Book Private Basketball Lessons with Coach Najmah

Najmah Fauntleroy was a standout basketball player at Arundel High School in Maryland, playing a pivotal role for the Wildcats throughout her high school years. Her athletic ability, dedication, and leadership on the court made her a well-known figure in local high school basketball circles.

Playing Style

Position: Center/Forward

Strengths: Najmah was known for her physicality in the paint, combining size, strength, and athleticism. She was a dominant presence under the basket, excelling at both offense and defense. Her rebounding skills, shot-blocking, and ability to control the paint were key assets for Arundel.

Offensive Skills: She had a reliable low-post game, with a knack for scoring in the paint. Najmah's offensive contributions often came from her ability to finish strong around the rim, utilizing her size and positioning. She also showed a solid mid-range jumper, making her a versatile scoring threat.

Defensive Impact: On defense, she was known as a formidable shot-blocker and an aggressive rebounder, often leading her team in both categories. Her presence in the paint forced opponents to alter their shots, and she was crucial in defending against bigger teams.

Key Achievements

Team Success: Najmah was instrumental in Arundel's success during her high school years, helping lead the team to several playoff appearances and competitive matchups against top-ranked teams. Her performance was vital in maintaining Arundel's reputation as a strong contender in their region.

Individual Recognition: Throughout her high school career, she earned multiple awards and accolades, including All-County and All-Conference honors. Her consistent performance on both ends of the court made her one of the most respected players in the area.

Leadership: Beyond her physical talents, Najmah was also a leader on the team, setting the tone with her work ethic and passion for the game. She was seen as a role model for younger players and often took on a mentoring role, encouraging her teammates and pushing them to perform their best.

Notable Performances

Big Games: Najmah was known for stepping up in important games, often leading her team in points, rebounds, and blocks during key matchups. Her clutch performances in regional tournaments and playoff games were highlights of her high school career.

Consistent Double-Doubles: She was a consistent double-double machine, frequently recording double digits in both points and rebounds, showcasing her dominance and reliability as a player.

Najmah Fauntleroy's high school career was marked by her impactful presence on the court, dedication to her team, and ability to dominate the game, making her one of the standout athletes in the region during her time at Arundel High School.

College Overview

College: Najmah played college basketball at Delaware State University, a Division I program in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).

Position: She primarily played as a center/forward, leveraging her size and athleticism to impact the game on both ends of the court.

Playing Style

Offensive Skills: Najmah maintained her low-post scoring ability from high school, frequently finishing strong around the basket. She developed a more refined offensive game, including improved footwork and shot selection. Her ability to score both in transition and in half-court settings made her a versatile threat.

Defensive Impact: Known for her defensive prowess, Najmah excelled at rebounding and shot-blocking at the collegiate level. Her size and timing allowed her to be a formidable rim protector, contributing to the team's defensive strategies.

Key Achievements

Team Contributions: Throughout her college career, Najmah played a crucial role in the team’s success. She contributed to significant wins and was a key player in the team’s efforts during conference tournaments.

Statistical Highlights: Najmah consistently put up impressive numbers in points, rebounds, and blocks. Her ability to record double-doubles became a hallmark of her play, showcasing her reliability as a scorer and rebounder.

Awards and Recognition: She earned accolades for her performances, including All-Conference selections and recognition for her contributions to the team. Her consistent play helped raise her profile within the conference and among scouts.

Notable Performances

Clutch Games: Najmah had standout performances in critical games, often leading her team in scoring and rebounding during high-pressure situations. Her ability to perform in big moments helped solidify her reputation as a reliable player.

Career-Defining Moments: Throughout her college career, Najmah had several standout games where she dominated on both ends of the floor, contributing significantly to her team’s success in key matchups.

Leadership and Growth

Team Leadership: Najmah developed her leadership skills throughout her college career, often taking on a mentorship role for younger teammates. Her experience and work ethic set an example for the entire team.

Personal Growth: As she progressed through her college career, Najmah continued to refine her skills and adapt her game to the higher level of competition. She worked on various aspects of her game, including conditioning, shooting, and basketball IQ, which contributed to her overall development as a player.

