Basketball Fundamentals

Marty Schupak (on voiceover), Coach Danny Walsh, and a team of players demonstrate hoop fundamentals here in a clear, easy-to-understand fashion. Starting with the difference between dribbling and bouncing a basketball (hint: control lies in the pads of the fingers, not the fingertips or palm of the hand), the program offers a number of drills related to ball control when standing still, before moving on to more complex maneuvers such as speed dribbling while making various moves through cones and other players. Additional areas covered include passing the ball, communication techniques, defensive actions, and more complicated plays. Filmed in a neighborhood setting on a long asphalt driveway with a backboard and hoop at one end, Basketball Fundamentals reminds viewers that gear and venue are not as important as the acquisition of technique. As in other programs by Schupak, each drill here is sequentially numbered, and specific segments are accessible through the menu. Offering a solid, straightforward approach to basic basketball skills, this is recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P. (C. Block)