Dusty May watched film with a former principal. It’s a secret to Michigan’s success
nytimes.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Michigan basketball coach Dusty May has embraced teaching techniques from educational expert Doug Lemov to improve player learning and engagement, focusing on direct questioning and creating a psychologically safe environment.
- Lemov's strategies, such as "cold calling" and emphasizing the self-generation effect, help players retain information by actively involving them in discussions rather than relying on passive nodding.
- May's coaching philosophy blends curiosity, support, and a "culture of error," where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities, contributing to Michigan's recent success, including a Final Four appearance.
- May continuously seeks to learn and adapt by studying cognitive science, leadership, and teaching methods, applying these insights to basketball practice and film sessions to enhance player development.
- This approach reflects a broader trend among coaches who view themselves as educators, emphasizing motivation through recognizing progress and fostering a supportive team culture.
