If You Dont Talk, You Dont Play

The quote above comes from the first chapter of the book Pursuit of Perfection from UConn Women's Basketball Coach Geno Auriemma. I have never met a coach who says that there team talks to much (On the court).  All of us are trying to get our kids to communicate to their teammates and be vocal.   There is a quote out there that says that with average teams you hear squeaking shoes, with great teams you hear constant communication.

Another good quote about communication would be from Buzz Williams: "If there was a blind man that came to your practice, what would he think of your team?"  Buzz has been known to show film to his team minus the visual part -- simply a black screen for them to hear practice. He said he even has practice dumped on CD at times so he can "listen" to it in the car on the way home.



 So why is communication important on Defense
 - Promotes Team Building - When teammates are communicating with each other it increases the sense of a common goal. Cohesive individuals make for a well-balanced team.
- Reduces Individual Errors - It's hard to think about making a mistake when you are constantly encouraging and supporting your teammates. Less worry means less anxiety. This means your body can relax and perform at it's optimal levels.
- No Mental Lapses - Communication helps players stay focused on the game. More focus means increased awareness. Plus with communication, if someone does have a mental lapse, the talk and directions from the other players on the court help guide this player to the correct spot lessening the chance that a lapse turns into a costly error.
-Talk intimidates
-Talk Energizes
-Talk Wakes up a disengaged defender