with Tom Crean,
Indiana University Head Coach;
former Marquette University Head Coach;
2x Conference USA Coach of the Year; 2003 NCAA Final Four

According to Coach Crean, one of the most exciting parts of coaching is to create game like action each day in practice. The benefit is that players can see improvement in their game, which will add confidence and make them ready for action. Crean begins by breaking down the Chicago set play, and the multiple schemes from it. He spends time with each player to review his exact role in this play. Clear 40 is another play that addresses improvement through timing and player execution. Hand-offs are a big part of the Marquette offense. The hand off drill works on passing, timing and explosion at the point of the exchange. Game moves and shots are the focus of the 4-Cone Drill. Each player executes a cross over, inside out dribble move and a slide shot or scoop shot. Another part of the offense is reversing the ball to open shooters. Crean's drill for ball reversal addresses key teaching points for good reversal. The art of making a game like lay up is a part of Crean's practice sessions. Each lay up taken in a game can be the difference between winning and losing. Another element of practice is the fast break. The 2-on-1 advantage break relies on specific player responsibilities. The 5-on-5 break is then put together and executed. Set plays are added to the fast break to save valuable practice time.