The Basketball Leadership Podcast

Steve Collins is the varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Madison Memorial High School in Madison Wisconsin. He is in his 25th year as a varsity coach.

has a coaching record of 461-113. His teams have won 14 conference championships, has 4 state runner up finishes and 3 State championship in 10 State appearances

You can find him

Greg Berge is the Varsity Boys Basketball Coach and High School Principal in Lake City, MN. He is in his 29th year of education and 18th year as a varsity coach. Greg has a career coaching record of 334-117. His teams have won 11 conference championships (9 straight), two section championships, and one 3rd place state finish. He writes daily online with actionable ideas about Coaching, Leadership, Culture, and Teams. He also writes a free weekly newsletter, has published four books, and has released the Team Leader OS: The Ultimate Leadership Resource for Coaches (a course and many resources to develop your team leaders). Links below:

Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PphN3H https://amzn.to/3EriGlQ https://amzn.to/3Lao68u https://amzn.to/3Z5SEhN

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https://www.winthepreseason.com/pre-opt-mc

Winning the Basketball Pre season. A small looking into a nationally ranked team

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Steve Collins is the varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Madison Memorial High School in Madison Wisconsin. He is in his 25th year as a varsity coach.

has a coaching record of 461-113. His teams have won 14 conference championships, has 4 state runner up finishes and 3 State championship in 10 State appearances

You can find him

Greg Berge is the Varsity Boys Basketball Coach and High School Principal in Lake City, MN. He is in his 29th year of education and 18th year as a varsity coach. Greg has a career coaching record of 334-117. His teams have won 11 conference championships (9 straight), two section championships, and one 3rd place state finish. He writes daily online with actionable ideas about Coaching, Leadership, Culture, and Teams. He also writes a free weekly newsletter, has published four books, and has released the Team Leader OS: The Ultimate Leadership Resource for Coaches (a course and many resources to develop your team leaders). Links below:

Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PphN3H https://amzn.to/3EriGlQ https://amzn.to/3Lao68u https://amzn.to/3Z5SEhN

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Steve Collins is the varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Madison Memorial High School in Madison Wisconsin. He is in his 25th year as a varsity coach.

has a coaching record of 461-113. His teams have won 14 conference championships, has 4 state runner up finishes and 3 State championship in 10 State appearances

You can find him

Greg Berge is the Varsity Boys Basketball Coach and High School Principal in Lake City, MN. He is in his 29th year of education and 18th year as a varsity coach. Greg has a career coaching record of 334-117. His teams have won 11 conference championships (9 straight), two section championships, and one 3rd place state finish. He writes daily online with actionable ideas about Coaching, Leadership, Culture, and Teams. He also writes a free weekly newsletter, has published four books, and has released the Team Leader OS: The Ultimate Leadership Resource for Coaches (a course and many resources to develop your team leaders). Links below:

Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PphN3H https://amzn.to/3EriGlQ https://amzn.to/3Lao68u https://amzn.to/3Z5SEhN

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Steve Collins is the varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Madison Memorial High School in Madison Wisconsin. He is in his 25th year as a varsity coach.

has a coaching record of 461-113. His teams have won 14 conference championships, has 4 state runner up finishes and 3 State championship in 10 State appearances

You can find him

Greg Berge is the Varsity Boys Basketball Coach and High School Principal in Lake City, MN. He is in his 29th year of education and 18th year as a varsity coach. Greg has a career coaching record of 334-117. His teams have won 11 conference championships (9 straight), two section championships, and one 3rd place state finish. He writes daily online with actionable ideas about Coaching, Leadership, Culture, and Teams. He also writes a free weekly newsletter, has published four books, and has released the Team Leader OS: The Ultimate Leadership Resource for Coaches (a course and many resources to develop your team leaders). Links below:

Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PphN3H https://amzn.to/3EriGlQ https://amzn.to/3Lao68u https://amzn.to/3Z5SEhN

