CoachUp’s Coach Spotlight Series: Kyle Hill
We know you’ve missed our Coach Spotlight Series, but don’t fear, we’re back with another one! This week, CoachUp decided to chat with Kyle Hill, one of the platform’s most reliable and highly-rated basketball coaches. Aside from having professional experience, Coach Kyle’s ability to shape the next generation of athletes has been greatly appreciated. In fact, Coach Kyle’s dedication to CoachUp has been so great that we’re often bouncing new ideas and potential changes off of him — an invaluable asset for a company like us to have. As usual, we ask the same of our readers: how are you improving as an athlete? For coaches, are you doing all you can to improve the athletes around you?
CoachUp: Hi, Kyle! Could you tell me a little bit about yourself?
Kyle Hill: I am Kyle Hill, I stared at Argo Community High School in the Chicago Suburb of Summit, Illinois. There, I was the the MVP of SICA North Conference, All-Area, All-State Honorable Mention, and the only basketball player and African-American to have my jersey retired. After high school, I received a scholarship to Eastern Illinois University, where I broke many records and was named to the All-Conference two years in a row. I added OVC MVP by taking my team to the NCAA Tournament in 2001, while also becoming All-Region First Team and averaged 23.8 PPG, good for second in the NCAA. After being traded to the Houston Rockets on draft night, I played 11 years in Europe and won multiple championships in France, Italy, Croatia, and Spain.
CU: How would you describe your coaching style?
KH: I would say my coaching style is geared toward developing the I.Q. of my players while also enjoying the love of the game and having fun. I don’t force the game on the kids I train and let it come naturally — a big key is letting them know that mistakes will happen. They’re what helps you develop and improve, so don’t focus too much on little mistakes.
CU: What do you enjoy most about coaching?
KH: What I enjoy most about coaching is helping kids and adults accomplish their dreams and aspirations. I get such a reward when the person develops and sees that they can accomplish anything and everything in this sport.
CU: What would you consider your specialties in basketball training?
KH: My specialties are teaching basketball I.Q. because of what it can do in the development process in understanding why you make certain moves and angles to me that simplifies the game. Simply put, the more you understand about the game, the better you become.
CU: What’s the most important piece of advice you give to athletes?
KH: To me, the most important thing I tell my kids is just to enjoy the game and don’t get too frustrated. Remember that you can use that frustrated energy and improve with it. When you truly have a love for what you do, it’s easy to improve.
CU: Finally, what’s your favorite moment from your athletic career?
KH: Of course, it would have to be getting drafted to the NBA! In 2001, the day of the NBA Draft, I had a get-together at my mom’s house of family and friends, not really even knowing if I would get drafted. I sat there with great hopes but understood that it may not happen. When my face appeared on the screen and I was drafted, the entire house erupted, but I was in shock! I couldn’t help myself and I started crying and smiling at the same time! To see all the work and dedication finally pay off, I realized it was worth it every step of the way.
Thanks, Kyle! If you’re interested in booking Coach Kyle or want to learn more about him — come check out his profile over here! Have a great weekend, everybody!
