Basketball Interview: Former Winthrop University and Professional Overseas Basketball Player – Pierre Wooten
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Interview with Pierre Wotten former Winthrop University Basketball Standout Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ Pierre had such a great career in college that he was invited to play in the NBA summer league. He played on 3 NBA summer league teams; the Denver Nuggets, Charlotte Bobcats and the New Orleans Hornets. Pierre is a good friend of mine and I am excited that he has extended his experience to us, so we can understand what it takes to become a successful basketball player. Anyways, without further do, I will get to the specific interview questions that I had Pierre to answer which may help coaches, players and parents around the world.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner el_class="align-left-p" width="2/3"][vc_column_text]Pierre Wooten is a former Winthrop University and professional overseas basketball player. While playing at Winthrop, Pierre's squad went to the NCAA tournament 4 years straight, during this success, he was named Big South Scholar Athlete of the Year. He played professionally in several different countries such as; France, Turkey, Czech Republic, Australia, Hungary, and New Zealand.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="9318" img_size="full"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_video link="https://youtube.com/embed/yfXTZdEVOkI" el_width="50" align="center" title=" Winthrop University catching up with Pierre Wooten"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="9320" img_size="medium"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="2/3"][vc_column_text]1. How much time did you spend practicing basketball as a young kid, how did this set you apart from other area basketball players?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]I was the kid with a basketball EVERYWHERE. It wasn’t always like that though. Quick story, my dad showed me a neighbor of ours (whom I may say was younger) bouncing a ball every time my dad saw him. Consequently, it really made me evaluate my efforts & will to be the best player I could be. So I would say around 4th grade was when it got really serious. By the way my dad was the coach too. I never played video games much, so…
Lamar Hull’s Interview on EX&BC Sport’s Radio
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Lamar talks about Steph curry on EX&BC Sport's Radio Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ So, I got the great opportunity to speak on the radio last night with Exavier Pope and Bryan Crawford who are radio hosts for the Chicago's EX & BC Sport's radio show on the Paid Sports Network. It was surprising how this opportunity came about, I emailed Exavier about a partnership and come to find out he is a radio sport's host and law attorney in Chicago. Here is some background on Exavier Pope. Exavier is the head of operations of the Pope Law Firm. His law firm specializes in many things, but mostly they do trademark and copyright as well as contract negotiations. They also work with corporate, non-profit law and financing cases. Exavier has an impressive resume. He has some high profile connections which include Def Jam records, high profile sports figures and athletes. Not to mention high profile authors and modeling agencies. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="2/3"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Exavier has also been a public figure both on and off the air. He has done interviews with people who are affiliated with the following programs; NBC, CBS and the Huffington Post. He has done various print ads and radio shows. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="9323" img_size="medium"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Another reason that he is one of the most sought after speakers is due in large part to his ranking with the fortune 500 companies. He has done motivational speaking to various executives all across the country. He does this to impart wisdom, to speak on how he became successful and how others can follow in his footsteps. He also gives motivational speeches to non-profit organizations and to graduating seniors at various colleges around the world. Exavier Pope's success has become a staple in the business world and is because…
How to Perform the Basketball Triple Threat
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Basketball Triple Threat Position Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ The triple threat position is one of the primary elements that any basketball player should learn when beginning to play the sport. Even before you become an effective dribbler who can weave in and out of defenders or a shooter that can hit from downtown, learning the triple threat position will open you up to a variety of options to take your game to the next level. The triple threat position can happen after grabbing a loose ball or a rebound, but most typically occurs after receiving a pass from a teammate. Many times, players immediately want to put the ball on the court and dribble to an open space. However, by picking up your dribble you have already given your opponent the option to dictate where you go next. By dribbling before looking, you also may fail to find your teammate and miss the opportunity to make a good pass that can result in a quick bucket. Another issue with basketball players who fail to utilize the triple threat position can be seen by those who have the desire to immediately shoot the ball. For some players, after receiving a pass they will immediately look to shoot the ball. This doesn’t account for possible defenders that may be coming your way to block your shot into the third row.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="2/3"][vc_column_text]Now that you know what happens if you don’t use the triple threat position, let’s talk about what the triple threat position is. The triple threat position is when you get the basketball and have the option to pass, shoot or dribble (hence TRIPLE threat). When first receiving the ball, you should automatically put yourself into triple threat stance. This means being in a comfortable ‘athletic stance’. Athletic stance…
Becoming a Complete Basketball Player
