Slappin' Glass Podcast
Mike Miller on the Art of Being a Great Assistant, Attacking a Box and One, and Building Culture During Down Seasons
Mar 21, 2025
Mike Miller, a former NBA and NCAA head coach and current consultant for the Minnesota Timberwolves, shares his deep insights into coaching dynamics. He discusses the vital role of assistant coaches in relieving head coach pressures, emphasizing communication and adaptability. Miller dives into mastering the Box and One defense, explaining player adaptability and team strategy. He also highlights building team resilience during tough seasons through small goal setting and open communication, ensuring teams stay motivated despite setbacks.
01:03:32
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Quick takeaways
- The importance of assistant coaches lies in their ability to provide timely feedback and support, helping head coaches navigate tough decisions effectively.
- Specialization among assistant coaches is increasingly valuable, but maintaining a broad understanding of overall team strategy is crucial for future head coaching roles.
Deep dives
The Loneliness of Leadership
The role of a head coach can often feel isolating due to the weight of decisions and team performance. Acknowledging the pressure they face, it's essential for assistant coaches to provide genuine feedback and support during challenging times. This support involves understanding the system in place and articulating suggestions in a way that resonates with the head coach's vision. By doing so, assistants can empower the head coach and help navigate the team's direction more effectively.
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