Learn Basketball with John
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💰$81 weekly lessons
Coach John Pettaway – Basketball Coach | Culture Builder | Player Developer With over two decades of coaching and leadership experience, John Pettaway is a passionate and proven basketball coach committed to developing players on and off the court. Known for his no-nonsense yet nurturing approach, Coach Pettaway combines deep basketball IQ with a strong focus on character, discipline, and culture. Currently serving as Head Coach of the Lawrence Woodmere Academy Post-Grad Program and Associate Head Coach for the PSA Cardinals 8th and 9th Grade Teams, Coach Pettaway has mentored and trained athletes who’ve gone on to succeed at the Division I, Division II, and JUCO levels. His coaching philosophy centers around hard work, accountability, and team alignment—values that translate beyond basketball into life success. Coach Pettaway is also the founder of Beyond the Bench & Board, a school culture consulting company that partners with schools to support deans, teachers, and school leaders in building systems that promote high expectations and strong relationships. From the Nike EYBL circuit to the classroom, Coach Pettaway brings a rare blend of strategic insight, cultural leadership, and a relentless drive to see young people win. Whether drawing up plays or developing a team mindset, he brings energy, focus, and integrity to every space he enters.
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Teaches: Kids, Teenagers, Adults
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Levels: Beginners, Intermediates, Experts
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Lives in: Manhattan, New York
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Happy Student Score: Not available
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Years Playing: Not specified
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Given: 0 lessons
Accomplishments
➕USA Basketball Certified
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Locations
These are the locations I've set as being able to provide lessons:5 locations available
Brooklyn Bridge Park Basketball Courts
150 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
477.1 miles awayOutdoors
Roy Wilkins Park
Roy Wilkins Park, Merrick Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434, USA
488.8 miles awayOutdoors
Pat Williams Playground
101-22 224th St, Queens, NY 11429, USA
491.1 miles awayOutdoors
Lost Battalion Hall Playground
Queens Blvd &, 62nd Ave, Rego Park, NY 11374, USA
484.1 miles awayOutdoors
Breininger Park
237-33 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11426, USA
491.2 miles awayOutdoors
Availability
These are the times I've set as being available for lessons.sundays
8 AM - 8 PM
mondays
8 AM - 8 PM
tuesdays
8 AM - 8 PM
wednesdays
8 AM - 8 PM
thursdays
8 AM - 8 PM
fridays
8 AM - 8 PM
saturdays
8 AM - 8 PM
Beginner training plan
Your first lessonLesson 1 – Introduction to Basketball & Foundational Skills
Objective: Introduce basic rules, court layout, and proper body mechanics.
• Warm-up (10 min):
• Dynamic stretches: high knees, butt kicks, arm circles
• Light jog around the court
• Basketball Basics (15 min):
• Court lines: baseline, free-throw line, 3-point line
• Positions: point guard, shooting guard, forward, center
• Station Work (25 min):
1. Dribbling Station – Right/left hand, pound dribble, control dribble
2. Passing Station – Chest pass, bounce pass with a partner
3. Shooting Form Station – “BEEF” (Balance, Eyes, Elbow, Follow-through)
• Game Concept Intro (5 min):
• Object of the game
• Basic fouls and violations (travel, double dribble, etc.)
• Cool Down (5 min):
• Light stretching & Q&A
Lesson 11+Lesson 11 – Showcase & Assessment
Objective: Demonstrate growth and teamwork in a competitive setting.
• Warm-up (10 min): Team jog, dynamic stretch
• Skills Challenge (20 min):
• Dribble course
• Shooting stations
• Passing accuracy
• Scrimmage Games (30 min):
• Divide teams
• Use a ref (if available)
• Track basic stats: assists, rebounds, teamwork
• Awards & Reflection (10 min):
• Hand out “Most Improved,” “Best Teammate,” etc.
• Player feedback and group reflection
Lesson 4-10Lessons 4–10 – Game Fundamentals, Team Play & Scrimmage Development
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Lesson 4 – Shooting Mechanics & Layups
• BEEF form practice (with wall and basket)
• Layup lines – both sides
• Spot shooting from key areas
• Game: “Knockout” or “Around the World”
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Lesson 5 – Footwork & Defense
• Defensive stance and slides
• Close-out drill
• Jab step, pivot footwork
• Mirror drill
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Lesson 6 – Rebounding & Boxing Out
• Concepts: “Hit, find, and get”
• Partner box-out drills
• Rebounding competitions
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Lesson 7 – 1v1 & Space Creation
• Triple threat breakdown
• 1-on-1 controlled games (scored by execution)
• Create space with jab, step back, hesitation
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Lesson 8 – 2v2 & 3v3 Concepts
• Give-and-go
• Pick-and-roll basics
• Spacing and movement without the ball
• Controlled 2v2/3v3 play
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Lesson 9 – Team Offense & Defense Basics
• Zones vs. man-to-man (very simple overview)
• Moving without the ball
• Talking on defense
• Controlled half-court 4v4 scrimmage
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Lesson 10 – Full Court Concepts & Game Simulation
• Transition drills (fast break 3-man weave)
• Controlled full-court scrimmage
• Clock management and spacing
• Introduce inbound plays
Lesson 2-3Lessons 2-3 – Core Fundamentals: Dribbling, Passing, and Shooting
Objective: Build mastery of key fundamental skills through repetition and correction.
