NCAA PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

I really enjoy listening to coaches press conferences. During the first three rounds I was able to gather quotes from different coaches. Here they are:

Steve Fischer on recruiting: "You have to recruit intelligently and you can't be afraid of knocking on big doors."

Tom Crean on game preparation: If we spend a lot of time talking about the "what if's" we will get away from what has to happen.

Tom Crean on staying out of foul trouble: When it comes to staying out of foul trouble it's position, technique, and awareness.

Tom Crean on telling kids not to foul: We are not going to spend a lot of time putting doubts in their heads. We are not trying to create negatives and turn them into doubts. We are trying to create positives by giving great reminders. f

Bo Ryan on Jordan Taylor statistical decline: I think numbers are one thing, but leadership and quality and what he brings in every other phase of the game might be down in certain statistics, but it certainly isn't down in what he's done to help make us a pretty good team, which put us here.

Bo Ryan on end of shot clock situations: We do some drills where we'll take 15 seconds on shot clock. I'll throw the ball to any one of the five guys, and we have some various ball screen and play actions that we do in case we haven't gotten a good shot by the time it's down to 12, 13, 14 seconds. Jordan made plays early in his career during those drills, 5 versus 5 possessions, had the vision to find guys, could play off of our pick‑and‑pop guys, could play off our pick‑and‑roll guys and did it with confidence.

Ben Reed on not being satisfied with win over Duke: However, I did also quickly ask every person, number one, if they had enjoyed it and are enjoying it; and the answer was an obvious yes. It was basically a softball setup to ask the second question, and that was, are you satisfied? Because I think if we're satisfied with what we have done thus far, it's going to be hard to really motivate ourselves to get to the type of effort that we need for this next contest. But to a man they all said they weren't satisfied. And because they weren't satisfied, obviously now we have a chance to continue to grow and build. Because I think they have a lot of faith and confidence in what they were able to accomplish and this is special team. And this special team I think really wants to do something as we continue to progress with the next game.

Greg McDermott on his son, Doug, relationship with Harrison Barnes: Harrison's responsible for a lot of Doug's development because Doug saw in Harrison a guy with an unbelievable work ethic. And when other high school aged students were going to movies and going to football games and going to the prom, Harrison was working out.

Kevin Stallings on recruiting players to Vanderbilt: What I have to do as the head coach of Vanderbilt is figure out who can play for us, who can succeed at our school, in our environment, in our program, under my coaching and in our league. That's what I have to figure out.

ChatGPT

Title: Unveiling the Insights: NCAA Press Conference Quotes

Introduction

In the world of college sports, press conferences are a window into the minds of coaches, athletes, and administrators. These gatherings provide a platform for key figures in the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) to share their thoughts, insights, and emotions with the public. Over the years, NCAA press conferences have given rise to memorable and impactful quotes that capture the essence of college athletics. In this article, we will delve into the world of NCAA press conference quotes, exploring their significance, the memorable moments they originate from, and answering some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about these powerful statements.

The Significance of NCAA Press Conference Quotes

NCAA press conferences are more than just formalities or media obligations; they are an essential part of the college sports experience. These events provide a platform for coaches, athletes, and administrators to communicate their thoughts, emotions, and strategies directly to the public and the media. Here are some key reasons why NCAA press conference quotes hold significance:

Inspiration: NCAA press conference quotes often contain inspirational messages that resonate with both athletes and fans. They can motivate individuals to overcome challenges, work harder, and pursue their dreams with passion.

Insight into the Game: Coaches and players often share their thoughts on strategy, teamwork, and their opponents during press conferences. These insights offer fans a deeper understanding of the game and the strategies behind it.

Emotional Moments: NCAA press conferences capture raw emotions, from the euphoria of victory to the heartbreak of defeat. These moments of vulnerability make the athletes and coaches more relatable to the audience.

Historical Context: Some NCAA press conference quotes become part of the historical record, marking significant moments in the world of college sports. They serve as a reference point for future generations.

Memorable NCAA Press Conference Quotes

"We're not here to play school."

These infamous words from former Ohio State University quarterback, Cardale Jones, during a 2012 press conference highlighted the tension between academics and athletics in college sports. While his statement was criticized, it sparked a broader conversation about the student-athlete experience.