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steve Collins is the varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Madison Memorial High School in Madison Wisconsin. He is in his 25th year as a varsity coach.

has a coaching record of 461-113. His teams have won 14 conference championships, has 4 state runner up finishes and 3 State championship in 10 State appearances

You can find him

Greg Berge is the Varsity Boys Basketball Coach and High School Principal in Lake City, MN. He is in his 29th year of education and 18th year as a varsity coach. Greg has a career coaching record of 334-117. His teams have won 11 conference championships (9 straight), two section championships, and one 3rd place state finish. He writes daily online with actionable ideas about Coaching, Leadership, Culture, and Teams. He also writes a free weekly newsletter, has published four books, and has released the Team Leader OS: The Ultimate Leadership Resource for Coaches (a course and many resources to develop your team leaders). Links below:

Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PphN3H https://amzn.to/3EriGlQ https://amzn.to/3Lao68u https://amzn.to/3Z5SEhN

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In this episode of the Basketball Leadership Podcast, hosts Steve Collins and Greg Berg delve into the concept of the four levels of competitors, inspired by a speech by Robert Saleh, head coach of the New York Jets. They discuss how athletes can be categorized into four distinct levels based on their competitive drive and how coaches can identify and nurture these traits within their teams.

Level 1: Survivor

Survivors are the lowest level of competitors. They do just enough to get by, often taking the easy way out. They complete the minimum requirements and their lack of drive can be detrimental to team culture, as their minimalist mentality can influence others negatively.

Level 2: Contender

Contenders need external motivation to push themselves. They can perform well and give extra effort, but only when driven by external factors such as a coach’s encouragement, monetary incentives, or peer pressure. They are not self-motivated and rely on outside influences to excel.

Level 3: Competitor

Competitors are internally driven and self-motivated. They strive to be their best without needing external prompts. They have a championship mindset, are focused, coachable, and continuously seek growth. Competitors form the backbone of strong teams and exhibit a high level of discipline and commitment.

Level 4: Commander

Commanders embody all the qualities of a competitor but also possess exceptional leadership skills. They inspire and pull others along with them, elevating the performance and mentality of their teammates. Commanders are the rare athletes who not only excel individually but also enhance the overall team dynamic. Examples include iconic figures like Tom Brady and Michael Jordan.

The hosts reflect on their coaching experiences, discussing how these levels manifest in high school teams. They note that while it’s rare to have many commanders (Level 4) on a single team, having a few can significantly elevate team performance. They emphasize the importance of fostering a competitive environment and helping athletes progress through these levels.

The discussion also touches on practical strategies for coaches to identify and nurture these traits. They suggest using competitive drills, fostering a growth mindset, and encouraging self-reflection among athletes. Coaches are urged to be mindful of their team’s composition and to strategically develop their players’ competitive drives.

Throughout the episode, the hosts share personal anecdotes and insights from their coaching careers, highlighting the real-world application of these concepts. They underscore the importance of leadership and competitiveness in building successful teams.

For further resources, the hosts mention their courses available on Gumroad, which are designed to help coaches build leadership and competitive skills within their teams. They also encourage listeners to sign up for a free weekly newsletter that provides ongoing coaching tips and insights.

This episode is a valuable resource for coaches and sports enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of competitiveness and leadership in sports. By recognizing and nurturing these four levels of competitors, coaches can build more resilient and successful teams.

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Video Discussed

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDzfZOfNki4

In this episode of the Basketball Leadership Podcast, hosts Steve Collins and Greg Berg explore the ten commandments of team leadership. These principles are essential for coaches aiming to develop effective leaders within their teams, fostering a culture of excellence and unity.

1. Lead Yourself First

Leadership begins with self-leadership. Team leaders must model good choices and exhibit personal responsibility. This foundation is crucial for gaining credibility and influence within the team.

2. Be a Thermostat, Not a Thermometer

Leaders should proactively set the tone and culture for the team, rather than simply reacting to situations. By being a thermostat, leaders can create a positive and consistent environment.

