Be a Learn-It-All, Not a Know-It-All: The Off-Season Journey of Growth and Development
Two things I consistently challenge my players to live by are:
“Be a learn-it-all, not a know-it-all.”
“When you think you have all the answers, you haven’t heard all the questions.”
These principles apply to all areas of life, not just on the court. They shape how I approach my own growth as a coach. Recruiting is a big part of our work during the summer months, but it’s also the perfect time for me to focus on my personal development. July to September is when I really dive into learning new things that pique my curiosity and exploring new trends in the game of basketball.
While my players are preparing physically and mentally for the upcoming season, I’m preparing by expanding my knowledge and strategies to help them grow. Staying curious, staying open, and being willing to learn are vital traits for any leader, whether you're a player or a coach.
What I’ve Been Learning This Summer
This summer, I made it a priority to study new ideas, tactics, and approaches that I believe will make me a better coach and help our team at Radford University achieve our goals.
Below are a few resources that have had a big impact on my growth this off-season:
Larry Harrison – Complete Guide to West Virginia Press
One of the most effective defensive strategies I’ve come across is the West Virginia Press, and Larry Harrison’s comprehensive guide dives deep into its execution. It’s given me valuable insight into how we can implement similar pressure defenses to disrupt opposing offenses.
UCONN Huskies Basketball Video Playbook
UCONN’s system stands out for its precision and effectiveness. Watching their playbook unfold on the court has shown me new ways to maximize our offensive sets and find scoring opportunities in tight games.
International Tactics, Concepts, and Trends – Ryan Pannone
Basketball is a global game, and learning from international styles is a great way to adapt and innovate. Ryan Pannone’s breakdown of international tactics has expanded my thinking, giving me fresh perspectives on spacing, ball movement, and how to use different concepts from around the world.
Game-Winning Strategies & Plays from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, and Mid-Majors
Studying how top programs execute in critical moments is always valuable. This video series helped me analyze successful plays from some of the best teams across conferences, which I hope to incorporate into our playbook when the pressure is on.
The Takeaway
As a coach, I have to model the “learn-it-all” mindset for my team. It’s about staying humble, always seeking improvement, and being open to new ideas, regardless of past successes. Growth doesn’t happen by chance—it happens when you’re committed to learning, adapting, and evolving.
With 47 days until our season opener, the lessons I’ve absorbed this summer will be crucial for us as we prepare. My challenge to the team—and to myself—is to keep asking questions, stay curious, and never settle for what we already know. That’s how we’ll continue to grow and succeed.
