Getting Ready
The three common goals in preparing to play is getting fit, warming up and staying hydrated.
Fitness should be improved before the season concentrating on aerobic endurance, strength and flexibility. Incorporate specific exercises to prevent ankle sprains. This are called proprioception exercises and help protect your ankle from injury. Stretching is important but doing it just before a game is too late; incorporate stretching into your regular training program.
Before starting a fast paced game of basketball, be sure to take the time to get warmed up. This includes drills to get your heart rate up and muscles loose. Consider using the knee ligament injury prevention program in your warm up, originally designed for soccer, but can be applied to basketball.
Hydration is important to avoid overheating and excess fatigue, both which can get you off your "A" game and put you at risk for injury.
Playing Right
Be sure to be healthy when playing. Avoid aggravating overuse injuries by getting back to soon. Play at the level and position that you are comfortable with. It is important to be aware of the players around to avoid collision. Play fair, be a sportsman and respect the rules; an environment of safe play and officiating helps reduce the chances of injury. Be sure to practice frequently to ensure proper passing and especially catching techniques.
Make sure to have the right stuff: the right equipment. Proper fitting shoes are essential to protect slip and fall injury. Consider using ankle supports and knee pads. If you are wearing glasses make sure they are shatter proof. Any jewelry should be removed.
For outdoor courts, make sure they are properly lighted, or stop play at sunset. A quick scan of the court before hand ensures there is no holes, debris and other hazards.
Be Prepared
In organized games, the coaches and officials should be knowledgeable about first aid and emergency care. They should be able to recognize severe injuries and be prepared with a plan to handle concussions, fractures and lacerations.
Staying healthy and prepared on the court will make this basketball season the best ever. Game on!