3. Manage the Locker Room

The locker room is a critical space where team dynamics are shaped. Effective leaders ensure that it remains a positive and inclusive environment, connecting teammates and preventing the formation of cliques.

4. Energy is Contagious

Positive energy from leaders can uplift the entire team, while negative energy can bring it down. Maintaining a high level of positive energy is crucial for team morale and performance. The hosts emphasize the 5-to-1 ratio of positive feedback to criticism.

5. Be a Connector of All

Leaders must foster inclusivity, ensuring that all team members feel valued and connected. By preventing cliques and ensuring everyone feels included, leaders can strengthen team unity and cohesion.

6. Build Others' Confidence

Building teammates’ confidence is a vital role for leaders. High school athletes often struggle with self-doubt, and leaders who uplift and encourage their teammates contribute to a stronger, more confident team.

7. Give Reminders

Leaders should constantly reinforce team goals, values, and key concepts during practices and games. These reminders help keep everyone focused and aligned with the team’s objectives.

8. Accept Responsibility

Effective leaders own their actions and decisions. Accepting responsibility builds trust and sets a standard for accountability within the team.

9. Hold Teammates Accountable

One of the hardest aspects of leadership is holding peers accountable. Leaders must ensure that all team members adhere to team standards and expectations, fostering a culture of accountability.

10. Be a Servant Leader

True leadership is about serving others. By prioritizing the needs and development of their teammates, leaders can inspire and motivate the entire team.

The hosts delve into each commandment, sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice. They emphasize the importance of energy, with both hosts agreeing that maintaining positive energy is crucial for effective leadership. They discuss how these commandments can be implemented and the impact they have on team culture.

The episode also highlights Greg Berg’s Team Leader OS course, which provides a comprehensive guide for coaches to develop leadership within their teams. This course includes 20 lessons, over 200 minutes of video content, and 300 pages of resources, offering flexible and practical tools for coaches.

For additional resources, listeners are encouraged to visit Greg Berg’s Gumroad site and Steve Collins’ Teach Hoops website. Both platforms offer valuable tools and insights for coaches looking to enhance their leadership and coaching skills.

This episode is a must-listen for coaches, athletes, and sports enthusiasts seeking to understand and cultivate effective team leadership. By following these ten commandments, teams can build a strong, cohesive, and successful culture on and off the court.

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In this insightful episode of the Basketball Leadership Podcast, hosts Steve Collins and Greg Berg discuss the six fundamental challenges that athletes and coaches must face to achieve success in sports. Drawing inspiration from Cara Lawson's impactful video on handling hard, they explore how embracing these challenges can lead to growth and excellence.

1. Accept Hard

The first step to overcoming challenges is acceptance. Athletes need to understand that difficulties are a part of the journey. Without accepting this reality, growth and improvement are impossible. The hosts emphasize that recognizing the inevitability of hard times is the foundation for resilience and development.

2. Work Hard

Building on the acceptance of challenges, the next step is to work hard. Consistent effort and dedication are crucial for success. The hosts reiterate that hard work is non-negotiable and a fundamental aspect of achieving any significant goal in sports and life.

3. Handle Hard

Handling hard involves learning how to deal with adversity effectively. Cara Lawson's video underscores that life rarely gets easier; instead, individuals learn to handle difficult situations better. The hosts discuss how sports teach valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability, helping athletes and coaches manage challenges more effectively.

4. Do Hard Things First

Procrastination is the enemy of progress. The hosts advocate for tackling the most challenging tasks first. Whether it's an early morning workout or a tough conversation, doing hard things first sets a proactive tone and helps build a habit of facing difficulties head-on.

5. Be Willing to Have Hard Conversations

Effective communication is critical in coaching and leadership. The hosts emphasize the importance of having honest and sometimes difficult conversations with players, parents, and colleagues. Avoiding these conversations can sabotage team dynamics and hinder growth. Honesty and transparency, although challenging, foster trust and improvement.

