Way of Champions Podcast

#439 Mark Gottfried, former NCAA Basketball Coach at Alabama and NC State: "The Softest Pillow in the World is a Clear Conscience"

Jul 24, 2025
Mark Gottfried, a seasoned former NCAA basketball coach, shares invaluable insights from his extensive career and personal journey. He reflects on lessons learned from coaching legend John Wooden, the evolving dynamics in college sports, and the significance of authentic relationships in coaching. Gottfried introduces the GID mindset—grit, integrity, and desire—as keys to success. He emphasizes the power of mentorship and self-awareness, revealing how personal growth shapes effective leadership both on and off the court.
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INSIGHT

College Basketball Is Now Pro Sports

  • Call college basketball what it is: professional sports on college campuses.
  • This shift erodes the multi-year mentor relationships and developmental space college once provided.
ADVICE

Require Contracts And Limit Transfer Access

  • Require binding contracts for players so compensation matches the pro-like reality on campus.
  • Limit transfer portal freedom to one free transfer to restore continuity and discourage cut-and-run moves.
ADVICE

Adopt The GID 'Get It Done' Mindset

  • Use the GID framework (Grit, Integrity, Desire) to create a 'get it done' team culture.
  • Teach grit through pressure moments so players learn resilience and follow-through under stress.
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