Will reading this newsletter really help my understanding of basketball?

Welcome to Locked IN! And yes, this will really help you understand and learn the game of basketball as a player, parent, coach or fan of the game. Stay up to date on the newest content, recruiting news, learn a new play, find out how to get off the bench and more. We appreciate you taking the time to check this out. We are always looking for more info, opinions and feedback.

-Jason Shea, Nick DeFeo

The Starting Five

1. Atlanta will host the NCAA Final Four in 2031, marking its fifth time as host. The event is set for April 5 and 7, 2031, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This selection follows Atlanta's missed opportunity in 2020 due to the pandemic, and it joins other upcoming hosts like San Antonio and Indianapolis for the next seven years.

2. Stephen Curry's recent $62.6 million extension with the Golden State Warriors secures his position with the team through the 2026-27 season, a pivotal move for both player and franchise. The extension raises questions about its one-year term, as Curry's salary remains below the maximum, reflecting the Warriors' complex financial landscape. While discussions of potential trades circulate, the focus remains on how this deal impacts the team's championship aspirations moving forward.

3. The debate among college basketball coaches revolves around whether the NCAA Tournament should expand from 68 teams. Some argue for inclusivity with more participants, while others emphasize preserving competitiveness and tradition. Perspectives on job security and team deservingness highlight the complexities of the issue, leaving the decision on expansion still pending as stakeholders weigh the implications.

4. Magic Johnson has taken a firm stance against Anthony Edwards' remarks about the skill level of old-school basketball players, particularly criticizing his assertion that only legends like Michael Jordan possessed true skill. Johnson pointed out that winning championships is the ultimate measure of greatness, highlighting his own impressive record at a young age. Other NBA greats, including Isiah Thomas, echoed Johnson's sentiments, attributing the evolution of basketball skills to rule changes that favor today's players. This debate underscores the ongoing tension between generations of players and their differing perspectives on the game.

5. UConn is a leading candidate for the Big 12's potential expansion to 17 teams, largely due to its strong basketball program. While Commissioner Brett Yormark supports the move, gaining the necessary votes from Big 12 presidents is challenging, especially considering concerns about UConn's football program. The discussion also highlights financial implications and media rights, amidst contrasting opinions within the conference about the broader impact on college athletics.

Recruiting 101 - Rutgers to the moon?

• The Rutgers men's basketball team has made a significant splash with their historic 2024 recruiting class, drawing parallels to Michigan's legendary "Fab Five." Featuring standout talents like Dylan Harper, Airious Bailey, Lathan Sommerville, Bryce Dortch, and Dylan Grant, this class has catapulted Rutgers to a top 3 national ranking. With these exceptional players on board, the program is not only aiming for a successful season but also setting sights on a potential national championship. This transformative group is expected to energize Rutgers basketball and pave the way for future elite recruits, igniting hopes for long-awaited NCAA tournament success.

• The City of Palms Classic promises an exciting display of high school basketball, featuring top teams and players that often impact national rankings. Key talents to watch include Cameron Boozer, Darius Acuff, and Mikel Brown Jr. With its competitive history, this tournament is set to showcase exceptional young talent from across the country.

In the Huddle - Villanova Motion

Coaches - the famous 4 out 1 in motion offense that allowed Villanova to dominate and win two national championships in 2016 and 2018! Give this a look and implement what you love.

Parents/Players - The game of basketball has gone to more spread offenses as players develop different skill sets. Watch this video to get an understand of what a 4 out offense is!

YouTube - Shooting Drills w/ Chris Brickley

One of the best to do it! Chris Brickley showcases how to use different shooting drills in his workout with JR Smith. Players, get some ideas from this workout and start working on them now!

Basketball Parents - Do you help or hurt your child?

Get off the Bench!

Players need to do whatever it takes to get off the bench in today’s game. What separates you from the other players? How do smaller guards get recognition from the coaching staff? How about college coaches? Players, add these suggestions into your game to help you stand out:

• Communicate…If you cannot talk, you cannot play! A simple way to show your coach that you know what is going on.

• Bust your a** on defense…whether you are slow or fast, tall or short, defense is where you make your $$. Stay low, keep your feet moving, get physical on the box out and go get that rebound! Your coach can’t ignore that, if he knows what he’s doing ;).

• Compete…players today have lost (or haven’t learned) the art of competition. Yes, it is ok to go at your teammate in practice! That is what practice is for. Iron needs to sharpen iron. We as players cannot let our “better” teammates dominate every single day in practice even if they are the best on the team. Shake things up, go at each other in practice and COMPETE! This is an easy way to show your coaching staff that you are not afraid of anyone. If you can do it in practice, you can do it in the game.

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