false security, and how to integrate ankle strengthening exercises regardless of brace usage. We discuss the liability considerations coaches face, how to handle the player who refuses to wear braces, and whether different positions or player histories warrant different policies. Whether you've lost key players to ankle injuries and want to prevent future devastation, you're establishing safety protocols for a new program, or you're simply trying to make an informed decision about this common coaching question, you'll gain clarity on the role ankle braces should play in your injury prevention strategy.

ankle braces basketball, basketball injury prevention, ankle sprain prevention, basketball player safety, ankle brace policy, preventing basketball injuries, ankle support basketball, ankle injury basketball, basketball ankle braces, injury prevention protocols, ankle brace requirements, basketball safety equipment, ankle strengthening basketball, preventing ankle sprains, basketball ankle protection, player safety basketball, ankle brace effectiveness, basketball injury reduction, ankle stability basketball, basketball anklecare, injury prevention coaching, ankle brace brands, basketball safety policy, ankle injury prevention, protective equipment basketball, ankle health basketball, basketball training safety, injury risk reduction, Wisconsin basketball safety, high school injury prevention

SEO Keywords:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Funnel Down Defense

Visit https://teachhoops.com/ 

for defensive system breakdowns, drill progressions, and practice plans that will help you install and master funnel down principles to transform your team's ability to protect the rim and defend ball screens. In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most effective defensive philosophies for high school basketball: funnel down defense, where perimeter defenders force ball handlers toward help and shot blockers rather than allowing penetration to weak side or baseline. This systematic approach prioritizes protecting the paint, eliminating layups, and forcing contested mid-range shots and outside jumpers—exactly the kind of shots high school players struggle to make consistently.

We break down the core principles that make funnel down defense work: aggressive ball pressure with proper angles, baseline denial on the wings, hard hedging or showing on ball screens to force middle penetration, and active help-side rotations that arrive before the drive. You'll learn specific footwork and positioning techniques for on-ball defenders, the exact positioning for help defenders in the lane, communication systems that keep everyone connected, and how to recover and closeout when the ball is reversed. We also discuss common mistakes teams make when trying to implement funnel down concepts—like passive ball pressure that allows easy middle drives, late help that results in layups, or overhelping that creates wide-open threes.

This episode provides detailed teaching progressions for installing funnel down defense: starting with individual defensive stance and angles, building to two-on-two shell situations where help concepts are introduced, progressing to full five-on-five team defense with proper rotations, and finally competing against live offense with ball screens and actions. We address how this defensive philosophy affects your big men's positioning, what kind of athletes you need to run it effectively, and adjustments you'll need to make against elite ball handlers or three-point shooting teams. Whether you're tired of giving up easy baskets in the paint or looking for a defensive identity that maximizes your shot blocker's impact, you'll gain a complete framework for building funnel down defense that protects the rim and forces opponents into low-percentage shots.

funnel down defense, basketball defensive system, paint protection basketball, rim protection defense, ball screen defense, help defense basketball, defensive philosophy basketball, forcing middle defense, baseline denial basketball, hedging ball screens, defensive rotations basketball, high school defense coaching, team defense concepts, defensive angles basketball, help side defense, defensive positioning basketball, teaching team defense, defensive drill progressions, shell drill defense, closeout drills basketball, on-ball defense coaching, defensive communication basketball, protecting the paint, defensive schemes basketball, basketball defensive strategy, forcing contested shots, defensive footwork basketball, team defense installation, Wisconsin basketball defense, defensive system coaching

SEO Keywords:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Visit https://teachhoops.com/

for resources specifically designed to help aspiring and current assistant coaches develop their skills, understand their roles, and position themselves for future head coaching opportunities. In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked path of assistant coaching—a critical stage in most coaches' careers where foundational skills are developed, relationships are built, and the realities of program management are learned without the ultimate pressure of being the head coach. Whether you're a former player looking to break into coaching, a teacher wanting to get involved, or an experienced assistant seeking to maximize your impact and advancement opportunities, this conversation will help you navigate the assistant coaching journey strategically.

We discuss how to land your first assistant coaching position, including networking strategies, leveraging playing experience, understanding what head coaches look for in assistants, and being willing to start at lower levels or volunteer roles to prove your value. You'll learn the essential competencies every assistant must develop: running effective individual workouts, mastering drill instruction, learning to scout opponents and break down film, communicating with parents and players appropriately, and understanding when to lead versus when to support the head coach's decisions. We explore the delicate balance assistants must strike between having their own ideas and fully supporting the head coach's vision, even when you disagree privately.

