Why basketball? Ask ourselves, "does it matter? If so, how much?"
What really matters? Phil Jackson's "basketball is sharing" and Pete Newell's "a coach's job is to help players SEE THE GAME" are two of my favorites.
If a magic genie could grant me a wish, I'd ask to "help others become the best version of themselves." That's a big ask, because each of us has 'free will'.
What stands out on the list?
1. "Taking care of business" at home and in the classroom defines players' lives. I love to hear parents say how their child is just as special at home as they are on the court. If you learn basketball details you can grasp grammar and master math.
2. Be a great teammate. Everyone has ego and ego helps us through challenges but undermines us when placing us above the group.
3. "Never take it personally." Media and other "noise" is just that. Legendary baseball coach Earl Weaver said, "you're never as good as you look when you win or as bad as you look when you lose."
4. Be coachable. Listen, bring and spread energy. Know your responsibility and others' as well.
5. Be "professional." Be punctual, be collaborative, know and execute your role to the best of your ability. You won't regret bringing professionalism to school, the workplace, or the arena. Leave the gym as a better person and leave it in better condition than you found it.
6. Toughness is a skill. Nobody cares about "fugazi" toughness, the glaring, staring, and posing. Are you "first to the floor," taking charges, blocking out, and doing the grunt work?
If it doesn't matter, ignore or abandon it.
Lagniappe. Cutthroat Excellent presentation including video from Coach Michael Lynch
Lagniappe 2. Coaches adapt/borrow/steal from each other.