The Sport Psych Show #321 Dr Scott Goldman - The Psychology of Team Selection
Jun 2, 2025
Dr. Scott Goldman, a licensed clinical psychologist and sport psychologist for the Golden State Warriors, shares insights on the psychology of team selection. He discusses the evolving responsibilities of sports psychologists in fostering team culture and mental health. Goldman delves into the complexities of player dynamics, including the impact of the transfer portal and NIL rights. He emphasizes the crucial role of authenticity in player evaluations and highlights the emotional stakes during the draft process, showcasing the importance of empathy in understanding young athletes.
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Four Domains of Athlete Evaluation
- Psychological evaluation in sports involves four key domains: physical, experience, personality, and intelligence.
- The AIQ test focuses on assessing intelligence relevant to athletic performance, especially pattern recognition and processing speed.
Match Players to Environment
- Focus on relationship dynamics between players and environment rather than rigid personality assessments.
- Match coaching styles with player traits to balance accountability and nurturance effectively.
Meeting Owner Before Accepting Job
- Scott Goldman sought to meet Miami Dolphins owner before accepting a job to understand leadership fit.
- The owner’s approachable humility convinced him to join, leading to a positive five-year collaboration.