This episode provides honest advice about the challenges of assistant coaching: navigating personality differences with head coaches, dealing with limited recognition despite significant work, managing ambitions for a head position while remaining fully committed to your current role, and knowing when it's time to seek opportunities elsewhere. We also cover how to use your assistant coaching years strategically—building your coaching philosophy, developing expertise in specific areas, creating a reputation as a program builder, and networking within your state's coaching community. Whether you see assistant coaching as a stepping stone or a long-term calling, you'll gain clarity on how to excel in this vital role and prepare yourself for whatever comes next in your coaching career.

assistant basketball coach, becoming assistant coach, assistant coaching career, basketball coaching path, first coaching job, assistant coach responsibilities, basketball coaching development, volunteer assistant coach, assistant coach skills, coaching career start, basketball coaching opportunities, assistant to head coach, coaching apprenticeship basketball, assistant coach role, basketball coaching experience, coaching staff positions, breaking into coaching, basketball coaching entry, assistant coach advancement, coaching skill development, basketball program assistant, coaching mentorship basketball, assistant coach duties, basketball coaching ladder, coaching career progression, high school assistant coach, basketball coaching journey, assistant coach training, Wisconsin basketball coaching, coaching career beginning

SEO Keywords:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Visit https://teachhoops.com/ for basketball coaching resources, practice plans, and tools designed to help you manage every aspect of your program, from X's and O's to student-athlete development. In this episode, we tackle two of the most challenging responsibilities that fall on high school basketball coaches: navigating player injuries and monitoring academic eligibility. These aren't just administrative tasks—they're fundamental to your duty of care as an educator and mentor who impacts young people's futures far beyond the basketball court.

We discuss practical systems for injury prevention, communication protocols with athletic trainers and parents, and the difficult decisions around playing time when athletes are recovering. You'll learn how to create a culture where players feel safe reporting injuries rather than hiding them, and how to manage the pressure from parents, players, and even administrators when star athletes are sidelined. We also explore the critical importance of tracking academic progress throughout the season, not just at eligibility check dates, and strategies for intervening early when student-athletes start struggling in the classroom.

This episode provides frameworks for balancing your competitive goals with long-term student welfare. We'll cover how to build relationships with teachers and counselors, create study hall structures that actually work, and communicate effectively with families when academic or injury concerns arise. Whether you're dealing with a player hiding a nagging ankle injury before playoffs or a senior whose eligibility hangs in the balance, you'll gain concrete strategies to handle these situations with wisdom, compassion, and accountability that serves your players' best interests.

student-athlete injuries, academic eligibility basketball, injury management coaching, high school athlete academics, basketball injury prevention, coaching student welfare, athletic training communication, academic progress monitoring, student-athlete development, basketball coach responsibilities, injury protocol coaching, eligibility requirements, student-athlete success, coaching education balance, injury recovery timeline, academic intervention strategies, parent communication injuries, teacher collaboration coaching, student-athlete accountability, athletic academic support, concussion protocol basketball, playing injured athletes, grade monitoring system, study hall basketball, balancing sports academics, student-athlete health, coaching duty care, Wisconsin WIAA eligibility, high school coaching challenges, academic athletic balance

Keys to a good offense

What Are the Non-Negotiable Keys to Building an Effective Offense?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Visit https://teachhoops.com/

for comprehensive coaching resources and strategies that help you connect with your players, build team culture, and create the intrinsic motivation that sustains excellence throughout long seasons. In this episode, we dive deep into one of coaching's eternal questions: how do you genuinely motivate diverse groups of teenagers with different personalities, backgrounds, goals, and emotional needs? The answer isn't found in copying famous coaches' speeches or relying on the same tired pregame talks—it's about understanding what drives each individual player and creating an environment where motivation comes from within rather than being artificially imposed from outside.

We explore the critical distinction between short-term hype and sustainable motivation, discussing why fear-based coaching and constant intensity eventually backfire while purpose-driven approaches create lasting commitment. You'll learn how different players respond to different motivational styles—some need challenges and accountability, others need encouragement and affirmation, and most need a combination tailored to their personality and current confidence level. We break down practical strategies for motivating stars who might become complacent, role players who question their value, struggling athletes who've lost confidence, and teams facing adversity like losing streaks or playoff pressure.

This episode provides concrete frameworks for building intrinsic motivation: connecting basketball to larger life lessons, helping players set personal goals beyond team success, creating ownership through leadership opportunities, and establishing team standards that players enforce themselves. We also discuss how your own passion and authenticity as a coach either inspires or depletes player motivation, the power of one-on-one conversations, and why the most motivated teams often have clear roles, consistent communication, and a sense that their coach genuinely cares about them as people. Whether you're facing a midseason slump, preparing for a critical playoff run, or simply trying to get maximum effort in Tuesday practice, you'll gain actionable strategies to light the competitive fire in your players without burning them out.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Visit https://teachhoops.com/

for daily coaching insights, proven practice strategies, and a comprehensive library of basketball tips that will help you continuously improve your program one detail at a time. In this episode format, we deliver focused, actionable coaching advice that you can implement immediately—no fluff, no theory that doesn't translate to the gym floor, just practical wisdom that makes a real difference in how you coach and how your players perform. Each tip is designed to be something you can apply in your very next practice, whether it's a teaching point, a drill tweak, a communication strategy, or a simple adjustment that elevates your team's execution.