"Why not us?"

These three words from Kevin Ollie, the head coach of the University of Connecticut men's basketball team, became a rallying cry for the team during their unlikely run to the NCAA Championship in 2014. They encapsulate the underdog spirit of college sports.

"One Shining Moment"

This phrase, used to describe the culmination of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, has become synonymous with the event itself. The song "One Shining Moment" is played during a montage of tournament highlights, capturing the emotions and intensity of March Madness.

"The Play"

While not a quote from a press conference, "The Play" is one of the most iconic moments in college football history. It refers to a series of laterals by the University of California, Berkeley, in their 1982 game against Stanford University, resulting in a game-winning touchdown. The radio call by Joe Starkey, "The band is on the field!" is forever etched in college football lore.

FAQs About NCAA Press Conference Quotes

Why are NCAA press conference quotes important?

NCAA press conference quotes provide insight into the minds of coaches, athletes, and administrators, offering inspiration, strategies, and emotional moments that resonate with fans.

Do NCAA press conference quotes impact the outcome of games?

While press conference quotes themselves don't directly impact game outcomes, they can serve as motivation for athletes and fans, creating a sense of unity and purpose.

Are press conferences mandatory for NCAA coaches and athletes?

Yes, NCAA coaches and athletes are often required to participate in press conferences as part of their obligations to the media and the public.

Have any NCAA press conference quotes led to controversy or backlash?

Yes, some NCAA press conference quotes have sparked controversy, often due to their candid or provocative nature. These moments can generate discussions about sports culture and athlete expectations.

Do NCAA press conference quotes have a lasting impact on college sports culture?

Yes, some quotes become iconic and are referenced for years to come, shaping the narrative and culture of college sports.

Are there press conferences for NCAA women's sports as well?

Yes, NCAA women's sports also have press conferences where coaches and athletes share insights, emotions, and strategies with the media and the public.

The Legacy of NCAA Press Conference Quotes

NCAA press conference quotes offer a unique glimpse into the world of college sports, capturing the essence of competition, dedication, and passion. From memorable rallying cries to moments of vulnerability, these quotes serve as a testament to the emotional and strategic complexities of college athletics.

As the NCAA continues to evolve, so too will the memorable quotes that emerge from its press conferences. These words, spoken in moments of triumph and adversity, will continue to inspire, provoke thought, and shape the ever-evolving narrative of college sports. They are a reminder of the power of words to capture the heart and soul of the games we love.

5 WAYS TO IMPROVE AS A COACH DURING THE TOURNAMENT

This time of the year is euphoria for basketball junkies. There will be 67 games played over a two week period. Many people are getting involved with some type of bracket challenge right now. They are finishing up their final pics before the games start tonight.

I am entering a bracket challenge of my own. No money. No bragging rights. Nothing but hard work and intense focus. I am challenging myself to get better as a coach.

It's so easy and even more enjoyable to watch the games as a fan, but I personally believe it won't make you better.

What makes March Madness so special for the fan is the excitement and suspense; for the coach, its the opportunity to develop and get better.

Unfortunately, my team didn't make the tournament, so my off season development plan starts now.

I want to share with you 5 ways you can improve as a coaching during the tournament. This is my challenge for myself to get better!

1. Always have a notepad and pen while watching games. I have watched games before without a pen in hand and seen a set or had a thought but didn't it write down. What doesn't get written down has the chance to be lost forever. Be ready to write down any sets that you think would work with your team, especially after time outs and end of game situations. But don't limit it to just sets. Write down your thoughts and observations as the game is being played. Ultimately, use these games as a time to think and just not a time to cheer!

2. Don't focus on the teams playing rather focus on style of play. The advantage of having so many teams in the tournament is that it affords us the opportunity to observe contrasting styles of play. Tournament games tend to turn into half court grinds, especially in the later rounds. Select a few teams that play your style and a few that don't. Then observe the way those teams attack. For example, I am in the process of learning more about the pack line defense, so I will be watching Virginia in this year's tournament focusing on how teams will attack the pack line.

3. Study an area of the game that you need to improve as a coach. The ability to watch every game provides us with the liberty to study a team and their style of play. If you need to improve in the area of zone offense, watch every game that Syracuse and Michigan plays. Looking to extend your defense next year, make sure you watch Memphis, as they like to pick up 94ft. Have the discipline to watch these games as a student and not just a fan.

