Beyond Basketball: Coach K's Keywords for Success

by Mike Krzyzewski, Jamie K. Spatola

This is a collection of short but extraordinarily powerful essays as to how Coach K of Duke inspires, motivates, and teaches his basketball players about the game of life, both on and off the court.

Genres: Sports, Basketball, Leadership, Nonfiction, Self Help, Business, Biography

192 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2006

About the author

Mike Krzyzewski has been the basketball coach of the Duke Blue Devils for twenty-seven years, winning three NCAA championships and twelve national Coach of the Year awards. He is revered and respected by sports fans and business leaders everywhere. Coach K. lives with his family in Durham, North Carolina.

Reviews

[Kyle Coreth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick read, but wise words from Coach K. He has a lot of great stories from both inside and outside of Duke basketball that can be applied to everyday life. He definitely emphasizes many great leadership qualities he learned as a coach, family man, and Army officer (which I did not know about him). May dive into his other books in the future.

[Margotd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think the theme of this book is, don't remember a word by it's definition remember the word from a memory.

[Caleb Deck · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick, simple read. Slides in the middle of my list of “books on integrity written by college bball coaches now pretty well busted for cheating and paying players.”

[Kaleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of these lessons about basketball are lessons about anything one does in life; ergo ball is life.

[Chris Savio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Impactful.

[Blake Savey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coach K has so many experiences and is such a well-thought Coach. He breaks down many concepts into simple, tangible, thoughts that can be used by anybody.

[Darryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a big fan of Coach K. These stories about helpful leadership tips aren’t groundbreaking, but they are worthwhile.

[Rock Swann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mike Kryszewski’s Beyond Basketball: Coach K’s Keywords For Success offers an inspiring message to its readers that highlights words such as respect, courage, energy, and many more that not only adhere to the idea being a great basketball player, but also the idea of being a great person in general. I read this book because in the spring of 2017 because I was in the midst of my rigorous travel basketball season and in great need of some encouragement for myself to push through it, and what better way to get some motivation through a book I can relate to, as Coach K and I are both ball players at heart. The book perfectly met my expectations, which were quite high. Coach K’s numerous personal stories were some very influential ones that I could relate to and get more out of then I would have with any regular novel. He uses tons of different key words that should be emphasized in a persons life, and had a story along with a lesson to account for every single word. Any basketball player should read this book based on the fact that basketball players may understand it a bit better; though the lessons Coach K explains may be beneficial to anyone no matter their interests, which makes this book truly special.

[07nickc · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought that it was a great book for people that play any sports. He seperates the chapters into certain goals that you should carry and what characteristics should be important to you. He talks about keeping friends and family close, because they will always be their to lift you up from tough situations. He also talks about being motivated in everything you do. He also talks about learning from your mistakes and getting better. He talks about what he learned from his former coach Bob Knight and how he was a great mentor for him. It is a great book to learn from and it teaches you how to grow as a basketball player and also a person. Coach K obviously tries to stay out of the way of his players genius and tendencies. I liked the sections where he learned better methods of playing from many of his great players. Coach K likes to focus his teams attention. Rather than leading into a game with a long speech, he will put one word up and ask the team to keep that word in mind. It will be a word that reflects something needed to keep the teams focus before a game. So it is a good book so you should read this.

[JD' · Rating 4 out of 5]

In all forms of leadership, there are 4 words that when said can bring out the best in others, whether you are a coach, CEO or parent.. the greatest thing we can do for another is look in someone's eyes and say, "I believe in you."

Mike Krzyzewski, grew up going to a catholic school, became coach of Duke University and the USA 🇺🇸 Olympic basketball, from assistant coach to the Dream Team of Magic, Bird and Jordan to head coach over Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Coach K taking it 1 game at a time says,
"I don't give my teams an inspirational Braveheart like speech in the locker room before every single game."
When you care for people you will put yourself in their shoes and motivate each person differently.. always giving your best effort."

