How to Execute an Effective Timeout in Basketball

Whether coaching kids on a CYO team or the premier talent in the NBA, the importance of utilizing strategic timeouts can't be understated. They not only give players a breather but can change the momentum of the game.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Wisdom to impart
• Eye on the game clock

1. Call a timeout only at strategic moments. They are particularly well-served when the opposing team is on a roll. A timeout can break that momentum.
2. Remember how many timeouts have been used and how many the team has remaining. Conserve at least two or three timeouts for the end of the game, when stopping the clock and preserving as many possessions as possible become critical.
3. Understand what needs to be said to the players. How must the strategy or effort be changed so the team will compete more effectively? How must the players counter what the other team is doing well? Those words of wisdom must be exchanged in a relatively short period of time.
4. Know your players and which buttons need to be pushed to maximize their performances. A good kick in the butt works for some players. A pat on the back works for others.
5. Leave the skull session on a high note. Give an encouraging word to the players as they return to the court.

Tips & Warnings

• Home court advantage is distinct at the high school, college and professional levels. Timeouts are well-served on the road when the home team has gained momentum and is emotionally feeding off the crowd noise. The opposite is true at home. Don't take an enthusiastic home crowd out of the game by calling a silly timeout.
• Keep in mind how many timeouts the team has remaining. Calling a timeout when the allotment has been used up will result in a technical foul that could prove very costly.