Introduction to My Coaching Journey
Coaching a basketball team is more than just teaching the X’s and O’s of the game. It is about instilling a philosophy and mindset in your players that will guide them both on and off the court. Throughout my basketball player and coaching careers, I have had the privilege of learning from some incredible coaches who have helped shape my philosophy of the game.
It is a lifelong journey of learning and growth. In this blog post, I want to take you through a few memorable experiences I had with some of the legendary coaches who have influenced me along my coaching journey.
JOURNEY 1 – Translator to International Coaches in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Throughout my high school years as a basketball player in Rio de Janeiro, I had the incredible opportunity to serve as a translator for visiting coaches participating in international tournaments against the Brazilian National team. These experiences not only allowed me to learn the strategies and techniques employed by some of the most renowned coaches in the game, that had a profound impact on my development as a player and later as a coach.
Three specific coaches, in particular, stand out for their profound impact on my career and shaping my understanding of the game
Coach Al McGuire – Former Marquette U. Head – Coach Al McGuire was a larger-than-life figure in the basketball world, and his visit to Rio was nothing short of inspiring. During his clinic, I learned the importance of teamwork, offensive flow, and allowing players to have a certain level of creativity within the offense.
This meant that every player had a specific role to play on the court, and it was crucial for them to execute their roles effectively. Coach McGuire believed in the power of offensive flow. He reiterated that it wasn’t just about running set plays, but rather about reading the defense and making quick decisions on the court.
He encouraged players to trust their instincts and make smart, calculated moves. Coach McGuire’s offensive philosophy allowed them to adapt to different game situations and exploit the weaknesses of the opponents. This freedom and creativity within his offense made Marquette a formidable force on the court and ultimately led to the National Championship that year.
Coach Jud Heathcote – Former Michigan State U. Head Coach – taught me about the fast break and how to effectively run and flow from primary to secondary break. He also talked about press defense and the importance of having a middleman to break the press.
Coach Heathcote was focused on teaching how to effectively run and flow from primary to secondary break, as well as the intricacies of press defense and the importance of having a middleman to break the press. These lessons from Coach Heathcote have stayed with me throughout my basketball career.
He believed in the power of a well-executed fast break. He emphasized the importance of pushing the ball up the court quickly after a defensive rebound or turnover. He described the importance of running the floor and spacing properly to create scoring opportunities. Coach Heathcote stressed the importance of recognizing when to transition from the primary break to the secondary break and how to flow smoothly into the half-court offense.
Coach Heathcote also taught the importance of the middleman in breaking the press, which was a player positioned in the middle of the court to facilitate ball movement and provide an outlet for trapped teammates. Coach Heathcote’s attention to detail and strategic approach was impressive. A year later, they won the NCAA National Tournament.
Coach Alexander Gomelsky – Former USSR Head Coach – Coach Gomelsky taught me that a player’s virtues should dictate how they are guarded. For example, if a player is a shooter, then they should be made to dribble or pass. This became the foundation of my defensive system.
Coach Gomelsky’s philosophy was simple yet profound. He believed that if a player excelled in shooting, the goal of defenders should be to make them dribble or pass the ball. Similarly, if a player has exceptional dribbling skills, the aim should be to force them to shoot or pass. Another example is if facing a prolific shooter, defensive players should apply tight pressure and force them to put the ball on the floor or pass.
Coach Gomelsky reiterated the importance of understanding a player’s strengths and weaknesses tailoring the defensive approach based on the offensive player’s virtue to minimize their impact on the game.
JOURNEY 2 – Importance of Fundamentals – This is How It All Started
The first coach who had a profound impact on my coaching philosophy was Coach Carlos Barone Neto. He was a master of teaching the fundamentals of the game and emphasized their importance in every practice and game.
Coach Barone’s dedication to the basics of basketball taught me that a strong foundation is crucial for success at any level. I remember spending countless hours on the court with him, developing my skills and learning the value of discipline and hard work.
