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In the high-stakes world of the NBA, where head coaching positions are often decided by the narrowest of margins, a group of Black coaches has cultivated a private sanctuary away from the spotlight. This 11-member collective, which functions primarily through a group chat, serves as a vital support system for men navigating the unique pressures of professional basketball leadership. The network provides a space for these coaches to share experiences, seek advice, and discuss both the professional challenges of the league and the personal realities of their lives.
The bond between these coaches is perhaps best illustrated by the relationship between Detroit Pistons coach
A Network Built on Shared Experience
The origins of this group are somewhat fluid, with members unable to pinpoint an exact start date or founding moment. What is clear is that the collective has grown into a diverse assembly of experience, ranging from veteran head coaches like 56-year-old
The community traces its roots back to Hall of Famer Tim Grgurich’s annual summer basketball camps in Las Vegas. These sessions provided a laboratory for young coaches to network, sharpen their skills, and connect with players. Over time, these late-night conversations evolved into a formal network that extends far beyond the hardwood. The group has become a crucial resource for career advancement, with members frequently leveraging their connections to support one another as opportunities arise or disappear.
Support Beyond the Sidelines
The value of this network is most evident during times of personal crisis. When J.J. Outlaw faced the dual challenges of a newborn child and his mother’s battle with cancer, he found a reliable support system within the group. Similarly, when members like Lloyd Pierce and Darvin Ham dealt with their wives' breast cancer diagnoses, the group provided a space to share notes and lean on one another for emotional support. This camaraderie has helped them navigate the often-isolating nature of the coaching profession.
The group’s influence was recently highlighted when they gathered to honor Bernie Bickerstaff, a mentor whose career helped bridge the gap between generations of coaches. The celebration of Mike Brown’s 2024 NBA championship with the New York Knicks—the franchise’s first title in 53 years—served as a poignant moment for the collective. For these coaches, seeing a peer reach the pinnacle of the sport after years of navigating the league's cyclical nature was a source of collective pride. As they continue to support one another through the highs and lows of the NBA, this community remains a cornerstone of their professional and personal lives.