One of the biggest challenges I see many rookies struggle with overseas is understanding and executing their roles within set plays. Adjusting to this aspect of the game can be tough, especially when you’re new to the professional scene.
As a pro now, learning and mastering your playbook is part of your job—there’s no other way around it. Depending on your coach, you might find yourself dealing with anything from a handful of simple sets to a thick playbook full of complex movements. Regardless, it’s on you to learn and understand every play. Unlike in college, you won’t have three or four assistant coaches to guide you through every step. You have to take the initiative.
Many overseas coaches love set plays with plenty of movement, and depending on your position, it’s crucial that you understand your role so you don’t disrupt the flow. Here’s some advice tailored to different positions:
Guards: Learn the responsibilities of each position on the court. You’re the floor general, and it’s your job to ensure everyone is where they need to be. This knowledge not only helps your team but also shows your coach that you’re a leader on the floor.
Shooters: Be aware of your spots within the play and how you’ll need to work to get open. Knowing where and when you need to be ready to shoot is half the battle.
Bigs: Your role often revolves around setting screens—sometimes multiple screens—and doing so with perfect timing. Here’s a pro tip: the better the screen you set, the more likely you are to find yourself open for an easy bucket.
So, how can you make learning these sets easier?
- Watch and Learn: When you’re on the sideline, don’t just zone out or chat with teammates. Focus on what the player in your position is doing. Learn from their execution and mistakes.
- Maximize Practice: When it’s your turn to run through the plays in practice, concentrate fully. The more reps you get, the more ingrained the plays will become in your mind. If you make a mistake and the coach corrects you, take note and avoid repeating it.
- Use Pen and Paper: Drawing up the plays can be incredibly helpful. By sketching out each set, you gain a better understanding of the timing and the role of every position, not just your own.
- Break Down Game Film: Watch your game film critically. Take note of where you could have done better and learn from it. This will also help you to guide your teammates when they’re out of position or not executing their role correctly.
- Communicate with Your Coach: If you’re struggling with a particular play, don’t hesitate to sit down with your coach for more explanation. There’s no shame in asking for help—it’s far better than making repeated mistakes on the court.
Remember, understanding and executing your team’s plays is essential to your success. If you don’t put in the effort to master them, you risk losing playing time, which can hurt your stats and ultimately make it harder to secure your next contract. Take this responsibility seriously—it’s your career on the line.
If you’re finding it tough to adapt to the overseas game or need more personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. SJM Consulting is here to help you navigate the challenges of playing professionally overseas. Contact me, and let’s get you on the path to success.