Questions From Subscribers...

A good way to get them to be vocal on defense is to use 5-on-4 and 4-on-3 type of half court drills. When overloaded the players are forced to constantly scramble and help each other. If they don't talk, they will fail miserably. I've found this is a good way to improve communication on defense.

Beyond that you can just make it a point to require communication on all drills. Coach K at Duke incorporates talk on most drills. I don't believe he does anything special other than requiring that they talk. And he also gives some suggestions on what they should be saying in certain situations. Just adding communication as your "points of emphasis" to all drills on you practice plan should help. I just wouldn't suggest useless talk. Everything should have a purpose.

Hope this helps.

Jeff