The Active Interns: Basketball
Another amazing sport rooted in Canada, Basketball has recaptured the heart of Canadians! In this edition of the Active Interns we will be exploring the sport and I’ll be working on my jumpshot with Makin Hoops.
After a historic season by Canada’s own Toronto Raptors and with a potential WNBA franchise on the way, basketball is one of Canada’s fastest growing and most popular sports.
Not familiar with the sport yet? Check out this video to get an intro to the sport.
History and Background: From the Gym Class to the Big Stage
Basketball in its early stages played at a YMCA in 1891
Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, most commonly of five players each, compete with the primary objective of shooting a basketball through the defender's hoop mounted 10 feet-high to a backboard at each end of the court while preventing the opposing team from shooting through their own hoop.
Basketball was invented in 1891 by Canadian gym teacher James Naismith in Springfield, Massachusetts. Basketball has evolved to become one of the world's most popular and widely viewed sports. The National Basketball Association (NBA) is the most significant professional basketball league in the world in terms of popularity, salaries, talent, and level of competition.
Our Experience with Basketball and Makin Hoops
Matt and Adriane with Dave Singleton, Makin Hoops founder and coach
Me showing off my new shooting form
When we arrived at the Makin Hoops facility we were both blown away with what the facility offers. Makin Hoops has three basketball courts and a back area that can be used for individual or small group training sessions. Also, Makin Hoops has a fully equipped work-out area where athletes can get either a pre- or post-game session.
Adriane and I both played basketball in the past but neither of us had taken any lessons or had any proper training in the sport. We were introduced to the founder of Makin Hoops, Dave Singleton, who has a rich background in the sport, as he played at a high level and is dedicated to growing the sport in Canada. Dave ran us through a couple drills that helped us work on our dribbling, lay-ups and last our jump-shot.
Adriane doing a “Lay-up”
In the first drill, we had to perform a between the legs dribble to change direction. What I didn’t realize about this move is you want to “jump into the move and lead with your feet,” as opposed to just going through this motion. The next dribble drill we performed was dribbling two balls at once. This helped us work on our coordination and master the basics of how to advance a basketball up the court. The benefit that Dave highlighted with this drill was it forced us to keep our heads up and keep our eyes on the court rather than just looking at the ball.
At the end of the training session, Adriane and I got a couple pointers on the proper way to shoot a basketball. Dave walked us through shooting form and noted that a lot of people use only their back when shooting a basketball.
This over time will cause problems as it is not the correct technique and can be incredibly bad for players backs. To create a nice consistent shot, Dave noted that players generate the shot arch by using their knees and arms primarily. Adriane, like many of the other sports we have tried, was a natural as she drained her first five shots after trying out this new technique. For me the toughest thing about shooting the basketball was trying not to think too much about the process and just letting my body lead.
Overall, the experience with Makin Hoops was awesome as we got a taste for one of Canada’s fastest growing and most popular sports. Dave was great with walking us through some basic drills as well as showcasing the various programs offered by the facility. As a big fans of the sport, Adriane and I had a fantastic time and can’t wait to get back on the court!
About Makin Hoops and the Programs They Offer
Makin Hoops’ efficient & effective methods of basketball training for boys and girls focus on developing the proper skills through a balanced mix of technology, foundational skill development & repetition. The focus is on 3 on 3 & half court play to develop decision making & simply get more reps. With a unique approach to training, Makin Hoops is the only facility you'll need to train your game.
Makin Hoops offers an array of programs for all ages to get involved with the sport. The facility offers programs as well for serious players who want to grow their game as well as drop in sessions for causal players at affordable rates.
For young players, the Tyke/Youth summer programs are designed for players that are new to the game and need to develop fundamental skills, sportsmanship as well as a love for the game. Also offered for kids and younger more serious players is the Alpha programs aimed at helping athletes take the next step with the sport. These programs are great for serious junior high or high school players interested in playing post secondary level basketball.
Also offered by Makin Hoops are various adult summer programs as well. The Makin Hoops adult program is great for beginner and intermediate players who may want to try out the sport or be interested in picking the sport back up after time off!
I would encourage everyone last to check out the Drop-in 3-on-3 sessions on Wednesday nights to try out this awesome sport!
Thanks once again to Makin Hoops for having us out to try out Basketball and thank you for reading! Stay posted for the next Active Interns article.
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