The NBA Playoffs are happening so basketball references are non stop at MMFG headquarters. Unlike M I don't really know what I'm talking about when it comes to all the specifications of the game but I love learning as he teaches all about it. 

I've been working on our website for quite some time. When I came across the blog feature I wasn't sure what to do. Should I start one? Is that silly? What about my writing style? I don't even know how to get it added...I cut the mental chatter, began asking myself, "What would the Goat do?" (and yes I mean THE 🐐! Argue w/ your uncle 😉) 

Now left with the serious question "How to start blogging?" I began researching. I was watching tutorials the way players watch film. At least the way I assume they watch film. Lol. Below is what I learned..

Setting a Screen is Like Blogging!

Both blogging and setting a screen are all about creating space. I learned 4 methods of sharing a blog post and they each go with a screen type. Here's what a basketball screen can teach us about blogging.

What is a Screen? 

A Screen is a offensive move where a player blocks a defenders path. This makes a path for the Screeners teammate to shoot, drive or pass the ball. Some times to force a switch. 

What is a blog post?

A individual article published on a website often sharing personal opinions, news or expertise. 

Screen is to Shot as Post is to Publish!

The 4 types of Screens and the blog method they reveal...

1. Ball Screen: Setting a screen for the player handling the ball.

- The Ball Screen method of posting is all about ease. Maybe a little flare too lol. In a Ball Screen the screener is creating a "set the stage" moment for the ball handler. For this one you want to already have your topic known and your information/ research completed. Already having your outline makes the path to post an easy swish!

2. Off Ball Screen: Setting a screen for a teammate without ball to help them get open.

- The Off Ball Screen method shows us, some times you just have to make the way. In a Off Ball Screen the screener is positioning themselves where a teammate other than the ball handler can create a shot. You may not always know exactly what you want to share. When in a space where you're not sure just begin writing. Once you begin with something just as simple as, "I don't know what to write but here I am writing.." you've already lobbed the ball to yourself and cleared a path to Slam Dunk that post.

3. Back Screen: Setting a screen behind a defender to create a path for teammate.

- The Back Screen method of posting shows us how to just go for it. During a Back Screen the Screener steps up to cut of the defender so their teammate can score. Not every post needs to be the most intricately planned post to be show stopping. Those shorter to the point articles are worth writing. Your quick cut allows the post you shared to be an easy bucket!

4. Down Screen: Setting a screen toward the baseline for teammate.

- The Down Screen method of posting shows us how to get out of our own way. In a Down Screen Method multiple screens take place to open up shot for their teammate. Sometimes you start writing and you reread it to find that you were covering many topics. Don't worry a blog post can be cover multiple topics and still score on what you wanted to convey. 

Set the Screen!

These 4 screens give us insight into completing starting, maneuvering and completing a screen. A properly completed screen looks like a made opportunity for NOTHING BUT NET! So get to practicing the methods. Soon you'll be a pro at it and your blog post will be the pick to roll with! 

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." - Wayne Gretzky - Michael Scott