Najmah Fauntleroy's college career at Delaware State University was marked by her significant contributions to the team, her development as a player, and her ability to excel in a competitive environment. Her impact on the court and her leadership qualities made her a valued member of her team throughout her college journey.

Recognition and Ceremony

During her Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Najmah was celebrated by former teammates, coaches, and fans who recognized her hard work and dedication to the sport. Her induction into the Delaware State University Hall of Fame is a testament to her exceptional career and lasting impact on the university’s athletic community.

This recognition not only honors Najmah's individual accomplishments but also reflects her contributions to the legacy of Delaware State basketball, inspiring future generations of student-athletes.

1. Comprehensive Skill Assessment I begin by conducting a thorough assessment of the player’s current skills, strengths, and areas for improvement. This evaluation includes observing their gameplay, analyzing their shooting form, ball-handling abilities, defensive skills, and understanding of game strategies. This baseline helps in creating a personalized training plan tailored to their needs.

2. Focused Skill Development I prioritize the development of core basketball skills, including:

Shooting: I provide targeted drills to improve shooting form, accuracy, and range. This includes techniques for free throws, jump shots, and three-pointers, along with game-like shooting scenarios to build confidence under pressure.

Ball Handling: I teach fundamental and advanced ball-handling techniques to enhance dribbling, control, and maneuverability. This includes various dribbling drills, change-of-pace moves, and techniques for handling defensive pressure.

Passing: I focus on improving passing skills, including chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passes. Drills emphasize accuracy, timing, and decision-making to ensure effective communication with teammates.

Defense: I train players on defensive fundamentals, including footwork, positioning, and techniques for guarding opponents. This includes drills for on-ball defense, help defense, and closeouts, helping players become more effective defenders.

3. Game Situational Training To prepare players for real-game scenarios, I incorporate situational training. This includes:

Scrimmages: Conducting controlled scrimmages that mimic game conditions allows players to apply their skills in a competitive environment. This helps them practice decision-making, teamwork, and adapting to different game situations.

End-of-Game Scenarios: I simulate various game-ending situations (e.g., needing a three-pointer to tie or a defensive stop) to help players learn how to manage pressure and make strategic decisions in critical moments.

4. Physical Conditioning I emphasize the importance of physical fitness in basketball performance. I implement conditioning programs that focus on:

Endurance: Incorporating drills that improve cardiovascular fitness, allowing players to maintain their performance throughout the game.

Strength Training: Introducing strength exercises that target key muscle groups used in basketball, improving overall physicality and reducing the risk of injury.

Agility and Speed: Utilizing agility drills to enhance quickness, lateral movement, and reaction times, enabling players to navigate the court more effectively.

5. Mental Toughness Training I recognize that basketball is as much a mental game as it is physical. I help players develop mental toughness through:

Visualization Techniques: Teaching players how to visualize successful performances, helping them build confidence and reduce anxiety.

Focus and Concentration Exercises: Implementing drills that require players to maintain focus under distractions, enhancing their ability to concentrate during high-pressure situations.

Resilience Building: Encouraging players to embrace challenges and setbacks as learning opportunities, helping them cultivate a growth mindset.

6. Goal Setting and Progress Tracking I work with players to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for their development. We regularly review these goals and track progress, allowing players to see their growth and stay motivated.

7. Providing Constructive Feedback I believe in the power of constructive feedback. I provide specific, actionable insights during practices and games, helping players understand what they did well and what they can improve. This feedback is delivered in a positive manner, encouraging players to learn and grow.

8. Building Teamwork and Communication Skills I emphasize the importance of teamwork and effective communication on the court. I conduct drills that require players to work together, fostering an understanding of team dynamics and enhancing their ability to communicate effectively with teammates.

9. Encouraging Lifelong Learning I instill a love for the game by encouraging players to engage in lifelong learning. This includes:

Watching Games: Suggesting that players watch professional and college games to learn from the best, observing strategies and player movements.

Reading and Studying: Recommending books and resources on basketball techniques, strategies, and player development to expand their understanding of the game.

