Never Stop: Life, Leadership, and What It Takes to Be Great

University of Connecticut men’s basketball coach Dan Hurley probably holds the title of the most disliked coach in the sport despite his winning ways on the court. Hurley cannot seem to help himself. He frequently crosses the line, arguing with officials, players, and even fans from other programs. He once declared he was the best coach in the sport. Hurley bleeds complexity and probably serves as his own worst enemy. With this backdrop, Hurley’s memoir Never Stop: Life, Leadership and What it Takes to Be Great, offers a compelling read.

Hurley provides various stories and relates what’s often inside his head. One fascinating story: After UCONN won two national championships, the Los Angeles Lakers wanted Hurley as their coach. He turned them down and told probably the best player on the planet, Lebron James, he was staying at UCONN. The book also mentions Hurley growing up in tough Jersey City, N.J., with a demanding father. Bob Hurley’s dad was a legendary high school coach, winning four national championships and 28 state titles. Hurley’s brother, Bobby, would earn a national championship at Duke as the point guard. Hurley said he constantly felt the pressure to live up to the Hurley name. This is not a book for young sports fans as it contains much profanity. It’s also a reminder that accomplishments are hollow and difficulties are magnified without a faith perspective. (Avid Reader Press)