The X-Factor for the Thunder
Every team has a so-called ‘x-factor.’ This is a person who flies under the radar and does things that does things that not everyone will, yet is a vital part to the team. Without this person, the team doesn’t function as properly as it should. Everyone on the team knows who the person is, but not everyone in general knows. Oftentimes, this person goes unrecognized by fans, journalists, and the public. So who is the X-Factor for the Thunder?
Serge Ibaka? Nope
James Harden? Try again
Nick Collison? Negative
The X-Factor for the Thunder is the guy drawing the X’s and O’s: head coach Scott Brooks.
Let’s be honest, if PJ Carlesimo was still the head coach, the Thunder would not have the success the team is currently experiencing. When Brooks took over for Carlesimo, the team went 2-17 in their first 19 games with Brooks at the helm. After this point, however, something happened:
The Thunder started to win.
Starting with a New Year’s Eve 2008 win, the Thunder have gone 70-62 in that span with Coach B in charge, earning an 8-seed in the Western Conference in the NBA Playoffs last season. The team plays hard, gives maximum effort, and has the desire each night to fight to finish for a W. Brooks’ leadership has earned him respect from his players and a vote of confidence from the front office.
This was culminated last season when Brooks earned the 2009-2010 NBA Coach of the Year.
Coach Brooks is a very even-keel guy. Never will he yell at his team on the bench, and is always very encouraging. He always comes in early and stays late to make the team better. Most of the players refer to him as coach, a respectful gesture for someone in his position.
Bigger things are expected for the Thunder this season. If the team wants to achieve their goals, let Scott Brooks lead the way. With Brooks in charge, the rafters at the Ford Center will be filled up with banners in no time.
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