The most important thing. You arrogant S.O.B. How presumptuous a title! What is the most important thing? Howard Marks wrote a wonderful book by that name. James Clear's review clarifies, "You can’t do the same things others do and expect to outperform."
If you ask ten people, you get ten answers. A Wall Street saying informs, "where I stand depends upon where I sit."
To an administrator, it might be a hassle-free program. "I don't need complaints from alumni, parents, players, and the custodians." In Runnin' Rebel, Coach Jerry Tarkanian made it clear to the UNLV AD that Frank Sinatra expected his comped tickets. And there'd be hell to pay if he didn't get them.
For coaches, that varies, too. Vince Lombardi famously said, "Winning isn't everything, it's the only thing." Bill Belichick told reporters that at this point in his career, "I want to coach guys I like. I want to coach guys I want to be around and that’s it." A Division 1 college official told me that some NCAA coaches demand you call the game "their way" or you're never coming back to their venue. No bones about it.
Coaches realize talent is "the most important thing" and worry about it...or not. Former Notre Dame women's coach Muffet McGraw hired women assistants. Period.
An assistant coach might seek advancement, a more prestigious position and more pay. Another might assist because she wanted less stress and less responsibility than a head job. A graduate assistant or lower level employee might just want to get their foot in the door, a chance.
Chuck Daly reminded reporters that "NBA players want 48 - 48 minutes, 48 shots, 48 million." Professional athletes sport tattoos reading, "GET PAID."
A high school star player's most important thing could be "numbers," cred that can get them to the next level or to The League. A reserve's MUST could be minutes and an expanded role. And some players content themselves with making the team and being with their friends.
A parent concerns himself with status, status accompanying publicity, success, and production. Perhaps he can't afford college and is relying on Jimmy to pay his way. Or maybe he's reliving an athletic career from decades ago.
The most important thing can be more insidious. Sherri Coale discussed the player whom the team thought was selfish. "You're not happy unless you're scoring." In a team meeting, the young woman cried, "my father won't talk to me if I'm not scoring."
Fans might care more about winning than character or following the rules.
What do I think is the most important thing? The player experience in a developmental program matters. Everyone deserves teaching and opportunity, which isn't to say that everyone gets the same experience.
There is no singular most important thing. Where I stand depends upon where I sit.
Lagniappe: Kevin Eastman coaches defending the ball screen.