The Art of the Basketball Timeout

A well timed timeout is a definite art in the game of basketball. Timeouts can be used to stop the other team's momentum, reorganize your own team or plan a specific situational offensive play or defense.

A well timed timeout is a definite art in the game of basketball.  Timeouts can be used to stop the other team's momentum, reorganize your own team or plan a specific situational offensive play or defense.  They can be used for complcated situations or for situations as simple as to get a substitution made or give your team a rest.

Knowing when to intervene with a timeout is one area where a good basketball coach can make a huge impact on a game.  A coach needs to understand their group's mentality to effectively use the timeouts.  For example, Phil Jackson with the LA Lakers prefers to let his team play through tough situations rather than stop play.  On the other hand, Rick Carlisle in Dallas prefers a quick timeout at the very hint of a loss in momentum or run by the other team.  It is just a matter of knowing your team's mentality.

You do not have much time to get your point across during a basketball timeout.  Focus on one or two quick points and do not bombard the players with too many issues.  One issue is the best and hammer your point home.  Try to revisit timeout strategy at halftime or after the game to make your players know the importance of executing and timeout strategy.

Bottom line, well orchestrated timeouts over the course of a game can be a huge factor in the success of a team.  They will result in a more focused group that executes better and responds to tactical situations more positively.

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