Drama has always been a major focus in the NBA. Regardless of whether the record is good or bad, problems with the internal atmosphere of each team have emerged and exploded one after another.
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It's been on since the past few seasons.Kyrie IrvingandLeBron JamesThe fight for position, D'Angelo Russell's candid camera, the Gray Wolves and Master ChiefJimmy ButlerFalling out, the Cavaliers' veteran thinks the youngster can't play, the Wizards' two-star soap opera continues, the Kings' senior management is at odds, the Suns' young duo dislike each other, Butler makes waves after transferring to the 76ers, Kawhi LeonardInjury gate with Spurs,Markelle Fultz and the Sixers’ mysterious injury, even the powerful Warriors have had two big starsKevin DurantandGraymond GreenInfighting has occurred, and other disputes and rumors, large and small, have continued to dominate the NBA this year. Even Shaquille O'Neal couldn't help but say on the show that the NBA's infighting drama is more exciting than the game.
Further reading:Kyridiculous! Kerry is so ridiculous! Kyrie Irving’s top 6 regular season moments
Most of the internal strife in most teams comes from defeats, but also due to poor records, some teams will fall into a chaotic internal strife, but some teams can maintain cohesion and fighting will. The difference is that team sports are the most mysterious. Invisible combat power, team culture.
team culture
Every summer during the free agent market, NBA players and agents closely discuss and evaluate the offers and capabilities of each team. However, last summer, many players mentioned "team culture" when describing their final destination decisions. ” importance.
In 2019, DeAndre Jordan was set as a target by many strong teams, and most media also predicted that he would go to a team with playoff opportunities, but in the end he unexpectedly chose the Mavericks. The reason behind it was that the Mavericks had a stable and positive team. Culture, "Salary and record are very important, but the comfort level with teammates, coaches and the team is an important consideration for me." The same key decision also happened to Nik Stauskas, when he was hesitating between multiple teams. , but his agent suggested that he go to the Trail Blazers, which does not have the highest salary. "He convinced me in just one sentence that they have the best lounge in the NBA!"
Butler has been dubbed "The Dominant", "The Cancer in the Lounge", and "The Master Chief" and has become one of the most difficult players to get along with in the league. He went to four teams in four seasons, so when he was signed by the Heat last summer At that time, everyone was talking about whether he would disturb the spring water in Miami. After the Heat players personally contacted Butler, they also found that the big brother in front of them was not so notorious, but just persistent. This positive atmosphere included rookie Tyler Herro, young main player Bam Adebayo and veteran Goran Dragic all praised Butler. , "He is the Prince of the Heat's atmosphere, the leader responsible for making the team atmosphere the best it can be." Dragic said.
Atmosphere and culture have always been the most mysterious "values" in the NBA. They cannot be quantified into boxscore or any standard unit. Team culture cannot produce strong tactics, block positions, rebound or score, but no one will deny culture. The importance of building a team culture, even all professional teams are clamoring to build a team culture, "Without the support of a successful team culture, the Warriors would not have achieved their current achievements." Warriors head coach Steven Kerr said. A good team culture can allow the team to make steady progress in a long and difficult season. Even after a disastrous night, it can still allow players to gather their fighting spirit. "Losing or suffering a losing streak is the greatest test of team culture." Maun Ginobili has been criticized throughout his career. The Spurs, known as the best culture in the NBA, know very well what a good team culture is. "We don't blame each other, but encourage each other and discuss areas for improvement."
However, what is the miraculous effect of team culture?
"The team culture saved us." Thunder general manager Sam Presti said. In the summer of 2016, Kevin Durant announced that he would leave Oklahoma to join the Warriors. The team that the Thunder spent nearly 10 years building was on the verge of collapse. For example, Durant The departure of this kind of cornerstone player will require at least a few more years of pain before we can make a comeback. Even if the trade comesPaul George, but most people believed that George would defect to Los Angeles after playing one season, but the Thunder took one season to reverse the situation and successfully retained George. "The Thunder made me feel a family and brotherly relationship. We play for each other, Fight for a common goal." George said at the signing press conference, "I have experienced a good team culture and it is impossible for me to leave here." (Although the Thunder and George still parted ways due to different future policies of the team)
Ron Adams may be the coach in the NBA who best knows how to build a team culture. He has built countless teams with his masterful skills. In 2008, he assisted Scott Brooks to turn the Thunder into a winning team in the Western Conference. In 2010, he helped Tom Thibodeau establish the team that succeeded Michael Jordan. The strongest Bulls team, he helped rookie coach Brad Stevens lay the foundation for the Celtics in 2013, and has been a regular member of the Warriors dynasty in recent years. Adams has seen all kinds of team cultures. He believes that the establishment of culture happens in daily moments. "The atmosphere on the court comes from off-court gatherings, practice atmosphere and daily interactions." Adams said, taking the Warriors as an example. Ever since Andre Iguodala joined, he has held a team dinner at his home after the season every year. "No matter whether the season is successful or not, he forbids everyone from discussing basketball. Everyone is discussing family, life, travel, and even side jobs." , and we have a deeper understanding of each other."
Adams also believes that the stacking of these daily bits and pieces needs to be initiated by veterans. For example, when he was with the Thunder, Nick Collison would take the initiative to support newcomers and initiate activities. "When Steven Adams first joined the team, Collison stayed every night to teach him to block and rebound. , and treated him to dinner every time he grabbed double-digit rebounds." Durant also said in an interview during the Thunder that his leadership learning was inherited from Collison, "Every move, word and deed he makes should be included in the list. In the NBA leadership course." Durant believes that the Thunder's team culture is based on Collison. "The good chemistry of the team is ultimately the result of Collison's silent hard work when he is not visible."
In recent years, the Warriors have established the strongest team in the league and have already established a good team culture. Jordan Bell received a call right after the draft, and Draymond Green's loud voice immediately rang in his ears, "Welcome to the Warriors! Let's win a championship together!" Green immediately asked for the ball after Bell joined. The team put their wardrobe together, bought a suit for Bell, took care of his daily life, and taught him defensive skills step by step during the training camp. "Green guided me very patiently, not only during the season, but also how to adapt to the profession." life, other players such asStephen CurryandKlay ThompsonThey are also very kind to young players. I am very happy to experience this team culture as soon as I enter the league. "
When it comes to the treatment of newcomers, we have to mention the "ceremony" of the Trail Blazers welcoming rookies.Anfernee SimonsandGary Trent Jr.One day after the game, Evan Turner called him to report to his home. "We thought it was just a dinner party." Unexpectedly, as soon as we entered the door, Turner immediately asked the tailor he hired to cut and make suits for them. "This means that he accepts us and the team." Accept us." Simons said with a smile, and then Damian Lillard, CJ McCollum and Jusuf Nurkic also arrived, each bringing a gift to welcome the rookie to the team. "From that point on, I really felt like I was a part of the team. "Trent said.
Whether it is activities, games, or post-game reviews, all the foundations of team culture must return to the most important role, the team leader.
