Sunday, March 24, 2024

Embrace the Truth

Coaches want to develop both exceptional teams and great players. Nobody wins without excellent players. Nobody. Exceptional players aren't enough, either, as basketball fans know who watched Kentucky get bounced in the NCAA first round. 

Special teams need players willing and able to fill "complementary" roles. That includes defending at a high level, digging, communicating, practicing hard daily, and sacrificing for the good of the team. Last season, Sadie Jaggers changed positions as a senior and had a memorable season. A player like Maggie Turner didn't get headlines, but her constant, elite communication and effort helped fuel wins. Talk intimidates. 

The truth is that every sport needs role players. Having the will and skill to fill roles separates championship players from something less. 

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