As a rookie head coach leading a franchise that, though on a steady climb upwards, had largely been dismissed by the sports media, NBA fans had low expectations for Nick Nurse and his Toronto Raptors. But what those naysayers didn't realize was that Nurse had spent the past thirty years proving himself at every level of the game, from youth programs and college ball, to the NBA G League and Britain's upstart amateur circuit. While few coaches have taken such a circuitous path to the pro basketball's promise land, the journey-which began at Carroll Keumper High in rural Iowa-forged a coach who proved to be as unshakable as he is personable. On the road, he is now known to bring his guitar for late-night Cash and Dylan sessions. In the locker room, he's steadfast and even-keeled regardless of the score. On the court, he pulls out old school, underrated plays with astounding success. A rookie in name but a veteran in attitude, Nurse is seemingly above the chaos of the game and, with only 82 contests on his resumÔe-has established, incredibly, as one of the NBA's most promising head coaches.