We all believe that we clarify and simplify our messages. Really? Here are a few quotes from Extreme Ownership, recapping the aftermath of a patrol under attack in Ramadi, Iraq.
"Simplifying as much as possible is crucial to success. When plans and orders are too complicated, people may not understand them. And when things go wrong, and they inevitably do go wrong, complexity compounds issues that can spiral out of control into total disaster."
"Everyone that is part of the mission must know and understand his or her role in the mission..."
"If your team doesn't get it, you have not kept things simple and you have failed."
"Simple: this principle isn't limited to the battlefield."
"Remember, the enemy gets a vote." (The opposition chooses how to respond that determines how teams must modify our plans).
As coaches, we know how we want our team to play...I'll use the example of Geno Auriemma who wants a third of offense from transition, a third from sets, and a third from threes. That's a pipe dream for me...I can cajole, pray, or hold my breath and stamp my feet but that won't get me a third of that production.
Players need to know that we're focused on spacing, cutting, screening, and passing with the goal of attacking the paint, getting quality shots, and taking care of the ball. I don't have enough practice time to get our team to run sets adequately, and it distracts from our fundamental needs.
Defensively, we're about denying easy baskets, pressuring the ball, helping, discipline to avoid fouling (a critical area), and competing on the boards. I can't even emphasize contesting shots without getting even more fouls now...
But can our players explain these priorities and gradually improve execution? Or it's just talk. I'll get some additional feedback today.