17 June 2025
In today's digital age, young basketball players have access to incredible tools to enhance their performance. While advanced training techniques and cutting-edge equipment often steal the spotlight, one often overlooked resource stands out: recording your games.
This isn't just about capturing memories; it's a great way to look at your skills, get better, and grow as a player. This article explains the benefits of recording your games and how to start doing it.
Why record your games?
Objective analysis
Watching yourself play provides an objective view that's impossible to achieve in the heat of the moment. You can see what you actually do, not just what you think you do.
Identify weaknesses
Recordings reveal areas where you need to improve. Are you consistently missing layups with your left hand? Are you losing the ball on a particular dribbling move? Video doesn't lie.
Track progress
By comparing recordings from different games or periods, you can track your progress over time. This provides motivation and reinforces positive changes.
Learn from mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes, but learning from them is crucial. Recordings allow you to analyse your errors and understand why they occurred.
Share with coaches
Share your game footage with your coach for personalised feedback and guidance. This collaborative approach can accelerate your development.
Recording tips
Recording your basketball games doesn't require expensive equipment or complicated setups.
Here's a simple guide to get you started:
Choose your recording device: A smartphone, tablet, or video camera will work. Ensure the device has sufficient battery life and storage space.
Secure a stable viewpoint: Position your recording device in a location that provides a clear, unobstructed view of the entire court. A tripod or stand is highly recommended to minimise shakiness.
Frame the shot: Ensure the entire court is visible in the frame, or adjust the zoom to focus on your play. Try to capture the whole play.
Record the entire game: Don't just record highlights. Capturing the entire game provides a complete picture of your performance
Post-game analysis
Today’s athletes must be equipped to assess their own performances. Rather than simply watching, they should analyse and take notes.
It’s important to be objective.
Avoid being overly critical or overly lenient.
Encourage players to pinpoint their strengths and areas needing improvement.
One effective approach is to focus on three specific situations: two where they excelled and one where they faced challenges. This allows the player to reflect on what worked and what did not.
What if the Players Are Very Young?
For some younger players, this task may be a bit challenging, but parents can step in to help. Much like assisting with homework, parents and players can collaborate on this analysis together.
Turn analysis into results
Once you've identified areas for improvement, it's time to take action. Here's how to translate your analysis into results:
Seek guidance: Talk to your coach about your observations and ask for specific drills to improve your weaknesses.
Visualise success: Watch your recordings and visualise yourself executing the skills you're working on correctly.
Compare your progress: Continue recording your games and comparing them to previous recordings to track your improvement.
Recording your basketball games is an invaluable tool for young players who are serious about improving their performance. By providing objective analysis, highlighting weaknesses, and tracking progress, video analysis can transform your game. Embrace the power of self-assessment and watch your skills grow. Good luck!