Coach William Conant

Coach Conant is a math and science teacher in Oxnard, California, and has been involved in student athletics for over 15 years. Coach Conant has a passion for basketball and enjoys sharing all aspects of the game with his players and students.

Coaching Philosophy

The goal of my coaching philosophy is to provide every student-athlete with the opportunity to achieve academic and athletic success through a quality basketball program. I strive to create an environment that encourages learning and development both on and off the court by cultivating a positive experience that will see them through good times and bad. My approach is that the player needs to be given the opportunity to develop his/her skill level in a structured learning environment that constantly challenges the athlete while still providing encouragement and support. I focus on the development of core skills and provide them with a solid base to help them grow and progress in the sport. I know my players benefit when they are exposed to challenging drills that require effective decision making and precise execution under pressure. The repetitiveness of these varied drills during practice helps develop competency and confidence. Finally, as their Coach, I take my leadership role seriously and I hold myself to the very same standards I expect from my players. I believe coaching is about teaching more than it is winning. It’s about giving the players something to remember for the rest of their lives while instilling life skills that they can take with them.

Defensive Philosophy

I am a defensive coach first. I believe defense wins games and your offense is created off of defensive stops. It starts with commitment. Everyone on the team needs to buy into committing to the defensive philosophy. Next is positioning. I focus on good fundamental closeouts with intense ball pressure and forcing the offense to the sideline and not up the middle. Next is Court Awareness. Knowing what is happening on the court and stopping what is going to happen next. Next is execution and technique. Technique you can improve and execution is about wanting it. Lastly, Completion. Finishing the job and getting the ball. It was all for nothing if you don’t get the ball from the other team. 

Offensive Philosophy

I believe in an uptempo offense. Running up and down the court scoring before they can set up their defense. I mainly implement a 5-out offense for correct spacing and constant motion. I believe in transition offense, driving to the basket, an inside out game, pass and cut, screens, feeding the post, and organized team play. I also believe we can win any game with these 3 core beliefs, no/limited turnovers, great shot selection, and controlling the basketball.