Furthermore, Coach Barone taught me the importance of mental toughness, teamwork, and sportsmanship. These lessons not only shaped my playing career but also influenced how I approach coaching and life in general.
Coach Barone’s passion for teaching and his ability to instill a love for the game in his players inspired me to become a coach who focuses on developing well-rounded athletes both on and off the court.
The teachings of Coach Barone have become the cornerstone of my coaching philosophy. I believe that by mastering the fundamentals, athletes can reach their full potential and excel in any situation. Whether it is shooting a free throw or making a defensive stop, the fundamentals are the building blocks of success in basketball and life.
JOURNEY 3 – Playing Middle and HS Basketball in Brazil
As my player journey continued, I had the privilege of learning and being coached by Coach Paulo Murilo. Coach Murilo’s expertise in man-to-man defense revolutionized my approach to coaching defense. He taught me then that defense is not just about stopping the opponent from scoring but also about disrupting their rhythm and forcing turnovers to minimize their shot attempts per possession.
Under Coach Murilo’s guidance, I learned the importance of communication, positioning, and anticipation in defensive play. He emphasized the need for players to work together as a cohesive unit, constantly communicating and adjusting to the angles and movements of the ball and opposing players.
Additionally, playing for Coach Paulo Murilo’s emphasis on man-to-man defense taught me the value of accountability. He believed that each player should take ownership of their defensive responsibilities and understand the impact they have on the team’s success.
This mindset has translated into my coaching career, where I strive to create an environment where players are responsible for their actions and understand the importance of their role in the team’s defensive efforts.
JOURNEY 4 – Playing HS Basketball at Redondo Union High School
At Redondo Union High School in California, I was lucky enough to have two great coaches Coach Harry Dinnel and Coach Orr. They taught me the importance of teamwork and being unselfish. They made it a point to stress the importance of passing and working together as a team.
One of the most memorable and challenging aspects of my time playing for Coach Dinnel and Coach Orr was the practice drills and strategies they introduced. They constantly challenged us to think outside the box and pushed us to our limits. Whether it was running intricate offensive plays or executing defensive strategies, every practice session was filled with excitement and growth.
But it wasn’t just about the X’s and O’s. Coach Dinnel and Coach Orr created a supportive and nurturing environment where players felt valued and motivated. They knew how to bring out the best in each individual and foster a strong sense of camaraderie within the team.
The memories I have from those days at Redondo Union High will forever hold a special place in my heart.
JOURNEY 5 – Playing Junior College at Miami Dade Community College, North.
During my time as a player at Miami Dade, I was coached by the legendary Coach Bill Alhein. Coach Alhein’s impact on my career cannot be overstated. He taught me how to be a true point guard and a leader on the court.
Coach Alhein’s coaching style was the perfect blend of discipline and motivation. He pushed us to our limits and demanded nothing but excellence. His attention to detail was unmatched, and he expected nothing less from his players. Under his tutelage, I learned the importance of studying the game, understanding the opponent’s strategies, and making split-second decisions.
But beyond the technical aspects of the game, Coach Alhein taught me the importance of mental fortitude and resilience. He believed in our potential even when we doubted ourselves. He taught us to never give up, no matter the circumstances. The lessons I learned from Coach Alhein have not only shaped me as a coach but also as a person.
JOURNEY 6 – Playing for Flamengo and Fluminense Clubs in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
As a player, I had the opportunity to play for Coach Marcelo Martins (Cocada) and Coach Ary Vidal. Coach Ary Vidal also served as the Head Coach of the Brazilian National team and left a lasting impression on my coaching philosophy. Later, I also worked as Coach Vidal’s Assistant coach.
Both Coach Vidal and Coach Martins had an innovative approach to offense, characterized by a free-flowing style that facilitated and maximized the shooting ability of their players. This inspired me to think outside the box and embrace creativity in my coaching.
During the 1987 Indianapolis Pan Am games, Coach Vidal’s coaching philosophy was on full display. Brazil’s men’s national team overcame a 22-point deficit to defeat the US in the final game. Coach Vidal’s emphasis on utilizing his players’ shooting abilities to produce more shots than the opponent showcased the power of a well-executed offensive strategy and showed the world the importance of the 3-point shot.
