The Hourglass Runs for Coaches Too
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Today’s post isn’t a full-throated critique of the X post (see below) or Coach Pitino’s statement. There’s validity in what he’s saying, and part of me wants to believe every player looks back fondly on their experience (and YES, the 46-year-old me would absolutely love another season with 21-year-old legs and energy, competing with my guys). Sharing these stories with his current roster isn’t a bad thing.
But here’s what I want to highlight:
First, if we buy into the hourglass metaphor—that opportunities are slipping away—then we also have to embrace that the clock is running on us as coaches too. Our time to influence our players is just as limited. We only get so many meetings, so many eye-to-eye conversations, so many months of shaping how their decision making paradigms. Time applies to everyone, not just the players’ careers. So we can’t afford to waste it either.
Second, the way Pitino framed it—“every player I’ve ever coached that’s had great success wanted one more year”—is telling. I can’t help but wonder: are those guys longing for the glory and status, not the grind of practices or the yelling from coaches? And why didn’t he say “all my players, from walk-ons to All-Americans”? Maybe because the ninth man on the bench isn’t so eager to relive the experience. And that’s the real question: why not? Shouldn’t we want every player, not just the stars, to want to come back? Exploring why some wouldn’t might be the clearest path to leveling up our programs.
Coach Prompt(s):
When you hear Pitino’s hourglass metaphor, flip it back on yourself:
How many meaningful conversations do I have left with this group?
Am I wasting chances to shape their decision-making beyond the court?
If one of my players looked back on this season, would they want to repeat it—or just escape it?
Player Prompt(s):
Every career ends, whether it’s after high school, college, or pros:
What are you doing today to make sure you don’t regret the reps you wasted?
Beyond the wins, what lessons will you carry when the clock hits zero?
If given one more year, what would you do differently—and why aren’t you doing it now?
