“If you were the leader, you couldn’t miss one snap of practice” - When Kevin Garnett forced Doc Rivers to end the Celtics practice
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Amidst the countless tales of Kevin Garnett’s fierce trash-talking of his opponents on the court, what often goes unnoticed is the immense effort he put into backing up his words. He approached every practice session with the same intensity, giving his all until he had exhausted every ounce of energy. One illustrative anecdote comes from a time when Coach Doc Rivers attempted to grant an aging KG a day off from the Boston Celtics practice.
However, ‘The Big Ticket’ refused to take the break, leading Rivers to call off practice altogether to ensure Garnett got the rest he needed.
Garnett found a way to practice even when sidelined
When The Big Ticket joined the Celtics, he brought with himself not just basketball abilities but also a wealth of leadership experience from his 12-season stint with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Moreover, as a natural-born leader, the 15-time All-Star aimed to be an example for everyone around him, highlighting the need to put in hard work consistently in order to achieve success. Though Doc appreciated Garnett’s tireless work ethic, he couldn’t overlook the potential risks it posed to his marquee player’s long-term health, especially considering his importance to the team’s success.
Ultimately, recognizing the value of the 2004 MVP, Rivers prioritized ensuring his star player remained healthy and injury-free for crucial games, which is why he forced him to take an off from practice.
“Kevin had this belief that if you were the leader, you couldn’t miss one snap of practice,” Rivers explained as quoted by ESPN. “But I had this belief that you are 30-whatever, and I need you for the whole season.”
The 6’11” forward’s dedication extended beyond the court; even with him being sidelined, he found ways to maintain his daily practice regimen.
“Garnett, forbidden to take the floor by his own coach, had concocted his revenge: He would track the movements of power forward Leon Powe, the player who had replaced him in the lineup. As Powe pivoted, so did Garnett. As Powe leaped to grab a defensive rebound, Garnett launched himself to corral an imaginary ball. As Powe snapped an outlet pass, Garnett mimicked the motion,” Jackie MacMullan wrote in an ESPN story. “Two men engaged in a bizarre basketball tango.”
Rivers was forced to call off practice
Witnessing his instructions not being adhered to, Rivers warned Garnett to knock it off. However, as the 2008 DPOY refused to yield, the Celtics coach decided to prematurely end the team’s practice right there.
Even after that, KG kept persisting, pounding his chest and rallying his teammates with a ‘Let’s Work!’ chant.
Ultimately, Garnett’s refusal to back down, even when sidelined, showcased his unwavering dedication to his craft and relentless pursuit of success. A trait that would stick with him for his Hall of Fame career in the Association.