The Theory
Jun 10, 2024
Alex Sarama
This blog explores Differential Learning (DL), as a method to develop adaptive shooters. Unlike traditional drills, DL introduces variability and "noise" to encourage players to discover their unique, effective shooting solutions. Read more to see how DL can revolutionize your approach to shooting practice!
Learn how offering misleading affordances, like no-look passes, can disrupt opponents and enhance gameplay. This blog explores practical coaching tips to foster deceptive behaviors, encouraging creativity and adaptability in both individual players and team strategies. Dive in to see how you can elevate your team’s performance with the art of deception!
Jun 3, 2024
Alex Sarama
Alex Sarama shares key learnings and life lessons from his 2023 trip to Lebanon with Kareem Kalil. Alex had a great experience sharing his perspective of the CLA with many open-minded Lebanese coaches. The trip has led to a growing group of coaches across Lebanon exploring the CLA in their coaching.
Feb 21, 2024
Alex Sarama
Learn how a constraints-led approach helps basketball beginners develop real skills through scaled small-sided games instead of fundamental drills.
Feb 16, 2024
Alex Sarama
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What is ecological dynamics and how is it connected to a constraints-led approach?
Dec 8, 2025
George Vaz
Are you searching for the best small sided games (SSGs) to improve your basketball practices? Want to replace boring, low-transfer drills with competitive games that actually develop player decision-making and in-game skills?
In this post, I’m sharing my top 5 favorite small-sided basketball games—designed to teach core concepts like closeouts, pick-and-roll, advantage creation, and transition offense and defense. These basketball SSGs are intense, purposeful, and built around real-game actions.
Whether you're coaching youth basketball, high school, or pros, these top small sided games will make your sessions more effective, more engaging, and more fun—for both players and coaches.
Let’s break down each game and how it can transform your practices.
Aug 4, 2025
George Vaz
Whether you’re coaching in the NBA, EuroLeague, or youth basketball, one thing remains universally true: the worst transition offense is still more efficient than the best half-court offense. Yet, many teams still struggle to fully capitalize on transition opportunities, often opting to slow down the game instead of pushing the pace. The question is, why? By running more intentionally, teams can create easier scoring opportunities. So why do some teams hesitate?
Apr 7, 2025
George Vaz
Spacing has changed the game. NBA offenses today look nothing like they did in the ’90s—more threes, better efficiency, and smarter shot selection. But why? The key lies in how teams use space to create and capitalize on advantages.
Mar 31, 2025
Simon Caret
This article breaks down why pass and cut motion offense limits youth player development, and explores better ways to teach spacing, decision-making, and offensive creativity.
May 1, 2024
Alex Sarama
Approaches within the basketball industry are predominantly based upon experiential knowledge and traditions.
