The Leadership Triangle: Communication Challenge Worksheet
The Leadership Triangle: Communication Challenge Worksheet
Instructions:
For each scenario, read the situation and select the best response. After completing all scenarios, check your answers at the end of the worksheet and reflect on why the correct answers work.
Scenarios
Scenario 1: Practice Participation
A teammate isn’t giving full effort during practice.
What’s the best way to address the situation?
A. "Why are you even here if you’re not trying?"
B. "I noticed you’re not giving your all today. Is everything okay?"
C. "You need to work harder—it’s not fair to the rest of us."
D. Ignore them—it’s not your problem.
Scenario 2: Game Pressure
A teammate is frustrated after missing a key shot in a high-pressure game.
What’s the best way to calm them down?
A. "Come on, get over it—it’s just a shot."
B. "You always miss in critical moments—focus!"
C. "Shake it off; we’ve got another chance. Let’s focus on the next play."
D. Stay silent and let them deal with it on their own.
Scenario 3: Timeout Confusion
During a timeout, teammates are unclear about the defensive strategy.
What’s the best way to communicate the adjustment?
A. "We’re doing zone defense—figure it out!"
B. "Just do what the coach said and stop asking questions."
C. "We’re switching to a 2-3 zone. Communicate on every screen and stay low to protect the paint."
D. Skip explaining—it’s better to let the coach handle it.
Scenario 4: Criticism from a Teammate
A teammate makes a negative comment about your performance during practice.
What’s the best way to respond?
A. "You think you’re perfect? Look at your mistakes!"
B. "I hear your feedback, but let’s focus on how we can both improve."
C. "Why are you always criticizing me? Leave me alone."
D. Ignore them—it’s not worth addressing.
Scenario 5: Motivating a Younger Player
A younger teammate is struggling with confidence after a series of poor performances.
What’s the best way to encourage them?
A. "You need to stop being so hard on yourself—it’s not a big deal."
B. "It’s okay to make mistakes. Let’s focus on one thing you can improve in the next game."
C. "Everyone has bad games—just get over it and move on."
D. Avoid saying anything—they’ll figure it out eventually.
Answers and Explanations
Scenario 1: Practice Participation
Correct Answer: B
"I noticed you’re not giving your all today. Is everything okay?"
- Why It Works: Shows empathy (Why), identifies the issue (What), and opens dialogue for improvement.
Scenario 2: Game Pressure
Correct Answer: C
"Shake it off; we’ve got another chance. Let’s focus on the next play."
- Why It Works: Refocuses their mindset (How) and reminds them of the team goal (Why).
Scenario 3: Timeout Confusion
Correct Answer: C
"We’re switching to a 2-3 zone. Communicate on every screen and stay low to protect the paint."
- Why It Works: Provides clear steps (What), practical execution (How), and reinforces team defense goals (Why).
Scenario 4: Criticism from a Teammate
Correct Answer: B
"I hear your feedback, but let’s focus on how we can both improve."
- Why It Works: Acknowledges the feedback (What), shifts focus to solutions (How), and keeps the team cohesive (Why).
Scenario 5: Motivating a Younger Player
Correct Answer: B
"It’s okay to make mistakes. Let’s focus on one thing you can improve in the next game."
- Why It Works: Validates their feelings (Why), gives actionable advice (What), and builds their confidence (How).
Reflection Questions
- Did any of your answers differ from the correct ones? Why?
- How can the What, How, Why framework help you improve your communication?
- Which scenario felt most relatable to you, and why?
- How can you apply these lessons in your next game or practice?