by Christal Collette

Created on: January 07, 2009

Coach Krzyzewski is an icon in the world of sports. His unique coaching abilities caught the eye of everyone who seemed to cross his path. But what does a multi-award winning coach do when a lucrative proposition is handed to him? This problem and other questions about leadership be will addressed.

Coach Krzyzewski, better known as Coach "K", was offered a $40 million dollar contract to leave Duke University to become the head coach of the L.A. Lakers. Prior to this offer Coach K had been making roughly $875,000 per year. Coach K also had an endorsement from Nike. Unfortunately, even with the endorsement from Nike, Coach K still didn't come close to making $40 million dollars.

If you were Coach K would you stay at Duke, or would you leave and take the NBA coaching job?

I would have to go against major public opinion on this question. I think many people would say that it would be more ethical to stay with Duke instead of being "bought out" by the NBA. However, I don't think Coach K would've been selling out by switching jobs. Granted, the money would be great! But I believe that Coach K could've made a bigger difference with the NBA then he did with Duke. At Duke he presented quality leadership skills that were evident in his players and even in the university through his teaching. If Coach K went on to the NBA he could've carried those skills towards a more public venue. Had he done this, the team might have been more successful. Furthermore, those leadership skills would've become more public, thereby changing the way other NBA coaches might lead their teams.

What strategies does Coach K use in his leadership? How have these led him to success?

Coach K didn't micromanage. He didn't try to scare his players into following his lead nor was he forceful or cruel. Coach K led with love. "You have to work hard at staying in contact with your friends so that the relationships will continue and live onFriendships, along with love, make life worth living".

Coach K also didn't believe in leading with forcefully strict guidelines. He once said, "Too many rules get in the way of leadership. They just put you in a box. People set rules to keep from making decisions." I really enjoy this concept because I have seen it apply to my leadership opportunities. Whenever I tried to change too much too fast it didn't pan out. Slow thoughtful changes involving the team seem to yield better results.

Despite the fact that his heart was with Duke-what are some advantages and opportunities

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