‘Winning is in the Details’: Huge Significance Why Shocker Basketball Tracks High-Fives In Practice

In Wichita State men’s basketball practice under head coach Paul Mills, every moment is utilized efficiently. Every drill, regardless of whether it involves a basketball, is meticulously recorded and analyzed by the coaching staff. Mills approaches this process with great detail, reviewing practice footage as if he were preparing for an NCAA Tournament matchup. Players receive regular updates on their practice and scrimmage statistics, which include typical box score categories, along with a “care factor” that rewards behaviors like diving for loose balls, supporting teammates, and staying engaged, even when sidelined.

Mills stresses the importance of making every minute count, recalling advice from Tennessee’s Rick Barnes, who emphasized that no coach watches more practice film than he does. Mills was determined not to be outdone in this area. For instance, during a recent film review, he closely examined his players’ pushup technique, noticing that some were not fully extending their elbows, leading him to describe their form as “weak.”

On the recruiting front, Mills is quick to remove a potential player from consideration if they fail to touch the line during running drills. He emphasizes attention to detail within his team, and entering his second season, there hasn’t been a single instance of a player arriving late for a meeting. “Attention to detail is essential for success,” Mills said. “It shows your commitment to doing things the right way. If you’re not committed, it will eventually catch up to you.”

Mills believes that players with low commitment levels, who arrive late or aren’t trustworthy, won’t be trusted in return. He prefers players who may produce slightly less but can be relied upon over those who are erratic.

As the Nov. 4 season-opener against Western Kentucky approaches, the players are taught that understanding X’s and O’s is vital, but equally important is maintaining positive body language. This aspect is crucial for fostering a strong team culture, leading Mills to spend significant time showing players videos of their body language during practice. He even tracks how many high-fives players give, citing that NBA superstar LeBron James led the league with 41 per game last season.

With an exhibition game against Emporia State upcoming, Mills is focused on creating a team that prioritizes the right values. “It’s essential to have your heart in the right place and to celebrate each other’s successes,” he stated. “We emphasize body language, ensuring everyone remains mentally, physically, and vocally engaged throughout the process. I often say, you need to do the heart work before the hard work; if you’re not fully invested, you won’t translate that into effective actions.”

“Anyone can execute a play, but it’s the details that truly win games,” Mills emphasized. “Every team has plays and pick-and-roll strategies, but it’s how you implement them that matters.”