Learning the basics of basketball at CMU camp

A CMU (Carnegie Mellon University) basketball camp usually includes a comprehensive programme aimed at developing a variety of basketball skills. Here are the main aspects that can be included in the programme.

Basic Basketball Skills

Ball handling (dribbling). Training to improve ball control, use of both hands, change of direction and speed.
Throws. Practising different types of shots, including shots from the spot, on the move and from the free throw line.
Passes. Developing accuracy and power of passes, including short and long passes.
Defence. Learning the basics of personal and team defence, working on positioning and reaction to the opponent’s actions.
Offence. Developing and practising attacking schemes, playing without the ball, finding open positions for shots.

Physical training

Strength training. Exercises to develop strength and endurance.
Speed training. Work on acceleration and change of direction.
Flexibility and coordination. Exercises to improve overall fitness and coordination.
Training games. Playing games to put the skills learnt into practice.
Competitions. Participating in tournaments and matches to help develop the ability to play under stress and competition.

Mental training

Psychological resilience. Learning to concentrate and manage stress.
Teamwork. Developing communication and co-operation skills with teammates.
Video analyses. Watching and analysing games to identify mistakes and find ways to eliminate them.
Individual counselling. Feedback from coaches on personal progress and aspects that need improvement.

The CMU camp may also include lectures and seminars with professional players and coaches, which adds an extra level of motivation and knowledge for participants.

Dribbling fundamentals: what is the basic dribbling technique

The fundamentals of dribbling (dribbling) in basketball include several key techniques and principles that help a player control the ball and move efficiently on the court. Here are the basic aspects of dribbling technique:

Body position:

Stance. The player should be in a semi-bent position, with knees slightly bent and back tilted slightly forward.
Balance. The body weight is evenly distributed on both feet, providing stability and readiness for quick movements.

Hand position:

Ball Driving. The ball is held with the fingertips, not the palm of the hand. This gives better control of the ball.
Hand not leading the ball. The other hand is held close to the body, ready to defend against the opponent’s attempts to knock the ball away.

Contact with the ball:

Touching. The fingers should gently touch the ball, cushioning the impact and guiding the ball to the ground.
Force. The force applied to the ball should be moderate so that it does not rise too high.

Dribbling height:

Low dribbling. Used to protect the ball when the opponent is close. The ball is carried at or below knee level.
High dribbling. Used when moving quickly around the court, with the ball at hip level.

Control and direction:

Change of Direction. Finger rolls are used to change direction, with a quick transfer of the ball from one hand to the other.
Pace. Changing pace helps to confuse defenders and find attacking opportunities.

The player should keep his head up to see what is happening on the court rather than looking at the ball.

Quickly changing the direction of the ball from one hand to the other in front of the body.

Use of body turns and shoulder movements to protect the ball from opponents.

Feet must be constantly in motion, ready for quick changes of direction.

Using small jumps and sudden stops to change pace and direction.

Constant practice of these techniques will help improve ball control, reaction and the ability to move quickly on the court, which is the foundation of effective dribbling in basketball.