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Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Basketball: Important


“Happiness begins where selfishness ends.” - John Wooden 

Professor Adam Grant describes phases during career development:

Phase 1: I’m not important.

Phase 2: I’m important.

Phase 3: I want to contribute to something important.

Finding players fully committed to Phase 3 isn’t easy. Players have family and friends whispering, “Get your shots. You’re every bit as good as she is.” (I've literally heard this conversation.)

Erik Spoelstra explains that most players are role players and “there is always a pecking order.”

Coaches define roles and players must embrace “being a star in your role.” Scott Celli, the local volleyball coach, has won a state title and ten sectionals. He informs players of their roles and potential to expand them, and asks if they can be happy if a reserve. A few players have chosen to leave, but the team culture and success have created trust and loyalty. 

Not all players and their families in developmental ball are happy, even if they feel important. I can’t recall any with disgruntled parents who became stars at higher levels.

Help players feel important.

  • Greet everyone by name on arrival
  • In development play, everyone plays twice each half
  • Everyone gets a chance to play with stronger players (I worked to avoid playing two ‘soft’ players together).
  • Everyone gets opportunities in drills, small-sided games, and scrimmages 
  • Everyone got emails to parents about strengths and areas for growth 

Lagniappe. Adults were kids, too

Lagniappe 2. Shooting drill. 

Lagniappe 3. 









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