Trust

Bill Cowher said, "Trust is something as a coach you have to earn. Trust is unconditional, but trust can be powerful."

• Trust is what strengthens a team.
• Trust is unconditional.
• Trust is earned. pic.twitter.com/YvKAFdfpqH

— Coach AJ 🎯 Mental Fitness (@coachajkings) November 9, 2024

Players underestimate the value of trust. Players earn trust with their skill, their work, and their will. 

You get on the floor in the big game, in the big moment by earning the coach's trust. He wants you on the court. He needs you on the court. 

If you need to be on the court in the moment, earn your coach's trust. Remember the achievement equation: 

ACHIEVEMENT = PERFORMANCE x TIME

ChatGPT answer on earning trust:

Earning a coach's trust comes down to consistency, effort, and selflessness. Here are some key ways players can build that trust:

1. Commitment to Practice
   Show up on time, listen actively, and give full effort every day. Coaches trust players who are reliable and don't need reminders to put in the work.

2. Consistency
   Do the little things right every time. This builds a reputation for reliability. Consistent players give their best effort and bring a positive attitude, regardless of how tired or frustrated they might be.

3. Play Unselfishly
   Coaches notice players who prioritize the team’s success over their individual stats. Set your teammates up for success, celebrate others’ achievements, and communicate on and off the court.

4. Adaptability
   Be willing to play any role. If the coach needs you to try a new position or technique, do it with enthusiasm and without complaint. Showing you're open to learning and evolving will make you more valuable to the team.

5. Game IQ and Self-Reflection
   Demonstrate an understanding of the game plan and make smart decisions on the court. Between games, ask questions, review your performance, and show you're working on areas for improvement.

6. Stay Composed Under Pressure
   Coaches need players who can handle pressure and respond to challenges. When things go wrong, stay calm, reset quickly, and encourage teammates to stay focused.

7. Accept and Act on Feedback
   Embrace feedback as a tool for growth. Listen carefully, make adjustments, and then follow up with improvement. Coaches are more likely to trust players who are coachable and responsive to guidance.

Building trust is about actions over time, and the players who practice these principles daily become invaluable to any team. 

Lagniappe. Set the middle and backset.