Storyline: Strong faith and family support makes the difference for the Cavs’ Tyronn Lue.
The NBA World Champions went 7-10 during March and appeared to be “out of sync” as playoff time draws near. The Cavs remains in first place, but their chemistry needs to come together soon if the Cleveland plans on defending its title.
Courtesy: The Basketball Biz
Tyronn Lue, in his second season as the head coach, felt better after the team put together a solid 48 minutes of teamwork and came away with a convincing 122-105 win over Philadelphia on the last day of March. The win halted a three-game losing skid.
Having the big three on the floor–James, Irving and Love–can be comforting. But when game plans don’t fall in place, Lue knows he can always count on Biblical scriptures as a source of comfort. Those scriptures won’t win ball games, but they help him achieve his ultimate goal.
But there’s more to this story. Lue’s mother,Kim, is a Baptist minister. She sends her son scripture every day. The practice gives encouragement to this 2016 ESPY Award-winning coach. “She is always telling me to stay positive and see the big picture,” Lue said after the game Friday night. “I have to focus on my job as coach, but I also need to focus on my relationship with God, and she makes sure of that.”
Lue with mother, Kim (middle), and grandmother, Olivia (photo, Akron Beacon-Journal)
Before Friday’s game Lue received his daily text. This one, like many, had a note of encouragement.
She knew the team had been struggling and she also knew that her son felt responsible. So she him a message from the New Testament Book of Galatians, Chapter 6, Verses 9 and 10:
“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” In that text she let her son know everything was going to be alright.
“That meant a lot to me and put things into perspective,” Lue said. “That verse says if we keep working hard and working toward a goal, then we will reach that goal.”
The verse was not only inspiring, but prophetic. The Cavs defeated Philadelphia by 17 points.
“It’s in my heart, and it’s been great for my family,” Lue said of his upbringing in the church. “In this job, there are a lot of ups and downs. That’s where having a strong faith helps you through those tough times and keeps you humble during the good ones.”
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Del Duduit is an award-wining writer and freelancer who lives in Lucasville, Ohio. Del’s website is at delduduit.com. Follow Del on Twitter @delduduit
Very inspiring story…even for someone not so into sports!