In 2006, the Heat wasn't supposed to get into the finals. Even though they had Shaquille O'Neal, they were overshadowed by many more powerful teams. But under Riley's insightful coaching, they made it to the championship.
The Heat were playing the Dallas Mavericks for the NBA title, and were ahead three games to two, and only had to win one more. But the last two games were scheduled to be played in Dallas, the Mavericks' home court.
Statistically, the team with home-court advantage wins three out of every four series in the playoffs.
And the Heat's handicap would be most intense in the seventh game. If they lost the sixth, winning the seventh game in an enemy stadium would be almost impossible.
But Riley felt certain his team could beat the Mavericks as long as they were convinced they could. He had to make his players believe they could win the championship in game six.
Because he didn't want them having to play that dangerous seventh game in the Maverick's house.
So... how did he motivate his players to win game six?
He simply told the team the whole story of their upcoming victory in a single line:
He told everyone to pack for just one night.
Not two. Just one small overnight bag.
That simple line telegraphed Riley's intention that there was not going to be a seventh game.
That his team wouldn't need a second change of clothes because they were coming home the night of the sixth game as NBA World Champions.
He told it. They felt it.And they did it.
I am packing for just one night too.
That is my resolution.
I have been working towards this resolution for a while now.
25 years old.
There has been a lot of life lived.
So much and yet at this instant, it feels like nothing.
All that is tangible is the here and now.
Bittersweet.
If I hit the jackpot, well and good.
If I don't, die trying.
No more room for can't.
Not when I am alive.
One bag.
This is it.
Am bringing you with me,
If you will.
Ashei.
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