Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic believes that the old-school method of cursing at players is ineffective in today’s NBA.
The Serbian coach shared his perspective on the X&O’s Chat podcast, emphasizing that players respond better to constructive communication. “You can train NBA players, you can tell them everything, but there is no need to yell at them, curse at them, and insult them,” Rajakovic said, via HoopsHype.
His comments highlight a stark contrast between coaching styles in Europe and the NBA. In European basketball, intense verbal confrontations are still widely accepted, with legendary Serbian coach Željko Obradović often using harsh language to push his players. Rajakovic, however, has adapted to the league’s evolving approach to leadership.
“As an assistant and head coach in the NBA, I have never experienced one player who didn’t want to be coached,” Rajakovic continued. “But the approach to every player is different. Some need encouragement, some need criticism.”
Rajakovic stressed that communication should be tailored to the individual, rather than resorting to profanity. “Sometimes you need to put your player on the bench and explain something. But cursing at them and insulting them leads to nothing. We are in 2024—I think that approach is not productive anymore.”
Many modern NBA coaches, including Steve Kerr and Erik Spoelstra, are known for fostering positive environments rather than relying on intimidation.
Despite Toronto’s struggles this season, Rajakovic has maintained a focus on development and accountability. The Raptors (28-47) currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Chicago Bulls (33-42) by five games for the final play-in spot with only six games remaining.
Rajakovic took over as head coach before the 2023-24 season, replacing Nick Nurse, who led Toronto to the 2019 NBA championship. With a young core featuring Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett, the Raptors are in the midst of a rebuilding phase.