4. Listen to pre-game and post-game press conference. Press conferences allows us to get inside a coaches mind, especially after a loss. Although some coaches don't offer much there are those that will speak from the heart and share valuable lessons, not only for basketball, but for life. Use this time also to reflect on the questions being asked. When you become a head coach, most likely similar questions will be asked to you.

5. Spend 30 to 45 minutes a day reading articles on coaches and players. The tournament is a sports journalist dream because of the tremendous stories involving coaches and players. These stories will give insight into the journey of a coach, player, or team. I find these stories are encouraging and informative in desire to lead my own team one day.

ChatGPT

Title: 5 Ways to Improve as a Coach During the Tournament

Introduction

For coaches, the tournament season represents the culmination of months of hard work and preparation. Whether it's a high school basketball tournament, a college football playoff, or any other competitive event, the stakes are high, and the pressure is palpable. To lead your team to success during these critical moments, it's essential to continuously improve and adapt. In this article, we'll explore five ways to enhance your coaching skills during the tournament, helping you and your team perform at your best. Additionally, we'll address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about coaching during the tournament to provide valuable insights.

1. Embrace Adaptive Coaching

Tournament play can be unpredictable. Opponents may have different strategies, strengths, and weaknesses than the teams you faced during the regular season. To improve as a coach during the tournament, embrace adaptive coaching:

Scouting: Invest time in thoroughly scouting your upcoming opponents. Analyze their recent performances, tendencies, and key players. Tailor your game plan to exploit weaknesses and neutralize strengths.

In-Game Adjustments: Be prepared to make real-time adjustments during games. Whether it's shifting defensive schemes, altering offensive plays, or making substitutions, adapt to the evolving circumstances on the court or field.

Player Roles: Understand your players' strengths and weaknesses and assign roles accordingly. Flexibility in player positions and responsibilities can be a game-changer in tight tournament matchups.

2. Prioritize Mental Preparation

In the heat of tournament competition, mental toughness can make all the difference. As a coach, improving your team's mental preparation is crucial:

Visualization: Encourage your athletes to visualize success. Mental imagery can enhance confidence and help athletes perform under pressure.

Stress Management: Teach your team stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or positive self-talk. These strategies can help players stay composed in critical moments.

Scenarios and Pressure Drills: Incorporate game-like scenarios and high-pressure drills in practice. Simulating tournament conditions can better prepare your team for intense situations.

3. Strengthen Communication

Effective communication is the bedrock of successful coaching. During the tournament, clear and concise communication is paramount:

Game Planning: Clearly articulate your game plan to your team. Ensure that every player understands their role and responsibilities on the court or field.

Halftime Adjustments: Use halftime as a valuable opportunity to convey critical adjustments and strategies. Keep your halftime talks focused and motivating.

Player Feedback: Provide constructive feedback during and after games. Acknowledge individual and team achievements, and address areas for improvement in a supportive manner.

4. Foster Team Cohesion

Team chemistry and cohesion can be a game-changer during tournament play. As a coach, work on fostering a strong sense of unity and trust within your team:

Team-building Activities: Organize team-building activities or bonding exercises to strengthen relationships among players. Trust and camaraderie can translate to better on-field performance.

Clear Roles: Ensure that each player understands their role within the team and appreciates the contributions of their teammates. Promote selflessness and teamwork.

Positive Environment: Maintain a positive and supportive atmosphere within the team. Encourage players to celebrate successes, lift each other up during challenges, and maintain a growth mindset.

5. Time Management and Recovery

During the tournament, managing time effectively and prioritizing recovery are vital for both you and your players:

Game Planning: Allocate ample time for game planning and preparation. A well-structured schedule leading up to each game can reduce last-minute stress.

Player Rest: Monitor player fatigue and ensure they get adequate rest between games. Recovery practices such as ice baths, massages, and stretching can help players stay physically prepared.

Self-Care: As a coach, don't forget to take care of yourself. Managing stress, getting enough rest, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are essential for staying sharp during the tournament.

FAQs About Coaching During the Tournament

How can I manage my own stress as a coach during the tournament?

