Prep School Basketball Culture: What “Cause Over Self” Really Means
In a world where stats and social media often take center stage, the best teams still win the old-fashioned way — by putting the group above the individual.
We dove into this mindset with Coach Joe Mantegna, head coach of the Blair Academy basketball program, whose leadership philosophy helped fuel South Sudan’s historic rise on the international stage. In this conversation, Coach Mantegna shares how the “cause over self” mentality transforms good teams into great ones and how prep school athletes can learn to lead through humility, service, and shared purpose.
Blair Academy legends Luol Deng, Charlie Villanueva, and Royal Ivey stand with Coach Joe Mantegna — a legacy of teamwork, humility, and the “cause over self” culture.
The Meaning Behind “Cause Over Self”
Cory: Joe, when you say cause over self, what does that mean in the context of building great basketball teams?
Joe: “It’s about purpose. It’s about something bigger than yourself. When we started building South Sudan’s national team, everyone had to buy into the cause the opportunity to represent a nation, to inspire unity, to make history. That required each guy to put his ego aside.”
Cory: That’s powerful. Especially in prep school basketball, where everyone wants to stand out for recruiting.
Joe: “Exactly. The irony is that the players who focus on the team first who move the ball, defend, communicate they do stand out. College coaches recognize those traits. You can’t build a championship program if every player is focused only on their role. You build it when everyone connects to a common mission.”
Lessons from South Sudan’s Rise
Blair Academy celebrates a championship moment — a powerful example of teamwork and selfless culture discussed by Coach Joe Mantegna
Cory: You’ve had the chance to coach players competing for something far beyond a scholarship. What did you see in that group that most programs miss?
Joe: “It was humility. Guys were playing for each other, not for highlight reels. They celebrated the extra pass, the defensive stop. That’s rare. When you build that culture whether it’s a prep school or a national team success follows. Winning becomes a byproduct of trust.”
Cory: And that mindset translates perfectly into prep school environments.
Joe: “It does. Because at the prep level, you’re shaping habits that go beyond basketball. Players learn what real leadership looks like, putting others first, handling adversity, staying accountable. Those lessons serve them on and off the court.”
The Blair Academy basketball team celebrates another championship under Coach Joe Mantegna — a true reflection of unity, leadership, and the “cause over self” mindset.
Applying “Cause Over Self” in Prep School Programs
Cory: So, for a player or coach reading this how can they bring that same “cause over self” energy to their team?
Joe: “Start with your culture. Establish non-negotiables: we play unselfishly, we respect every role, we value effort over ego. Coaches have to model it first if they chase wins over development, players will do the same. But when they model selflessness, players follow.”
Cory: It’s that consistency players know exactly what the program stands for.
Joe: “Yes, and you reinforce it every day. The small things like how you talk in the locker room, how you respond to mistakes, how you celebrate others. It all matters. Cause over self is a daily choice.”
The Prep School Connection: Building True Leaders
Blair Academy’s defense in action — proof that championship teams are built on effort, communication, and selfless play.
Cory: At PREP Athletics, we talk a lot about helping players find the right fit. That’s not just about basketball style, it’s about culture.
Joe: “That’s right. Players need to be in environments where the message aligns with their goals. If a family values development, academics, and character, they need to find a prep school that reinforces those things. That’s how you grow leaders, not just athletes.”
Conclusion: The Legacy of Selfless Teams
Championship programs whether in prep school, college, or international competition are built on one shared truth: the best teams serve a higher purpose.
Coach Mantegna’s story reminds us that selflessness isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a competitive advantage. The players who lead with purpose, humility, and heart not only win more games they earn lifelong respect.
If your family or program is ready to find that kind of culture, we’re here to help.
If you’re looking into prep school, reach out to us at PREP Athletics. We’re here to help you explore your potential and make choices that align with your athletic and academic future. We’ve also got a long list of resources to get you started in the right direction, so check out our latest prep basketball updates on YouTube or our podcast to dive deeper.