By Kendall Fisher(opens in new tab), executive producer at Grow Wire
It’s that time of year again! The 2018-19 NBA season is officially upon us, and expectations are set high across the board—especially for the Los Angeles Lakers.
LeBron James(opens in new tab) will rock purple and gold for the first time in his career, marking one of the biggest free agency decisions in NBA history and placing all eyes and expectations on the marquee franchise to succeed under his leadership and talent.
But James isn’t the only one people are watching.
The Lakers’ young head coach Luke Walton(opens in new tab)—who was drafted as a player the same year as James, in 2003—will have to rise under the pressure of leading the team through this pivotal season.
In fact, I sat down with Walton just days before the historical trade hit headlines, and he revealed the key to successfully stepping up into an important leadership position, whether in basketball or in business. Of course, this is something he’s experienced before his time coaching the Lakers, having taken on the head coaching position for the Golden State Warriors during Steve Kerr’s unexpected medical leave in 2015.
Watch the video above for Walton’s advice on rising to the occasion, whether in basketball or business.
Another interview with Walton is coming next week! Follow us on Twitter(opens in new tab) for updates.