I think an extremely important trait for successful coaches is that of flexibility. In believing that, I would first start with a system of play. The fact that we have primarily played man to man defense at LSU over the last decade would make one think we have only played one way defensively when in fact we have given our opponents a variety of looks. By having a flexible defensive system we can adjust where we pick up the ball...how far do we extend in the passing lane...how are defending screens...how are we going to defend the low post. By having a flexibile system of play you can determine the best way to play. By being stubborn in a strongly defined way of playing you can often paint yourself in a corner. Of course that's not to say that you don't have some fundamental principles to anchor your play to but as John Wooden said, "Be more interested in finding the best way, not just in having it your way."
