The Transforming Basketball Podcast EP120: Coaching Lessons from the London Lions Academy: Different Styles, Same Mission
Jul 2, 2025
Liam Jefferson and Will Twigg, former coaches at the London Lions Academy, share their transformative experiences shaping young basketball talent. They delve into creating a competitive yet enjoyable environment that empowers players through ownership of their learning. The duo highlights adaptive coaching styles and emphasizes the importance of values and non-negotiables. Their discussion covers practical tips on designing impactful practice plans, encouraging creativity, and fostering player accountability for enhanced development in a dynamic setting.
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Competitive Practice Environment Story
- Liam described creating a fully competitive environment where every small-sided game had scoring and no clear winners or losers.
- Players even invented their own scoring systems to fuel competitiveness and fun.
Practice Behaviors Reflect Aspirations
- Hold players accountable by aligning their practice behaviors to their basketball aspirations.
- Enforce non-negotiables like phones away and focused hydration talks about coverage solutions.
Empower Players with Ownership
- Give players a voice and ownership of practice to build competitiveness and a sense of belonging.
- Create a friendly yet firm atmosphere where acceptable behaviors are clear.