About Author
About Author
Dean Cooper
Dean Cooper, a native of Belding, Michigan, grew up in a loving and tight-knit household where his parents encouraged him to be inquisitive, observant and open-minded. This nurturing foundation shaped Dean’s lifelong curiosity and his willingness to embrace challenges both personally and professionally.
Over the course of more than 20 years in the NBA as a coach and front office executive, Dean has built a remarkable career as a professional basketball coach and organizational leader. Celebrated for his ability to develop players, lead teams, and implement innovative performance strategies, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of conventional thinking in his field.
Dean’s relentless curiosity, thirst for knowledge and passion for growth have behavioral economics and emotional intelligence central to his pursuits. He views these disciplines as powerful tools for helping himself and others function optimally. This passion has led to his consulting ventures and the writing of this book, where he explores these concepts as they relate to leadership and personal growth.
Dean’s journey in the basketball world is as unique as it is inspiring. Having performed virtually every role—from coaching and strategy development to front-office leadership—he brings a holistic perspective to his work. His commitment to giving back what has been given to him is evident in his dedication to helping others succeed. Through consulting and motivational speaking, Dean inspires leaders and teams to reach their full potential. He addresses themes of leadership, personal development, organizational culture, and motivation, offering wisdom drawn from his experiences on and off the court.
Known for his wide-ranging interests, Dean thrives on engaging in meaningful conversations and reaching out to individuals who challenge his thinking. An avid music fan, he finds creative inspiration playing the guitar and piano. Dean currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife Melanie, where he continues to inspire others with his leadership, curiosity, and commitment to the pursuit of wisdom.
