alloui by CBL
L1 Basketball Coaching Curriculum
This comprehensive curriculum outlines a complete coaching pathway designed to transform aspiring coaches into confident, knowledgeable leaders. Each module builds systematically upon the previous one, providing learning outcomes, key concepts with real-world examples, knowledge-testing quizzes, and hands-on practical drills to apply what's learned.
Whether you're a first-time coach or looking to refine your skills, this curriculum offers the structure and depth needed to develop players effectively while building your own coaching expertise. Use the table of contents to navigate between modules and create your personalized learning journey.
M1: Introduction to Coaching
Learning Outcomes
  • Identify the multiple roles a coach must perform
  • Understand different coaching styles and their impact
  • Define and formulate a personal coaching philosophy
  • Recognize the three phases of skill acquisition
Key Focus Areas
  • Coach's diverse responsibilities
  • Coaching style spectrum and adaptation
  • Philosophy development framework
  • Beginner learning progression
The Coach's Multiple Roles
Successful coaching extends far beyond teaching basketball fundamentals. A coach simultaneously serves as teacher, motivator, disciplinarian, organizer, public relations officer, fundraiser, advisor, friend, scientist, and student. This multifaceted role requires adaptability and strong interpersonal skills to meet diverse player needs and organizational demands.
Coaching Styles
Styles range from 'Authoritarian' (strict, command-style leadership) to 'Nice-Guy' (cooperative, player-centered approach). Successful coaches blend these styles situationally, adapting their approach based on player maturity, game context, and learning objectives.
Coaching Philosophy
Your philosophy represents what you genuinely believe is important for success—the foundation for all actions and decisions. It includes General Philosophy (values, relationships) and Technical Philosophy (system of play, tactical approach).
Learning Phases
Beginners progress through three distinct phases: Try it (conscious thought and awkward movement), Mastering (associative learning with fewer errors), and Automatic (autonomous execution with minimal conscious thought).
Practical Application
Coaching Style Role-Play
Practice different coaching approaches by acting out various styles while explaining drills. Players identify the style from communication cues, body language, and tone. This exercise builds awareness of how coaching approach affects player reception and learning.
Personal Philosophy Builder
Use guided prompts to craft your personal coaching philosophy. Define your purpose, vision of success, and approach to player treatment. This foundation will guide decision-making throughout your coaching journey.
M2: Rules & Player Positions
12
Total Players
Per team roster
5
Court Players
Active at any time
3
Scoring Values
Different point values
The Five Basketball Positions
Player roles are traditionally determined by height and skill set, though modern basketball increasingly emphasizes versatility. Each position carries specific offensive and defensive responsibilities that contribute to team success.
01
Point Guard (PG/#1)
The "coach on the floor" and primary ball-handler. Responsible for initiating offense, distributing the ball, and directing teammates. Must possess excellent court vision, decision-making skills, and ball security.
02
Off-Guard (SG/#2)
Generally the team's best shooter and scorer. Works off screens, creates shots from the perimeter, and provides secondary ball-handling. Must excel at catch-and-shoot situations and moving without the ball.
03
Small Forward (SF/#3)
The most versatile player, capable of playing inside and outside. Often the team's best athlete with ability to score, rebound, and defend multiple positions. Provides flexibility in lineups and matchups.
04
Power Forward (PF/#4)
Strong interior player and rebounder. Typically operates near the basket on offense, provides post-up options, and anchors interior defense. Must be physical and possess good positioning skills.
05
Center (C/#5)
Usually the tallest player who protects the basket and scores inside. Primary rim protector on defense and low-post threat on offense. Sets screens, rebounds, and alters shots in the paint.
Scoring System
Point Values
  • 3 Points: Shots made from outside the three-point line
  • 2 Points: Field goals made inside the three-point line
  • 1 Point: Successful free throw attempts
Practical Drills
Position Hotspots
Players sprint to designated cones at each position when called by coach. Builds court awareness and reinforces position locations and spatial relationships.
Role Responsibilities Shout-Out
Coach calls a position, players rapidly name key offensive or defensive responsibilities. Reinforces understanding of position-specific duties and expectations.
M3: Violations
Understanding Violations
Violations are infractions of basketball rules that do not involve illegal physical contact with opponents. Unlike fouls, violations result in a simple change of possession through a throw-in for the opposing team. Understanding violations is crucial for players to maintain possession and flow of play.
