“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.” -Michael Jordan
Swen Nater was an All-American JUCO basketball player. He transferred to UCLA to play even though UCLA already had Bill Walton in his position. Both playing the position of center, Walton was one of the best players of his time. For two years and two National Championship
teams, he came off the bench behind Walton. However, he didn’t focus on starting. He committed himself to making Walton and his team better. In doing so, Nater continued to improve and became the first player to never start in college, and yet be drafted in the 1st round of the NBA draft.
Summary
- Like Nater, when we commit ourselves to making others better, we get better in the process.
- Nater was noticed for other qualities besides his athletic performance by leaders in his sport.
Reflection
- How often do we focus on playing time instead of becoming the best version of ourselves?
- What is one thing you can commit to doing for your team to help the team get better?
- How can helping a teammate grow your knowledge or skill of the game?
Moving Forward
| Consider: Think of yourself as a coach for a day. How would you work with your athletes to help them accept their roles and to help them improve? | Implement: Share this story with someone that is struggling with their role on their team. | Expand: We first read this story in The Power of Positive Teams. Pick up a copy of this Jon Gordon book for more ideas on how to become a positive leader and have a positive team. |
“If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, then you are an excellent leader.” -Dolly Parton
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