Cultural literacy helps us relate to players. Yes, I'd be 'delulu' to think we'll all have a shared language with Gen-Z. Making an effort to become aware of "their world" might help understand how to help them to focus and solve problems in the basketball domain. We don't have to know their favorite movies and songs, just more about how they see the world.
Flexibility. Be willing to adapt traditional coaching methods. When a player learns better through different approaches, experiment with new techniques rather than insisting everyone conform to one style.
The key is showing genuine interest in understanding their perspective while maintaining our coaching standards.
Collaboration. Embrace authentic communication not just hierarchical approaches. Gen Z wants transparency about decisions and reasoning behind strategies. They don’t want, “because that’s how we’ve always done it." They ‘hear’ coaches who explain the “why” behind instructions rather than blind obedience. This recalls Pete Newell's saying, "They're not cattle."
Technology. Use video analysis, apps, and digital tools not just for performance tracking but as teaching methods. Share film breakdowns through platforms they’re comfortable with. Many Gen Z athletes learn effectively through visual and interactive content.
Individualism. This generation values being seen as individuals with unique strengths rather than being a cog in a machine. Work to learn each player’s personal goals, learning style, and motivations.
Mental health. Recognize stress, anxiety, and mental wellness. Gen Z is more comfortable discussing these topics than previous generations, and they expect leaders who acknowledge the mental side of performance.
Include players in some decision-making processes where appropriate. They want to be seen and to feel heard and valued as contributors, not just followers.
This might mean soliciting input on practice drills and culture building activities.
Personal touches. Lead through genuine relationship-building rather than relying on authority. Share appropriate personal stories, admit when you’re in unfamiliar territory, and be willing to acknowledge that we have been and will be wrong sometimes.
Here are a couple of examples (via ChatGPT) of Gen-Z friendly convos:
1. Correcting Technique
❌ Old-school style:
“You’re doing it wrong. Fix your stance.”
✅ Gen Z-friendly:
“Good energy. Try shifting your weight a little lower — it’ll give you more balance. Let’s test it now so you feel the difference.”
2. Giving Constructive Criticism
❌ Old-school style:
“You can’t miss that play. Focus next time.”
✅ Gen Z-friendly:
“I like how aggressive you were going after it. Next step is locking in your timing — that’ll put you in position to finish the play. Want me to show you on film?”
Ironically, for all the talk about the differences, the style reminds me of Coach Wooden's "sandwich technique," correction amidst praise.
Lagniappe. No smooth hands?
Dabo Swinney said, "Our strength coach always says 'They don’t put championship rings on smooth hands.'"
— Coach AJ 🎯 Mental Fitness (@coachajkings) September 7, 2025
There are no shortcuts, you have to show up and do the work.
• It means commitment.
• It means toughness.
• It means sacrifice. pic.twitter.com/dneWFJzumS
Lagniappe 2. Clinic notes from Mensbasketballhoopscoop
