Ryan Odom found himself in a unique situation recently as he connected with Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle, just before a pivotal Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks. The casual conversation took place in the visiting locker room at Madison Square Garden, but Odom, also a University of Virginia (UVA) alumnus and current men’s basketball coach, struggled to fully relax as he watched the countdown clock tick away before the game.
Odom recalled the nerve-wracking atmosphere, remarking, “I was a bit nervous…because I kept looking at the clock…and he’s just sitting here being very kind to me.” Despite the pressure of the moment, Carlisle, who has established himself as one of the top coaches in NBA history, took time to catch up, highlighting their long-standing connection that dates back to Odom’s time at UVA in the early 1980s.
Rick Carlisle, a 1984 UVA graduate, has become a prominent figure in basketball, amassing over 990 wins in his 23-season coaching tenure. The Pacers have progressed to the NBA Finals, currently tied at 1-1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Carlisle is on the cusp of making history by needing just three more victories to become the fourth coach to lead two franchises to an NBA championship, having previously secured a title with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011.
Reflecting on his memories of Carlisle, Odom recalled not just Carlisle’s abilities on the court but also his leadership and competitiveness during their time together in college. Odom stated, “He was really competitive and a great leader…and I think that’s certainly continued into his coaching career.” His respect for Carlisle’s adaptability over the years is clear, as Odom noted, “He’s been able to grow with the game and continue to stay ahead of things.”
The two men’s interactions also reflect a shared UVA lineage and pride, as Carlisle has remained connected to his alma mater through various events, and Odom now steps into a role at UVA where he aims to emulate the success exemplified by Carlisle. Their mutual respect and camaraderie highlight not only their individual journeys in basketball but also a warm and supportive community that continues to thrive at UVA.
As the NBA Finals progress, the bond between Carlisle and Odom serves as an example of mentorship and support within the basketball community, inspiring future generations of players and coaches.