Women’s Basketball works on fundamental drills

by Walker John and Hugo Arlabosse

(Photo: FPU Ravens)

The players sit on the bench while the speaker blasts rap songs in the Field House. The squeaking of shoes on the hardwood floor echoes around the facility. The men’s practice is almost over and the women’s team is about to step on the court one last time before their game against Southern New Hampshire University on Saturday, February 23rd.

Coach Jeanette McKillop calls her players into the small Hall of Fame room to watch videos of other team plays on the television. The women sit around a long table and observe the screen while McKillop occasionally pauses to discuss what they are seeing. This is an important part of practice for the team because it puts them in a situation where they have to analyze their opponents’ strengths and weaknesses.

After nearly an hour, the players head back to the court where they prepare for a series of drills and exercises.

On one of the six hoops, three women are performing a three-player weave drill. In this drill, one of the players is making layups shots – leaping from below, laying the ball up near the basket, and using one hand to bounce it off the backboard and into the basket – while the two others are making jump shots. This drill warms the players up, makes them work on their fundamentals, and enhances the team camaraderie.

This year, the Ravens have demonstrated a high level of athleticism, in terms of fitness and fundamentals, that gives them an edge over competitors. 

One drill is the transition layup. Three women start on the baseline and one of them sprints to the opposite end of the court. The other two players pass the ball back and forth while making their way down the court. They then pass the ball down the court to the first player who will perform a layup.

Aside from team drills, the women also have a responsibility each week to practice shooting. During the preseason, they each come in for a total of at least four hours per week, outside of practice. In season, however, the athletes are only expected to come in to shoot outside of practice when their schedule allows it.

The practice ends with a scrimmage in which the women apply the plays and drills they have been learning in a game-like situation. The focus and hustle of the team matches that of an actual game as they sprint up and down the court. The Ravens finish the practice tired but determined for Saturday.