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DIRECTOR OF PLAYER PERSONNEL
Q
&
A
W I T H
DE V I N J OHNSON
Q: Talk a little bit about the new use of iPads by the team this
season.
The iPads are accessible to the players and coaches so that they can
watch film that we provide for them when they want. We use compare
and contrast with other players we feel they are similar to in the NBA,
previously or currently to give them a better visual towards style of play.
Also iPads in our program are used to show clips of our players and they
allow us to coach the players through technology. iPads have allowed our
staff to be more efficient in and out of the office when it comes to scouting,
recruiting and communication with our current players. Adding iPads to
our program will be very beneficial when we look back on it at the end of
the season!
Q: Are there any improvements in the team app and how it’s used?
The new improvements this year for the app is totally focused towards
accountability & communication. The app update has provided a way for
us to check classes and receive notification of a current location. Also we
are able to communicate in a group setting along with a private feature for
one of conversations. The app is working well within what we do and how
we work and we are really pleased with how things are going within VT
Men’s Basketball app world!
Q: How can the use of technology help in the break-down of
player performance and tendencies?
The use of technology helps in a tremendous way because it gives the best
accurate data as possible when it comes to details of the game. Most of
the players are visual learners so it helps them concentrate on what it is
they are viewing so that they can apply it to the court and training. Also
we find that our kids are always using some sort of technology during their
everyday life, so why not get inside of our players’ world and try to tech
with the tools they use every day!
Q: How important is it for you stay ahead of the curve in relation
to what is happening out there?
It is extremely important to stay ahead of the curve because the “curve”
changes so much. You have to always look and research different tech
ideas and see how it can relate to helping our program. Somethings work
and some don’t. It’s all about being open and creative with ideas while
networking. Also our players help us stay above the curve through the
feedback they give on various items.
Q: Talk a little about what you are learning and sharing with and
from others in your field. What’s the next big thing?
Currently learning what student athletes like the most as far as how they
learn, and being able to create things for them to stay affective while
having fun doing it. We as a program want to give what is best and
new for our guys so trying new ways to film, and the content we are
providing is key and important. I would rather not tell you the next big
thing because then others would know! We like to keep our audience
guessing on what’s next!
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