#436 Ron Adams, Golden St. Warriors Asst. Coach : "Great Assistants Cement the Cracks"
Way of Champions Podcast
The Unsung Role of Assistant Coaches
This chapter explores the invaluable contributions of assistant coaches in the NBA, highlighting the importance of embracing one's role over seeking titles. By sharing personal experiences, the speakers emphasize humility, mentorship, and the significance of fostering strong relationships with players. The conversation delves into the complexities of coaching dynamics, communication, and the balance required to enhance team success while navigating personal and professional growth.
Ron Adams has been the assistant coach of the Golden St. Warriors since 2014, in that time winning 4x NBA Champions and being recognized in 2022 at the Tex Winter Award winner for lifetime achievement as an assistant coach. He owns previous coaching experience with Boston Celtics (2013-14), Chicago Bulls (2003-08, 2010-13), Oklahoma City Thunder (2008-2010), Milwaukee Bucks (1998-2003), Philadelphia 76ers (1994-96) and San Antonio Spurs (1992-94). Before joining the NBA, Adams coached collegiately for 20 years with head coaching stints at Fresno State (1986-90) and his alma mater, Fresno Pacific (1972-75). He also served as an assistant coach at U.S. International, UC Santa Barbara, UNLV and at both Fresno schools. Additionally, Adams has coached professionally in Belgium and Japan, as well as for the Canadian national team.
In our chat today, originally recored in December 202 as the NBA was returning to play following COVID, we cover:
- His journey as a coach
- “A good coach is someone who has a job.”
- “There is no formula for good coaching.”
- How has social media changed the halftime locker room experience?
- Why does Steve Kerr call Ron the “truth-teller”?
- What makes an assistant coach effective? …what are your “ego needs”?
- How do you handle disagreements with the Head Coach?
- Having hard conversations with players
- Ron talks about his relationship with Kevin Durant
- How do you know when it’s time to move on as an assistant?
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