The coaches I have had the privilege of learning from, such as Coach Marcelo Martins and Coach Ary Vidal, have each played a significant role in shaping my coaching philosophy. They revolutionized my approach to offense, emphasizing teamwork and accountability.
Their innovative offensive strategies challenged me to think outside the box and embrace creativity. Together, these coaches and experiences have molded me into the coach I am today, one who prioritizes the development of well-rounded athletes, values teamwork and accountability, and embraces creativity and adaptability.
As I continue my coaching career, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from these influential figures and look forward to further refining and evolving my coaching philosophy.
JOURNEY 7 – My First Professional Coaching Experience in the UAE
I had the privilege of working with Coach Tude Sobrinho during my time in the United Arab Emirates. Tude is a Brazilian coach who is renowned for his strategic thinking and innovative approach to the game. I was most fascinated by his mastery of the 1-3-1 defense formation.
This defensive strategy is characterized by its versatility and ability to disrupt opponents’ offensive flow and cover outside shots effectively. It became a cornerstone of our team’s success.
Tude’s coaching extended beyond on-court strategies. He emphasized the importance of mental preparation and maintaining a strong work ethic. Coach Tude’s commitment to holistic player development left a lasting impact on me and shaped my understanding of the game beyond the Xs and Os. During the 2 years I spent in the UAE, we won National League championships back-to-back.
During my time in the UAE, I had the opportunity to observe the work of Coach Petrovic, a former Yugoslavian coach, and the head coach of the Al WASL club. I also developed a friendship with Coach Petrovic during my time in the UAE. Coach Petrovic taught me valuable lessons about the importance of balance and body control in shooting.
Coach Petrovic emphasized that a strong foundation begins with the legs. He stressed the significance of proper footwork, balance, and body positioning to maximize shooting accuracy and consistency.
JOURNEY 8 – My Experience with The Men’s Olympic Team of Brazil
During my time with the National team of Brazil as an Assistant Coach, I had the opportunity to work closely with coaches Coach José Medalha, Coach Mike Frink, and Coach Lula Ferreira.
These coaches taught me invaluable lessons about strategy and leading a group of iconic superstar players. Their aggressive press defense and offensive flow techniques were instrumental in our preparation for the America Cup in Portland, Oregon, and the Barcelona Olympic Games.
Under their guidance, I learned the importance of meticulous planning and attention to detail. Every move we made on the court was carefully thought out and executed with precision.
Coaches Medalha, Frink, and Ferreira all emphasized the importance of understanding the strengths and weaknesses of our opponents and tailoring our game plan tactics accordingly. Their strategic approach to the game had a profound impact on my coaching foundation.
Working with iconic superstar players also taught me the importance of effective leadership.
These coaches were exceptional at managing egos and fostering a cohesive team environment. They taught me how to navigate the complexities of leading a group of talented individuals who have their ambitions and desires. I will forever be grateful for the lessons I learned from them.
As I continued my coaching journey, I carried with me the knowledge and wisdom imparted by these incredible mentors. Their influence has not only made me a better coach but also a better person. I am forever grateful for the opportunities I have had to learn from these coaching legends.
JOURNEY 9 – My First US Coaching Experience
I was incredibly lucky to have worked with three amazing coaches during my seven years at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Coach Gene Bartow, Coach Murry Bartow, and Coach Jeannie Milling were all exceptional mentors who taught me a lot about coaching.
The arrival of Coach Gene Bartow at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1978 signaled a transformative era for the men’s basketball program. Before his tenure, UAB struggled on the national stage; however, under Coach Bartow’s leadership, the program steadily rose to become one of the nation’s top basketball programs. This meteoric ascendance was due, in no small part, to Bartow’s exceptional strategic skills.
