Player led teams are teams that can withstand the adversity that will undoubtedly surface at some point during a long basketball season.
But how do player led teams lead?
- Be a positive example. The first step to being a good team leader is to be a positive example for your team. You MUST lead by example at practice, in the locker room, in school, during the game & outside of school.
- Put out the fires. Team leaders are junior firefighters. They put out the small fires that occur behind the scenes. If your leaders do not put these fires out, it will turn into an inferno. Infernos will destroy team culture. Put out the small fires!
- Take ownership. As a leader you have to take ownership. You take responsibility for mistakes. You take responsibility for choices. You model ownership for your teammates. You do not let anyone on the team start to point fingers or make excuses.
- Be a Thermostat. Leaders SET the temperature, they don’t measure the temperature. Don’t wait for things to happen. Be a tone setter. Be a Thermostat.
- Connect your teammates. Teams are about human connection…..for all players. A team leaders job is to make sure no one is alienated. Make sure all are included in team activities and work to connect people together. This is how you build a Championship Team.
- Be an Energy Giver. Leaders have to be energy givers. They have to bring positive energy to all that they do. Their energy becomes contagious and rubs off on others. When you have a team full of positive energy givers you will have a championship level team.
- Give Reminders and Feedback. Leaders understand Culture. Leaders understand Winning. They give frequent reminders to teammates. These reminders help define the culture and help the team win.
- Be an Encourager. Leaders are encouragers. They lead the team in touches, high-fives, fist pumps and positive encouragement. They understand the impact this has on a team, especially during difficult times.
- Build Confidence in your Teammates. Team leaders constantly build confidence in their teammates. Magic Johnson was a master at this. His words were purposeful to help his teammates feel confident. Bring out the best in your teammates.