How we coach begins with our philosophy. Everyone decides that meaning based on personality, influencers, and experience.
There's no "right" philosophy although one might hope for common threads. Years ago in a Presidential debate, the moderator asked an obvious question, "why do you want to be President?" What's our why?
All of us should have a clear, concise, and considered answer. Here are a few thoughts.
Basketball is about relationships and collaboration. We forge relationships with teammates, coaches, and people in the game that last a lifetime.
Help teams go where they cannot go alone.
Help players become the best versions of themselves, in character and competence. Make it about the kids. "Are we building a program or a statue?"
Excel as a competitor and in sportsmanship.
What are our absolutes? Teamwork, improvement, accountability.
Teach resilience. We won't always win; we never quit.
"Never be a child's last coach."
Basketball is a game of _________ . So many answers exist. "Individual excellence in a team concept..." "...cutting and passing..." "shared vision, shared sacrifice, shared success."
"The game honors toughness." - Brad Stevens and others
Toughness is a skill. Hard work is a skill. Energy is a skill.
"Basketball is sharing." - Phil Jackson
"Just because we're driving the bus doesn't give us the right to throw people under it."
"Champions do extra." - James Kerr, Legacy
Confidence balances arrogance and doubt.
Lagniappe (something extra). Process Tom Izzo's words.
Tom Izzo on mentality: pic.twitter.com/175F8bZIl1
— The Coaches' Journal (@TheCoachJournal) November 11, 2022
Lagniappe 2. Coaches train winners. Last night our Melrose high school girls went on the road in a sectional volleyball final to face an undefeated team. A girl I coached heard an opposing player say, "this should be an easy game." Maybe not.
