Great rivalries don’t have to be built on hatred. They’re built on respect, on a respect for excellence.
You cannot merely expect culture to be a natural occurrence; it has to be taught and made a part of your everyday routine.
My mom gave me unconditional support and unfailing love. You can’t get any better than that. That’s why I’ve never been afraid to lose.
Don’t let a single game break your heart.
Making shots counts, but not as much as the people who make them.
Pete Newell told me ‘get as much information and learn as much about the game as you can, but use your own personality to teach it.’
Believe that the loose ball that you are chasing has your name wirtten on it.
I try to see each new season as a new challenge because I have a new team to work with, new opponents to encounter, and often new ideas and theories to try.
I never want to lead a team that is not allowed the freedom to pursue what’s in their hearts. If you want your team to be fully committed, then you’d better be fully committed.
A common mistake among those who work in sport is spending a disproportional amount of time on “x’s and o’s” as compared to time spent learning about people.
People want to be on a team. They want to be part of something bigger than themselves. They want to be in a situation where they feel that they are doing something for the greater good.
Confidence shared is better than confidence only in yourself.
First of all, what happens is, when you’re good at something, you spend a lot of time with it. People identify you with that sport, so it becomes part of your identity.
I always wanted to teach.
I believe a big part of leadership is about winning the moment.
I’m fortunate now that I coach at Duke University and we’ve won a lot. I have some kids who haven’t failed that much. But when they get to college, they’re going to fail some time. That’s a thing that I can help them the most with.
I think you’re not a human being unless you have doubts and fears.
With me and basketball, it became part of me.
When I had troubles, I’d go out with basketball – you can do it by yourself, too. So you’d go out and shoot, and you’d fantasize.
A leader’s responsibility to his team is paramount. It overshadows even his own personal feelings at any given time.