10. Creating a Supportive Environment I foster a positive and supportive training environment where players feel comfortable expressing themselves, taking risks, and learning from mistakes. This atmosphere encourages growth, creativity, and a love for the game.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what a typical training session looks like for players under my coaching:

Typical Basketball Training Session Overview

Duration: 90 minutes to 2 hours

1. Warm-Up (10-15 minutes)

The session begins with a comprehensive warm-up to prepare the players' bodies and minds for intense activity. This phase includes:

Dynamic Stretching: A series of dynamic stretches to increase blood flow and flexibility, focusing on key muscle groups like hamstrings, calves, quads, and shoulders.

Agility Drills: Short sprints, ladder drills, and cone drills to improve agility, quickness, and coordination.

Ball Handling Warm-Up: Basic dribbling exercises (e.g., crossovers, behind-the-back, in-and-out) to activate hand-eye coordination and get players comfortable with the ball.

Objective: To prevent injuries, increase mobility, and get players mentally focused.

2. Fundamental Skills Drills (20-30 minutes)

The core part of the session focuses on reinforcing and building fundamental basketball skills. This section includes:

Shooting Drills

Form Shooting: Close-range shooting exercises to perfect shooting mechanics and technique.

Spot Shooting: Shooting from different spots on the floor (e.g., elbow, baseline, three-point line) to develop consistency.

Off-the-Dribble Shooting: Drills that simulate shooting off the dribble, enhancing accuracy in game-like situations.

Ball Handling Drills

Stationary Dribbling: Working on control and speed with stationary dribbling exercises (e.g., low dribble, high dribble, crossover, between-the-legs).

Full-Court Dribbling: Dribbling drills that span the length of the court to improve speed and transition ball-handling.

Cone Dribbling: Using cones to simulate defenders, emphasizing change of direction, and quick decision-making.

Passing Drills

Partner Passing: Practicing chest, bounce, and overhead passes with a partner, focusing on accuracy and timing.

Passing on the Move: Moving and passing drills that require players to hit targets while running or cutting to mimic game scenarios.

Objective: To build a solid foundation in essential basketball skills while improving consistency and control.

3. Offensive and Defensive Drills (25-30 minutes)

This part of the session includes drills focused on enhancing both offensive and defensive play:

Offensive Drills

Footwork and Pivoting: Drills that emphasize proper footwork, including jump stops, pivots, and jab steps.

1-on-1 Moves: Practicing isolation moves, such as the crossover, step-back, and spin move, to create space from defenders.

Cutting and Screening: Learning how to make effective cuts, set screens, and move without the ball to create scoring opportunities.

Defensive Drills

Defensive Stance and Footwork: Exercises to maintain a proper defensive stance and lateral movement for effective defense.

Closeout Drills: Practicing how to close out on shooters and prevent easy shots, emphasizing quick footwork and timing.

Help Defense: Drills that focus on team defense concepts, like rotating to help a teammate and defending pick-and-roll situations.

Objective: To sharpen players' offensive and defensive skills, preparing them for in-game scenarios.

4. Game Situational Drills (20-25 minutes)

This phase involves practicing game-like situations to enhance decision-making and execution under pressure:

Scrimmages: Controlled, half-court or full-court games with specific focuses (e.g., zone defense, fast break, offensive sets).

Special Situations: Working on specific scenarios like inbound plays, end-of-game situations, or handling double-teams.

Transition Drills: Fast-paced drills that simulate offensive and defensive transitions to improve speed, reaction time, and teamwork.

Objective: To develop game awareness, adaptability, and ability to perform under pressure.

5. Physical Conditioning (10-15 minutes)

This section includes conditioning exercises to improve stamina, strength, and overall athleticism:

Sprints: Short bursts of high-intensity sprints to develop speed and endurance.

Strength Drills: Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, lunges, and core workouts to build overall strength.

Agility Ladder: Using agility ladders for quick feet and explosive movements.

Objective: To increase fitness levels, reduce fatigue, and boost players' overall physical capabilities.

6. Cool Down and Stretching (5-10 minutes)

The session ends with a cool-down to promote recovery and flexibility:

Static Stretching: Holding stretches for major muscle groups, focusing on deep breathing and relaxation.

Foam Rolling: Optional use of foam rollers to relieve muscle tightness and improve blood flow.

Reflection and Review: A brief discussion on what was learned during the session, highlighting achievements and areas for improvement. Setting goals for the next training session.

