Sam Presti and Robert Caro’s Philosophy: A Winning Approach for the Thunder
Five days before the start of training camp, after the first NBA championship for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Sam Presti, the team’s general manager, sat down in front of the media. The executive, known for his discretion, offered his traditional press conference, an unusual event in which he opens up to the public. During the conference, which lasted almost two hours, Presti shared his reflections on the growth of the NBA and the challenges of the Thunder’s 18th season. As usual, at the end of the meeting, he was asked about his recent readings. On this occasion, Presti mentioned works by Joan Didion, Le Corbusier, and “The Science of Hitting” by Ted Williams, showing the diversity of his interests. However, one name resonated strongly: Robert Caro, the acclaimed Pulitzer Prize-winning historian. Presti has repeatedly cited Caro as a source of inspiration, highlighting his philosophy and process as a guide to building the Thunder. Caro, for his part, feels honored by this public admiration.Presti’s admiration for Caro dates back to 2020, when he mentioned the book “Master of the Senate” during a Zoom call. Four years later, at the opening of the Thunder’s championship season, Presti quoted Caro’s famous phrase: “You have to turn every page.” This idea has been a pillar in the team’s strategy, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and exploring all possibilities. The repetition of this philosophy, often described as a cliché, is fundamental to Presti and the Thunder. The team firmly believes in the need to be curious and open to new ideas, a mindset that informs every decision. The admiration for Caro is not limited to Presti. His work, including the series on Lyndon Johnson, has sold millions of copies and has been the subject of exhibitions and tributes. In the NBA world, Sam Hinkie, former general manager of the Philadelphia 76ers, is also a fervent admirer of Caro, and even named his investment firm 87 Capital, in reference to one of the historian’s books. Caro, for his part, also feels a passion for basketball. In his youth, he practiced this sport and was a sports writer. His methodical approach, based on “turning every page,” dates back to his beginnings as a journalist, when he received this advice from his editor, Alan Hathaway. This philosophy has guided his work and has resonated with people from various fields, including Presti. In the context of the Thunder’s success, Caro has expressed that, while he is flattered by the influence of his philosophy, it is the players and coaches who win championships. Steven Taylor, a close friend of Presti, suggested that the transcripts of the general manager’s press conferences be published as a book. In one of them, Presti emphasized the need to “turn the page”, referring to the renewal necessary to face the new season. This idea, inspired by Caro, became a mantra for the team, urging them to leave behind past success and focus on the future with curiosity and dedication.I am truly touched.
Robert Caro
