From Quarry to Glory: Pepu Hernández’s Basketball Journey

Pepu Hernández, a Madrid native, is a name synonymous with Spanish basketball’s golden era. His coaching prowess led Spain to its first-ever World Cup victory in 2006, marking a historic milestone. This triumph opened a new chapter of glory for Spanish basketball, culminating in four European Championships and another World Cup between 2009 and 2022.

A Return to the Basics

After his stint with the national team, Hernández returned to his roots, dedicating himself to coaching young players. He currently works with a group of kids at a local school, the Holy Angel in Canillejas, where he conducts basketball training sessions.

“I am in a quiet moment of my life. With basketball, I have a slight relationship. I still at the Student Foundation and there is something that I do not do, I feel bad: train. In a very modest school in my neighborhood, the Holy Angel, in Canillejas, I do technification with a group of kids. I show you one day a week to spend and throw. That complements me, I need it. It fills me. When I have nightmares, it is not because I lose a game, but because I get late to training.”

Coaching Philosophy and Legacy

Hernández’s coaching philosophy emphasizes not just technical skills but also the holistic development of players. He believes in forming well-rounded individuals who understand the responsibilities of being a coach and a player.

“I have always thought I am a training coach. I like to form players and young coaches, so they know what it is to be a coach and what responsibilities they have. Poor that only teaches technical and tactics. We form people. It may sound pretentious to influence the personality of the boys, but it is good to work in their education. I turn it many times to preserve a friendly and healthy field in basketball. It is very important for me. The three legs are parents, teachers and coaches.”

Early Days and Political Foray

Hernández’s journey into coaching began at a young age, driven by his passion for the sport. He started coaching at 15, initially as an assistant, which eventually led him to his first coaching position. His political career, though brief, was marked by his efforts to bring a sports-oriented approach to governance.

“I tried to speak and reach agreements. Very difficult. They did not compete for 365 days a year. Where does that happen? Only in politics. That can’t be, it is useless. There is never a break. They want people from other areas to go, but then they seem upset. They need to learn to listen. I am not regretting to pass by, but I enjoyed very little.”

Impact on Spanish Basketball

Hernández’s impact on Spanish basketball is immeasurable. His coaching style and the values he instilled in his players have left a lasting legacy. The 2006 World Cup victory was a turning point, removing complexes and teaching the team to win while maintaining their unique style and personality.

“He removed complexes. He taught us to win. It was very important to maintain style and personality even if a player was missing. Then four Europeans and another World Cup have come. No one has achieved that. Spaniards have modernized us as a society, has helped us transform. As a child I wanted to be Santana, Ángel Nieto, Mariano Haro … They were them alone. Today we are equipment. Working together gives us a lot as a society. In Spain we are very divided, but sport unites us.”

Current Challenges in Basketball

Despite the successes, Hernández is critical of the current state of basketball in Spain, particularly the challenges faced by young players. He believes that the system needs to balance the ease of rising through the ranks with the difficulties that can lead to abandonment.

“The quarry is always profitable. It may not be economically, but in other terms. There are teams with a vocation so that the boys who can be in the selection go ahead. Difficulties are always there. What cannot be is that we close the spite and that there is, or a tremendous ease for the young man to rise, and then it does not cost him and does not take benefit, or so much difficulty he abandons in his way. There we have a problem.”

FAQs

What is Pepu Hernández known for?

Pepu Hernández is known for leading the Spanish national basketball team to its first-ever World Cup victory in 2006 and for his significant contributions to the development of young players.

What is Pepu Hernández’s coaching philosophy?

Hernández’s coaching philosophy emphasizes the holistic development of players, focusing on technical skills, personal growth, and the responsibilities of being a coach and a player.

What challenges does Pepu Hernández see in Spanish basketball?

Hernández sees challenges in the current system, particularly the balance between the ease of rising through the ranks and the difficulties that can lead to the abandonment of the sport by young players.

Did You Know?

Pepu Hernández’s coaching style has influenced a generation of Spanish basketball players, many of whom continue to excel in the sport today.

Pro Tips from Pepu Hernández

“Basketball is more than just a game; it’s about forming well-rounded individuals who understand the responsibilities of being a coach and a player.”

Reader Questions

What do you think are the most important values to instill in young basketball players? Share your thoughts in the comments below!