NBA practices: Are they too soft these days? Clippers coach Tyronn Lue isn’t holding back, calling for a return to ‘body on body’ training. He believes intense contact is key for player development and even reducing injuries. But with players holding more power, is a comeback to old-school methods even possible?
The landscape of the National Basketball Association has undergone a profound transformation over the last three decades, fundamentally altering not just the style of play but also the very ethos of team practices. This evolution, marked by significant rule changes and a shift in player mindset, has led to a noticeable departure from the rigorous, physical training regimens that once defined the league, a concern openly voiced by Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue.
During a candid discussion, Lue vividly recalled the intense ‘body on body’ practices prevalent in his playing days, a stark contrast to today’s less physical approach. He described a demanding routine where, after a grueling game, players would immediately engage in an hour-and-a-half to two-hour contact practice session. This relentless commitment to live, competitive training was seen as essential for continuous player development, fostering a level of grit and physical readiness now rarely observed.
The modern NBA, shaped by a generation of players who grew up with different basketball philosophies, has largely abandoned many traditional aspects of the game, including certain practice methodologies. This generational shift aligns with the league’s broader efforts to adapt, such as reducing the number of back-to-back games, aiming to alleviate physical and mental strain on athletes and enhance overall player welfare.
However, what many fans outside the inner circles of the league fail to realize is that the practice courts no longer resemble those of a decade ago. Tyronn Lue’s insights reveal that high-contact, prolonged sessions are no longer the norm, primarily due to the considerable power wielded by today’s players. This increased influence means that a collective disagreement from the roster can effectively challenge a head coach’s methods, as evidenced by past situations involving figures like Tom Thibodeau.
Players’ current preferences for reduced physical contact in practices stem from a strong desire to maintain their bodies in optimal condition throughout a demanding season. The prevailing belief is that minimizing wear and tear during training will directly contribute to greater longevity and performance on game nights, a perspective that holds significant weight in today’s athlete-centric league.
Despite this focus on preservation, Lue draws a compelling parallel between the diminished intensity of current practices and the perceived rise in player injuries. He contends that during his era, when ‘body on body’ basketball training was standard, serious injuries were less common, suggesting a potential correlation between rigorous physical preparation and resilience against the rigors of competitive play.
While Lue’s observations offer a critical perspective, it is also important to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of injury development in contemporary basketball. Factors such as the increased mileage players accumulate from intensive AAU and grassroots basketball at younger ages contribute significantly to their physical challenges upon entering the professional league.
Ultimately, the challenge lies in striking a balance. Finding a common ground that respects player well-being while reintroducing elements of physical intensity into NBA practices could potentially address the concerns raised by coaches like Tyronn Lue, ensuring both player health and the sustained competitive development that fans and purists alike cherish.
