I'm currently reading Geno Auriemma's book. For those who are not married to a women's college basketball fan; Geno is the head coach of the University Of Connecticut's 10 times winners of the NCAA Women's College Basketball Championship. He is a phenomenal coach/motivator. Over the years he has amassed a record to rival the best coaches in any sport. He must know something, so I will read his book.
Geno clearly teaches basketball fundamentals but I suspect he has learned a basic truth. Anyone who watches his women play will see a team schooled in sharing the basketball and working toward the goal he has set out. Everyone thinks that goal is to win games. I don't think it is that simple. His team routinely defeats teams by margins of 20- 40 points. He does not care what the margin of victory is. If they have not done their best they should have done better.
What I have learned, so far, is that from the beginning he recruited talent. He does not just sign really good shooters and ball handlers. He collects smart kids who are motivated and innovative people who want to reach and challenge themselves, many who are fearless when asked to do more. Then he molds them in to a team. He teaches them they are better together and that the team mission is the goal. He doesn't just want to win.
He wants them to learn and get better all the time.
Just Sayin'
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