LUS Coach Matt McMahon has retained an important message for his players, urging them to return to the starting lineup with renewed focus, discipline, and commitment. As the team gears up for another crucial phase of the season, McMahon’s message serves as a pivotal reminder of the standards that must be met for players to regain their spots in the starting five.
McMahon, known for his methodical approach and emphasis on team culture, has long stressed the importance of consistency and effort both on and off the court. In his message to the team, he emphasized that returning to the starting lineup is not simply about talent or past performances, but rather about proving the value they bring to the team every day during practice, in games, and through their overall attitude. For McMahon, the path back to a starting position is paved with the fundamentals: hard work, respect for the game, and an unselfish attitude toward team success.
As the LUS team has faced its share of challenges, McMahon’s directive is designed to light a fire under his players, reminding them that no spot in the lineup is guaranteed. He spoke directly to the individuals who had recently lost their starting positions, addressing them with the straightforward honesty that has become his trademark. “If you want your spot back, it’s not enough to just show up and expect things to return to how they were. You have to show me, you have to show your teammates, that you’re willing to do whatever it takes to make this team better.”
This message comes at a crucial juncture in the season, where every game holds significance in terms of playoff positioning and team morale. McMahon is well aware of the stakes, and as a coach, he understands that instilling a sense of competition within the team is necessary to maintain peak performance. While the starting lineup may seem like a small detail to some, McMahon knows it’s about creating an environment where every player feels they are in constant competition for their role. This dynamic ensures that the team remains focused, hungry, and fully committed to their collective success.
However, McMahon’s approach isn’t merely about demanding more from his players. It also reflects his deep investment in their development, both as athletes and individuals. He continues to emphasize the importance of building trust and cohesion within the team, knowing that a unified and motivated roster will be the key to overcoming the challenges ahead. By emphasizing that returning to the starting lineup isn’t just about individual achievement but also about contributing to the team’s success, McMahon is reinforcing a culture of selflessness and accountability.
Through this message, McMahon is calling for a return to the fundamentals: focus, discipline, and team-first mentality. It’s a challenge that pushes the players to dig deeper, to show what they’re truly capable of when their backs are against the wall. In doing so, McMahon is ensuring that the starting lineup, when it finally takes shape, will be made up of players who are not only skilled but are also the most prepared, determined, and dedicated.
For McMahon, this is more than just a simple rotation decision. It is a message that speaks to the heart of what he wants for this LUS team: growth, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His belief is clear—those who are willing to meet the challenge and elevate their game will earn their place, both in the starting lineup and in the long-term success of t
he program.
