Blogging the Journey #1: Coach K

What’s at Stake: This week, Coach K talks about the Team USA selection process, the guys who made the cut, and what it’ll take to win.

I am so proud to be the coach of this team.

This past week really got this summer started, beginning with the press conference and team announcement on Monday in Chicago. The selection process was a difficult one, but we are extremely pleased with the team we will take to Beijing. The final selection was made based on what we have learned about these guys over the years, what kind of NBA seasons they had, where they are now in terms of injuries and fatigue, and what combination of personnel will serve us best against the international competition. We were looking at the total team concept, not just individual positions. This is not an All-Star team. Of course, there are many All-Stars on this team because a key part of the mix you need to win is talent. We have focused on learning what you need to compete in international basketball and bringing together those individuals that best meet those needs.

One of the things I have been most impressed with over the past two summers and going into our third, is the desire these players have to be on this team. It was something they felt in their hearts they had to do – represent their country. All of the 33 guys who played for the National Team over the past three summers did so because it was a commitment that was important to them. When they were unable to play because of family situations or injuries and recovery, they took the time that they needed. But all of these men committed to be a part of this team and have done a great service for the United States and for the game of basketball.

As we come together for our first team meeting and practice, there are things that we have to work on as a coaching staff and as a team. One thing I am not worried about working on is motivation. These guys are ready to play. The stakes themselves are the motivation. Not only are these guys playing for their country, they are trying to reclaim the game. Some of these guys were on the 2004 Olympic Team and are really on a mission to prove themselves. Even the ones who were not on that team share the desire to show that we can win on an international stage. There are some differences in the way you coach these guys as opposed to college players, but finding ways to motivate this team, considering our collective goal, is not a problem. These guys are professionals, they are quick learners, and they want to be the best.

This is what we have been working towards. Now that we have focused on increasing the commitment involved in being a part of USA Basketball, we hope to see increased results. We want to make our country proud, we want our service to be worthy, but we also want our efforts to produce the goals we established for ourselves.

I can’t wait for my team to arrive and to see what we can accomplish together.

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