What Do Coaches Look for in a Shooting Guard?
As the name suggests, a shooting guard is an offensive player who is usually the best shooter on the team. They are expected to make shots from the perimeter, but they also need to be versatile enough to handle the ball and drive to the basket. With so many skills and attributes to consider, coaches often have a set criteria when evaluating shooting guards.
Size and Strength
Size and strength are two of the most important attributes coaches consider when evaluating shooting guards. Coaches want a shooting guard who is tall enough to shoot over defenders and strong enough to fight through screens and hold their position. A good shooting guard should have a combination of length, quickness, and agility so they can move freely around the court.
Shooting Ability
The most important attribute for any shooting guard is their shooting ability. Coaches want a player who can make shots from the perimeter and from mid-range. They should also have the ability to create their own shot off the dribble and be able to spot-up for open looks. Coaches will often evaluate shooting guards on their three-point shooting percentage and their ability to hit contested shots.
Ball Handling
In addition to their shooting ability, coaches want a shooting guard who can handle the ball and create for themselves or their teammates. Coaches want a guard who can dribble under pressure, make quick decisions, and keep their turnovers low. They need to be able to break down defenders off the dribble and find open teammates.
Defensive Ability
Coaches also want a shooting guard who can be a reliable defender. They need to be able to stay in front of their man and use their length to contest shots. A good shooting guard should be able to switch onto bigger players and stay in front of them. They should also be able to rebound and use their quickness to get back in transition defense.
Athleticism
Athleticism is another important attribute for shooting guards. Coaches want a player who can jump quickly, change direction quickly, and move with agility around the court. They should also have the ability to finish around the rim and use their athleticism to create space.
Mental Toughness
Mental toughness is another important trait for shooting guards. Coaches want a player who can stay composed and make smart decisions in big moments. They need to have the ability to focus on the task at hand and stay calm under pressure.
Leadership
Coaches also want a shooting guard who can be a leader on the court. They should be vocal and be able to motivate their teammates. They need to be able to recognize what the team needs and step up in big moments.
Intangibles
Intangibles are also important for shooting guards. Coaches want a player who can bring a positive attitude to the team and be a good teammate. They need to have the willingness to put in the extra work and the drive to get better.
Conclusion
In summary, coaches have a set criteria when looking for shooting guards. They want a player who is tall and strong enough to compete, can shoot from the perimeter and mid-range, can handle the ball and create for themselves and their teammates, is a reliable defender, has the athleticism to finish around the rim, and has the intangibles to be a leader and a good teammate.
Coaches have a lot to consider when evaluating shooting guards. They need to have a combination of size and strength, shooting ability, ball handling, defensive ability, athleticism, mental toughness, leadership, and intangibles. All of these attributes are important for a successful shooting guard, and coaches need to take all of these into consideration when evaluating players.