Uploaded September 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 hours ago

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Coach Mark Gottfried interviews Thurl Bailey about his journey at NC State and their 1983 national championship. Bailey discusses the uncertainty following Coach Sloan's departure and how Coach Valvano's charismatic leadership and vision for a championship united the team. The conversation also covers Bailey's NBA career, the influence of legendary figures like Michael Jordan and John Stockton, and how college basketball has evolved. This episode offers an inspiring look at leadership, trust, and the pursuit of greatness in sports.

1:30 - Thurl Bailey the person.
2:00 - Why NC State?
5:24 - Saying NO to John Thompson.
8:15 - Coaching change at NC State.
9:45 - Here comes Jim Valvano.
12:30 - Valvano builds relationships.
20:00 - The run to the national title.
30:00 - The confidence grows on the way to the Natty.
35:00 - Getting drafted by the Utah Jazz.
36:00 - Playing for Jerry Sloan.
43:30 - John Stockton joins from Gonzaga.
48:00 - Competing against MJ.
50:00 - The ACC era.
56:00 - “How basketball saved my life.”