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] How to Become a Complete Basketball Player Written by Kyle Ohman The more complete of a basketball player you become the harder you are to guard and the more value you bring to your team. If you are simply just a scorer and can’t play defense then you are going to limit yourself, because your coach can’t trust you on defense. On offense if you can shoot really well, but can’t handle the basketball then the defender is just going to crowd you and not let you shoot any open shots, you become easy to guard. Don’t limit yourself and your game by allowing yourself to not fully develop as a player. The reason that most players do not become complete players is because they do not want to spend time working on their weaknesses. It is much more fun to get in the gym and work on your strengths because it is easy for you. When Michael Jordan came into the NBA he was told that he couldn’t shoot consistently and that he wasn’t a good enough defender. So he decided to dedicate himself to proving people wrong and working on his weaknesses. Now he is considered the best player of all time and probably the most clutch shooter of all time. He also was on the all defensive team multiple times. Here are a few tips that you can use to help you become a complete player. [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="9334" img_size="full"][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][vc_column width="2/3"][vc_column_text]The first thing that you need to do is sit down and figure out what your weaknesses are. I suggest that you make a list of all your weaknesses and strengths. Once you have your list you can see what you need to work on and be reminded of it as well. Only you are going…
How to Earn a College Basketball Scholarship
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image="9343" img_size="630x473" alignment="center"][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Quick Guide to Earning a College Basketball Scholarship Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ Earning a basketball scholarship from a top university is always a difficult task, but it is one that can be accomplished with the right combination of talent, hard work, dedication, determination and intelligence. Without the talent and affection for basketball, it is impossible for a player to reach the level required to obtain a college basketball scholarship. Most division one, two or three schools have excellent basketball teams, where they look to recruit the best players to improve their team and basketball program. The first step towards getting a basketball scholarship is to improve your game. Even if you have been playing basketball all your life, there are bound to be aspects to your game that could use a bit of work. Speak to your coaches and get their advice on how to go about improving. You might have to put in extra hours at the gym, or engage in some one-on-one sessions with coaches/teammates. This extra effort is often the difference between good players and potentially great ones. Do not underestimate the importance of coaches in your progression to becoming a complete basketball player. Too many young kids think that they know what it takes to be the best, which leads to them ignoring their coach's advice. Do not make that mistake. If your coach notices something in your game that needs improvement, take their advice immediately. It is often easier for an observer to assess your game, instead of you finding out your weaknesses. As a youngster, I was a kid who thought he knew it all and I found out the hard way. My peers helped boost my ego. I thought I could shoot, but really couldn’t shoot…
Basketball V Dribbling Video – Train with V Dribble Series
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] The Basketball V-Dribbling Workout Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ [/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_video link="https://youtube.com/embed/HxqtDk31a_I" el_width="50" align="center" title=" Watch the video for my tutorial of the The V Dribbling Drill, see below for some visual steps"][vc_column_text] Watch the video for my tutorial of the The V Dribbling Drill, see below for some visual steps [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="9018" img_size="full" alignment="center"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="2/3"][vc_column_text]Step 1: Get in a basketball position by spreading your legs shoulder width a part, bend your back and knees slightly. Step 2: Start with right hand and make short v dribbles in front of your right leg. Do the same with your left hand. Control the basketball and move your hands quickly to build your ball-handling speed. Step 3: Start with right hand and make longer v dribbles. Perform this same drill with the left hand. Try to get a rhythm swaying from left to right.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]Step 4: Perform the crossover as a v dribble. Step 5: Spread legs with the right foot about 3-4 ft. behind the left foot. Perform the v dribble with the right arm. Use short quick dribbles on the right side of your body. Perform this same drill on the left side of your body. Put your left foot in front of the right foot when performing the v dribble on the left side. Step 6: Spread legs and perform the v dribble between your legs. Isaiah Thomas was infamous for the between the legs dribble. He embarrassed defenders with this type of dribble. You have to use both hands when performing this drill. Switch the position of your legs and perform the drill again. Step 7: Sit your butt low for the behind the back v dribble. Perform the v dribble behind your back. In & Out Dribble Incorporated in to the V-dribble Step 8: Start…
Elbow to Elbow Basketball Drill