Ball Handling Violations
Traveling: Illegally moving the pivot foot without dribbling, shooting, or passing
Double Dribble: Dribbling, stopping, then starting to dribble again
Carrying/Palming: Hand goes under the ball while dribbling, causing it to pause
Time Restrictions
5-Second Rule: Maximum time allowed to pass the ball inbounds
8-Second Rule: Time limit to advance ball from backcourt to frontcourt
3-Second Rule: Offensive players cannot remain in the key area longer than three seconds
Other Key Violations
Goaltending: Interfering with a shot on its downward flight toward the basket
Backcourt Violation: Illegally returning the ball to the backcourt after advancing it
Out of Bounds: Player or ball touching boundary lines or area beyond them
Critical Time Violations
The 3-Second Rule
Prevents offensive players from camping in the key area, promoting movement and preventing unfair advantages near the basket. Players must establish position outside the key before re-entering to reset the count.
Backcourt Pressure
The 8-second rule creates urgency for teams to advance the ball, preventing stalling tactics. Teams must cross half-court within this timeframe or lose possession through violation.
Practical Skill Development
Pivot Perfection
After executing a jump stop, practice proper pivoting technique with firmly planted pivot foot. Focus on maintaining balance while keeping the pivot foot stationary during all movements.
Dribble, Stop, Pass
Practice legal stopping mechanics followed by pivoting and passing to teammates. This sequence helps players avoid traveling and double dribble violations while maintaining possession under pressure.
M4: Fouls & Official Signals
Fouls vs. Violations
The fundamental distinction in basketball infractions separates fouls (involving illegal physical contact) from violations (rule infractions without contact). Understanding this difference helps players, coaches, and officials maintain proper game flow and player safety.
1
Personal Fouls
Illegal physical contact including hitting, pushing, holding, or impeding an opponent's movement. Results in free throws if team is in penalty situation or if committed during shooting motion.
2
Charging
Offensive foul where ball handler runs into stationary defensive player who has established legal guarding position. Defender must be set before contact occurs to draw the charge.
3
Blocking
Defensive foul for illegally impeding offensive player's progress without establishing proper position. Often occurs when defender slides into path of moving offensive player.
4
Technical Fouls
Non-contact infractions typically involving unsportsmanlike behavior, arguing with officials, or violating game conduct rules. Results in free throws and possession for opposing team.
Official Communication Protocol
3-Step Foul Reporting Sequence
  1. Number of Player: Official identifies fouling player by jersey number
  1. Type of Foul: Specific foul category communicated through hand signals
  1. Free Throws or Direction: Outcome determination and possession direction
This standardized sequence ensures clear communication between officials, scorekeepers, coaches, and players, maintaining game integrity and accurate record-keeping.
Essential Official Signals
Blocking Foul
Both hands placed firmly on hips indicates illegal contact by defensive player impeding offensive progress without proper positioning.
Traveling Violation
Rotating fists in circular motion signals illegal movement of pivot foot or improper footwork sequence during ball handling.
Pushing Foul
Forward pushing motion with both hands demonstrates illegal contact where player uses hands to displace opponent.
Practical Application Drills
Referee Signal Mirror
Coach demonstrates various official signals while players mirror the movements. This kinesthetic learning approach helps players understand the visual language of basketball officiating and recognize calls during games.
Charge vs. Block Challenge
Controlled 1-on-1 scenarios where players practice distinguishing between charging and blocking situations. Emphasis on proper defensive positioning and timing to help players understand these crucial calls.
M5: Equipment & Court
Court Specifications
Basketball courts follow international standards to ensure consistent playing conditions worldwide. The regulation court dimensions of 28m × 15m provide optimal space for player movement, strategic positioning, and competitive balance between offense and defense.
28m
Court Length
Standard court dimension
15m
Court Width
Regulation measurement
3.05m
Hoop Height
For ages 12 and above
2.60m
Youth Height
For under-12 players
Basketball Sizes by Category
Size 7 Basketball
Official ball for men's competition. Circumference of 75-78cm provides optimal grip and shooting mechanics for adult male players.
Size 6 Basketball
Standard for women's competition. Slightly smaller circumference accommodates different hand sizes while maintaining proper shooting form and ball control.
Size 5 Basketball
Youth and mini basketball for under-12 players. Smaller, lighter ball promotes proper shooting technique and skill development for younger players.
Court Geography & Key Areas
Boundary Lines
Sidelines and baselines define the playing area. Ball or player touching these lines results in out-of-bounds violation and change of possession.
Center Circle
Used for game opening jump ball and certain restart situations. Provides neutral territory for contested possession situations.