Lesson 2 – Dribbling & Ball Handling
• Warm-up (10 min): Ball slaps, fingertip taps, figure-8 drills
• Dribbling Focus (30 min):
• Stationary dribbling (low, high, crossover)
• Cone dribbling (zig-zag dribble with control)
• Two-ball dribble (for confidence & hand control)
• Fun Drill (10 min): Dribble Knockout or Dribble Relay Race
• Cool Down (5 min)
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Lesson 3 – Passing Techniques
• Warm-up (5 min): Jogging & partner passing while moving
• Passing Fundamentals (20 min):
• Chest pass, bounce pass, overhead pass
• Partner passing with movement (give-and-go)
• Team Drill (15 min): 3-man weave or triangle passing
• Mini Game (10 min): Passing-only game (no dribbling allowed)
• Cool Down & Reflection (5 min)
Advanced training plan
Your first lessonLesson 1 – Baseline Testing & Expectations
Objective: Assess current skill levels, athleticism, and basketball IQ.
• Warm-up (10 min):
• Dynamic warm-up with agility ladders, resisted bands, and partner reaction drills
• Skill Assessment Stations (30 min):
1. Ball Handling – Timed cone weave + hesitation/crossover + finish
2. Shooting – Form shooting, 5-spot shooting, off-the-dribble shooting
3. Defense – Closeouts, slide test, 1v1 live from the wing
4. Passing/IQ – Read & react drills, skip pass & timing reads
• Basketball IQ Challenge (10 min):
• Whiteboard scenario breakdowns
• Shot clock/score management quiz
• Expectations Talk (10 min):
• Goals, commitment, attitude, and effort
Lesson 11+Lesson 11 – Film Review, Skill Challenge & Awards
Objective: Analyze growth, correct habits, and celebrate excellence.
• Film Breakdown (15 min):
• Highlight good decisions, mistakes, leadership moments
• Skill Challenge (30 min):
• Gauntlet: 3-shot combos, cone weaves into finishes
• Reaction defense drill
• Timed free throws under fatigue
• Scrimmage or Final Showcase Game (20 min)
• Awards & Reflection (10 min):
• “Best Communicator,” “Gym Rat,” “Clutch Performer”
• Group debrief: Where we started vs. where we are
Lesson 4-10Lessons 4–10 – System Install, Game Scenarios, & Team Execution
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Lesson 4 – Defensive Intensity & Rotations
• Pressure on-ball techniques
• Tag/Recover from helpside
• Shell drill (4v4)
• Closeout + stunt + recover sequences
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Lesson 5 – Ball Screen Offense & Defense
• Set-up angles, pacing, reads (drop, hedge, switch)
• Weak side spacing off screen
• Defense: Go under, trap, ICE coverages
• 2v2 & 3v3 pick-and-roll breakdowns
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Lesson 6 – Transition Offense & Defense
• 3-lane running
• Fill-the-wing, rim runner, trail options
• Defensive sprint back rules
• 5-man break with guided defense
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Lesson 7 – Isolation & Decision-Making
• When and where to isolate
• Creating mismatches
• Shot selection discipline
• Live iso series from top, wing, post
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Lesson 8 – Special Situations & ATOs
• Baseline out-of-bounds (BLOB) plays
• Sideline out-of-bounds (SLOB) plays
• Clock management (8-sec, 4-sec, buzzer beater)
• “Down 3 with 10 seconds” game plays
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Lesson 9 – Full Team Execution
• Walk-through of motion or set offenses
• Defensive calls (switch, hedge, trap)
• Special teams: Free throw box-outs, press break, zone offense
• Controlled 5v5 with coached stoppages
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Lesson 10 – Scrimmage Series & Advanced Stats
• Full-court, refereed scrimmages
• Focused scrimmages (1st half zone, 2nd half man)
• Stat tracking: +/- rating, assist-to-turnover, shot chart
• Film session prep (record if possible)
Lesson 2-3Lessons 2-3 – Advanced Ball Handling & Offensive Skill Work
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Lesson 2 – Elite Ball Handling & Finishing
Objective: Create separation and finish against contact and length.
