Frequently, useful advice trumps a pep talk

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Good leaders can be counted on to do what’s necessary under pressure—but exactly what they do can change from moment to moment.

In the 1968 National Basketball Association Eastern Division playoffs, Philadelphia took a commanding three-game lead over Boston in a best-of-seven series—one more win would eliminate Boston. During the next—and must-win—game, Boston fought back and had a two-point lead with seconds left. Bill Russell, Boston’s star center, was fouled and went to the free-throw line to shoot two baskets. If he could make just one, Boston would be far enough ahead to win the game even if Philadelphia scored again; but if he missed both, Philadelphia could tie the game with one basket. Russell, normally a cool competitor, missed his first shot—leaving Boston only one more chance to lock up the game.

Then Sam Jones, a Boston guard and team leader, whispered a few words to Russell. Russell promptly sank his remaining free throw and secured the victory. (Boston also went on to win the series.) Afterward, reporters clamored to know what Jones had said to Russell. Was it an inspirational gem that motivated Russell to do his best in the face of adversity?

Hardly. Knowing that Russell shot free throws better when he remembered to relax his muscles, Jones simply said, “Flex your knees, Bill.” As Russell puts it, “It was about as inspirational as a car manual, but it was the only thing I needed to hear at that moment for us to win.”

It’s a great lesson for high-pressure situations: Effective leaders figure out what to say—and sometimes that means saying only what’s absolutely necessary. The greatest inspiration may simply be quietly helping someone do his or her job better.

—Adapted from Russell Rules, by Bill Russell (New American Library)

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