For the past couple of weeks, I have been watching some of the best basketball the NBA has to offer. I have watched in amazement as teams that are supposed to dominate get beaten or blown out by teams with less talent, and as I equate the playoffs to business success, no one truly wins alone. Even the greatest superstars need a strong supporting cast in order to stand in the winner’s circle.
Business owners should always be looking to build their “playoff team” that can craft a winning growth strategy, increase retention, and protect the business as they scale up. Every NBA team has a go-to player-the one who takes the big shots and sets the tone. In your business, that’s you. Your vision, drive, and leadership are essential, but your success hinges on the strength of your supporting cast. Using the basketball analogy, think about building your starting five (your core inner circle.) During the playoffs, teams tighten their rotations, relying on their best five players, supported by a strong bench. (substitutes for those who don’t follow the game.) You want to assemble a core group of advisors, partners, or team members who bring diverse skills to the table. The Point Guard is your strategist. They see the big picture and craft your game plan. They are your go-to for business strategy, spotting opportunities and potential threats before anyone else. The Shooting Guard is your Marketer. Like a shooter who can score from anywhere, they know how to get your message out and attract clients. The Small Forward is your Connector. Versatile and adaptable, they build relationships, network, and help you find new partners or clients. The Power Forward is your Operations Guru. They do the dirty work-handling logistics, processes, and making sure your business runs smoothly. Last, you need a Center, a Protector that handles your legal, financial, or risk management, ensuring your business is protected from threats and remains compliant with regulations. Photo by Finnian HaDiep
A championship team isn’t just about the starters; it’s about depth. Having a bench means you have people who can step in when needed, offer fresh perspectives, and keep everyone accountable. This is your system of checks and balances–mentors, peer groups, or even a board of advisors who challenge your thinking and help you avoid blind spots. Remember, in the playoffs, every possession counts. Teams study their opponents, adjust their tactics, and execute plays with precision. Your inner circle should do the same. They analyze the market and competition, identify growth opportunities, develop and refine the business playbook and hold you accountable for executing your strategy.
Great teams have chemistry. They trust each other and play unselfishly, building a culture where your team feels valued and invested in your success. Your inner circle can help you foster open communication, recognize and reward contributions and create a work environment that attracts and retains top talent.
With that being said, you have to protect the franchise. Defense wins championships. In business you have to protect what you have built in order to ensure sustainability and long-term success. Even the best teams face setbacks. The key is to learn from the them and keep pushing forward. With the right inner circle, you’ll be ready for any playoff run-and maybe even build a business dynasty. Just like in basketball, the best victories are team victories. Trust the process and get ready to raise your own championship banner.
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