6. Choose Hard

Choosing to take on difficult tasks and challenges is a deliberate decision that leads to growth. The hosts highlight that there is no easy way out when striving for excellence. By choosing hard, athletes and coaches commit to a path of continuous improvement and resilience.

Throughout the episode, Steve and Greg share personal anecdotes and practical advice for coaches. They reflect on how their own experiences have shaped their coaching philosophies and underscore the importance of embracing hard to achieve success. For instance, they discuss the value of self-improvement and the necessity of being honest with players about their performance and potential.

The episode also features a brief overview of Greg Berg's Better Coach OS course, designed to help coaches improve their skills and effectiveness. With ten modules and 36 lessons, the course provides comprehensive guidance on various aspects of coaching, from communication and leadership to practice planning and game strategy.

Listeners are encouraged to check out additional resources available on Greg Berg's Gumroad site and Steve Collins' Teach Hoops website, both offering valuable tools and insights for coaches looking to enhance their leadership and coaching capabilities.

This episode is a must-listen for coaches, athletes, and sports enthusiasts seeking to understand and embrace the challenges inherent in sports. By accepting, working through, handling, prioritizing, communicating about, and choosing hard, individuals can achieve greater success and resilience both on and off the court.

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https://gberge.gumroad.com/l/bettercoachos

In this episode of the Basketball Leadership Podcast, hosts Steve Collins and Greg Berg delve into the essential traits that signify commitment in athletes. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and fostering these traits to build successful teams. The discussion is framed around four key indicators of commitment, providing valuable insights for coaches at all levels.

1. Showing Up

The first and most basic indicator of commitment is simply showing up. Attendance is crucial, whether it's for practice, summer training, or other team activities. Consistent presence is the foundation upon which all other aspects of commitment are built. Just as in school, where attendance is key to success, being present is the first step towards demonstrating commitment to the team.

2. Best Effort

Once athletes show up, the next indicator is their effort. Giving their best effort in every practice, game, and training session is essential. Effort is something that coaches shouldn't have to constantly monitor; it should be a given. Legendary coach Gino Auriemma has emphasized that effort and attitude are non-negotiables, and athletes must consistently bring their best effort to the table.

3. Commitment to Self-Improvement

This indicator distinguishes those who are merely present from those who are truly committed. Athletes who are dedicated to self-improvement constantly seek ways to better themselves. They take feedback from coaches, apply it, and strive to overcome challenges. This growth mindset, which separates good athletes from great ones, is crucial for long-term development. The hosts discuss how even the best players, like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan, were never satisfied and always aimed to improve.

4. Team First

The final and perhaps most challenging indicator is putting the team first. Understanding one's role within the team and prioritizing team success over individual accolades is a mark of true commitment. Many athletes excel in individual play but struggle to integrate into a team concept. Successful teams are built on players who understand and embrace their roles, contribute selflessly, and work towards the collective goal.

Throughout the podcast, the hosts share personal anecdotes and examples to illustrate these points. They discuss how these indicators can be observed and nurtured in athletes. For instance, they highlight the story of Hunter Lawrenson, a player who demonstrated a commitment to self-improvement from a young age by practicing with his weak hand without being prompted.

The episode also touches on practical strategies for coaches, such as setting specific goals for practices and encouraging a culture of continuous learning. The hosts stress the importance of coaches modeling these behaviors and fostering an environment where athletes feel motivated to commit to their development and the team's success.

In addition to discussing the four indicators of commitment, the hosts promote their online resources for coaches. Greg Berg's Better Coach OS and Team Leader OS courses offer comprehensive guidance on building leadership and commitment within teams. These resources, available on his Gumroad site, provide coaches with tools to enhance their coaching effectiveness and develop committed athletes.

This episode is a valuable resource for coaches looking to deepen their understanding of athlete commitment and implement strategies to cultivate these traits within their teams. By focusing on these four indicators, coaches can build more resilient, dedicated, and successful teams.

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