From the Court to the Sidelines: Lessons in Leadership and Accountability
In July, I received a text that took me back 20 years. John Beilein, my coach from the 2005 West Virginia Elite 8 team, asked for dates for a reunion. It hit me how fast time has flown—both my 20-year high school reunion and the anniversary of that Elite 8 run are here. Reflecting on that journey has reminded me of the lessons I learned as a player, which I carry with me today as a coach.
As I sat in the banquet room, watching our team’s highlight reel and hearing Coach Beilein talk about what made our team special, three words echoed throughout the event: accountability, competitive advantage, and security. These same principles have defined my coaching philosophy today.
Accountability: The Key to Building a Strong Team
Back then, accountability wasn’t just a buzzword—it was how we operated daily. Our 2005 team didn’t wait for the coaches to step in. We held each other accountable. That’s what made us special. It’s something I now look for in my teams. A coach shouldn’t be the only one pushing players; players should hold themselves and their teammates to the same standards.
As a coach today, I see how vital this is. When players don’t shy away from accountability, they create an environment where growth thrives, where the team becomes more resilient, and where success becomes inevitable. This lesson is not just for basketball but for leadership in any arena.
Knowing Your Competitive Advantage
Our Elite 8 team didn’t have overwhelming athleticism or superstar performances, but we had one major advantage: basketball IQ. That intelligence allowed us to play cohesively as a unit. We weren’t just talented individuals—we were a connected team.
In my coaching career, I push my teams to understand what sets them apart. Is it skill, work ethic, or mental toughness? Every team, like every business or organization, needs to know their competitive advantage. It’s how you outwork and outthink the competition. For us back then, it was how we turned heads and earned respect on the court.
Security: Being Comfortable in Who You Are
One of the greatest gifts I received from that 2005 team was the security we had in ourselves and each other. We accepted each other’s quirks, strengths, and weaknesses. That sense of security extended into how we handled tough feedback. I’ll never forget when Coach Beilein nervously explained to my dad after a game why I didn’t get more playing time. My dad cut him off, saying, "He’s not ready yet." That kind of honesty, paired with trust, makes a team strong.
Today, I strive to create that same environment with my players. They need to feel secure enough to accept tough truths because that’s where growth comes from. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about learning, adjusting, and getting better every day.
Reflecting on the Intangibles
The reunion wasn’t just a nostalgic trip—it was a reminder of the unique bond that made our team successful. It helped me reflect on how special that group is. I even complimented the coaching staff in attendance because the intangibles we had—accountability, competitive advantage, and security—all started in the evaluation process.
The impact of those experiences continues to shape the teams I coach today. The lessons from my college years help me share stories that inspire and guide my players, showing them what it means to be part of a truly connected team. These principles aren’t just limited to basketball; they’re the foundation for great leadership and teamwork in every aspect of life.
