Mitch Johnson Highlights the Importance of Understanding Players’ Backgrounds

Mitch Johnson recently shared insights on the significance of knowing a player’s history when coaching, emphasizing the layers of experience that come into play. "A lot of times I think as coaches we ignorantly get a player and then it's like their book starts," he explained, pointing out that there is a wealth of history that can be uncovered about a player before they join a team.

Johnson reflected on the journey of his player, Steph Castle, noting the influence of previous coaches like Coach Hurley, as well as the support from Castle's family. He highlighted Castle's ability to adapt his game, sacrificing personal scoring opportunities to contribute to his team’s success, including winning national championships and earning the title of McDonald's All-American in high school.

By exploring these layers, Johnson believes one can uncover essential traits like toughness, discipline, and an understanding of teamwork. "When you start peeling back the layers, the toughness is there, the discipline and the structure is there," he said, underscoring the importance of recognizing a player’s value in various roles.

As Johnson continues to build rapport with his players, he credits the efforts of Brian Wright and his staff for fostering a deeper understanding of the athletes they draft. Taking the time to learn about players’ backgrounds, he argues, is crucial for establishing a successful onboarding process and creating a harmonious team dynamic.