Loyalty is one of the most underrated qualities there is. Often taken advantage of or looked at as a weakness. But, loyalty is something to be proud about. What I love about loyalty is there is no black and white. You showing up or not? Are we going to war together or not? Who are those 5 people you know you'll answer the phone if they call at any hour of the day or night? I've had the privilege of marrying one of the most loyal people in the world. She's a die hard Adam fan and often makes me question if she is crazy because I think she believes more in me than I do myself. That goes both ways in our marriage, though. So, I guess we both may be crazy. . . for each other!
Loyalty on the court is a little different. Loyalty to a team, a coach, teammates, etc. That's a tough one. As a player and a coach we have to know what we are fighting for, right? What's the goal? Team culture is built off loyalty. Game days are a little easier than practices but we all have to show up, we all have to lock in and work. Loyal teams will not be rattled by the smoke on the outside. One of the greatest gifts I think we can give ourselves is being loyal to ourself! Nobody knows what fuels us more than ourself. Be that guy or girl! That's what attracts the team to be loyal to. "That's my shooter". "That's my PG or Big man". "That's my crazy ass coach". Be you!
Loyalty, in my opinion, may be underrated but once the loyalty is no longer there, it is difficult to get it back! Stay loyal, always. Move with good intent, communicate heavily, and always push each other to be better.
With love,
Coach Nicholson