Xaivian Lee's struggles expose NIL issues
The crushing blow of big NIL money and expectations

The crushing blow of big NIL money and expectations

A deep dive into Overspecialization in coaching

The Denver Nuggets blend hockey’s teamwork, sacrifice, and physicality with basketball’s fast pace. By knowing “who they are,” staying emotionally steady, and sharing the spotlight, they show what it means to play like a true team. As they compete in the NBA Finals, we explore why Denver might be the best hockey team in the NBA.

Organizational alignment—investment, clarity, consistency, and accountability—is the heartbeat of sustainable success in sport. Like the Celtics and Lightning, teams aligned in mission and leadership thrive under pressure. Leaders must plan, assess honestly, and engage their people to build belief and lasting performance.

Middle management leaders—team captains—are now crucial “glue” amid growing turbulence in sport. With shifting athlete expectations and coaching pressures, captains must navigate up, down, and out while leading effectively. Investing in their clarity and skills is essential for team success and healthy athlete environments.

Coaches often start with strong ideals but can shift their values due to pressures in their environment. Reflecting on coaching philosophy, seeking feedback, and realigning with core values—like University of Calgary’s Dan Vanhooren—can restore effective leadership. Staying true to your coaching vision takes effort but leads to lasting success.