Free-Throw Areas
The "paint" or "key" area where free throws are attempted. Contains the free-throw line, lane lines, and restricted area markings.
Three-Point Arc
Semi-circular line designating the three-point scoring area. Shots made beyond this line are worth three points instead of two.
Equipment Familiarization Drills
Court Landmark Tour
Players sprint to touch specific lines and areas when called by coach. This kinesthetic exercise locks in court geography and builds spatial awareness essential for positioning and movement.
Ball Size Identification
Line up different ball sizes and have players identify appropriate use by age group and gender category. Reinforces proper equipment selection for different player populations.
M6: Basic Skills — Movement & Ball Handling
Foundation of Movement: Balance
All basketball movement begins with proper balance and body positioning. Good balance requires knees flexed, weight distributed on the balls of the feet, and head up to maintain court vision. This athletic stance enables quick reactions and efficient movement in any direction.
1
One Count Stop (Jump Stop)
Landing on both feet simultaneously creates equal balance and allows either foot to become the pivot foot. This stop provides maximum stability and options for subsequent movement.
2
Two Count Stop (Stride Stop)
Landing on one foot followed by the other in sequence. The first foot down becomes the designated pivot foot, limiting but not eliminating movement options.
3
Pivoting Technique
Keep one foot planted (pivot foot) while stepping with the other foot. This fundamental skill enables ball protection, creating passing angles, and maintaining legal position.
4
Triple Threat Position
Athletic stance ready to shoot, dribble, or pass. This position maximizes offensive options and keeps defenders guessing about next move.
The Power of Triple Threat
Three Deadly Options
The triple threat position gives offensive players maximum flexibility and keeps defenders off-balance. From this stance, players can:
  • Shoot: Quick release for scoring opportunities
  • Dribble: Drive to the basket or create better position
  • Pass: Find open teammates for assists
Mastering this position is essential for all players regardless of size or position, as it forms the foundation for all offensive actions.
Movement Mastery Drills
Figure Eight Relay
Ball handling through figure-eight patterns around legs develops coordination, fingertip control, and ambidextrous skill. Start slowly and increase speed while maintaining control.
Two-Count Stop and Pivot
Practice stride stopping followed by pivoting and passing to teammates. This sequence reinforces legal footwork while building muscle memory for game situations.

Coaching Tip: Emphasize that balance is the foundation of all basketball skills. Players who master proper body positioning and footwork will execute all other skills more effectively and with greater confidence.
M7: Dribbling Skills
Dribbling Biomechanics
Effective dribbling requires proper technique using fingertips and wrist snap rather than palming the ball. Players must keep their head up to maintain court vision while controlling the ball with peripheral vision and feel. This fundamental skill enables ball advancement, defensive pressure navigation, and creating scoring opportunities.
Low Dribble
Used when closely guarded to protect the ball from defenders. Keep dribble below knee height with strong hand position and compact body posture.
Speed Dribble
For moving quickly in open court situations. Push the ball ahead several feet and run to it, maintaining control while covering maximum distance.
Change of Pace
Deceptive technique involving slowing down then exploding forward to freeze and blow by defenders. Timing and selling the change is crucial.
Crossover Move
Push ball from one hand to the other in front of the body. Quick, low dribble with hand protecting the ball from defensive reach.
Hesitation Dribble
Brief pause in dribbling rhythm to freeze the defender, followed by explosive acceleration. Sell the hesitation with body language.
Advanced Dribbling Concepts
Court Vision While Dribbling
The most critical aspect of dribbling is maintaining head up position to see the entire court. Players must develop the ability to control the ball through feel and peripheral vision while processing defensive positioning, teammate movement, and scoring opportunities.
Practice dribbling while calling out hand signals shown by coaches or identifying colored cones placed around the court. This builds the neural pathways necessary for game-situation decision making.
Situational Dribbling Applications
Against Pressure
Use low, controlled dribbles with body positioned between ball and defender. Keep dribble tight and be ready to pivot or pass when pressed.
Fast Break Situations
Push the ball ahead with speed dribble, looking up constantly for trailing teammates and defensive positioning. Balance speed with control.
Creating Separation
Combine hesitation, change of pace, and crossover moves to create space from defenders. Set up moves with body language and eye deception.
Skill Development Drills
1
Cone Weave Challenge
Weave through cones using right hand, left hand, and crossover dribbles. Focus on maintaining control while changing directions and hand positions. Gradually increase speed as technique improves.
2
Pressure Dribble Square
Dribble inside a small marked area while a defender applies pressure. Keep eyes up, protect the ball, and maintain possession for specified time periods. Builds confidence under defensive pressure.