Managing stress involves setting realistic expectations, staying organized, and relying on your support staff and assistant coaches. Remember to take breaks and practice relaxation techniques.

What should I do if my team faces adversity during a tournament game?

Adversity is common in sports. Stay composed and focus on solutions. Encourage your players to remain positive, stay disciplined in executing the game plan, and learn from mistakes.

How can I build trust and cohesion among my players during the tournament?

Building trust and cohesion takes time and effort. Encourage open communication, foster a positive team culture, and address any conflicts or issues promptly.

What should I prioritize in my halftime talks during tournament games?

Halftime talks should be concise and focused. Highlight key adjustments, reinforce the game plan, and provide motivational messages to boost morale.

What strategies can help my team handle pressure situations during tournament games?

WHAT RICK CARLISLE CAN TEACH US ABOUT LEADING A TEAM TO A CHAMPIONSHIP

Championship teams require a leader that leads like a champion. Many talented teams have not become champions due to a lack of leadership. This time of the year, with a few days off for Christmas and right before conference season is about to start, is a valuable opportunity to perform a self evaluation of our leadership mindset. Is the way we are leading championship quality? Because if it isn't we can't expect our teams to perform like champions during conference season. I was reading an article by Dwain Price of the Star-Telgram about Rick Carlisle. From this article I find 3 things that Rick Carlisle can teach us about leading our team to a championship.

1. He find ways to keep his players out of their comfort zone. We must take time to think about ways to make our teams uncomfortable that lead to improvement, but that doesn't cause them to lose their confidence. Rick Carlisle, "We won the championship last year because we were uncomfortable the whole time. Part of my job is to make sure that we have a healthy discomfort every day knowing that there are the things that we're going to have to do extremely well--even better than last year--to put ourselves in a position to defend the title.
2. He not only defines roles, but he works with players to get them to accept their role. At times coaches are quick to define roles and stop there. We must make a focused effort to help our players understand and accept their roles. The influence of getting one player to accept their role can be huge. Rick Carlisle, "There won't be any doubt about what people's roles are. Role definition is one of the things that has been a real positive with our group. It's not just the definition of roles; it's the acceptance of roles. You can define roles all you want, but if you have guys that are hesitant or unwilling to accept them, then you're going to have problems. Shawn Marion, from the beginning of the season was more than willing to come off the bench and do what he had to do to help the team win and that set an unbelievably great positive tone."
3. He welcomes the challenges of leadership. Championship coaches approach leadership with a champion mindset. They understand the power of choice, they choose to respond to challenges and obstacles with positivity even before the challenges and opportunities rear their ugly heads. Rick Carlisle, "I hop the job is tougher. I'm not looking for it to be easy, I promise you."

DEL HARRIS ON COACHING IN D LEAGUE

“This is what I do, I like the winning part. I like teaching the guys, helping them get better. It’s all about helping others and forming relationships at any level. It’s particularly that here. In the NBA, it’s about winning the championship. Here you’d like to win the championship, but if you do a good job of developing players, you’re probably not going to win the championship. They’re going to move up. So it’s a crazy thing. And yet, knowing all that, as long as they’re keeping score, you still want to win.”

ETTORE MESSINA ON THE FUNDAMENTALS OF BASKETBALL

Besides psychological points that we've already discussed, there are a few more aspects we need to concentrate on to play a good team basketball. First of all, we need to make sure our team has a solid basis of basketball knowledge, the individual and team fundamentals. We can have a hyper-motivated team, very strong psychologically, but we'll lose to a team with lower level of motivation, provided they are stronger fundamentally: in shooting, dribbling and passing. Motivation and mental preparation makes a difference only if there is a solid basis of technical skills.

The team also must be physically ready to perform under pressure. We should always remember that physical preparation, especially in basketball, has two sides: team and individual preparation. In basketball, we have extremely different typology of players: for example, small guards as opposed to strong and powerful big men.

As for technical preparation, we've already discussed how to select players and mentioned the qualities to look for.

There are two general ideas behind a team playing good basketball. The first one is to select players who can adjust and follow your vision of basketball. This might be a source of a huge competitive advantage. If you have a coach with profound knowledge and good personality, you can select players for him to let him develop his personal vision of the game. Though, it's getting more and more difficult these days, because of the limitations of the market. Many teams are fighting to get a few good players.

