Skip to content

Basketball Quote by Steve Ballmer

“I don't have a lot of experience running basketball teams.I'm just trying to get smart enough even to understand everything going on. As much of a fan as I am, I haven't played the game since ninth-grade. If you told me when I bought the team that there were 12 kinds of pick and rolls, I would've…” quote by Steve Ballmer
Download Open image
“I don't have a lot of experience running basketball teams.I'm just trying to get smart enough even to understand everything going on. As much of a fan as I am, I haven't played the game since ninth-grade. If you told me when I bought the team that there were 12 kinds of pick and rolls, I would've told you I have no frickin' clue about that.”

Steve Ballmer

About This Quote

Source Interview: Business Insider, 2015

An inexperienced leader acknowledges his lack of technical knowledge, emphasizing humility and the willingness to learn.

In simple terms: Admitting ignorance is a step toward growth.

Key Takeaway

Stay humble and seek expertise.

Themes

leadership learning humility growth self‑awareness

Mood

reflective determined pragmatic

Type

advice personal development leadership

When to use this quote

  • new management role
  • sports franchise ownership
  • strategic decision‑making

Key Concepts

organizational learning knowledge gaps executive development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can a novice leader take to quickly gain competence?
  • How can teams support a leader with limited experience?
A Different Perspective

Admitting ignorance can undermine confidence; expertise is needed.

2.1 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Steve Ballmer

Explore all 134 Steve Ballmer quotes

More Basketball quotes

Browse all 5,387 Basketball quotes