What is Your Kryptonite?

It’s been said that a team is only as strong as its weakest link. Now, obviously there are some exceptions to the rule. I don’t believe the Chicago Bull’s weakest link ever effected Michael Jordan’s ability to win a championship. Jordan needed some help, but the weakest didn’t keep him from a championship. However, when it comes to the individual, I believe there are less exceptions to this rule. A player is only as strong as his/her greatest weakness. Let’s examine that.

If a player is a great shooter, but can’t handle the basketball, their weakness will negatively impact their strength. They may not be able to get their shot off! If you can drive, but you can’t shoot, the defense will sag in and close your driving lanes. Your weakness will limit your strengths. When all said and done, many players actually become their weakness! What is your Kryptonite? Have we learned anything from Superman. In the end, what defined Superman? His powers? Or his weakness? That’s an easy answer. Despite all his abilities and strengths, Kryptonite still killed him. The greatest player to ever play the game, Michael Jordan, is known for his unbelievable strengths. But when it comes right down to it, he’s known even better for his complete lack of weaknesses! If MJ had a Kryptonite, no one managed to figure it out. Last summer, I was shocked when a 6′6 college player told me his coach wouldn’t allow him to practice his mid-post or face-up game. When I talked with that coach, he reassured me that he did not want his player wasting his time working on his weaknesses, when he could be focusing on his strengths. What a mindset! What this coach did not understand was that no matter how good this kids strengths became, he would always be shackled by those weaknesses. He was a great three point shooter with good athleticism and versatility, that would always be limited by what he couldn’t do on the basketball court. It’s a shame!

My advise to coaches and players is this. We must stop focusing on whether a player is a 1,2,3,4, or a 5; stop focusing on the position they play, and start focusing on giving them all skills they need.

Now obviously, some areas should be trained more than others. J.J. Redick needs to keep shooting. Point guards must always keep an emphasis on dribbling and passing. But if we keep ignoring our weaknesses, we will always limit our strengths and our potential! Don’t be Superman if you can help it. Get rid of your Kryptonite!!!