The Winner Within: A Life Plan for Team Players

by Coach Pat Riley

A Review by Steve Amoia

When you see Coach Riley on the sidelines, the perception is one of a model straight from the pages of GQ. His Armani suits are always custom-tailored, and his hair is neatly slicked back. But when you read his words, you will discover another dimension that perhaps is not congruent with his tough-guy media image.

Mr. Riley demonstrates a high degree of common sense both on and off the basketball court. You will feel the toughness of his spirit, but also the kindness in his approach. This book is a great resource, since it demonstrates how to lead and how to follow to ensure maximum success.

Mr. Riley played college basketball for one of the most famous coaches of the modern era: Mr. Adolph Rupp, a legend at the University of Kentucky. During his NBA career, he was not a star; however, was a hard-nosed, thinking man’s team player with the San Diego Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Phoenix Suns. He has won the NBA Championship seven times: Five as a head coach (most recently in 2006 with Miami), once as an assistant coach, and one time as a player.

His lessons from the hardwoods can be applied to any business or team-oriented situation. Although this book was written years before his current positions of head coach and President for the Miami Heat, Mr. Riley describes in great detail his approaches during his tenures with the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knickerbockers (Knicks). He discusses in very frank terms his own failures as a coach, but more importantly, presents the reader with examples how to reach our own peak performance levels.

His motivational techniques were very informative. He takes us inside of intimate situations that forged his winning ways. From tense playoff day game meetings, to providing custom towels for his players, Coach Riley spares no detail to win. The reader will realize that Mr. Riley learned from the best, and was able to succeed at the highest levels of his sport. He shows us that being a team player starts at the top, and that leaders need to set the proper example.

He also includes several non-basketball related events that provide added motivational value. The story about Mr. Jan Scruggs, the force behind the Viet Nam War Memorial, is compelling. This book is not about basketball; it is about finding the winner within each of us as we navigate challenging life events.

From his many enlightening quotes, two stand out:

"You can respect your opponent too much."

"Don't compare your performance versus other teammates; compare it against others in similar roles on other teams."