Rapture

Written in his own voice, this book traces the experiences and lessons behind Nick Nurse's first season as head coach of the Toronto Raptors, a season that ended with an NBA title. Phil Jackson contributes the foreword. Few observers expected much from the rookie coach, yet Nurse had spent roughly three decades coaching at every level, from youth teams and college programs to the NBA Development League and the faltering professional scene in Britain. His route started at Kuemper Catholic High School in Carroll, Iowa. Away from home games he plays guitar and keyboard, performing jazz and blues late into the night. Inside the locker room he stays calm whatever the scoreboard says, and on the floor he relies on traditional strategies that often work surprisingly well. Although only two seasons into his NBA career, he already ranks among the league's most respected head coaches. The book blends personal memoir, a guide to leadership, and philosophical reflection. Nurse was granted rare access to the Raptors' locker room, which allows readers to see the culture he built and his relationship with star players Kawhi Leonard, Kyle Lowry, and Pascal Siakam during the 2019 championship run. It will appeal to readers who admire the work of Ray Dalio, John Wooden, and Pat Summitt, and to anyone trying to chart their own route to success.