The second idea is to select the best players available, according to your evaluation of their technical, physical and psychological qualities, and then adjust your general vision to the specific abilities of the players you have. This idea is very important as it's extremely difficult to get the players that would perfectly fit in the system due to increased market competition.

I consider adjusting the system to the players available as another source of an enormous competitive advantage you could get. Somebody else might insist on always finding players that would fit in their personal vision. That is the way it might work for them.

I had an opportunity to coach a lot of great players who were totally different in many ways. Let me give you an example. We won the first national championship with Virtus Knorr Bologna with Roberto Brunamonti, old time leader of the club, and Sasha Danilovic at guards. Then, in 1998, we had Antoine Rigaudeau and Sasha Danilovic. In 2001, we had Marco Jaric and Emmanuel Ginobili. In Treviso in 2003, we had Tyus Edney and Trajan Langdon. Here we have J.R. Holden, Trajan Langdon, Theodoros Papaloukas and David Vanterpool. They are all different. Somebody is faster, somebody likes to control the ball more, somebody needs more screens, somebody needs more space and less screens.

In basketball, if you use a lot of screens, the game's pace is slower as compared to playing without screens and using a lot of movement without the ball like cutting and splitting. If there is more contact, usually the game slows down. So, we needed to adjust our system to the individual abilities of our players. For example, we could not press full-court with Rigaudeau and Danilovic, as they are not suited for that kind of defense. We could not allow many defensive switches with J.R. Holden or Tyus Edney, as they are quick, but not powerful, and if we switch a lot, they'll end up playing in low post against bigger players.

To sum up, I always tried to suggest my club to get the best players available who put team interests ahead of their individual performance. Then, I adapted our technical organization of the team so they could use their strengths in our system. I don't want them to adjust to the system. It's more important for me that the players understand basketball philosophy, which is very simple. We need to think team first.

Second, we need to play good defense as basketball is started with it. Teaching methods that start with offense are not realistic. In the game, you need to get the ball first. You have to organize your defense to recover the ball by either forcing a mistake or rebounding. Only when you have the ball, you can decide what kind of offense you are going to run.

Third, on offense, we need to pass the ball to find an open man. It's not about four guys working to get one player open and give the ball to him. It's about team basketball, about passing the ball to take advantage by finding an open man who will shoot. The higher number of complete players we have, the better team basketball we can play and the more balanced our game is. To be competitive at highest level you need to have 5 men who are real danger for the defense.

Many people think that at our level the emphasis is on giving the team tactical instructions. Playing combination #2 instead of #3. Coaches who come to our practices and follow our games are always surprised that we work a lot on team things: like 4 on 4, 5 on 5 with the main focus on the fundamentals. Everything gets down to how well you execute the individual fundamentals. Even during the time-outs, sometimes we don't suggest any specific combination, we just give our players technical instructions on spacing and timing. These two instructions of spacing and timing are the essence of our everyday work.

The timing concept is very simple. Timing is all about doing something in the sync with other players. In basketball, while one action is finishing, the other one is starting. Simple example: to catch the pass you should make a step towards the ball. If you wait for the ball, it gives your opponents the chance to either interfere with your action or reset the defense so you find yourself playing 1 on 1 in static position. When our players dribble, they are making the pass simultaneously while finishing the dribble. We don't finish the dribble, look around and then pass. Any fan watching the game can easily understand whether there is continuity in actions. When you see the things are rolling one after another, it means you have good execution in basketball.

Spacing is all about the distance between the players on court. The concept of spacing in defense is trying to cover as much space as you can in order to have at least one player who can defend his man and disturb another player. Spacing in offense is about trying to prevent the situation where one opponent can defend your two players or can help his teammate and recover his position. Offensively, you must stay at a certain distance, not too far and not too close, so it would be very difficult for him to recover.

We work hard to help our players to act within the same concept of spacing and timing.

Of course, these two instructions are used at every level, from junior to Euroleague. What makes the difference is the perfection in execution. The key is to have a good execution at higher speed. Usually, if your execution is slow, it's easier for the opponents to interfere. The great teams are those who do all the fundamentals at high speed and in balance. Young coaches often focus on obtaining from their players quickness in the execution. Personally, I think that coach must look for the body balance first.

