How to Become a Leading Team in the NBA: 5 Essential Strategies for Success

When I first saw Jacob Cortez and Mason Amos stepping onto the court for their La Salle debut during the Filoil Preseason games, it struck me how much individual talent matters—but only as part of something bigger. Over my years analyzing basketball at both collegiate and professional levels, I’ve come to realize that assembling star players is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly become a leading team in the NBA—or any high-level basketball organization—you need a deliberate, multi-layered strategy. It’s not about random flashes of brilliance; it’s about building systems that turn potential into consistent performance. Let’s talk about five essential strategies that separate the great teams from the merely good ones.

First, elite teams prioritize culture over everything else. Culture isn’t some abstract buzzword—it’s the daily environment that either fuels growth or stifles it. Look at the San Antonio Spurs under Gregg Popovich. Their culture of selflessness and accountability didn’t happen by accident. They intentionally recruited players who fit that mold, even if they weren’t always the most high-profile names. Similarly, when you bring in new talents like Cortez and Amos at La Salle, the real test isn’t just their stat lines—it’s how quickly they buy into the team’s identity. I’ve seen too many squads crumble because they focused only on skill and ignored chemistry. A strong culture creates trust, and trust translates to unselfish plays, especially during crunch time.

Another non-negotiable is player development. The best organizations don’t just draft well; they improve players year after year. Take Giannis Antetokounmpo, for example. When he entered the league, his shooting was subpar—he shot around 65% from the free-throw line. But the Milwaukee Bucks invested in skill development, and by the 2020-21 season, he was a Finals MVP. That kind of transformation requires a commitment to individualized training and mental conditioning. For a team like La Salle integrating new players, the focus should be on identifying each player’s weaknesses and turning them into strengths. Cortez, for instance, might need to work on his three-point consistency, while Amos could develop his post moves. Player development isn’t glamorous, but it’s what sustains success over multiple seasons.

Let’s talk about adaptability—both in-game and across the season. The Golden State Warriors didn’t win four championships by sticking rigidly to one style. They evolved, sometimes leaning on their death lineup, other times dominating with size and defense. In the modern NBA, the ability to switch defensive schemes or alter offensive sets mid-game is crucial. I remember watching the 2022 Celtics; their defensive rating improved by nearly 8 points per 100 possessions after they incorporated more switching. That’s not luck—it’s strategic flexibility. For any team with new additions, like La Salle this season, the coaching staff must experiment during preseason to find the best rotations and adjust when things aren’t working. It’s like solving a puzzle in real time.

Data and analytics have also become indispensable. I know some old-school fans roll their eyes at terms like “effective field goal percentage” or “player impact estimate,” but the numbers don’t lie. The Houston Rockets, under Daryl Morey, revolutionized how teams use analytics—prioritizing shots at the rim and from beyond the arc. Last season, teams that ranked in the top five in three-point attempts won roughly 58% of their games. That’s a significant edge. For a team debuting new players, tracking performance metrics can highlight hidden strengths. Maybe Cortez excels in transition with a pace of over 105 possessions per game, or Amos has a defensive rating under 100 when playing the power forward spot. Ignoring analytics in today’s game is like driving with your eyes closed.

Finally, leadership—from both coaches and veterans—can make or break a team’s trajectory. Phil Jackson’s triangle offense was brilliant, but it was his ability to manage egos and inspire that made the Bulls and Lakers dynasties. Similarly, LeBron James doesn’t just lead by scoring; he elevates his teammates’ confidence and holds them accountable. When you introduce new players like Cortez and Amos, established leaders in the locker room must help them navigate pressure and expectations. I’ve observed that teams with strong vocal leaders tend to overcome slumps faster and maintain morale during long seasons. It’s the intangible that stats can’t capture, but you feel it when it’s there.

So, what’s the takeaway? Building a leading team requires blending talent with system, individuality with unity. Watching La Salle’s new duo, I’m optimistic—but only if the team invests in these five areas consistently. Remember, success isn’t just about winning games; it’s about creating a legacy. And that, in my opinion, is what separates the good from the legendary.