Steve Kerr: Fostering Team Chemistry

Steve Kerr (@SteveKerr) is the Golden State Warriors Head Coach and a PCA National Advisory Board Member. Kerr is a five-time NBA champion and former General Manager of the Phoenix Suns. He entered the NBA as a second-round selection by the Suns (50th overall) in 1988. He played for six teams during his 15-year tenure (Phoenix, Cleveland, Orlando, Chicago, San Antonio and Portland). He was a part of NBA championship teams in Chicago in 1996, 1997 and 1998, and then won two more rings with the Spurs in 1999 and 2003.

In this clip, Kerr talks about fostering team chemistry. He believes it’s the role of the General Manager to put together the right group of people to make chemistry happen. In the NBA, Kerr says it’s crucial to get the right people in the right place, because even the most talented athletes won’t thrive or contribute to good team chemistry if their values and behaviors are not aligned with team culture.
 

Kerr fosters chemistry through humor, music in warm ups and birthday celebrations. For example, in video review sessions, Kerr includes funny moments from the games to help his team relax, have fun, laugh and keep it light. Kerr says here that the more you can generate a good vibe, the more likely you are to build the right team chemistry.

Editor's Note: This article first appeared in the Development Zone® of Positive Coaching Alliance. AAU is proud to provide FREE Coaches' Education for all AAU non-athlete members. This exciting program is administered by Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA), using their Double-Goal Coach online courses.