In a candid discussion on ‘The Glue Guys’ podcast, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr addressed a pressing issue in the NBA: the diminishing practice time for players, particularly young talents entering the league. His remarks highlight a significant concern that has emerged as the league has evolved, with an increasingly condensed schedule that leaves little room for meaningful training sessions.
Kerr, who has experienced success both as a player and a coach, emphasized that the current structure of the NBA, which often involves playing games every other day, hampers the development of young athletes. “We don’t practice anymore,” he stated, underscoring the challenges faced by rookies and second-year players who are expected to adapt quickly to the professional level without the benefit of regular practice.
Historically, young players would have the opportunity to refine their skills through rigorous training sessions, allowing them to grasp the fundamentals of the game. However, Kerr pointed out that the modern NBA has shifted towards a more developmental model. “One of the reasons the league is so different now is that we are now a developmental league,” he explained. The tight scheduling means that teams often have to prioritize games over practice, which can be detrimental to a player’s growth.
Kerr’s insights are particularly relevant when considering the case of Jonathan Kuminga, a promising forward for the Warriors. Selected as the No. 7 pick in the 2021 draft, Kuminga has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency. In the previous season, he averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, but his role fluctuated, leading to tension between him and Kerr. The lack of practice time has made it difficult for young players like Kuminga to develop their skills and find their rhythm within the team.
The Warriors coach reflected on how the league’s schedule has changed over the years. “We used to have three games in four nights and then four days off, so we had at least two great practices,” he reminisced. This stark contrast to the current pace of the game illustrates how the NBA’s focus has shifted away from player development and towards maximizing game time.
Kerr’s concerns resonate with many in the basketball community, as the emphasis on game frequency over practice could have long-term implications for the quality of play. Without adequate practice, young players may struggle to grasp essential game concepts, leading to a gap in their development. This situation raises questions about how teams can effectively nurture their talent while navigating an increasingly demanding schedule.
As the NBA continues to adapt to modern demands, the challenge of balancing game time with practice remains a critical issue. Kerr’s perspective sheds light on the need for a reevaluation of how the league approaches player development, particularly for the younger generation of athletes. By prioritizing practice time, teams may not only enhance individual player performance but also elevate the overall quality of the game.
In conclusion, Steve Kerr’s candid critique of the current state of the NBA serves as a call to action for coaches, teams, and league officials alike. As the landscape of professional basketball evolves, it’s essential to ensure that young players receive the training and mentorship they need to thrive. The future of the league may depend on finding that balance between playing and practicing, ultimately fostering a new generation of skilled and well-rounded athletes.