Slappin' Glass Podcast Sean Miller on Handling the "Gray Areas" of Pressure, Tough Transition Actions, and Guards Hedging Ballscreens {Texas}
Dec 19, 2025
Sean Miller, the current head coach of Texas men's basketball with a rich background from Xavier and Arizona, shares his insights on navigating pressure in basketball. He discusses the importance of adaptability in breaking full-court presses and the crucial decision-making that occurs in the 'gray areas' of gameplay. Miller emphasizes purposeful attacking and strategies for guards, including hedging ball screens to maintain defensive integrity. His reflections on coaching influences and the value of family add a personal touch to the conversation.
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Control The Ball Immediately
- Train guards to catch, stop and play from triple-threat even 94 feet from the rim to avoid being sped up.
- Reverse pivot or front pivot and open a gap to initiate offense rather than wasting dribbles under pressure.
Raised By A Point-Guard Coach
- Sean Miller credits his father for early point-guard training in handling traps and pressure.
- He learned not to be rattled and to be the 'hammer' instead of the 'nail' in pressure situations.
Use The Shot Clock As Leverage
- Use the shot clock as an ally: punish teams that force play 94 feet by taking the right shots quickly.
- When pressure becomes five-on-five, keep ball and player movement energetic rather than forcing a structured reset.