People — recruits, coaching peers and university administrators alike — all seem to rave about Kenny Brooks‘ culture when given the chance. There is clearly some sort of family-like atmosphere around the Kentucky women’s basketball program that gravitates toward people. But in all honesty, what does any of that really mean?
UK Program Assistant Taylor Soule, who played for Brooks at Virginia Tech before spending some time in the pros, talked to KSR about his 1-of-1 culture. It’s a culture built on integrity, honesty and discipline — all features that a tight, well-connected family — or team — must have in order to thrive.
“I think the type of culture — that Kenny Brooks culture — is people playing basketball the right way and respecting the game,” Soule told KSR on Episode 35 of The Memorial Memo. “I think it’s a culture where you get the most out of each other, and you get the most out of what you give. So, it’s always honest, and again, like I said, I think what I’ve loved so much about being around that staff is that it’s not just basketball. You might think it’s just basketball, but it’s going to translate anywhere else in life. I think that’s a huge thing.”
For Soule personally, she really resinates with the outside-of-basketball part of Brooks’ culture. She is currently rehabbing an injury that has put her professional basketball career on pause. So, while she isn’t able to play ball, she’s still able to use some of the words and advice that Brooks has given her over the years.
“I’m just coming off an injury, so you realize sometimes basketball might not always be there for you, but the advice that this staff gives the players, it can translate whether they’re on the court or off the court.”
Brooks’ installation of his culture seems to be working for the Cats. Soule explained to KSR that this Kentucky team not only gets along with each other, but they’re all united and equally invested in living up to the standard that Brooks has.
“They enjoy each other. They’re a good group of girls. They celebrate each other’s successes,” Soule mentioned. “Even when there’s new pieces coming in, the girls understand what it takes to play in the SEC, what it’s like playing under Coach Brooks. I’ve only been around them for maybe a month or so, but they got great energy. They work hard. So, they’re definitely fun to be around.”
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