David,

I've been instructing my 13-year old daughter in basketball for about five years. We've made literally hundreds of visits to the local YMCA. She had 14 points in yesterday's AAU game (and my wife and I were beaming). Unfortunately, she doesn't always take instruction well from her old man. I hope, David, that you and Bek butt heads less frequently than Ally and I do.

I imagine he is working hard on dribbling equally well with both hands, mastering the cross-over, and the occasional spin. I'm big on the give-and-go, and pick-and-roll. He should always cut and have a hand up as a target. That will increase the likelihood that he'll receive a return pass. Also, a nice 10-12 foot jump shot is a great addition to his repertoire. The backboard should be used at the 45 degree angles as it's his best friend. He shouldn't spending a lot of time on those ridiculous 25-foot heaves that so many kids waste time with. It's better to work on perfecting the closer ones.

The best point guards can see all of the floor and hit the open man; keep their composure during a press; drive to the lane with reckless abandon; hit most of their free-throws, and, most importantly, WANT the ball when it counts most. This latter point separates the very good from the exceptional.

I spent half my childhood in the driveway, shooting baskets (with early Springsteen records to keep me company). I imagine you are experiencing something similar though with a more contemporary soundtrack. It's great that your son found basketball, as it will be a life-long love affair.

Peter T.