Wednesday, March 6, 2024

Basketball: Respect

Coaches know but most players do not. Share. 

Respect plays. In the Patriots' documentary, The Dynasty, Aaron Hernandez was implicated in a shooting outside a bar after allegations of disrespect. 

If respect means so much, how do we earn it? 

Respect the game. "Play the right way." Know unwritten rules like running up the score, avoiding dirty plays (submarines, moving screens, tripping), etc.

Respect the officials. Hand the official the ball. Players play; officials officiate. 

Respect your teammates. "Never criticize a teammate." 

Respect your parents. Some coaches publicly share they will never recruit a player disrespecting their family. 

Respect your opponent. When trash talking or dogging others on social media, we radiate classlessness. 

Respect your coaches. If you want respect, start by showing respect. 

Don't make excuses. Be accountable at all times. Among the worst I heard was an opposing coach saying, "We should have won, if we made any shots." I resisted the temptation to say, "you should have won with three six-foot tall seventh grade girls."

Stay balanced. "Be humble in victory and gracious in defeat."

Be a great teammate. Show everyone that you value them. Care as much for them as for yourself. 

Show up. Punctual, prepared, positive. 

Do your job. Knowing others' jobs helps them play better.  

Listen more than we speak. 

Follow the Toughness rules.

Lagniappe. Be relatable. Be grateful. Share what makes experiences special. No player ever thought their coach was great because of how she taught pick-and-roll. It's about 'the experience'. 

Lagniappe 2. Be specific. Translate "always do your best" into practical advice. 

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