As a player, differentiate yourself. Carve out a role, bring your set of special skills to the court. Define and cultivate them...defender, rebounder, facilitator, scorer. Bill Russell explains that, "imagination leads to innovation leading to differentiation." Know your role and work to expand it.
Up to age 30, the player (above) hadn't done much or played much. "Value" measures a player's efficiency and minutes. At age 30, he moved to the Spurs and averaged about 30 minutes a game, increased his offensive and defensive role, and helped earn three NBA titles. Bruce Bowen and the Spurs made a great marriage.
Character informs who you are. Legendary EuroLeague Coach Etorre Messina counsels, "character is skill number one." Reveal your character positivity via your attitude, choices, and effort. "Repetitions make reputations."
Choose a growth mindset. Work today to build tomorrow's better version.
You have to practice game shots...whether full LOOP or a 3 off screens. (JB = Jaylen Brown).
What differentiates Golden State from the rest of the NBA? Note the dramatic difference in scoring off cuts and in transition...high points per possession.
Become a Learning Machine. I watch MasterClass lessons daily seeking transferrable skills and principles.
Nobel laureate Paul Krugman shares this Adam Smith quote from Wealth of Nations, He intends only his own security; and by directing that industry in such a manner as its produce may be of the greatest value, he intends only his own gain, and he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote an end which was no part of his intention.” Offenses and defenses create mini-economies of supply and demand. Coaches are one influencing Invisible Hand.
Develop signature play. Players and coaches leave their mark through their execution and style of play. Signature play also offers the element of surprise. Alabama avenged its 1970 thrashing by USC by unveiling the wishbone to win the rematch in 1971.
Promote core organizational values. "The main thing is the main thing." Our high school philosophy was sacrifice. In a developmental program, we emphasize teamwork, improvement, and accountability. If players embrace these values, they can translate to other parts of their future.
Lagniappe: Seek balance.
Serena Williams doesn't read articles about herself...she looks at the pictures. She feels that positive articles distort who you are and negative ones can destroy your confidence. She saves articles to read when her career is done.
Lagniappe 2: via @HalfCourtHoops The quality of cutting and passing often determines the quality of shots.
Brooklyn Nets Wade Cuts pic.twitter.com/Vi2VehWwHR— Half Court Hoops (@HalfCourtHoops) July 23, 2019