TABC: Jenny Boucek - New School vs Old School Learning Environments

In this insightful presentation from the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches clinic, Coach Jenny Boucek explores the evolution of how athletes learn and why modern coaching environments must move beyond traditional “old school” teaching methods.

Drawing on her experience coaching at the highest levels of basketball, Boucek breaks down the differences between instruction-heavy coaching and modern player-centered learning environments that prioritize problem-solving, creativity, and game-like decision making. She explains how coaches can shift from simply giving answers to creating situations where athletes discover solutions on their own.

Throughout the session, Coach Boucek shares practical insights on:

• Why productive struggle is essential for athlete development

• How creativity and decision-making improve when players are allowed to explore

• The importance of random practice vs. block practice

• Why testing players in game-like environments can be more effective than traditional teaching

• How pickup basketball and player-led experiences accelerate learning

• Strategies for building confidence so athletes feel comfortable asking questions and taking ownership of their development

Boucek also provides real on-court examples and coaching recommendations that help coaches design practices that better prepare players for the unpredictable nature of competition.

This session is ideal for basketball coaches at all levels who want to create a more engaging learning environment, develop smarter players, and rethink how they structure practices to maximize player growth.

If you want your players to think the game, not just run drills, this clinic will challenge and reshape how you teach the sport.