Washington Basketball Markelle Fultz needs Brett Brown coaching

Goal I: Emphasize Defense

The Philadelphia 76ers team begins with defense. From a defensive rebound to a steal, that triggers the teams passing up-court to the open shooter.   On the Philadelphia 76ers, the rookie will be called upon to initiate the transition game.

This is virgin territory for the young basketball player. While he has defended and initiated a fast break, it was clear that was not a primary responsibility in college. There, he move the ball up the court and took it to the basket or found an open shooter.

Now, he will need more focus on the defense.  Brown will transform his defense initially to help Fultz’s rookie psyche.  Defense builds confidence, where streaky offensive shooting does not. Defense will also enhance the play of his teammates.

Helps defend the paint

Fast moving quick-handed Fultz defending driving guards is solid reinforcements for the slow-to-pivot-tank Jahlil Okafor near the basket. Teams know they can score in the paint by sending multiple threats at Okafor. Fultz, guarding the guard, can help track and reject the faster moving offensive players. Allowing Okafor to focus on his man can help restore his shaken defense and confidence.

But it’s all for naught if Fultz cannot score.