1. Each player is unique. We learn via different domains - visual, auditory, kinesthetic (doing). Contemporary coaches have a special challenge because we see more players with recognized and unrecognized learning disabilities. How do we reach them? We have to change their inner voice, the message they tell themselves.
2. Establish emphasis and priorities. What's our philosophy, culture, and identity? What are our core beliefs, values, and process?
Good leadership requires good followership. "You have to fight for your culture every day." Embed caring, commitment, discipline, and sacrifice in our daily process.
3. Take care of your garden.
4. Study excellence and share.
Helping our players grow as individuals is our obligation, not an option. I heard a D1 star's friends talking about his priority, "I need to score more, be seen more, and get to the NBA." Leadership? Winning? Team? Character? All about you (AAU) becomes "all about me."
Jaylen Brown declined participation in the NBA Slam Dunk contest.
Brown came in and worked on his "off day"...and scored a career high 20 points with 8 rebounds last night...
5. Deeds not words matter. Ideas may be the currency of the future, but actions are the purchases.
Our players may not hear us but they see our actions. Model excellence.
