Coaching Basketball

The Toronto Raptors hired Masai Uriji to replace Bryan Colangelo as General Manager. In addition to managing the roster, Ujiri needs to establish a team culture and follow through in order to truly change the team.

Miami’s 108-91 win over Toronto on St. Patrick’s game not only showcased the Heat’s elite talent but a wide gap in leadership between the two teams. When games are competitive in crunch time – this game was tied at 77 with 11:06 to play in the fourth quarter – the Raptors’ leadership fails. There is a lack of organizational leadership, leadership by example and vocal leadership. Keep pulling the rope together.

The Toronto Raptors have started the season off 3-13, alienating many fans. Compared to last year, offense is a little better and defense is a few points worse but the record is a disappointment. The difference comes down to a few minor points: conceding open baskets, allowing a little more penetration and needing too much help while rotating too slowly.

In addition to improved passing statistics and a more efficient offense, Peyton Manning has contributed to the Denver Broncos with his leadership, making for a harder working, more professional and more focused team.

Yunel Escobar’s decision to print a homophobic slur on his eye-black is an example of a team that is not sufficiently focused on professionalism and athlete development to win.

Canada Basketball’s new approach to the Senior Men’s National Team follows three successful approaches from the recent 2012 Olympics (Spain/Argentina, the United States and Russia). High school teacher-coaches can create a family environment, an elite organization and a resilient work ethic to help student-athletes buy in and reach their goals.

As the season ends for the Toronto Raptors, they are faced with the fact that success may be multiple drafts away.  Consistent winners have built their teams through the draft, selecting talented athletes and developing them into great players.

Contrasting the performance of Jeremy Lin between a 90-87 win over the Toronto Raptors on February 14th and a 96-79 loss on March 23rd. How has the return of Carmelo Anthony and the hiring of Mike Woodson changed Lin’s numbers?

Toronto led Los Angeles 88-84 with 2:11 left in Sunday’s game. Unfortunately, after the Lakers took timeout, the game took a turn for the worse for the Raptors, much like many other games this year. Consistent decision-making, toughness and teamwork is required to succeed throughout the season.

The Toronto Raptors face many obstacles while Andrea Bargnani is out with a calf strain. This podcast is devoted to strategies the team can employ in order to succeed without their key player.