Objective: To aid recovery, prevent soreness, and mentally recap the session’s key takeaways.

I have a Tie for first place. My two best coaches would be Coach Lee Rogers (Arundel High School) Ed Davis for Delaware State University Women's Basketball

Coach Lee Rogers for Arundel Lady Hornets (High School).

1. Exceptional Leadership Skills Coach Lee Rogers exemplifies what it means to be a leader. He not only guides his players on the court but also inspires them to grow as individuals off the court. His ability to create a positive team culture fosters trust and camaraderie among players, making practices and games enjoyable and rewarding experiences.

2. Personalized Coaching Style One of the standout qualities of Coach Rogers is his personalized approach to coaching. He takes the time to understand each player's strengths and weaknesses, tailoring his coaching methods to fit individual needs. This not only helps players improve their skills but also boosts their confidence, allowing them to thrive in their roles on the team.

3. Passion for the Game Coach Rogers's passion for basketball is infectious. His enthusiasm during practices and games energizes the team, making us want to give our best effort every time we step on the court. He shares his love for the game with us, making it clear that basketball is not just about competition but also about enjoyment and growth.

4. Strong Emphasis on Fundamentals Coach Rogers emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamentals of basketball. His focus on developing core skills—such as shooting, dribbling, and defense—has greatly improved our overall performance as a team. By instilling a strong foundation, he prepares us to face any challenge on the court with confidence.

5. Mentorship Beyond Basketball What sets Coach Rogers apart is his commitment to mentoring his players beyond the sport. He takes the time to discuss life lessons, teamwork, and perseverance, instilling values that extend far beyond basketball. His advice has been invaluable in helping me navigate challenges, both in sports and in life.

6. Strong Communication Skills Coach Rogers is an excellent communicator who fosters an open dialogue with his players. He encourages us to express our thoughts, ask questions, and voice concerns. This open line of communication creates an environment where players feel valued and heard, enhancing our collective growth.

7. Encouraging Team Spirit Coach Rogers fosters a strong sense of team spirit and unity. He organizes team-building activities and emphasizes the importance of supporting one another, both on and off the court. His ability to cultivate a sense of belonging has made being part of this team a truly enriching experience.

8. Commitment to Player Development Coach Rogers is genuinely invested in the development of each player. He dedicates extra time for individual skill sessions, offers constructive feedback, and celebrates our successes, no matter how small. His commitment to our growth shows that he believes in our potential and is willing to go the extra mile to help us achieve it.

9. Resilience and Adaptability Throughout our seasons together, Coach Rogers has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. He navigates challenges, whether it's injuries or unexpected game situations, with a calm demeanor. His ability to stay composed and make strategic adjustments teaches us the importance of staying focused and adaptable in the face of adversity.

10. Lasting Impact Ultimately, Coach Lee Rogers has left a lasting impact on my life and the lives of my teammates. His guidance, encouragement, and mentorship have not only shaped me as a basketball player but have also contributed to my personal growth. I will always carry the lessons I've learned from him as I move forward in my athletic journey and beyond.

Coach Ed Davis for Delaware State University (College)

1. In-Depth Knowledge of the Game Coach Davis possesses an exceptional understanding of basketball. His deep knowledge of strategies, plays, and the nuances of the game has been invaluable for my development as a player. He effectively breaks down complex concepts into understandable parts, allowing us to grasp the tactical aspects of basketball and apply them during games.

2. Individualized Coaching Approach One of Coach Davis's standout qualities is his commitment to individualized coaching. He recognizes that each player has unique strengths and areas for improvement, and he tailors his coaching style accordingly. This personalized approach has allowed me to refine my skills and reach my full potential, making me feel valued as a player.

3. Strong Emphasis on Teamwork Coach Davis instills the importance of teamwork and collaboration. He emphasizes that success is not just about individual talent but about how well we function as a cohesive unit. He promotes open communication, trust, and mutual support among teammates, creating a positive environment where everyone can thrive together.

4. Inspiring Leadership Coach Davis is an inspiring leader who motivates his players to strive for excellence. His passion for the game and unwavering belief in our abilities drive us to push our limits and give our best effort. He sets high expectations, and his encouragement makes us want to rise to the occasion.

