I’m coming home to Ohio this week.
I’m delivering a couple of sessions for the leadership of American Electric Power and I’ll extend the trip to make time for another four-hour dinner with my favorite teacher.
There’s no place like home.
Spending time where I started always helps inform where I’m going. I’m reminded how fortunate I am to have people that supported me so that my life would be full of choices and opportunity. I think about their legacy and recognize that I am a big part of it. That fills me with gratitude and provides a sense of obligation to always do my best. No matter how long I’ve lived away, coming home is always very special to me.
This past weekend, I was fortunate to participate in another homecoming. As a Minneapolis resident and long-time fan of our Minnesota Timberwolves, it was thrilling to welcome back Kevin Garnett, the best player in this history of our franchise.
VIDEO: Kevin Garnett’s Long-Awaited Return Home
I have made the city of Minneapolis my home for most of the last two decades. I remember when the team drafted that “skinny high school kid” in 1995. That kid brought years of energy, excitement and enthusiasm into our city every single night he played the game. As a basketball lover and Timberwolves season ticket holder, I fondly recall the countless celebrations in our city during his eight-year playoff run with our team.
Seeing KG take the Target Center floor on Saturday night brought back fond memories for me. However, as time has passed, I have come to appreciate him a little differently.
What I have come to appreciate most about Kevin Garnett is the consistent effort he brings to his craft every single time he steps onto the floor. Nobody plays harder, with more passion, energy, emotion and intensity every single night. I’ll remember the jaw-dropping dunks, the playoff runs, the eastern conference finals and the MVP award. What I might remember most is something that I think defines his legacy and approach to the game, known as the Garnett Rule.
Since his rookie season, Garnett has made a point of blocking dead ball shots taken after the whistle. They don’t count in the scorebook, but it’s another way of setting a tone and sending a message. It’s competition. It’s leadership. It’s the way he plays the game. Have a look:
VIDEO: Kevin Garnett Blocks/Goaltends Shots Even After Whistles
I was grateful to have the opportunity to come out Saturday night and honor his contribution, commitment and legacy. Needless to say, we were a little excited to be there!
Thanks for the memories, KG. Thanks for coming home!
During my morning routine today, I also hit pause to consider: How am I going to be remembered? In our busy day-to-day, we don’t often stop to consider our legacy. I think it’s worth the reflection.
Ryan Estis helps companies and individual contributors embrace change and achieve breakthrough performance. Each live event blends original research with compelling stories that move participants to take action. Ryan has 20 years of business experience working with the world’s best brands to initiate change, inspire innovation and deliver growth. Learn more about Ryan Estis.
