Diary Series: Jack Murphy, Asst. Coach - Memphis

Since the last time I was able to write an entry, a lot has gone on in “Tigerland.” We have lost five games and one assistant coach, and we traveled to beach cities situated on both the Pacific (Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii) and Atlantic (Miami, Fla.) oceans. Along the way, we have also won nine games, gained a new assistant coach and learned a great deal about our team and how they respond to adversity.  We have had some struggles collectively, and also had certain times where individuals have felt the pressure to perform.  Through it all, the greatest lesson that our team has learned – and must continue to soak in – is that the struggle must be undertaken by all, and only then will we all be successful.

The best examples of players pulling through struggles are those willing to do whatever it takes to help the team win – whether it is sacrificing scoring or playing time or even their own bodies on “effort” plays to help the common goal. We have had many instances where individuals on our team have done just that. I could go down the line and name off nearly each player on our team and talk of something that they have done. I am very proud of our team and the steps we are taking in a positive direction.

The new coach I spoke about above is Jimmy Williams, who is a fantastic teacher and coach. He came to us in early December, and since he has been with us, I have seen a direct correlation between his coaching and our improvement. He has a vast knowledge of the game and years of experience coaching at the highest level.  Jimmy’s influence and energy have been great for us.

In order for Jimmy to join us meant that we had to have a position open up, and that happened when our dear friend Luke Walton returned to his “other” job as a member of the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers. Of course, Luke is happy that the NBA lockout is over and is glad to be back with the Lakers, but he has been missed since he left us in early December. It was a joy to watch as he shared so much of his knowledge and experiences with our team. Luke is a great person and will one day be a fantastic coach.

Next up for us is the start of the conference season, and a road game at UAB on Jan. 7. In speaking about UAB and coaching at Memphis, I must comment on the recent passing of the legendary Coach Gene Bartow on Jan. 3. I was blessed to have met Coach Bartow on a number of occasions, the first of which was almost eight or nine years ago when I was still working at Arizona. Coach Bartow always was very open in speaking to young coaches, and his knowledge of the game and people was unparalleled. He will certainly be missed, and he will always be held in very high regard. I hope we can all take a moment and reflect on the great coaches that have come before us. We all are a part of a very special fraternity.

Thanks once again for your time and good luck as the season continues to move along.

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