• Warm-up (5 min): Pound dribbles, 2-ball rhythm, tennis ball reactions
• Ball Handling Progression (25 min):
• Hesitation, snatch back, in-and-out, misdirection
• Ball-screen read drills with cones/defenders
• Finishing Series (20 min):
• Euro step, floater, reverse, up-and-under
• Contact finishes with pads
• Competitive Drill (10 min): “Beat the Defender” 1v1 from 3 spots
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Lesson 3 – Shooting Under Pressure & Spacing Concepts
Objective: Improve consistency under duress and understand off-ball movement.
• Catch & Shoot Warm-up (5 min): Off-the-rack 5-spot shooting
• Advanced Shooting (25 min):
• Relocation shooting
• Sprint-ins from screens
• 1-dribble pull-up, step-backs, curl shots
• Spacing Drill (15 min):
• 3-man wing/baseline movement with skip reads
• Drift, fill, replace actions
• Game Simulation (10 min): 2v2 Off-ball movement to scoring
Youth players
Working with kidsWhen working with kids, basketball lessons must be adapted with developmentally appropriate practices, a focus on fun, and an emphasis on confidence-building over competition. Here’s how to adjust your lessons for younger or less mature players:
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1. Shorten and Simplify Activities
• Why: Kids have shorter attention spans and less endurance.
• How to Adapt:
• Break activities into 5–8 minute chunks.
• Use clear, simple instructions—1 or 2 steps max.
• Avoid long lines; use stations or small groups.
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2. Prioritize FUN Over Form
• Why: Fun builds love for the game and keeps kids engaged.
• How to Adapt:
• Include games like “Red Light, Green Light” dribbling or “Sharks and Minnows” with a basketball.
• Use fun names for drills (“Spider Hands” for defensive slides, “Superhero stance” for defense).
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3. Use Visuals, Demos & Imagination
• Why: Kids are visual and imaginative learners.
• How to Adapt:
• Demonstrate every drill slowly.
• Use storytelling: “Dribble like you’re sneaking past a sleeping dragon.”
• Use cones, poly spots, hula hoops to set boundaries.
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4. Lower the Physical Barriers
• Why: Most kids can’t shoot at a 10-ft rim or handle a regulation ball.
• How to Adapt:
• Use 8-ft rims or adjustable hoops.
• Use size 5 (youth) or mini basketballs.
• Allow traveling and double dribbles early on while focusing on fun.
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5. Include Lots of Movement
• Why: Kids need to move to stay focused.
• How to Adapt:
• Avoid drills where kids wait in line too long.
• Let them “play” with structure: 1v1, 2v2, or “everybody touches the ball” games.
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6. Focus on One Skill per Lesson
• Why: Kids learn best with simple, focused repetition.
• How to Adapt:
• Example: “Today is a dribbling day” → All drills reinforce that.
• Reinforce with praise: “Wow! You kept your head up the whole time!”
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7. Celebrate Small Wins Constantly
• Why: Encouragement builds confidence.
• How to Adapt:
• Use high fives, claps, “player of the day” awards.
• Let every kid “win” at something during practice.
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8. End with a Game Every Time
• Why: It gives kids something to look forward to.
• How to Adapt:
• Games like “Knockout,” “King of the Court,” or “Dribble Freeze Tag.”
• Or a fun scrimmage where you coach the play gently (e.g. pass once before shooting).
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9. Talk Less, Show More
• Why: Kids lose focus quickly with too much talk.
• How to Adapt:
• 30 seconds or less for instructions.
• Use hand gestures, body language, and excitement to teach.
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10. Involve Parents When Appropriate
• Why: Reinforces habits at home and boosts confidence.
• How to Adapt:
• Encourage simple ball handling or form shooting practice at home.
• Offer one “homework” move to work on each week.
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Time
Activity
0–10 min
Dynamic warm-up + silly movement game
10–15 min
Ball-handling (around waist, cones, walking dribble)
15–20 min
Passing (partner passing game with silly target)
20–30 min
Shooting (form practice + 1-hand shots)
30–35 min
Mini relay race (dribble + pass + layup)
35–50 min
1v1, 2v2, or Knockout (with coaching)
50–60 min
“What did we learn?” huddle + player of the day
Working with teenagers1. Increase Intensity and Expectations
• Why: Teens are physically and mentally ready for more demanding work.