Coach Bartow’s strategic skills were superb. His impressive tactical ability allowed him to change his gameplay and make excellent decisions under pressure. By analyzing his opponents and developing strategies for each game, Bartow usually outwitted his rivals. Whether it was organizing defensive schemes or executing offensive plays, his basketball intelligence was unsurpassed. Through meticulous coaching techniques and visionary leadership, he not only brought success to the program but also instilled lifelong values in his players.
Today, the Bartow Arena serves as a lasting tribute, underscoring the immense impact Coach Bartow had on the basketball world and the admiration he earned from all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.
Coach Gene Bartow was not only a legendary figure in the basketball world but also a charismatic individual, an exceptional mentor, and a great coach. A great strategist of the game. Coach Bartow’s approach was friendly but demanding.
One particular incident stands out in my memory that perfectly exemplifies Coach Bartow’s coaching style. We were scheduled to play against Wyoming, the top-ranked team in the country, led by their star player Fennis Dembo. Despite putting up a valiant effort, we lost by a single point. It was evident that the defense lacked proper boxing out.
Following the game, Coach Bartow wasted no time in addressing the issue. He gathered the team and informed them that he had scheduled a boxout session for midnight that same evening.
Despite the late hour, Coach Bartow emphasized the significance of attention to detail and demanded our commitment to improving our defensive skills. For the next two hours, they relentlessly practiced + boxing out techniques, leaving no room for complacency. 4
This experience taught me the importance of being friendly yet demanding as a coach, always striving for excellence even in the face of adversity.
Coach Murry Bartow, the son of Coach Gene Bartow, had a distinct approach to structuring basketball practices. He emphasized the importance of intensity and dynamism during drills, ensuring that every player gave their utmost effort. Coach Murry had a unique talent for breaking down complex situations and integrating them into game-based drills, enhancing players’ skills and understanding of the game.
Coach Murry’s emphasis on intensity and dynamism during practice taught me the significance of pushing players to their limits. By constantly challenging them and putting them in game-like situations, I witnessed firsthand how their skills improved and their confidence soared. This experience shaped my coaching philosophy, as I now prioritize creating intense and dynamic practice environments that foster growth and development.
His ability to break down game situations and practice skills within those scenarios revolutionized my approach to coaching. I learned the importance of studying game tapes, analyzing strategies, and understanding the tendencies of opposing teams.
This knowledge allowed me to make informed decisions during games and devise effective game plans.
JOURNEY 10 – My Coaching Journey in Bahrain
My coaching journey in Bahrain introduced me to Coach Andy Young, a seasoned and highly respected coach. Coach Young taught me the importance of discipline and creating a positive team culture. He emphasized the significance of setting clear expectations and holding players accountable for their actions.
Coach Young’s coaching style was characterized by attention to detail and a relentless commitment to excellence. This style of coaching enhanced the power and importance of building strong relationships with players and fostering a supportive environment that promotes growth and development.
His teachings have had a lasting impact on my coaching approach, and I continue to implement some of his training methods to this day. Coach Young’s emphasis on player development and skill refinement taught me the value of investing time and effort in developing individual skills.
Coach Young believed that a coach’s role extended beyond simply strategizing for games; it also involved nurturing players’ talents and helping them reach their maximum potential.
I witnessed firsthand how his dedication to player development translated into remarkable improvements in performance and overall team success.
Coach Young’s mentorship not only shaped my coaching philosophy but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the art of coaching. The lessons I learned from him continue to guide me as I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of young athletes.
While in Bahrain, I became friends with Coach Tom Quinn and learned a lot from him during our family dinners at the local British Club. Coach Quinn, a trailblazer in the world of basketball, before coming to Bahrain, was the head men’s basketball coach at Newberry College from 1958-62 and 1990-93 and was the first coach to lead a Newberry basketball team to the NAIA National Tournament.
Coach Quinn’s coaching style was innovative. He challenged conventional thinking and encouraged me to think outside the box, constantly seeking new ways to improve player performance and team dynamics. Even though we were opponents, I felt that there was mutual respect for the way we coached and for sharing our knowledge.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned from Coach Quinn was the importance of adapting coaching strategies to fit the unique strengths and abilities of each player. He believed in personalized coaching, recognizing that every player possesses distinct talents and requires individualized attention.
