You know what makes a great coach? It’s not just about skills, drills, or how many plays you can memorize. A great coach is someone who values respect and gratitude on and off the court. And my friends, it all begins way before the basketball even hits the hardwood. Respect, not just for the game, but for the freedom to play it. Now, that’s something these budding NBA stars might overlook as they dream of slam dunks and three-pointers.

Before the action, the towering hoop, and the dramatic buzzer beaters, there’s a tradition that sets the stage: singing the national anthem. Ah, yes, the blend of melody and patriotism. It’s become quite the spectacle, a bit of show business if you will.

Imagine this: the crowd hushes, the lights dim, and Lady Gaga belts out those iconic lyrics. It’s powerful, sure, but do these young athletes genuinely grasp the significance? Their minds might be on the upcoming game, not the anthem’s message. But one coach wasn’t having any of that.

Enter Buzz Williams, the Virginia Tech basketball coach. In a world where respect can sometimes feel like a vintage concept, Buzz decided to teach his players an unforgettable lesson. Spoiler alert: it might just bring tears to your eyes.

Knowing Buzz, he wasn’t interested in a passive lecture or a mundane talk. His approach? It’s something you need to see to believe. So, WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW and prepare those tissues.

Now, I don’t mind if Lady Gaga is the one performing the anthem. But these kids? They’ve got to learn the ‘why’ behind it. Why it’s not just a song, but a homage to those who paused their lives, their studies, to fight for the freedoms we enjoy—including playing basketball.

Repeating for good measure: Awesome coach. Good job, Buzz.

So, in a nutshell, the next time you hear the national anthem, maybe it’ll mean a bit more. Not just a pre-game ritual, but a slice of history, a moment of gratitude. Coaches like Buzz Williams remind us why respect isn’t just taught—it’s earned.

You might now see the anthem in a new light, something more than just an opening act. Think of it as a salute, a nod to those who made it possible for us to enjoy our favorite pastimes—whether it’s on the court or off.

And there you have it, folks. A lesson in respect, patriotism, and, above all, gratitude from a coach who understands that it’s not just about winning games, but about building character. Hats off to you, Buzz.