Michigan State's basketball season starts uniquely with players writing personal goals on index cards, a tradition by coach Tom Izzo. These cards serve not just as aspirations but as accountability tools, pushing players to meet their own standards. Izzo emphasizes a defined approach to winning that involves toughness, defense, and teamwork. The practice, while seemingly old-fashioned, is a key to their success, holding players accountable for their commitments and ensuring a unified team mission through challenging moments amid a changing landscape in college basketball.
This idea - that accountability breeds buy-in - has essentially been the central tenet of 26 straight NCAA Tournament appearances.
The goals written on index cards aren’t just aspirations; they serve as a tool for accountability during tough times.
Tom Izzo has done this forever, beginning when glaciers shaped the valleys, depositing rocks, sand, clay and clipboards.
When Izzo meets with each player before the season, he reads the card aloud, saying, 'if this is who you want to be...'
Each player sets his own bar, which allows for reminders of personal expectations when faced with adversity.
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