As we head into Game 4 of the season, we know we’re walking into something different.
Both teams are undefeated. Both have experience, length, and athleticism. This isn’t just another game—it’s likely to be one of the most challenging of the regular season. And yet, the approach remains the same: prepare with purpose, coach with clarity, and lead with identity.
That’s what this morning is about.
Pre-Game Preparation: Building the Foundation
The week leading up to this one has been intense—but intentional. We had a great Thursday practice focused on defensive execution and rebounding responsibility, specifically:
Reinforcing our triangle box-out in the key—securing the paint through positioning and communication Transitioning immediately from rebound to outlet—whether it’s the guard flashing middle or initiating the break from the wing Reps on half-court defense against the opponent’s primary offensive set and inbounds look
Everything has been structured to support what we do best: defend, rebound, and fly in transition.
We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel just because the opponent is stronger—we’re reinforcing what works.
Strategic Identity: We Lead With Defense
We’re entering this game the way we’ve started every game this season—with full-court pressure right out of the gate. It’s more than a tactic. It’s a tone-setter.
That pressure isn’t about chaos—it’s about control. It forces tempo, creates early opportunities, and immediately tests the opponent’s poise. If it works, we build a lead. If not, we settle back into our disciplined 2-3 zone, where we’ve been most successful all season.
The zone is anchored by physical play in the paint, intelligent closeouts on shooters, and reading ball movement. We’ve worked hard to keep rotations sharp and eliminate the soft spots opponents usually exploit in zones.
This isn’t a conservative defense. It’s layered, aggressive, and fueled by communication.
Offensive Game Plan: Read and React
Offensively, we’ve installed two versions of the same base action—our primary look built around a strong-side pick-and-roll. The system is simple but read-based:
If the opponent is in zone: the ball is entered via a dribble hand-off to initiate movement If it’s man-to-man: the ball is passed and the floor is cleared to create space for a two-player attack
We’ve emphasized that the point guard triggers the read, but the whole team must recognize it. Spacing on the weak side is critical. The role players know how to fill lanes, how to time cuts, and how to stay ready on the kick.
We’ve also built in a secondary call—a surprise look where our high post shooter flares to the top of the key for a three. It likely won’t be used more than once, but it’s in the bag if we need it.
Rotation Plan: Balanced, but Situational
Rotations today are mapped out, and the intention is to give everyone minutes, even against a tough opponent. That said, today’s challenge may require in-the-moment adjustments based on energy, rhythm, and chemistry.
The first quarter will start with our most cohesive group—those who have earned the right to set the tone. Substitutions are planned at the four-minute mark and into the second quarter, with a fresh group that’s been successful at holding leads or shifting momentum.
The third quarter will be a decision point. If the game is close or momentum has shifted, we’ll adjust accordingly. We may bring the starters back in early. If things are under control, the planned substitutions stay intact.
Everyone is prepared for the possibility that their minutes may flex. That’s part of being in a competitive rotation. The message remains: team first.
What the Players Will Hear Today
Before tip-off, the team will hear what we’ve said all season—but sharpened for the moment:
“This isn’t about the team across from us—it’s about our standard.”
“Every rotation today is intentional. Every minute matters. Every player has a role.”
“We are a defensive team. That’s who we are. That’s our culture.”
“From the first whistle to the last, we press, we talk, we rebound, and we play together.”
They’ll be reminded that this is our house, and that we’re not protecting a record—we’re protecting our identity.
No Predictions—Just Preparation
This game isn’t about outcomes. It’s about execution. It’s about doing what we’ve practiced, trusting what we’ve built, and responding to the moments as they come. Whether we’re ahead or behind, comfortable or under pressure, we’ll lean on what has made us successful to this point.
The players know what’s coming. The staff knows what’s needed.
Now it’s time to take the court and do what the Hornets do—compete with intensity, defend with pride, and play with trust.
