Developing a feel for the game

Question submitted by: Anonymous

I've been playing basketball for about 3 years at recreational centers and such. I've never played on an actual team until this year where I played club basketball, which is the highest level in Alberta. I didn't get much playing time, as alot of the girls had been playing since they were six, and I started at fourteen. I know I'm really behind when it comes to all this organized basketball stuff because I usually play 3-on-3 street ball. How can I develop a feel for the game, get more playing time, and catch up so I'm at the same skill level as my teammates?
P.S - I'm really good when I'm just playing around at the park, but I'm terrible when It comes to playing a real organized game.

Coach Tim says:
"…If you enjoy the game, stick with it. It sounds to me like you really do.

Don’t sweat your first year of organized ball, it is overwhelming for most anyone. The more you play in the team setting the better of a feel you will get with that experience. Use this time to learn how the other players around you move, react; what your strengths and weakness are, as well as theirs.

Absorb all that the coach is teaching concerning the offensive and defensive sets you run, and study the reasons behind certain parts of the game. This will help you to understand the game not just in a physical sense, but from a mental aspect as well. If you can do this you will, without a doubt, find that your skill level, your feel, your understanding of the game, and your playing time will increase dramatically.

Next, practice anywhere and everywhere you can, putting yourself in all different types of scenarios and situations. If you are practicing alone, visualize these situations. You will be amazed at the progress you make.

And finally, don’t worry. You are on the right track from what I can tell. If you follow this plan I have laid out for you, then I promise you that your skill, and experience in the next year or so will dwarf many of those you are playing with now. I hope this was a help to you and if there is anything else we can do feel free to let us know.”

Coach Tim