Fake Fundamentals is a series of five books originally written over a 10-year span, which examines 50 common drills, instructions, and concepts related to coaching and skill development. This edition combines all five into one book. The original chapters have been arranged in four sections: Drills, Defense, Offense, and Sports Science. Nothing has been added; the order was changed to organize the content.
During the 10-year span, McCormick coached in two European countries; coached varsity boys' and girls' high-school basketball; coached AAU; coached NJCAA Division 1 women's basketball; taught undergraduate strength & conditioning and graduate-level sports pedagogy; and started as a soccer referee, progressing from youth to NCAA Division 1. These experiences shape the book's ideas and questions.
Fake fundamentals are drills or instructions appearing to teach important skills, but ignoring essential constraints. The question is not whether elite players or expert coaches use fake fundamentals. They do. The question is whether there is a better approach. Some original fake fundamentals, such as the step-slide or not crossing one's feet, are accepted by many coaches now. Others remain contentious.
Should we teach the same closeout as was taught prior to the three-point line?
Do we need the triple threat in the .5-second era?
Why use the mile as a test for basketball?
Fake Fundamentals is not about ostracizing specific drills and instructions, but encouraging coaches to think critically, question common practices, and search for the best way to develop people, players, and skills.