Once you're capable to find your body balance while executing the fundamentals, you can look for a higher speed. If you're looking for a higher speed with young players in the first place, they always go off balance. They always make mistakes.

Body balance is one of the most important qualities for the players to have, if they want to play at a higher level. I prefer to have a little bit slower player, but with good balance, always in control with his body. Like Trajan Langdon. J.R. Holden, on the other hand, is an example of a player who is balanced and quick.

The good news is that you can work on body balance. Our athletic trainer Gosha Artemiev is very good at helping our players to do exercises to improve body balance. Body balance is something most young big men don't have. They usually play straight up on their legs. Bending the knees is one of the biggest problems for them.

To develop great basketball players, you should train them to play with contact, physical intensity and pressure, and evaluate them accordingly. I'm talking even about conditioning trainings. This is what basketball is all about.

In basketball, evaluating track and field abilities and working on them is not enough. Moreover, this kind of evaluation and training gives you wrong perspective. We need to evaluate all kind of abilities with the ball and with the contact.

For example, you can have a player who runs very fast, but he becomes very slow with the ball. Or you can have a player who jumps very high, but under physical contact from his opponent, he can't jump that high because he loses his body balance. Or he may be very good at running, but has problems to coordinate his body with his quickness while catching a long pass. In all these examples, we have a great track and field athlete or a great volleyball player who will have hard time in basketball. This is why it's tricky to evaluate basketball players under the standards that are commonly applied in track and field.

Offensively, our game is much simpler that many people think. On offense, we try to take advantage of our opponent, to get open for 1 second to shoot or pass. It makes opponent's defense work to stop me, and it makes them leave somebody else open. Now, if I can find another open man with a pass, we keep the advantage and, sooner or later in 24 seconds, we'll have a completely free shot.

You can keep the advantage only with a pass. Many players can create the advantage, thanks to their jump, quickness or receiving a screen. The defense reacts to take away this advantage. This is why players like Papaloukas or Vanterpool are so good. They make an extra pass to keep the advantage. This is why CSKA, Panathinaikos, Maccabi are great teams. Most of the players in these teams can make an extra pass. The pass that gives you the opportunity to keep the advantage is the key to the offensive game.

Defensively, you try to steal the advantage with the aggressiveness, trapping, denying, or with passive defense that challenges the opponents to shoot from outside. On defense, you need to steal the advantage from the other team. Here, anticipation is the key.

ETTORE MESSINA ON HOW WINNING STREAKS TAKE AWAY SENSNE OF URGENCY

The reality is, when you are on a long winning streak, you tend to take some aspects of the game for granted. You grow sloppier in certain areas like timing or passing. The defense becomes less aggressive than it was when you had that sense of urgency, sense that you absolutely have to win the game and need to put in your best effort.

That’s the thing about winning streaks. They give you confidence, but at the same time take away the sense of urgency to some extent. Many players and coaches I’ve met throughout my career told me they had a sense of fear prior to the games, and it was actually very helpful. Like, the great Sasha Danilovic once acknowledged to me that despite being a formidable, well-known player himself, he experienced that fear of losing, of not playing well personally. But then he added that what distinguishes great players is the ability to overcome that fear, to transform it into aggressiveness on the court.

TEX WINTER'S ESSENTIALS OF COACHING

What makes Tex Winter so great is that his principles regarding the game of basketball remain true no matter what era. Because of his principles he was able to remain influential as a coach his entire career which was over 50 years. Here are Tex Winters Essentials of Coaching:

A. The answer to success in coaching does not lie in some form of super strategy, or some ultra super plan.

B. Success, overall, does rely on basic sound teaching abilities. The ability to teach the fundamental skills (basic basketball) to the individual athlete is critical. Your players must understand that their natural ability can take them only to a certain level.

C. Athletes must strive to break those physical barriers of endurance, speed, coordination, reflex action, jumping ability, etc., to truly become a better athlete.

D. As coaches we must develop and organize out of season programs that promote greater total development of our athletes, so that they can break those physical barriers.

E. Total preparation of the mental, emotional and physical aspects of athletes then permit greater technical preparation.