M8: Shooting & Rebounding
Shooting Biomechanics: The BEEF Method
Consistent shooting success depends on mastering four key components: Body Balance, Aiming (Eye focus), Shooting Action (Elbow alignment and lift), and Follow-Through. These elements work together to create repeatable shooting mechanics that translate to game situations.
Body Balance
Square shoulders to basket, feet shoulder-width apart, shooting foot slightly forward. Maintain athletic stance with knees flexed and weight on balls of feet.
Aiming
Focus eyes on back of the rim for consistent target. Maintain visual focus throughout shooting motion from start to follow-through.
Shooting Action
Keep shooting elbow directly under ball, aligned with basket. Use legs for power, smooth upward lift with proper arc angle around 45 degrees.
Follow-Through
Snap wrist downward with fingertips pointing toward floor. Hold follow-through position until ball reaches basket for consistency.
Shot Types and Techniques
Lay-up Fundamentals
The highest percentage shot in basketball requires proper footwork, timing, and touch. Approach the basket at an angle, jump off the outside foot (right foot for right-hand lay-ups), and aim for the corner of the square on the backboard to bank the shot softly into the basket.
Jump Shot Mechanics
Start in triple threat position, bring ball to shooting pocket (between shoulder and ear), jump straight up while extending shooting arm. Release at the peak of jump with proper arc and rotation. Land in same spot as takeoff for balance.
Free Throw Routine
Develop consistent pre-shot routine: same number of dribbles, deep breath, visualization, and shooting motion. Practice routine during every free throw to build muscle memory and confidence.
Rebounding: The Key to Possession
Rebounding determines which team gets additional scoring opportunities. Success depends on positioning, timing, and desire rather than just height. Both offensive and defensive rebounding require specific techniques and mental approach.
1
Box Out Technique
When shot goes up, immediately find nearest opponent and establish position between them and the basket. Use wide base, arms extended, and maintain contact while watching ball flight.
2
Pursuit and Timing
After establishing position, pursue the ball at its highest point. Jump with both hands extended, grab ball with fingertips, and bring it down with strength and authority.
3
Secure and Outlet
Protect rebound by keeping ball low and elbows out. Quickly find outlet pass or begin dribble to advance ball and start offensive transition.
Shooting and Rebounding Drills
Mikan Drill
Alternate right and left-hand lay-ups continuously under the basket. Focus on soft touch, using the backboard, and quick footwork. This classic drill builds ambidextrous finishing ability and close-range confidence.
Box Out War
1-on-1 positioning drill focusing on legal boxing out technique to secure rebounds. Emphasizes proper positioning, timing, and physical approach to rebounding in competitive situations.
M9: Strategy & Tactics
Fundamental Offensive Plays
Basketball strategy revolves around creating high-percentage scoring opportunities through player movement, ball movement, and coordinated actions. Basic offensive plays form the foundation for more complex systems and provide structure for team execution.
Give-and-Go
The simplest and most effective play in basketball. Player passes to teammate and immediately cuts to the basket for a return pass. Requires timing, communication, and aggressive cutting action to create scoring opportunities.
Screen (Pick) Actions
Offensive player sets a stationary barrier to free a teammate from their defender. Screener must be completely stationary with wide base. User of screen must read defender's position and cut accordingly - over or under the screen.
Fast Break Execution
Push the ball quickly up court to score before defense can organize. Primary objective is creating easy, high-percentage shots like lay-ups. Requires speed, decision-making, and court spacing.
Defensive Systems
Man-to-Man Defense
Each defender is responsible for guarding a specific opponent wherever they go on the court. This system emphasizes individual defensive skills, communication, and help defense principles. Players must master on-ball defense, help and recovery, and switching responsibilities.
  • Direct accountability for opponent
  • Individual defensive skill development
  • Clear help and recovery responsibilities
Zone Defense
Defenders are responsible for guarding specific areas or zones of the court rather than individual players. Common zones include 2-3, 1-3-1, and 2-1-2 formations. Requires excellent communication and court positioning.
  • Area responsibility emphasis
  • Disrupts offensive rhythm
  • Strong rebounding positioning
Transition Basketball
Defensive Transition
First priority is sprinting back to prevent easy scores. Assign specific responsibilities: one player slows the ball, others find opponents and communicate assignments.
Offensive Transition
Look for numbers advantage (3-on-2, 2-on-1) and attack quickly. Fill lanes properly: point guard in middle, wings on sides. Make simple plays and finish with high-percentage shots.
