Mike Krzyzewski, aka Coach K, is the most revered College Basketball coach in the history, leading his Duke Blue Devils to 5 National Championships and 13 Final Four appearances (most by any coaches) during his 42-year stint. What led to all these successes. In this book, the coach himself talked about his philosophy and practices, interweaving with his background and examples of interactions with his players and coaches at different times. It is full of great leadership lessons, some of which I’ve gleaned below:

1. Maintain high standard of excellence
2. Run team like a family- Unlock honesty, strength and caring qualities
3. Respect great tradition and legacy- instill pride, team unity and confidence
4. Build truthful and trusting relationship with your team and colleagues
5. Be adjustable and adaptable, Ready for new information. Coach K fitted his team’s style based on the type of players available each year
6. Learn from mistakes, defeat and victory. Allow your team to do the same to grow
7. Grow your team. Make sure the focus is on getting them to improve and be a better version of themselves

One note I’ve noticed more recently is the use of metaphors to drive down key points. Coach K has had a fair share of his and here are some that stood out:

i) Fist. The combination of communication, trust, collective responsibility, caring and pride are 5 fingers in a fist. All five together as a fist makes for a formidable force to be reckoned with

ii) Train. The Duke team is on a journey together. Everyone needs to be on board in this ride, practising truth, repetition, heart and fist

iii). Soil. A person in an organization is like a soil. Great culture and tradition is like moisture that prepares the soil to absorb more than if it starts off dry

iv). Plants. Your team members are like plants. Put them in a bottle and they will be constricted by that bottle. Nurture them without limit and they will blossom beyond belief

The story does not follow chronologically and weaves in and out based on Coach K’s teachings. It’s a fun reading for those with affinity to College Basketball and a good leadership book for anyone else. When someone can perform at such a high level for so long. It’s worth understanding how they do it!