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Wing to Wing Basketball Shooting Drill Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ Emphasis Get the footwork down on this drill Follow the free throw line arc while performing this drill Stay low when running from elbow to elbow [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image="9015" img_size="full" alignment="center"][vc_column_text]Preparation 2 players are needed for this drill Start at the elbow, catch the pass from player 2 and then shoot the basketball Follow the arc right above the free throw line to the other elbow Inside foot should plant first, square your body to the rim as you receive the pass and then shoot Do this same drill from the elbow to the short corner on the left and right side of the basket Perform this drill from 3 spots, which were mentioned above and time yourself at each spot for 3 minutes You should eventually be able to make 75-80% of these shots as you become a better shooter, NBA players are able to make 90-95% of these shots Note: Your hands should always be ready before shooting the basketball, so that when you receive the pass, you are ready to shoot. Remember to square your body to the rim at each block, feet shoulder width apart before you take your shot. Fundamentals are key here. Try to focus on getting the seams of the basketball all in one direction. Practice foot work, inside foot plants first before you square up to the rim. Leave your follow through up before moving to the other elbow.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ymlp id=1][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Basketball Jab Step Shooting Drill
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Jab Step Basketball Workout Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ Emphasis When utilizing the jab step in basketball, swing the basketball from your shoulder to knee. So if you are jabbing right with the basketball, swing the ball from your left shoulder to your right knee while jab stepping simultaneously with your right leg. Make sure your jab steps are quick and short Perform the same jab step motion going left. When shooting a floater in this basketball drill, leave your arm up in the air as if you were shooting a follow through. After the jab step, make sure you square up with the rim before shooting the basketball. [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_single_image image="9013" img_size="full" alignment="center"][vc_column_text] Preparation Pick 3 spots on the court, preferably the top of the key and the 2 wings Take a jab step, bring the ball back to your shooting pocket after the jab step, square your body and and feet to the rim and then shoot the basketball Take a jab step, take one dribble to the right and pull up for the jumper Take a jab step, take two dribbles to the right and shoot a layup Take a jab step, take two dribbles to the right and shoot a floater Perform the iterations of this drill going left If you are at a 45-degree angle when taking any of your shots, use the backboard Take 10-20 shots for each individual drill Note: Start off by getting your rhythm in performing this drill, but you eventually want to be able to go game speed and make 50%+ of your shots when performing each individual drill, going left and right. When shooting layups, slap the ball as hard as you can with your opposite hand, to gain control as you are going up. Jab steps are a very…
Spot Basketball Shooting Drill
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] 5 Spot individual Basketball Shooting Drill Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ Emphasis: Bend knees when shooting and shoot at the top of your release, this gives you a better chance of scoring! Hold your follow through on every shot Snap that wrist Put seams all in one direction so that you can get backspin on the basketball Keep your eyes focused on the back of the rim Your arm should make a L-shape and your elbow should rub off of your side, forcing it to point inwards. [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_single_image image="9020" img_size="full" alignment="center"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_column_text] Spot Basketball Shooting Drill Pt. 1 Instructions: Pre-select 5 positions preferably inside the 3-point line for you young players Shot 50 shots from the first position Once you took 50 shots, advance to the next spot Stay in your shooting range and if you’re comfortable, attempt 3-pointers Keep count of how many shots you make out of 250 total shots Note: This basketball shooting drill helps players become consistent spot up jump shooters. Work on keeping your balance and shoulders squared to the rim. This individual shooting drill definitely helped me become a better spot-up shooter because I had to really focus on the proper shooting mechanics. I was competitive so I would try to beat my score each time that I performed this drill. This drill can be performed with 1 player, but having 2 players is always good. Sometimes it was just me and myself in the gym. This basketball shooting drill is for beginners, kids, and advanced players! Spot Basketball Shooting Drill Pt. 2 Instructions: Shoot anywhere inside the arc Time yourself for 10 minutes Flip the basketball out, catch it off the bounce and shoot Stay in your shooting range and if you’re comfortable, attempt 3-pointers Keep count of how many…
One Hand Form Shooting Drill
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] One Hand Form Basketball Shooting Workout Written By Lamar Hull @ Google+ Emphasis Bend knees when shooting and shot at the top of your release Hold your follow through on every shot Snap that wrist Put seams all in one direction so that you can get backspin on the basketball Eyes are focused on the back of the rim Hold the basketball in your hand with your palm facing up. Rotate your arm in to a shooting motion. Your arm should make a L-shape and your elbow should rub off of your side, forcing it to point inwards. [caption id="attachment_1478" align="alignleft" width="259"] Spots for one arm form shooting drill[/caption] Preparation Stand 2 feet from the basket Put one hand behind your back Shoot from 3 spots, 1 spot in the front of the rim, 1 spot on the left block, and 1 spot on the right block Make 20 shots before moving to next position Make a total of 100 shots 20 swishes in the front, 20 swishes at each block, 20 bank shots at each block Perform this same drill shooting a normal shot using 2 hands Note: Take your time on these shots, don't rush through this drill. Work on your shooting form and mechanics, so that you can perfect the proper shooting fundamentals. Every shot should have the same shooting touch. Try to make nothing but net. You are pretty close to the basket, so you should be able to do this successfully.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_video link="https://youtube.com/embed/_KMXWRYX8s8" el_width="50" align="center"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text] Check out my video for proper shooting mechanics with the one arm form shooting drill! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ymlp id=1][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]