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How Far is LeBron?

Posted in New Posts, News on October 19th, 2011 by Troy Miles

LeBron James is one of the baddest cats on the basketball planet, and perhaps the best teammate in the game– period . You could even argue he is the greatest player we’ve ever seen–with so much cap space (room to grow).

Yet as super basketball human as he is, LeBron has glaring weaknesses in his game. Read more »

Everybody knows by now that he needs to develop his post game, and I’d love to work him through “A Dose of my Post. But if  I could just get him to understand “Lane Play” (The Virtual Game of Basketball), every NBA exec outside of Pat Riley and the Heat brass would be looking to give me the guillotine.

Nonetheless, LeBron is a ridiculous player as is and certainly a joy to watch. In my humble opinion he has the greatest scope of vision of any player since Magic Johnson. Yet the enigma that is LeBron James brings up an interesting discussion about capacity (what you have) and capability (what you do with what you have). I suppose it’s why we are delighted by LeBron’s spectacular demonstrations, yet truly marvel at the better players who operate closer to their capacities (Steve Nash still pops in my brain when I think of that guy) .

No matter where you are on the spectrum of  skill (physical, technical, intellectual application, emotional/grit) or PTAG , Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) is what it’s all about.  Let’s suppose your PTAG is 2/3/3/3 or 11 out of 20 (11/20)- since the maximum in each category is 5. Thus, 11 would equate to level 55 (or so), still just over half of what’s possible.  Now if  your overall skill level is 10 (out of 100) you ‘re a beginner and  should push to get to level 20 and beyond and beyond– that’s obvious. My point is, once players get to around level 50+ or 60, the majority ( at least far too many) fail to get better -other than physically. Hopefully they continue to get wiser.

Skill set development suffers after that because at level 50+ or 60 players can play, even though they  may be far from their capacities. Many players think they’re better than they actually are and getting them to listen can be a challenge, especially if what they already possess is “enough”. Level 50 (on average) are top high school, level 60 upper college, and 70 approaching NBA level.  Let’s also add that  Kobe could easily be in the upper 80′s with a “Virtual” mindset (cleaner application) . Where are you? How much cap space do you have?

(related: “Evaluation Fixation”)

In the end, LeBron could (with the right information) have the highest number of all time… I’m hoping this is what Scottie Pippen meant to say. Truth is, LeBron is not nor is he guaranteed to be greater than Michael Jordan.  It’s just when you see his immense potential you know in your heart it’s possible, even though your brain may doubt it presently.

Think of the spot he’s in. He’s living the life of a king and his game is filthy–forget championship rings for a moment,.  What will be his hunger pang when he finally puts on that ring (he will). Not to mention, that  once your game gets to a certain level of development it’s hard to find people that can actually help you get better.

(related: “eMPTy Without It”)

I heard LeBron was spending time with Hakeem (Olajuwon) working on the his post game.  The lockout could be providing him more time to get it together. I guess Olajuwon should be careful too.

 

 

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Sci-Fi or Hi-Sci (Highly Scientific)?

Posted in New Posts, News on April 11th, 2011 by Troy Miles

As unbelievable as it seems, a new way of understanding basketball is amongst us.  It’s not of dreams, but  a new frontier replete with incredible displays of power, speed and technical application.

Artwork by Charis Tsevis

Virtual Play (click) is the name- a different basketball genre is the game.

Virtual Play is a real-life app for creating matrix-like outcomes on the court for experienced VPers and instant positive change for beginners. It’s where technical acuity, precise application and a Calm Assertive Mind (CAM) can transcend what seems possible. The truth is Virtual Play is a collection of  basketball functions and operations based on core fundamentals, including those of math and physics. To be Virtual is to be machine-like (in efficiency) across all your basketball functions – physical, technical, intellectual, and (as a human) emotional.

Read more »

Great care goes into the design of any well crafted machine. With proper structural design and precise application of functions, machines can be durable, efficient and highly productive- Virtual Players are no different.  VP’s are programmed in proper body mechanics, optimal development of their skill sets and most importantly – the manner in which they process play and apply skill sets. Some in this game have an aversion to this new age proclamation. It’s just too hard (seemingly) to break free of the programmed ways of thinking.  I get it -trust me!