Strategic Application Drills
Give and Go (2v0)
Practice timing and execution without defensive pressure. Focus on sharp cuts, accurate passing, and finishing at the rim. Build comfort with the fundamental concept before adding defensive pressure.
Defend the Down Screen (3v0)
Work on timing and spacing when running off screens. Practice reading defensive positioning and making appropriate cuts. Emphasize communication between screener and cutter.

Strategic Principle: Simple plays executed perfectly are more effective than complex plays executed poorly. Master the fundamentals before advancing to sophisticated systems.
M10: Coaching Communication & Ethics
The Art of Coaching Communication
Effective coaching extends far beyond technical knowledge. The ability to communicate clearly, motivate appropriately, and build positive relationships determines coaching success more than X's and O's. Communication involves both verbal instruction and non-verbal messaging that shapes player experience and team culture.
Verbal Communication
Clear, concise instructions that players can understand and implement. Use positive language, specific corrections, and age-appropriate vocabulary. Timing of verbal input is crucial - too much information overwhelms players during action.
Non-Verbal Messaging
Body language, facial expressions, and physical positioning communicate as much as words. Players read coach's energy, confidence, and emotional state. Consistent positive body language builds trust and confidence.
Active Listening
Coaching communication is two-way. Listen to player concerns, questions, and feedback. Create environment where players feel comfortable communicating with coaching staff about basketball and personal matters.
The Feedback Sandwich Method
Positive → Correction → Positive
Effective error correction begins with acknowledging something done well, followed by specific instruction for improvement, concluded with encouragement or positive reinforcement. This method maintains player confidence while promoting learning.
Example Application:
Positive: "Great hustle getting back on defense, Sarah."
Correction: "Next time, get your hands up to contest the shot."
Positive: "Your effort is exactly what this team needs - keep it up!"
Coaches' Code of Conduct
Individual Focus
Treat each athlete as an individual with unique needs, abilities, and backgrounds. Avoid comparing players and recognize different learning styles and motivational approaches.
Fair Play & Respect
Emphasize sportsmanship, respect for opponents, officials, and teammates. Model appropriate behavior and hold players accountable for their actions on and off the court.
Safety First
Player safety takes priority over winning. Ensure proper equipment, safe playing conditions, and age-appropriate training methods. Never compromise player health for competitive advantage.
Positive Role Model
Lead by example in all situations. Players watch and learn from coach behavior, decision-making, and character. Demonstrate the values you want to instill in your team.
Communication Skills Development
1
30-Second Demo
Practice explaining and demonstrating simple skills within 30-second time limit. Forces concise, clear communication and prevents information overload during instruction.
2
Feedback Sandwich Practice
Role-play delivering constructive feedback using the sandwich method. Practice with various scenarios to build comfort with this essential coaching communication tool.

Remember: Coaches communicate with players, parents, fans, and game officials. Each group requires different approaches while maintaining consistency in core values and principles.
M11: Planning Training Schedules
Anatomy of Effective Practice Planning
Well-structured practices maximize learning time, maintain player engagement, and systematically develop skills. Each practice component serves a specific purpose in player development and team preparation. Consistency in structure helps players focus on improvement rather than wondering what comes next.
01
Dynamic Warm-Up
Prepare the body physically and mentally for practice. Include movement-based exercises that elevate heart rate, increase flexibility, and activate muscle groups used in basketball. Duration: 8-10 minutes.
02
Review Previous Skills
Reinforce previously taught techniques through brief repetition. Builds confidence and ensures retention of fundamental skills before introducing new concepts. Duration: 5-8 minutes.
03
New Skill Development
Introduce and practice new techniques or concepts. Keep instruction minimal and maximize repetition time. Break complex skills into manageable components. Duration: 15-20 minutes.
04
Scrimmage Application
Apply practiced skills in game-like situations. Use small-sided games or controlled scrimmages to bridge the gap between drill work and actual gameplay. Duration: 10-15 minutes.
05
Team Circle & Evaluation
Gather team to review key points, recognize effort, and set expectations for next session. End on positive note while addressing areas for improvement. Duration: 3-5 minutes.
Planning Progression Principles
Skill Building Sequence
Progress from simple to complex, slow to fast, individual to team concepts. Each new skill should build upon previously mastered techniques. Avoid jumping ahead too quickly - solid fundamentals enable advanced skill development.
Age-Appropriate Pacing
Younger players require more frequent breaks, shorter instruction periods, and more variety in activities. Older players can handle longer skill sessions and more complex tactical concepts. Match progression speed to group ability level.
