God's Coaching #95

God's Coaching #95

Michigan’s Fab Five changed the face of college basketball in the early 1990s. When Chris Webber, Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, Jimmy King, and Ray Jackson decided to attend the University of Michigan, many considered them the best recruiting class in college basketball history. They started as freshmen and led the Wolverines to the NCAA championship game—marking the only time that five freshmen had taken a school to the finals. Michigan lost to Duke to end the season.

But the Fab Five returned with a vengeance as sophomores. With their black socks pulled high, baggy shorts riding low, and a confident attitude, Michigan cruised through the season. On this day in 1993, the Wolverines faced North Carolina in the championship game. Michigan appeared close to victory as it held a 67–63 edge with 4:32 left. But a 10–4 run by the Tar Heels gave them a 73–71 lead with 20 seconds remaining. Michigan didn’t have any time-outs, but they still had plenty of time for a tying shot. However, instead of the team’s point guard dribbling up the ball, Chris—a power forward—quickly dribbled past half court, picked up the ball, and called time-out. Because the Wolverines were out of time-outs, referees called a technical foul on Michigan and gave the ball to North Carolina. The Tar Heels went on to win the game 77–71.

What’s the Score?

The Fab Five never won an NCAA championship. Some say they never reached their full potential. Years after they left the school, a federal investigation reported that Chris took money from a Michigan booster. All of the Fab Five’s records were erased.

In sports there’s a big difference between playing with confidence and being prideful. Having a little spunk on the court is a good thing. You have to believe that you can win. But when you get prideful, you might start thinking that the rules don’t apply to you—that you can get away with anything. In Obadiah 1:3-4, God’s prophet tells the Edomites that their pride is going to lead to a fall. That’s what happened with the Fab Five. Their pride led to their falling from the heights. What started out with so much promise ended as a failure.

On the Ball

Why do you think pride is so dangerous? Write down some ideas:

Read 2 Timothy 3:1-5. Are you surprised that proud people are mentioned in this list? As you go about your life, try to stay humble.

Coach’s Comment

“You have been deceived by your own pride. . . . Even if you soar as high as eagles and build your nest among the stars, I will bring you crashing down,” says the LORD. Obadiah 1:3-4