'Beyond the Court' with Zaza Pachulia

In this episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, Andy Lopata interviews Zaza Pachulia, a former professional basketball player and current executive at the Golden State Warriors. Zaza won two NBA championships with the Warriors and played over a thousand games in the NBA. He was born in Georgia and came to the US via Turkey, overcoming the enormous competition of traditional basketball-playing nations. He discusses his passion for basketball and shares how his love and commitment to the game, combined with his hard work, sacrifice, and self-discipline, helped him achieve success in an arena where talent alone is not enough. Pachulia also talks about the challenges he faced in maintaining relationships with friends and family while dedicating his life to basketball and how he achieved balance during the off-season. Zaza shares his early struggles in the league and how he focused on overcoming his weaknesses to become a top player. He emphasises the importance of acknowledging one's weaknesses, being open to learning, and seeking help. Zaza also talks about the support he received from his teammates, mentors and coaches. He gives examples of how veteran players mentored him and shared their knowledge and experience with him, and how his European older brother, Tony Kukoc, helped him navigate his early career. Zaza reflects on his struggles throughout his 16-year career, including the cultural shock and mental health challenges, and discusses how he addressed them through positivity, consistency, and with support. Andy and Zaza talk about the importance of being a role model, inspiring and motivating kids throughout his career, emphasising the impact that role models had on him when he was growing up. Mentoring young players, such as Yanis Antetokounmpo, and being a positive influence is an essential part of his post-basketball career. Zaza also highlights the importance of continuing to learn and grow, citing his own experiences studying at prestigious business schools in the US. He stresses the importance of being prepared for life after sports, as injury or unexpected circumstances can abruptly end a career; athletes need to have a plan B. Communication and connection within organisations has been important. Also, bridging business and sports departments and understanding the business side of the NBA. This episode highlights the importance of caring deeply about one's work, investing hours of hard work, sacrifice, and self-discipline, and achieving balance in life to succeed professionally and personally. Listen to this episode to learn more from Zaza and his journey to success! Connect with Andy Lopata Website Connect With Zaza Pachulia LinkedIn