Just as in the Matrix (movie), it’s eeery how millions are stuck in the pietrie dishes of their old ways of understanding. Many are desperately trying just to master that realm. So such a virtual leap forward is hard to comprehend – especially when it involves traveling backwards into the circuitry of the game to find the portal to a new place. Most modern players (at least american players) aren’t too interested in what’s basic any more.  The D0-How Age has all but been the  NBA death for white-american players and international embarrassment for our “Dream-teamers” .  See: “Dream Team… American Nightmare?” and   “Where Did He Go?”

However, that does not change the fact, the players having the most consistent success in the game do Virtual things and for the most part, have the same math of play. See:  “Virtual Player’s of the NBA” . Morevover, the best of the best are typically highly virtual-particularly those less than super-freak athletes. Highly Virtual players “wheel of Function” is full of the optimal way to do things. I’ve seen the effect of Virtual Play firsthand.  I’ve had students with very little talent put the time in and transform their basketball circumstance.  I’ve also had talented players who have put in  little time and yet witnessed major improvements. Virtual Play adds instantly to whomever is exposed to it’s principles. At the very least, it provides an awareness not dissimilar to the “blue pill”; or in basketball or laymen’s terms… changes everything.

Still, there are players who do virtual things, yet aren’t aware or fully automated-which in the end  equates to less than consisent domination (if any at all).  So wherever you lie on the spectrum of Virtuality… that’s where you are. The truth is, any type of stress (performance situation), will generally push you towards your defaults (setting) for exchange- whatever they are.  One day the american basketball model will shift into the Virtual realm as a base for play.   Until then, as I said earlier, I understand the trepidation. Virtual Player Nic Lane #5  Lakeside ’10 (Sea)/Pomfret Prep ’11(Conn) Highlights

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Tags: Basketball, basketball fundamentals, basketball personal training, Charis Tsevis, Coaching, , Nic Lane, , Virtual Play

Gritty…not Shitty!

Posted in New Posts, News on May 30th, 2010 by Troy Miles

Everybody wants to win. But who really wants to win badly.  Who are the players steadfastly loyal to the team goal of whatever it takes to win (inside the realm of sportsmanship, of course). What a treat to play with or coach players who truly hate to lose and will fight you tooth and nail.  Again, not dirty players, but rather, players who never lose awareness of the nausea of defeat and  are willing to get dirty for a W.

Focus = Grit =Toughness.

… heart and grit are the soul of any player. Some players just have that “thing”:  it is hard to put a finger on or define it, yet it is so easy to recognize. Many times grit is the deciding factor between otherwise equal adversaries.  In fact, a high Grit-factor (G-Factor) raises the other  categories of play  up a notch. Without it you may lose confidence under adversity, experience diminished skills or even the capacity to think clearly.

Everyone at some point has succumbed to pressure and performed poorly. It does not necessarily make you heartless – just human. Coaches tell players to be tough all the time. But what is tough really? What is “hard-nosed”? There are a number of factors that contribute to toughness and fortitude. Attitude and physical prowess are often key components, but grittiness – the ability to hyper-focus 100% on what is necessary for success in each moment of exchange – might be the most important.  As a coach, I demand intensity and intelligence from players, but above all focus.– The Virtual Game of Basketball

Who are the focused ones?  On the verge of the NBA Finals, who are the  remaining players with the highest G-Factors?

1)Kobe Bryant- it’s amazing how driven (willing) he is to carry the burden of a franchise, one tough- shot-made at a time.  As a coach you would prefer higher percentage shots than some of the looks he comes up with , but at the same time no one with any good sense would venture to do anything that would impact his indomitable spirit and incredible belief in self.

2) Paul Pierce- His name speaks for itself… only he spells it with a P instead of an F. One of the fiercest competitors in Celtic history.   He plays angry and expects success whatever the circumstances. He carries himself like the game ball belongs to him, and you’re lucky you get to play… forget about winning (taking his ball home).

