• Toughness

  • Developing True Strength On and Off the Court
  • By: Jay Bilas
  • Narrated by: Jay Bilas
  • Length: 7 hrs and 31 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (450 ratings)

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Toughness  By  cover art

Toughness

By: Jay Bilas
Narrated by: Jay Bilas
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Publisher's summary

The popular ESPN basketball analyst and former Duke player looks at the true meaning of toughness.

If anyone knows tough, it’s Jay Bilas. A four-year starter at Duke, he learned an incomparable work ethic under coach Mike Krzyzewski, battling against the greatest college players in the game. After playing professionally overseas for several years, he returned to Duke, where he served as Krzyzewski’s assistant coach for three seasons, during which the Blue Devils won back-to-back titles. A graduate of Duke Law School, he has since become one of basketball’s most recognizable faces through his insightful, intelligent work on ESPN’s SportsCenter and College GameDay.

Through his ups and downs, on and off the court, Jay learned the true meaning of toughness from coaches, teammates, and colleagues. Now, he discusses this misunderstood - yet vital - attribute and how it contributes to winning in sports and in life.

Featuring never-before-heard stories and personal philosophies on toughness from top players and coaches - including Coach K, Bob Knight, Grant Hill, Mia Hamm, Jon Gruden, Tom Izzo, Bill Self, Curtis Strange, and many others - Bilas redefines what it takes to succeed.

©2013 Jay Bilas (P)2013 Gildan Media LLC

What listeners say about Toughness

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Very good lessons in toughness

I got a lot of good information and encouragement from listening to this audio book!! I Recommend, definitely.

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Great Book by A Dukie Who This Tarheel Admires

What made the experience of listening to Toughness the most enjoyable?

He reveals Duke players were relieved when North Carolina lost to Kansas in the 1991 Final Four semifinals.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Toughness?

His talking about how his parents, coaches, and a drama teacher influenced him.

What does Jay Bilas bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

He is a very fair, honest person on his telecasts, it brings more meaning to his story.

What insight do you think you’ll apply from Toughness?

Not to get angry and blow up - it is just a sign of weakness. And that true toughness is mental, not physical.

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Just all of the sports references that can also pertain to life.

I enjoyed that Jay was a wonderful narrator, there were good takeaways, length was ideal, in chapter and total book. My boyfriend suggested this book and I’m glad he did.

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Loved it!

Not just for sports fans. The author talks about many aspects of his life and stories of other peoples lives. It really made a difference.

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A must read for every coach and player

I listen/read this book every year prior to the start of the season. We also read his ESPN article as a team!

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Clear Definition

Thank you Jay Bilas for this clear cut definition of toughness. Great examples to share with colleagues and teammates!

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Great advice!

Great practical advice that anyone can use, athlete or not! It makes you rethink how to approach life.

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Toughness is more than we consider

Excellent use of time to be retaught the meaning of toughness. Jay Bilas has used his training as a lawyer to take a deep look into what toughness means in life and in basketball. Many traits of toughness are common sense and it’s great to be reminded of them. Every bit of this book has stories, teaching points, and memorable examples. The final fifteen minutes covers the most important “toughness characteristics” in basketball.

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Outstanding

A Must read for all parents, coaches, players, and leaders. I will listen to this book over a few more times!

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One of the Best Basketball Books

Great stuff Jay. Great insight into the individual and how they can become a better teammate , better player and reach potential.

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