Phil Handy on Special Relationship w/ Kyrie Irving, Upsetting Kobe, Untold Kawhi Stories & More
Dec 16, 2024
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Phil Handy, an esteemed NBA player development coach, shares his fascinating insights into the world of basketball. He discusses his deep connection with Kyrie Irving and the unexpected challenges he posed to Kobe Bryant. Handy also reveals untold stories from Kawhi Leonard’s championship run in Toronto, highlighting the adversity faced along the way. Alongside personal anecdotes, he emphasizes the importance of mentorship, the evolution of women's basketball, and the innovative experiences that connect fans with the game.
Phil Handy discusses the essential communication between athletes and coaches, emphasizing the importance of valuing relevant training methods and open dialogue.
Handy highlights his commitment to elevating women's basketball through rigorous training programs and advocating for equal resources in the sport.
The podcast recounts memorable high-pressure playoff moments, showcasing how iconic plays, like Kawhi Leonard's game-winning shot, shape player legacies.
Deep dives
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Training Techniques and Mindset
The podcast discusses the importance of specific training techniques and the mindset of professional athletes, highlighting a situation where a player challenged a coach's exercise methodology. This illustrates that players may sometimes resist practice methods that seem irrelevant to their game, showcasing the need for coaches to communicate the value behind drills. The conversation emphasizes that foundational skills, such as dribbling with both hands, are essential for players to develop versatility. The exchange points to the dynamic of athlete-coach relationships and the importance of open dialogue.
Dedication to Women's Sports
Phil Handy's dedication to women's basketball is highlighted through his involvement with coaching female athletes and advocating for equality in training resources. The podcast showcases how Handy's experience with legends like Kobe Bryant shaped his approach, leading him to see female players as athletes deserving of the same respect and rigorous training. His initiative to develop training programs specifically for women aims to elevate their game while ensuring they receive proper recognition and opportunities. This commitment underscores the evolving landscape of women's sports and the increasing support for female athletes.
The Journey of NBA Coaches
The discussion delves into the experiences of coaches in the NBA, particularly Phil Handy's journey from player to coach and his path working with elite players. It emphasizes the lessons learned through years of training with superstars like Kobe Bryant and Kawhi Leonard, showcasing the unique relationships formed within this high-stakes environment. Handy's approach to coaching revolves around respecting the individuality of each player while fostering their skill development. This narrative highlights both the challenges and rewards of coaching at the highest level of basketball.
Memorable NBA Moments
In sharing memorable moments, the narrative focuses on Phil Handy recounting the impactful game-winning shot by Kawhi Leonard, which exemplifies high-pressure situations in the playoffs. The atmosphere surrounding that iconic basket was electric, as it demonstrated not only skill but also the intensity of the NBA Finals. Additionally, Handy reflects on the close camaraderie developed within teams, especially during crucial playoff runs where shared experiences foster strong bonds. These insights reveal how pivotal moments shape not only a player's career but also the legacy of the sport.
Phil Handy has developed some of the most iconic players in NBA history. His string of championships has left him with plenty of stories to share, like his unique bond with Kyrie Irving, how he upset an aging Kobe Bryant, the secret adversity to Kawhi’s run in Toronto & more
