Bo Hamburger
Years ago

Streetball: good for the game?

While we wait (and wait and wait) for DC's grand final edition of WH/WN, I ask the question: is streetball good, or bad, for the game of basketball?

Good (or "Hot"):
- gives players great individual ball skills
- ultimate form of self-expression on basketball court and bloody entertaining to boot
- cheaper/less hassle: grab some shoes, and some mates, and play

Bad (or "Not"):
- not exactly renowned for producing defensive animals
- doesn't equip players for playing at higher levels
- too strong a focus on individual, rather than team

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The truth  
Years ago

Streetball .... More AND 1 Have done great things for Basketball... They have brought back alot of Kids intrest in the sport ... Streetball is great for Entertainment and Bring kids back to the game ... But not the greatest for buliding Players...

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Dr Bullshit  
Years ago

Any exposure to basketball has to be good! as the truth said it gets the kids involved and whether they can make the transition to real ball, depends on whether they can learn defence, the same as other players learn the ball skills that the streetballers already have.

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Anonymous  
Years ago

From old edition of SLAM Magazine (written by ex-Rockets guard Kenny Smith)

Is street basketball killing the game? or more specifically,are the AND1 Mix Tapes and the Nike Freestlye commercials making kids lose touch with the structured basketball? That might be a little deep, but these things need to be explained to ballers young and old who dont understand the reality of urban basketball.

Lets put this into perspective: were talking about basketball eye candy, real people creating moves like videos come to life. Like all candy, however, it should not become a steady diet. This phenomenon should be looked at as the 2001 version of the Harlem Globetrotters And thats not a dis, because there is a place for this style of play. Its entertaining and difficult to copy. It provides an element of urban brashness and flait that isnt usually seen in places like Little Rock or Topeka. It highlights the great individual talents of these streetballers. But we cannot overlook what it is- just another cousin to the Globetrotters or Dunk Contest.

Generally, these moves are choreographed in players' heads before they step on the court. Only then are they unveiled, not to help the team win, but for entertainment--and for the need to show individualism in a team sport Basically the style originated on the street of New York at places like Rucker Park, but now its done in every 'hood and highlights many urban kids' cries to be seen in a big city. For most who grew up in an urban environment, showmanship is the way to stand out. Lacking that, you may become lost in the shuffle. Then add the hip hop era mentality of "im better than you." Its not just about beating you, but making you look like a fool in the process.

When im asked why some of these guys arent in the NBA, this is often the reason. Nothing is choreographed in the NBA, and like my brother Vince always told me, the best trick in basketball is putting the ball in the basket. A few are able to combine showmanship with what wins games, and respect is due to the new millenium ballers like Rafer Alston, who almost single-handedly brought interest back to streetball. Also, shoutouts to Main Event, Half-Man, Future, Alamo, Headache, Dribbling Machine, and Hot Sauce--yall make it happen.

So like i said, its good to have tricks that can get you noticed, but tricks are for kids. Get some substance to your game first, then get the flair.

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Undersized Pf  
Years ago

The fact is that streetball gives the opportunity for many kids to practice more often.

This is important as many kids at district level do not practise enough individually (e.g away from trainings, in there back yard or whatever)

With streetball kids are playing more often and therefore becoming better skilled.

For this to work efficiently though, i still beleive that kids must participate in the district structure but also participate in street ball games with friends etc. Therefor getting the best of both worlds

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Undersized Pf  
Years ago

when im talking about streetball, im talking about like pick up games,

like youve heard the legends of NBA talking about playing pick up games as they grow up,

Not the AND1 bullshit, that does nothing for the game

Reply #46463 | Report this post


Streetball in SA thats hilarious! Who are these streetballers where do they play the Bronx?!?

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Coach5  
Years ago

Pick up Basketball - love it, miss it, wish more people were into it.

Streetball - is crap! It might be show time stuff like the Harlem Globetrotters but it just doesnt help us coaches of kids get them to focus on the right techniques cause they are way too caught up in "looking good" rather than getting the job done with righ technique!

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Anonymous  
Years ago

When I read coach 5 I hear Shonas voice.

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Anonymous  
Years ago

http://www.geocities.com/urbanstreetball/index.html

St Bernards Campbelltown Lesiure Centre

Teenage mixed
6 x 15 minute games for $6 (may change)

No uniform, coach, scorer needed
Bring a team or pickup on a team

Reply #68140 | Report this post




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