We cover the full spectrum of coaching: offensive and defensive concepts, practice organization hacks, player management techniques, game preparation shortcuts, and the small details that separate good programs from great ones. You'll hear tips drawn from decades of coaching experience, lessons learned from both victories and defeats, and insights gathered from successful coaches across all levels. These aren't generic motivational platitudes—they're specific, tested strategies like how to fix a common defensive mistake in 30 seconds, a practice drill modification that doubles engagement, or a pre-game routine adjustment that improves focus and reduces anxiety.

This episode is perfect for coaches who want continuous improvement without overwhelming themselves trying to change everything at once. Whether you're driving to practice, planning your next session, or looking for a fresh perspective on a persistent challenge, these daily tips provide bite-sized coaching education that compounds over time. We believe that championship programs aren't built through dramatic overhauls—they're built through consistent attention to detail, relentless refinement of fundamentals, and the accumulation of small improvements that create significant competitive advantages throughout a season.

basketball coaching tips, daily basketball advice, coaching tips basketball, practice improvement ideas, basketball drill tweaks, quick coaching strategies, basketball fundamentals coaching, coaching efficiency tips, basketball teaching points, practice organization tips, basketball coaching hacks, daily coaching insights, basketball improvement strategies, coaching wisdom basketball, game preparation tips, basketball detail coaching, player development tips, basketball practice ideas, coaching education daily, basketball fundamental tips, quick win coaching, basketball strategy tips, defensive coaching tips, offensive coaching advice, basketball technique tips, coaching shortcuts basketball, basketball program improvement, practical coaching advice, Wisconsin basketball tips, high school coaching tips

SEO Keywords:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Visit https://teachhoops.com/ 

for coaching resources, practice planning tools, and player development strategies that help you create a culture where every athlete can grow in confidence and reach their potential on the court. In this episode, we explore one of the most important yet challenging aspects of coaching: inspiring authentic confidence in your players without creating false bravado or entitlement. Real confidence isn't built through empty praise or participation trophies—it's earned through mastery, small wins, preparation, and a coach who believes in their players while holding them to high standards.

We discuss the delicate balance between pushing players outside their comfort zones and protecting their belief in themselves, especially when working with athletes who have experienced repeated failure or come from difficult backgrounds. You'll learn specific coaching language that builds players up without lying to them, how to celebrate process improvements alongside results, and why confidence is often a byproduct of competence rather than something you can talk into existence. We explore strategies for helping anxious players perform under pressure, rebuilding confidence in athletes going through slumps, and giving different types of players—stars, role players, and bench contributors—the specific affirmation they need to believe in their value to the team.

This episode provides practical frameworks for creating confidence-building moments in practice: designing drills where players experience success, using film sessions to highlight growth, structuring playing time decisions that communicate trust, and leveraging leadership opportunities that empower athletes. We also address common mistakes coaches make that accidentally undermine confidence—like inconsistent feedback, comparing players negatively to each other, or making playing time feel arbitrary. Whether you're coaching a talented player paralyzed by perfectionism or a hardworking athlete who doesn't believe they belong on the court, you'll gain tangible strategies to help every player discover their confidence and express it through fearless, competitive basketball.

building player confidence, coaching confidence basketball, inspiring basketball players, player self-belief coaching, confidence building drills, basketball player development, positive coaching methods, athlete mental confidence, basketball motivation techniques, overcoming player doubt, coaching anxious athletes, confidence through competence, player empowerment basketball, building self-esteem athletes, basketball coaching psychology, encouraging basketball players, slump recovery basketball, fearless basketball playing, coaching language confidence, player affirmation strategies, basketball culture building, trust-based coaching, growth mindset basketball, confidence under pressure, player belief systems, basketball coaching communication, athlete encouragement methods, developing confident players, Wisconsin basketball coaching, mental game basketball

SEO Keywords:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Teachhoops.com⁠

Here are a few options for the title phrased as engaging questions, followed by three paragraphs of show notes.

What Does a Real Day in the Life of a High School Coach Look Like?

Do You Ever Feel Like Coaching Is a 24-Hour Job?

How Do You Manage the Chaos from First Bell to Final Buzzer?

Is the "Glamour" of Coaching High School Basketball a Myth?

To the outside world, high school basketball coaching might look like showing up at 3:30 PM, blowing a whistle for two hours, and going home. In this episode, we pull back the curtain to reveal the chaotic, exhausting, and rewarding reality of what a coach actually does all day. We walk through the invisible workload that starts long before the final bell rings—from early morning film sessions and checking player grades to navigating the hallway conversations that often determine the pulse of your team.