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great advice delivered in a daily reading format.

[Tony Ferguson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book and learned so much about this great coach and great man. If you love ACC basketball, the Duke Blue Devils and and great advice on practical life lessons then you will love this book. Choosing "words" and how we define them as the base of this book, we learn the importance of many words in Coach K's life. Love is one of the words he chose and wrote this book with his daughter and encouraged her to write from the earliest of years. When he writes about one of the words he will tell a story to illustrate so it is incredibly interesting and easy to read. He tells stories of his family and how he prioritizes them first and he tells of his best friend, his players, other coaches and even Michael Jordan(chapter on respect). Here are a few of the 40 words: adaptability, adversity, balance(awesome chapter), care, belief, communication, empathy, enthusiasm, excellence, failure, family, friendship, poise, passion, trust, imagination and work. Each chapter is only a couple of pages so don't panic - chapter on Selflessness he quotes Jim Valvano "A person does not become whole until he or she becomes a part of something bigger than himself or herself". Read the book - it's good.

[Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick book to read and I enjoyed it. Each chapter focuses a different word, not merely its definition but also its deeper meaning. Coach K explains each word and then gives an example to how this word has applied to his Duke teams or to his personal life. My most memorable words from this book were "Basics, Work, and Talent." Even the greatest coaches like Mike Krzyzewski spend time working hard on the basics, and his players do as well. As Coach K says in the book, talent can only get you so far, but one must put in the work to achieve something. I also like how Coach K seems to be more about the process than the outcome. After all, he is very passionate about what he does. In fact, Coach K doesn't even view coaching Duke basketball as a job since he likes it so much. Ultimately,"Beyond Basketball" showed me that Coach K is a man of strong values, which makes for an excellent leader. I'd recommend this book to anyone, especially young readers who have an interest in basketball.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly good. I loved his many stories. He starts with a single word (e.g., passion, trust, work) and explains with stories how to apply that word to achieve success in life. You'll hear fun stories about his teams, family, or personal history.... About his dog named Defense that increased family happiness 20% according to his 10-yr old daughter; and stories about some of his players: JJ Redick, Elton Brand, Christian Laettner, etc., and stories about his family.
Have you ever seen Coach K or his players hold up a tight fist prior to carrying out some offensive play? That is his symbol that all 5 players need to work together, united, because they are stronger together (as a fist) than individually.
Near the end Coach K quotes Coach Wooden: "Nothing will work unless you do."
Thanks for the stories, Mick!

[Elena Marin Dawid · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating 3.5/5
"Beyond Basketball: Coach K's Keywords for Success" is not a bad book, but it feels like a more condensed and simplified version of other works by Mike Krzyzewski. While it offers valuable lessons on leadership, teamwork, and perseverance, it lacks the depth and storytelling that make his other books, like Leading With the Heart, more compelling. If you're looking for a quick, easy read with straightforward insights, then I believe this book is perfect for you and might be worthwhile. However, if you have the opportunity to read some of his other works like "Leading With the Heart", I would recommend that instead. Though it's longer, it provides a richer and more engaging experience, covering many of the same concepts in a way that feels more personal and impactful.
Overall, not a bad book but didn't blow my mind either :)

[Erik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coach K likes to refer to himself as a teacher, and I would have to agree. This book is a straightforward sports take on values for life, and Coach K comes across as a man of true character and the ability to express it simply. Each chapter is titled as a word like pride, work, selflessness, and courage. IN each Coach explains what this word means to him, with references to people in his life, most often from the Duke basketball program. The overall focus is on your team. Who is your team, and are you helping it?

[Garnet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired reading

I appreciate the insight into collecting and owning words. We, as a collective unit in society, see the same picture but sometimes from a different perspective or in different lighting which makes the same picture look different. Words are not like a different lighting, instead words have meaning and although some may scew the meaning sometimes for their own benefit, the word is the same for everyone in its purest definition. Thanks to Coach K for convincing me to own more words, to find my story with my words.

