Red on Roundball

In 1952, years before he won his first NBA title, Auerbach wrote a book titled Basketball for the Player, the Fan and the Coach. Here's what he wrote in a section called Attitude of Player to His Teammates:

1. You must think of getting along with your teammates, because if you are not well-liked, it is easy for them to "freeze you out" [not give you the ball].

2. Show a desire to block or screen for your teammates so that they will do the same for you.

3. Show your teammates that you will take the good shots. Don't appear too "hungry" [by taking bad shots].

4. Don't hold the ball. Look for [teammates] cutting.

5. Dribble with a purpose. Don't just stand there hugging the ball or dribbling aimlessly while your teammates continually cut.

6. Help your teammates on defense. Switch whenever necessary.

7. Don't chide [criticize] a teammate whose man happens to score. Often, it's the fault of your whole team.

8. Don't be too chummy with one or two players. Avoid obvious cliques.

9. Don't discuss the faults of any teammate with the other members of the team.

10. Don't give the impression that you are always hanging around the coach and discussing your teammates with him, unless, of course, you are the captain and the coach asks your opinion.

11. When scrimmaging, don't loaf or take it easy. This will keep the high respect of your teammates.