We discuss the "in-season grind" where the lines between your day job, your coaching life, and your family life often get blurred. We tackle the unglamorous tasks that no one talks about in coaching clinics: the laundry loads, the late-night parent emails, the bus scheduling conflicts, and the mental energy spent managing teenage psychology. We share stories that every coach will nod along to, highlighting the sheer volume of decisions you are forced to make before practice even begins.

Finally, we explore how to survive the marathon without burning out. We offer practical time-management strategies for compartmentalizing your day so you can be present in the classroom, effective in practice, and available at home. Whether you are a young coach shocked by the workload or a veteran looking for solidarity, this episode is a candid look at the passion required to keep coming back to the gym day after day.

Title OptionsShow Notes

⁠FULL Season Access⁠

⁠Coach Collins Coaching Store⁠

⁠https://forms.gle/kQ8zyxgfqwUA3ChU7⁠

Check out. 

[Teachhoops.com](⁠https://teachhoops.com/⁠)

14 day Free Trial

Youth Basketball Coaches Podcast

Apple link: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coaching-youth-hoops/id1619185302⁠

Spotify link: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0g8yYhAfztndxT1FZ4OI3A⁠

⁠Funnel Down Defense Podcast⁠

⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/funnel-down-defense/id1593734011⁠

Want More

⁠Funnel Down Defense⁠

⁠https://coachcollins.podia.com/funnel-down-defense⁠

[Facebook Group . Basketball Coaches](⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/basketballcoaches/)⁠

[Facebook Group . Basketball Drills](⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/321590381624013/)⁠

Want to Get a Question Answered? [ Leave a Question here](⁠https://www.speakpipe.com/Teachhoops⁠)

Check out our other podcast [High School Hoops

](⁠https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/high-school-hoops-coaching-high-school-basketball/id1441192866⁠)

Check out our Sponsors [HERE](https://drdishbasketball.com/)

Mention Coach Unplugged and get 450 dollars off your next purchase

basketball resources

free basketball resources

Coach Unplugged

Basketball drills,

basketball coach,

basketball workouts,

basketball dribbling drills, 

ball handling drills,

passing drills,

shooting drills,

basketball training equipment,

basketball conditioning,

fun basketball games,

basketball jerseys,

basketball shooting machine,

basketball shot,

basketball ball,

basketball training,

basketball camps,

youth basketball,

youth basketball leagues,

basketball recruiting,

basketball coaching jobs,

basketball tryouts,

basketball coach,

youth basketball drills,

The Basketball Podcast,

How to Coach Basketball,

Funnel Down Defense

FDD

Win the season

Rule of 3 Offense

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://teachhoops.com/

Why Are You Listening to a Coaching Podcast on Christmas Day?

It is Christmas Day, and if you are tuning in, it proves one thing: you care deeply about your program. In this special reflective episode, we hit the pause button on the X's and O's, the scouting reports, and the endless grind of the season. We discuss the importance of stepping back to reflect not on the scoreboard, but on the deeper "why" behind the long hours and the sacrifices.

We shift the focus from the next game to the long game of coaching. We talk about recognizing the "real wins" that often go unnoticed—the player who finally "got it," the huddle that felt more connected, and the character building that happens when things get tough. This episode is a reminder that while your players might forget a specific drill or play call, they will never forget how you treated them or the standards you modeled during adversity.

Finally, we discuss the absolute necessity of self-care for coaches. You cannot pour into your players if your own cup is totally empty. We challenge you to use this holiday to reset your tone, express gratitude to your assistants, and spend guilt-free time with your family. This conversation is your permission slip to slow down today so you can return to the gym grounded, clear, and ready to be the present leader your team needs.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://teachhoops.com/⁠

The debate over ankle braces is one of the most persistent topics in basketball, with coaches, trainers, and parents often split on the best approach. In this episode, we dive into the pros and cons of prophylactic ankle bracing versus traditional taping. We break down the cost-benefit analysis, looking not just at the price of tape versus a one-time brace purchase, but also at the effectiveness of each method after 15 minutes of sweating and intense gameplay.

We also tackle the biggest myth surrounding this topic: the idea that wearing braces will weaken a player's ankles over time. We look at what the actual research says about "dependency" and whether external support leads to muscle atrophy, or if that is just old-school coaching folklore. We discuss the importance of distinguishing between reliance on a brace and using it as a necessary insurance policy, especially for players with a history of recurrent sprains.

Finally, we explore the balance between protection and performance. Does locking down an ankle limit a player’s vertical jump or agility? We discuss the concept of the "kinetic chain"—the fear that bracing the ankle might transfer force to the knee—and how to mitigate that risk through proper strength and mobility training. Whether you are considering a team-wide mandate or just advising a player coming off an injury, this episode gives you the facts to make an informed decision.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices