How to Handle a Player's Ego That Doesn't Match Their Skillset

I find that the beginning of a new year is a great time to self reflect and look inward on how I can be better in the most troubling areas of my life. For coaches, this is a great time to look at what they've done on the court and how they've handled their players to this point in the season.

Every coach has a player or two that may be dealing with an ego that doesn't match their skillset. This has to be addressed as soon as possible and there is no better time then the new year, if you haven't done so already.

Ego is a person's sense of self esteem or self importance. And ego isn't a bad thing because players need a level of this to develop confidence. Problems start to occur when the ego negatively impacts a team or people around them.

Your ego has to match your skillset and work ethic and if it doesn't there will undoubtedly be problems. Unfortunately, players may have an unrealistic ego or perception of their skillset which slowly starts to impact their ability to be a good teammate. So as a Coach, how do you address it?

The best way to deal with a player who falls into this category is to do the following:

Step 1: Have the conversation

The first step to addressing this issue is having a private conversation with the player and telling them the truth. Let them know their ego is negatively affecting the team and give them examples, which leads into Step 2.

step 2: give specific examples

Detail why you believe their ego is affecting the team and give SPECIFIC EXAMPLES. This is very important and without specifics the player will feel like they're being picked on. Having someone keep stats for turnovers, rebounds, steals, etc. is an example that gives the player tangible specifics that they can work on. Measuring the player's actions and on court play to the guidelines and pillars you have for your team is another great way to show the player how they aren't aligned.

step 3: create a plan

After the initial conversation with your player, the next step is creating a plan that will help your player grow. It could be a few extra minutes before or after practice to work on certain shots. Or, maybe you set different performance incentives for games. Whether it's specific skill development, getting other teammates involved, or watching film, be involved in helping create that plan with your player. While you want to hold them accountable and responsible, it's equally as important that they know you support them.

step 4: communicate the plan

Once the action plan is finalized, be sure to share it with those involved! Communicate that plan to the player again and then also the parents so everyone is on the same page and questions/concerns can be addressed and expectations are known. Emphasize that this plan will help the player work towards the goals they want to achieve and also hold them to the standard in which you feel they need to meet.

Remember coaches, our main goal is to get the best out of each player and to help them be the best versions of themselves. If we do this then our teams have a chance to be successful!

More often times then not, players just need guidance and conversation to understand how to manage their ego and play their best basketball. So, with that being said, start the second half of the season off right and Be Better Everyday!