HOME Basketball Answers Basketball COACHING Q&A

Middle school student begginer

Hi there,I am a middle school basketball coach. How can I help middle school students from grade 6 and up, who already know some basic techniques, improve enough to be able to compete?

NgocCoach, Vietnam

1 answer

ANSWERS

Cam HughesCoach, England

Hi Ngoc. If your Grade 6+ players know the basics, focus on applying skills under pressure rather than repeating isolated drills. Use small-sided games like 1v1, 2v1, and 3v3 to improve decision-making, confidence, and game speed. On Sportplan, search for transition drills, conditioned games, and competitive small-sided activities.

Teach simple team principles instead of complex plays. Offensively, emphasise spacing and pass-and-cut movement. Defensively, focus on ball pressure, help-side positioning, and rebounding. Add constraints (e.g., limited dribbles) to develop basketball IQ.

Make practices competitive, track simple performance markers, and build identity first, plays last.

JOIN SPORTPLAN FOR FREE

search our library of 650+ basketball drills
create your own professional coaching plans
or access our tried and tested plans

Basketball

LATEST COACHING TRENDS

Zone Defence Fundamentals: When and How to Run a 2-3 Zone

The 2-3 zone defence remains one of the most effective defensive systems in basketball when coached and executed properly. This guide covers the fundamentals of running a 2-3 zone, including player roles, rotations, and when to deploy it for maximum impact.

April 2026

Sportplan Coaching

Free Throw Consistency: Building a Routine That Holds Under Pressure

Free throws are the most practised yet most inconsistent shot in basketball. This article explores the mechanics, mental approach, and training methods that build a free throw routine capable of holding up when the game is on the line.

April 2026

Sportplan Coaching