Teaching New Skills Effectively
Minimize Instruction
Keep verbal instruction brief and focused. Players learn through doing, not listening to long explanations. Demonstrate clearly, provide key teaching points, then maximize practice time.
Game-Like Context
Connect skill practice to game situations. Help players understand when and why to use specific techniques. Use scrimmages and small-sided games to apply skills under pressure.
Individual Correction
Provide specific, individualized feedback during skill practice. Move among players, observe technique, and offer targeted corrections using positive coaching methods.
Practice Planning Activities
20-Minute Mini-Practice Plan
Design a complete, balanced practice session within 20-minute timeframe. Include all essential components while managing time effectively. This exercise builds planning efficiency and prioritization skills.
Constraint-Led Game Design
Create small-sided games with specific rule modifications to address team needs. For example, require three passes before shooting to encourage ball movement. This approach makes learning fun and competitive.
M12: Introduction to Sports Science
Components of Basketball Fitness
Basketball demands a unique combination of physical attributes that enable players to perform at optimal levels throughout games. Understanding fitness components helps coaches design appropriate training programs and recognize the physical demands placed on athletes in game situations.
Cardiovascular Endurance
Ability to maintain activity throughout game duration. Basketball's stop-start nature requires both aerobic base and anaerobic power for repeated high-intensity efforts.
Muscular Strength
Force production capability for jumping, shooting, rebounding, and contact situations. Both upper and lower body strength contribute to basketball performance.
Flexibility
Range of motion around joints enabling efficient movement patterns. Prevents injury and allows for proper technique execution in all basketball skills.
Body Composition
Ratio of lean muscle mass to body fat. Optimal composition enhances power-to-weight ratio and reduces injury risk while improving endurance capacity.
Speed
Ability to move quickly in straight lines and change direction rapidly. Critical for fast breaks, defensive recovery, and creating separation from opponents.
Agility
Coordination and quickness in changing directions while maintaining balance and control. Essential for defensive slides, driving moves, and court positioning.
Basketball Energy Systems
1
Anaerobic/ATP-PC System (0-10 seconds)
Powers explosive movements like jumping for rebounds, sprinting for fast breaks, and quick defensive reactions. Uses stored energy in muscles without requiring oxygen. Recovery requires rest periods.
2
Anaerobic Glycolysis (10 seconds - 3 minutes)
Sustains high-intensity efforts like full-court pressure defense, extended offensive possessions, and repeated fast breaks. Produces energy quickly but creates fatigue byproducts.
3
Aerobic System (3+ minutes)
Supports longer, moderate-intensity activity and aids recovery between high-intensity bursts. Provides baseline endurance and helps clear fatigue byproducts from anaerobic efforts.
Training Principles
Progression Principle
Gradually increase training demands to promote adaptation and improvement. Advance step-by-step toward goals without overwhelming the athlete's capacity to recover and adapt. Applies to skill development and physical conditioning.
Overload Principle
The body must be stressed beyond normal capacity to stimulate improvement. This applies to strength, endurance, and skill development. Progressive overload ensures continued adaptation and prevents plateaus in performance.
10%
Weekly Increase
Maximum recommended training load progression
72h
Recovery Time
Minimum between high-intensity sessions
Injury Prevention: R.I.C.E. Protocol
Rest
Stop activity immediately to prevent further damage. Avoid putting weight or stress on injured area. Rest allows natural healing process to begin and prevents minor injuries from becoming major problems.
Ice
Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during first 48-72 hours. Reduces swelling, numbs pain, and limits tissue damage. Never apply ice directly to skin - use towel or cloth barrier.
Compress
Apply elastic bandage to provide support and limit swelling. Wrap firmly but not too tightly - should not cut off circulation. Remove if numbness or tingling occurs.
Elevate
Raise injured area above heart level when possible to reduce blood flow and minimize swelling. Most effective when combined with rest and ice application.
Sports Science Application
Dynamic Warm-up Leadership
Guide players through movement-based preparation that activates muscle groups and elevates heart rate. Include basketball-specific movements that prepare the body for practice demands while reducing injury risk.
R.I.C.E. Injury Scenario
Practice explaining and applying R.I.C.E. protocol through role-play situations. Build confidence in handling minor injuries while recognizing when professional medical attention is required.

Important: Coaches should never diagnose or treat serious injuries. When in doubt, seek professional medical evaluation. The R.I.C.E. protocol applies only to minor injuries and immediate care.