F. A player has not learned a fundamental until it becomes second nature (a habit). Automatic reaction is the goal of skill execution. No thought process necessary: react.

G. Basketball is a game of total quickness, a game of reaction.

H. Athletes are in the process of learning and have not learned a skill until they can perform a skill correctly and quickly while involved in game situations, automatically.

I. The coaching objective is accomplished through continuous repitition of drills and exercises.

J. Practice does not make perfect--only if the proper techniques and mechanics are being practiced. Proper techniques become movement habits.

K. Repetition must be done with high levels of interest, enthusiasm and in an exciting manner until it becomes an instinctive reaction.

L. One thing that highly disturbs me is the fact that I see so many bad habits being practiced today at all levels, from the junior high to the professionals.

M. We must demand correct execution of basic skills.

N. Design practice time and situations so that it provides the technical know-how for the individual and the team of all the phases of the game that we plan to use in the total game plan.

O. Practice sessions must be so designed to lead to superb physical conditioning. basketball is a game that cannot be played properly, unless you are in the very best possible physical condition.

P. Evaluate your practices to determine if they are designed to prepare the individual player; physically, technically, mentally and emotionally. If these factors are included then we should be able to visualize victory

JOHN MADDEN ON COACHING

"I work 18 hours a day during the football season. I don't own a mountain cabin. I believe that a successful coach must be totally dedicated. I don't even play golf. If I don't give this job 99 percent, I'm a dead coach."

4 IMPORTANT TRAITS OF THE NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

As I was reading through my RSS feeds, I came across a quote that stood out by New England Patriots DT Gerard Warren. After the 2010 season he wasn't sure if he would be back in New England, but when he got the call he didn't hesitate to return. Gerard shares why he was so adamant about returning to New England, "Preparation, attention to detail, camaraderie, and the will not to give in. Just chemistry, to be able to feed off what they do well and they feed off what you do well, and be able to mix together and make a masterpiece." Gerard's quotes teaches us four important traits of successful organizations.

1. Preparation. Preparation is a learned discipline because people are not born prepared. We must be diligent in developing the discipline through practice and study. Often times our failure can be directly linked back to being unprepared for a situation or event. Most people don't spend the adequate time preparing because it's a grind. At times the meticulousness that preparation requires can be very difficult, but the results of that meticulous preparation are extremely satisfying. As I continue to study Bill Belichick I've learned that his ability to conquer the drudgery of preparation is what makes him such a great coach.

2. Attention To Detail. A leader can't pay attention to the details if they aren't properly prepared. Preparation is the lens that allows us to focus on the details that our team needs to execute in order to be successful. When we aren't prepared we increase our chances of focusing on areas that will not produce the best results. So if we are going to be committed to the details, we must first be committed to the grind of preparation.

3. Camaraderie. Camaraderie has been a trademark for the New England Patriots for years. It first begins with a unified coaching staff. Always remember the power and influence a unified coaching staff has. In regards to the team, true camaraderie begins when individuals are more concerned with serving than shining. When the coaching staff and players are unified it provides the foundation needed to be successful.

4. The Will Not To Give In. The ability to pay attention is the result of preparation. The same can same can be applied to camaraderie and the will not to give in. When teammates truly care about serving one another their will is strengthened, they don't give up in stressful times, they endure the pain of discipline with determination, they just don't give in. Teams that have this in their DNA makeup have the ability to stay committed to the process, when the process offers opportunities to quit.

All four of these traits are critical to have in order for any organization. Finding ways to equip ourselves and our teams with these traits will lead to the improvement we want to have happen.

SETH GODIN ON HOW TO BE A FAILURE

1. Keep secrets.

2. Be certain you're right and ignore those who disagree with you.

3. Set aggressive deadlines for others to get buy in-Then change them when they aren't met.

4. Resist testing your theories.

5. Focus more on what other people think and less on whether your idea is as good as it could be.

6. Assume that a critical mass must embrace your idea for it to work.

7. Choose an idea where number 6 is a requirement.

8. Realize that people who don't instantly get your idea are bull-headed, shortsighted or stupid.

9. Don't bother to dramatically increase the quality of your presentation style.

10. Insist that you've got to go straight to the president of the organization to get somewhere.

11. Always go for the big win.