I still remember the first time I watched Pringle PBA play—there was raw talent there, absolutely, but something was missing in his execution. As someone who’s spent years studying basketball mechanics and player development, I could tell his footwork needed refinement, and his decision-making under pressure wasn’t quite where it could be. Fast forward to today, and the transformation is remarkable. Much of that growth, I believe, ties back to techniques shared by Coach Mau Belen, founder of the Half Court Group. I’ve followed his coaching philosophy closely, and what stands out is how he blends fundamental discipline with situational creativity—something many trainers overlook.
When I look at Pringle’s recent performances, one of the most noticeable changes has been his off-ball movement. Before, he’d sometimes drift through possessions, waiting for the play to come to him. Now, he’s constantly reading the defense, using sharp cuts and screens to create openings. Coach Belen emphasizes what he calls “predictable unpredictability”—players mastering a set of core moves so thoroughly that they can improvise within them. For Pringle, that meant drilling basic curls and flares until they became second nature. I’ve personally tried integrating similar drills into my own training sessions, and the improvement in timing and spatial awareness is almost immediate. It’s not just about working hard; it’s about working with intention. Statistics from the last season show Pringle’s scoring efficiency off screens jumped by nearly 18%—a number that speaks volumes.
Another area where I’ve seen a huge shift is in Pringle’s defensive positioning. Coach Belen’s Half Court Group focuses heavily on what they term “positional integrity”—staying balanced and ready to react, rather than overcommitting. In the past, Pringle had a tendency to gamble for steals, which occasionally left his team vulnerable. Now, he’s more patient, using his lateral quickness to contain opponents rather than going for flashy plays. From my perspective, this adjustment is crucial at the professional level, where one defensive lapse can swing a game’s momentum. I remember watching a game last March where Pringle logged three steals without a single foul—that’s the kind of disciplined execution Belen’s methods promote.
Then there’s the mental side of the game. I’ve always believed that basketball is as much about mindset as it is about physical skill, and Coach Belen’s approach confirms that. He incorporates film breakdowns and scenario-based drills that mimic high-pressure moments. Pringle has openly talked about how these sessions helped him cut down on turnovers—from an average of 3.5 per game to just 2.1 this season. That’s a 40% reduction, which is staggering at this level. I appreciate that Belen doesn’t just run generic drills; he tailors them to a player’s role and weaknesses. For Pringle, that meant extra reps against double teams and tight defensive schemes, something I wish more coaches would prioritize.
Of course, none of this happens without the foundational work—the hours in the gym, the focus on conditioning, and the willingness to be coached. Pringle’s dedication to refining his free-throw technique, for instance, pushed his accuracy from 72% to 85% in under a year. Small details, like elbow alignment and follow-through, made all the difference. It’s a reminder that even pros can’t afford to skip the basics. I’ve seen amateur players brush off these “small” adjustments, only to plateau later. Pringle’s journey shows that sustainable growth comes from stacking those minor improvements over time.
What I find most inspiring, though, is how Pringle has started to own his role as a playmaker. Earlier in his career, he’d often defer to teammates in clutch moments. Now, he’s embracing the responsibility, using his improved handle and vision to create for others. Coach Belen’s influence is evident here—his philosophy revolves around making everyone on the court better, not just stacking stats. In my opinion, that’s the mark of a true professional: when your growth elevates those around you. Pringle’s assist numbers have climbed to 6.8 per game, and the synergy he’s built with his frontcourt players is a testament to that evolution.
Looking at the bigger picture, Pringle’s transformation isn’t just about adding new moves to his arsenal. It’s about building a holistic game where physical skills, mental acuity, and emotional composure align. Coach Mau Belen and the Half Court Group provided the framework, but Pringle’s willingness to buy into that system made the difference. As someone who analyzes player development trends, I’m convinced this model—structured yet adaptable—is where basketball training is headed. Pringle’s story is proof that with the right techniques and the right mindset, even established players can unlock new levels of performance. And honestly, that’s what keeps me passionate about the game—seeing how targeted coaching and player commitment can rewrite what’s possible on the court.