A True All American
Posted by Angie Diamond at 6:49 pm
I worked out Harrison Barnes recently in Ames, Iowa. As a player he is very skilled, has a great understanding of the game, and really loves basketball. Of course I found some flaws, and things he needs to work on but more importantly he represents everything I could ever want my future son to have when he turns 18. This guy “Gets it!”
He realizes that being a McDonalds All American and a future NBA player does not entitle him to anything in life without respect and kindness. He understands that regardless of his basketball status, he has to follow and abide by the same rules the rest of us have to follow every day. Outside of his basketball talents, I was impressed by his punctuality. He actually picked me up every day with his mom, and he even carried my bags (who does that??) on time!!
Outside of working out Harrison, I was hired to work out the Iowa attack program as well. Harrison helped me and did NOT miss a minute. He stayed in the gym the entire time. That is responsible!!
When parents talked to him, he looked them in the eyes, answered every question with dignity, was articulate, and would carry on a meaningful conversation. That’s Class! Not one time did he complain about the long hours in the gym, not once! He had a “give back” attitude towards his program. That’s loyal.
Being around Harrison was very refreshing. It showed me as a coach that regardless of how talented a player or person is they just want to be normal just like us. Regardless of their celebrity status you can and should hold them accountable for being a good human being and the best player they can be. If you are a good person, with an education, and you have “star power” well then you can really help all of us make this world a better place. And it’s fun doing it too!
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