Pete Newell Big Man Camp
I
recently attended the Pete Newell Big Man camp in Honolulu, Hawai'i and found
that professional basketball players are still willing to learn, no matter
their pay. Players like Antwan Jameson and Shawn Bradley were there, both
of whom make millions a year, yet were willing to learn how to play better.
College and pro players attend the week-long camp. Each had about three hours on the court. Coaches ranged from newly named GM of the Denver Nuggets Kiki Vandewehe, former Detroit Piston Head Coach Rick Carlise, Vandy coach Pete Gaudet and Cleveland Suns assistant Marc Iavaroni, just to name a few. Legendary coach Peter Newell gave instruction on the court, not bad for a man in his 80's. Coach Newell still had attention to detail with footwork and proper execution.
The players learned the footwork is the key to getting open, getting shots off and good defensive positioning. The drills went slowly at first, coaches reminding the players of the proper pivot foot and how to square up to the basket. Even at the pro level, the basics are very important. And the pro's even had to do things over!
What impressed me was the willingness to learn player the players and the great respect all at the camp have for Coach Newell. He keeps giving back to the game and likes to see thing done right!
Here are some pictures of the camp.
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Coach Newell watching the action
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Coach Gaudet makes a point
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Me and Antwan Jameson |
Me and Malik Rose |
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Jake Tsakalidis & Zeljko Rebraca
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Marc Iavaroni, Shawn Bradley,
Coach Newell
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