By tailoring my coaching methods to meet the specific needs of each player, I witnessed remarkable growth and development in their skills and confidence. His focus on teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship taught me that coaching is not just about winning games, but also about nurturing well-rounded individuals who can thrive both on and off the court.
JOURNEY 11 – My Coaching Journey in Lebanon
My coaching journey in Lebanon introduced me to Coach Johnny Neumann – An Inspirational Coach. Former Ole Miss player with coaching experiences in several countries and the ABA.
Coach Neumann’s passion for the game and his ability to motivate players were truly extraordinary. He taught me the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment where players felt empowered to take risks and unleash their full potential.
Coach Neumann’s coaching style was characterized by his ability to connect with players on a deep level. He understood that building trust and fostering open lines of communication were crucial for optimal player performance. His genuine care for his players transcended the basketball court and created a lasting impact on their lives.
One of the key lessons I learned from Coach Neumann was the importance of continuous learning and personal growth as a coach. He encouraged me to seek knowledge from various sources and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the world of basketball.
This mindset of lifelong learning has been instrumental in my coaching journey and has helped me stay ahead of the game.
JOURNEY 12 – My Return to Birmingham, Alabama
After spending close to 25 years coaching, developing players building successful programs overseas, and improving my coaching skills, I returned to Birmingham, AL to work as a coach for the Birmingham Basketball Academy under the guidance of Coach Bill Ivey.
When Coach Ivey invited me to work with him, I promptly accepted. Coach Ivey has profoundly impacted my career overseas. He was the one who opened the doors to me at UAB. Coach Ivey is a tremendous teacher of the game. His coaching emphasizes and focuses on the teaching of fundamentals and our role and importance as teachers and coaches.
Coach Ivey’s trust in my abilities to teach and the opportunity he gave me to contribute to the development of young athletes greatly influenced my decision.
His unwavering support throughout my coaching career has been invaluable.
The relationship I have with Coach Ivey is one that I cherish deeply. His teachings and guidance continue to inspire me to strive for excellence as a coach. I am eternally grateful for his influence and opportunity on my coaching journey.
Coach Ivey and I recognize the crucial importance, the transformative power of coaching, and the immense impact we can have on aspiring athletes. Through continuous learning and a commitment to player development, we can shape the future of sports and inspire young athletes to reach their full potential.
In summary, my game philosophy Flow-Ball, suffered the influence of many coaches and a lifetime of coaching. Currently, as the Director of Instruction and Development at WA Sports Consulting, a privately owned company based in Alabama specializing in offering training and consulting services to coaches, players, and organizations of all levels, I try to share my insights developed over years of experience.
My mission isn’t over. The flame is still burning. My desire to contribute and help other coaches and programs to defy the status quo is still high. I am sharing my experiences through my video lessons and podcasts. Hope my story and lessons resonate with you and you find it valuable to your coaching or at least interesting.
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A Tribute to Coach Waldir Boccardo, It is with deepest gratitude and admiration that I write this heartfelt tribute to Coach Boccardo, highlighting his innovative coaching techniques and the remarkable impact he had on my growth as a player, coach, and teacher. His unique approach to coaching has forever left a lasting mark on my life and the lives of countless others who were fortunate enough to learn under his guidance.
From the moment he stepped onto the court, it was evident that he was not just an ordinary coach. His coaching style was a beautiful blend of the latest strategies and tactics from the USA and his worldly experiences, fused with his creative genius and experience as a Bronze medalist during the 1960 Rome Olympic games and as a professional player in Brazil. Coach Boccardo possessed a rare ability to constantly adapt and evolve, ensuring that we, players, were always one step ahead of our opponents.
Waldir, you were not just a remarkable coach; you were a mentor, a friend, and a true inspiration. Your legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all those you impacted, and your innovative coaching techniques continue to shape the future of the game. You have forever changed me as a player and impacted my coaching.
Rest in Peace – Thank you!
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