[sumo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things I liked:

No group or individual are the same than they we’re trying year before. You must always be willing to adapt.

Take on new challenges, it is important not to get into a personal comfort zone.

It is important that the leader not be the sole passion provider for that team. This is why I surround myself with assistant coaches that are just as passionate as I am.

“Embrace work as the process that you go through to become exceptional.”

[Isaac · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beyond Basketball was an informational book that can help people to understand basketball. This book is written by Mike Krzyzewski/ Coach K/ The coach of the Duke Blue Devils. In this book he talks about some key words in the game as well as some drills he has done and how he got into playing the game. I recommend this book to anyone who likes basketball or anyone who would like to learn about it.

[Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this at a books sale. I’ve liked coach K since I learned he helped coach the 1992 dream team. I didn’t know how much I’d like this book. It is written as a quick read and in a very simple format, which I feel makes it effective as a self improvement book. I appreciated the stories and I could hear the voice of Coach K throughout the book. What a great principled leader, the kind young men want to follow. Must be why he has had such success.

[Tom · Rating 2 out of 5]

Yes, everyone respects Coach K. That said, this book is an absolute mail-in. He co-wrote with his daughter. They choose 30 words/virtues and added 3 pages of fluff. The stories told to support each chapter were shallow and utterly forgettable. They were 30 good words however, and the meta-lesson was valuable. Glad it was a library book however or I'd be upset.

[TFahlbusch]

In this book I found major connections. One was self to text. Jason Williams was in a tragic motorcycle accident. The doctors told him that he will never be able to play basketball again. However, he was so brave that he ended up playing 5 more years in the NBA. I made a connection because my grandpa is going through the same thing and he’s being brave and making it through.

[Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coach K’s book is amazing. Rather than taking the traditional route on memoirs, he picks 40 words that he has learned the importance of in his life, such as pride, collective responsibility, adaptability, and work. By telling stories about when he saw that word in action, he provides insight into how we can learn from others, as well as past actions.

[T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something resonated with me on thinking about words on a deep enough level, to make them a part of your life and moral philosophy. I appreciate Coach K bringing this concept to life. It has sent me on a quest to decide on the words that have defined my life, and the ones I want to add to that list.

[Alexandra Clontz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a basketball fan and will always hail to NC State as my Alma Mater but this book was fantastic. I listened to it on audio and while Coach K’s voice isn’t the most enthusiastic, the lessons he talked through were extremely valuable as a partner, leader, and one day parent. I feel I will listen again periodically to remind myself of them!

[Smaran Teru · Rating 5 out of 5]

So funny story. I actually found this book from Hulu's 'The Bear'. One of the characters in the show was reading this book, and I hopped on the bandwagon. But I read this book in a day and loved it. I've always been a Coach K fan, and each chapter is dedicated to a word he describes using his many experiences as a player, coach, father, and person. Great book and an easy read.

[Adam Bixby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quotes:

When offering a path instead of an answer, you give people a formula that they can go back to over and over again in different scenarios. Always offer a path instead of an answer.
-Coach K

Don’t let a loss or failure lower your standards

Only the mediocre are always at their best

Gotta have a ducks back and a lions heart

[Mike Niebrzydowski · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not a big Coach K fan, but I do think my opinion improved after reading this. Interesting to read about some of his experiences/stories and some good tips or thoughts. I was hoping for a lot more though, to be honest. Maybe he should have focused a little more on even half of the forty traits.

[Jocelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

40 words and principles with stories to go with from renowned basketball coach, Mike Krzyzewski (AKA Coach K). Akin to Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven and Rules for a Knight. I quite enjoyed it and would recommend to everyone!

[Jacob Wechsler · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great insight to Coach K's mindset. This book was extremely easy to read, filled with some amazing stories and testimonials. I admired Coach K on many levels even before reading this book - now I get a better understanding of the man off the court.