Other “G-Men”: no particular order…

Derek Fisher-  Surprise… but I  just shake my head after each big shot this guy makes for his team.  What an unheralded gem (and I’m sure highly appreciated by the Laker Brass)). No wonder his minutes never go away.  He’s not running fast or jumping high, but still quick to put a dagger  deep inside the heart of opponents.

Kevin Garnett-  Kevin is  more hungry (for a title), than gritty, although he does posses a high G-Factor.  KG is the consummate warrior who still must bask in the glory of Celtic greatness to thaw from his cold beginnings in Minnesota.  Got to hand it to players that give only 100% (no excuses) when they’re far below 100% themselves.

Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen – Both focus magicians.  These guys are sticklers to their respective roles.  They both could do more (especially RayRay) but they stay inside the “cut” for the cause.

Also:  Nate Robinson- Forget about his high-flying antics, “Lil’ Him” is tough as nails– G-Factor off the chart and his  Belief in Nate– ridiculous. More than impressive to come off the bench and score a pro-rated 42 pts. in such a pressure packed moment — particularly after sitting so long all playoffs  (I love it).  C’mon…you know he’ll scrap with the PA announcer for the dub.  Hell,  he used a less vicious (mentally) Dwight Howard against himself to win the Slam Dunk Title? I think the Celtic environment will help him mature as a player and be more consistently responsible in every moment of exchange.

Doc and Phil- Both of these coaches would fight you, just like when they played.  Back in Phil’s day guys did fight.  My dad  (his teammate with the Knicks) said he hurt just to bump in to. Phil’s a massive shouldered  bruiser from Montana, with the discipline of a Yogi. His laser like ability to focus on what’s necessary for success  allows him to deal with and  appeal to each individual as part of something greater.

Doc may not be as wise as Phil- yet, but his classy-hyper-intelligent -bully mentality as a player, grooved the perfect disposition to lead perhaps the model(?) organization in all of sports.  I’m sure he plays clips of Bird and Cowens flailing about the Garden.  How else could Rajon have known to posterize Jason Williams with a defensive , offensive gem combo in such a nasty green fashion?

Doc Rivers (right) has the Celtics on the verge of denying Phil Jackson his 10th title.

Above all Doc demands that the C’s play with the wisdom of the Boston Sages past.   Quietly, I think it’s enough to raise yet another banner.  Just don’t let Kobe know… Mamba’s are dangerous.

Tags: Derek Fisher, Doc Rivers, Focus drills, Grit, Kevin Garnett, , loyalty, Paul Pierce, Personal Training, Phil Jackson, Rajon Rondo, Ray allen, team dynamics

Everybody Hovers… Right?

Posted in New Posts, News on May 26th, 2010 by Troy Miles

I am a “hover ” lover. Discovering the advantages of hovering is where being first and creating space happens.

Goran Dragic #2 of the Phoenix Suns drives around Andre Miller #24 of the Portland Trail Blazers during a game on December 17, 2009 at the Rose Garden Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2009 NBAE

Watch the NBA playoff games and check who’s hovering. PG’s — in particular, Nash , Rondo and Jameer Nelson. Amongst to 2′s Dragic hovers… Ray Allen hovers… JJ Reddick hovers and of course, Kobe hovers.

Rashard and Vince hover, J Rich and Grant Hill hover. Indeed Paul Pierce does as well. KG hovers, Rasheed, Artest; so does Matt Barnes. Damn … it really must be something to the hover.

The hover gives you time to make contrary decisions against your opponent and dictate offensively.

So please… take it from the pros still in the playoff hunt. Every scorer is an adorer of the hover. Whether they know it or not, it just may be the best friend they’ve got.

Watch Goran hover and spin on Derek Fisher 2010 Playoffs

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Tags: basketball fundamentals, Goran Dragic, Grant Hill, Jameer Nelson, JJ Reddick, Kevin Garnett, , Matt Barnes, Paul Pierce, Personal Training, Raheed Wallace, Rajon Rondo, Rashard Lewis, Ray allen, Ron Artest, , Virtual Play

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