Encouragement Vs. Criticism in Basketball

Encouragement is a process where you build a player's self confidence by focusing on his or her assets. Focusing on the negative, or criticizing, can result in a lack of self confidence as well as losing the enjoyment of the game. This does not mean constructive criticism is not needed at times but a player is more likely to listen and respond to constructive criticism after being built up with encouragement rather than torn down with negative comments.

The Encouragement Process

An effective way of encouraging a basketball player is through the use of a communication technique where you first encourage but also point out areas of improvement. The first step is encouragement, "I really think you are doing a great job of hustling." Try to pick something that you have seen the player working hard on and showing improvement. This might be challenging with young players as it may seem like nothing is improving so you may have something like "I really like the way you encourage your teammates."

Point to Examples

Next you will want to add content to your compliment by giving examples of what you have seen them do well. "It was great when you dove on the floor after that loose ball, it really fired up your teammates."

The Constructive Criticism

Now comes the harder part, you need to include a little constructive criticism in order to help the player improve. If he or she does not know what they are doing wrong then there is no chance to get better. One method is to make it a suggestion, "One thing you could do is focus more on defense as that is an area where you could really be great because of your willingness to hustle."

The Consequence

A suggestion might not get followed if there isn't something that catches the player's attention and shows there will be consequences if it isn't followed. "Defense is a critical part of the game and I will only play people who are willing to give 100 percent on that end of the court."

I Know You Can Do It

Finish by adding one last positive comment, "I have seen how hard you can work so I have confidence in your ability to become a great defensive player."

Have Fun Out There

You have now told the player that they will not play unless they improve on the defensive end but in an encouraging manner. You don't have to be Bobby Knight and scream at the players about what they are doing wrong, subtle comments can be just as effective. Basketball should be fun, not a place where players should be afraid to fail.

References

• Peak Performance
• Coaching Young Athletes