5. Development of Life Skills Beyond basketball, Coach Davis teaches us valuable life skills that extend into our everyday lives. He emphasizes discipline, time management, and resilience, preparing us for challenges both on and off the court. His mentorship has helped shape my character and work ethic, equipping me for future endeavors.

6. Focus on Fundamentals Coach Davis places a strong emphasis on mastering the fundamentals of basketball. He believes that a solid foundation is crucial for success, and he dedicates significant time to drilling essential skills. His focus on technique has improved my game and ensured that I am well-prepared for competitive situations.

7. Constructive Feedback One of the things I appreciate most about Coach Davis is his ability to provide constructive feedback. He offers specific insights on how I can improve while balancing praise for what I do well. His approach helps me learn from mistakes without feeling discouraged, fostering a growth mindset that encourages continuous improvement.

8. Creating a Supportive Environment Coach Davis fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for all players. He encourages open dialogue, allowing us to share our thoughts and concerns. This supportive atmosphere makes it easy to approach him with questions or issues, strengthening the bond between coach and players.

9. Commitment to Excellence Coach Davis's commitment to excellence is evident in everything he does. He invests countless hours in game preparation, practice planning, and player development. His dedication sets a standard for the team, motivating us to strive for greatness in every practice and game.

10. Lasting Impact on My Life Ultimately, Coach Davis has left a profound and lasting impact on my life. His mentorship goes beyond basketball, shaping my values and approach to challenges. I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learned under his guidance, and I will carry those lessons with me as I continue my journey, both as an athlete and an individual.

I am very passionate about Mentoring the upcoming student-athletes. I have experienced Division 1 basketball and understand the importance of being a student first before the athlete. I believe in being Fearless and Protected out there on the basketball court.

1. Commitment to Player Development I am dedicated to fostering the growth and development of each player both on and off the court. My focus is on helping athletes improve their basketball skills while also nurturing their personal growth, character, and life skills.

2. Individualized Attention I believe in recognizing the unique strengths and weaknesses of each player. My coaching style includes personalized attention, ensuring that I tailor my approach to meet the specific needs of each athlete, helping them reach their full potential.

3. Emphasis on Fundamentals I prioritize teaching the fundamentals of basketball, including shooting, dribbling, passing, and defensive skills. A strong foundation in these areas is crucial for success, and I dedicate time to ensuring that all players master these skills.

4. Positive and Supportive Environment Creating a positive and supportive atmosphere is essential. I encourage open communication and foster a team culture where players feel valued, respected, and confident in expressing themselves. This environment enhances teamwork and camaraderie among athletes.

5. Focus on Life Skills Beyond basketball skills, I aim to instill important life skills in my players, such as teamwork, leadership, discipline, resilience, and effective communication. These skills are vital for success not only in sports but also in their future endeavors.

6. Open Communication with Parents I believe in maintaining open lines of communication with parents. I am available for discussions about your child’s progress, any concerns you may have, and how we can work together to support your athlete’s development. Regular updates and feedback will be provided.

7. Setting Realistic Goals I help players set achievable goals that promote growth and improvement. Whether it's skill development, performance in games, or personal objectives, I guide athletes in creating actionable plans to reach these goals, fostering a sense of accomplishment along the way.

8. Importance of Academic Balance I emphasize the significance of balancing academics and athletics. I encourage players to prioritize their education and develop good time management skills to ensure they succeed in both their studies and sports.

9. Encouraging Resilience and Perseverance Basketball is filled with challenges and setbacks. I teach players the value of resilience and perseverance, helping them understand that failure is part of the learning process. I support them in overcoming obstacles and developing a growth mindset.

10. Role Model and Mentor As a mentor, I strive to be a positive role model for my players. I lead by example, demonstrating sportsmanship, work ethic, and integrity. I aim to inspire them to be their best selves, both as athletes and individuals.

11. Encouraging Lifelong Passion for the Game I want my players to develop a lifelong passion for basketball. My mentorship goes beyond training; I aim to instill a love for the game that encourages them to continue playing and enjoying the sport, regardless of their future paths.

12. Commitment to Safety and Well-being The safety and well-being of your child are my top priorities. I ensure that all training sessions and activities are conducted safely and that players are in an environment that promotes their physical and emotional health.