• How to Adapt:
• Start integrating conditioning (jump rope, sprints, defensive slides).
• Expect full-speed reps and stronger effort.
• Introduce consequences for lack of focus (e.g. push-ups, redo reps).
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2. Refine Fundamentals with Game-Like Situations
• Why: Teens still need reps, but in realistic, pressure situations.
• How to Adapt:
• Add defenders or timed challenges to basic drills.
• Use decision-making drills: “read & react,” pick-and-roll reads, drive-and-kick options.
• “Every drill has a purpose” – teach why the skill matters.
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3. Use Competitive Drills
• Why: Competition fuels engagement and focus.
• How to Adapt:
• 1v1, 3v3, or scoring challenges with winners/losers.
• Points for hustle, boxing out, and talk—not just made baskets.
• Track wins or “Player of the Day” to encourage effort.
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4. Teach Advanced Concepts Gradually
• Why: Teens can handle complexity when broken down clearly.
• How to Adapt:
• Start introducing help-side defense, offensive spacing, pick-and-roll, etc.
• Use chalk talks or whiteboard time (keep it short).
• Let players teach or demo concepts to peers.
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5. Hold Them Accountable for Growth
• Why: Accountability leads to maturity and ownership.
• How to Adapt:
• Set personal and team goals: free throw %, turnovers, communication.
• Encourage self-reflection: “What did you do well today?”
• Use journals or stat sheets (simple) to track performance.
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6. Use Peer Leadership
• Why: Teens listen to teens more than coaches sometimes.
• How to Adapt:
• Assign captains for drills or scrimmages.
• Rotate “stretch leaders” or “hustle leaders.”
• Let older/more skilled players mentor younger ones.
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7. Make Skills Relevant to the Game
• Why: Teens are motivated by purpose and real results.
• How to Adapt:
• Show clips of NBA/WNBA players doing the drill moves.
• Rep drills that mirror your team’s offensive/defensive philosophy.
• “This is how you get playing time…”
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8. Incorporate Strength, Speed & Agility
• Why: Physical development becomes more important.
• How to Adapt:
• Bodyweight circuits (lunges, squats, pushups).
• Ladder drills, cone agility, resistance bands.
• Teach injury prevention: stretching, foam rolling.
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9. Build Mental Toughness & Communication
• Why: Teens face pressure and self-doubt—sports can help.
• How to Adapt:
• Challenge them: fatigue drills, “must make” reps.
• Include breathing, focus resets, visualization.
• Praise effort and attitude more than just results.
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10. Finish With Teaching Moments
• Why: Teens are forming habits, identity, and character.
• How to Adapt:
• Use post-practice huddles to discuss mindset, leadership, accountability.
• Ask reflective questions: “What did you learn about yourself?”
• Recognize growth, not just talent.
Time
Activity
0–10 min
Dynamic warm-up + jump rope
10–20 min
Ball-handling w/ movement + contact
20–35 min
Finishing drills vs. live defense
35–50 min
Spacing & offensive concepts (drive + kick, swing + cut)
50–60 min
Defensive rotations (Shell, closeouts, help-side)
60–70 min
Competitive shooting (Team contest, 3-2-1 drill)
70–85 min
Scrimmage w/ coaching focus (e.g. spacing or defense only)
85–90 min
Team talk: reflection, accountability, goals
What you need to bringEnergy, effort, grit, toughness, goals/dreams, tough skin, tenacity and hunger.
What I can bringBasketballs, cones, ladders, pads, energy, passion, relationship building, accountability and excellence.
Frequently asked questions
Cancellation Policy
We totally understand that life can be unpredictable and plans might change. That's
why we've got your back with our flexible cancellation policy, designed to give you
peace of mind when booking private sports lessons with our awesome local instructors!
If you need to cancel your lesson, no worries! You can get a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of making your booking. We want to make the process as hassle-free as possible for you.
And if you simply want to reschedule your lesson, change the date and time, or adjust the number of students joining, we've got you covered there too. You can easily make these changes within 24 hours of booking, and up to 72 hours before your lesson starts.
Our goal is to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free. So go ahead and book with confidence, knowing that we're here to accommodate your needs every step of the way!
If you need to cancel your lesson, no worries! You can get a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of making your booking. We want to make the process as hassle-free as possible for you.
And if you simply want to reschedule your lesson, change the date and time, or adjust the number of students joining, we've got you covered there too. You can easily make these changes within 24 hours of booking, and up to 72 hours before your lesson starts.
Our goal is to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free. So go ahead and book with confidence, knowing that we're here to accommodate your needs every step of the way!
JP
Basketball with John P.New to TeachMe.To