I just finished "Leadership Lessons of Gregg Popovich" and share a few points about Popovich, an Air Force Academy graduate with a degree in Soviet Studies...not the usual path to NBA greatness.
This little book is constructed from information in the public domain and is designed to explore business concepts relating to the Spurs success, a very worthy read for $2.99.
1. The Spurs' culture incorporates a core of CFA - competitiveness, fundamental excellence, and adaptability. For example, Pop isn't a big fan of the three-point shot but has used it with extraordinary success during his five championship run. He understood early the value of "3 and D" players.
2. The Spurs have integrated resource management better than other teams, specifically blending many foreign players into their system. He rejected that foreign players were too soft, too aloof, and unwilling to learn English. He has even learned some of their languages to improve communication.
3. The Spurs believe that "debate and new ideas must always be allowed." They have enjoyed a unique culture and Pop believes players should have a worldview and that the 'world is wider than the basketball court'.
4. "Technique is more important than tactics." Great fundamentals lead to adaptability. Adaptability allows players to "figure it out."
5. "Pound the rock." If it takes 101 hits to split a rock, you can't skip fifty along the way. As Brad Stevens would say, "the magic is in the work." Control what you can and have gratitude for your unique opportunities.
"...extra passing...ball movement...lead the NBA in threes...play hard every night"
