By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

"Never Stop: Life, Leadership, and What It Takes to Be Great" by Dan Hurley and Ian O'Connor is a compelling narrative that delves into the tumultuous journey of Dan Hurley, the head coach who revitalized the University of Connecticut's men's basketball program. The book offers an unfiltered look at Hurley's path from the shadows of his family's basketball legacy to achieving back-to-back NCAA Championships with the Huskies.

Hurley's lineage is steeped in basketball excellence; his father, Bob Hurley Sr., is a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, and his brother, Bobby Hurley, is a celebrated Duke University icon. Despite this, Dan's journey was fraught with personal and professional challenges. The book candidly explores his battles with anxiety and depression, shedding light on the immense pressures that come with high-level coaching. Hurley's transparency about contemplating resignation after the 2024-25 season due to burnout adds a layer of authenticity to his story. He reflects, "I knew my mind, and I knew my body, and I could feel that I was completely cooked." ([si.com](https://www.si.com/college-basketball/dan-hurley-almost-left-uconn?utm_source=openai))

Co-authored by Ian O'Connor, a seasoned sports journalist known for his incisive biographies, the book benefits from O'Connor's narrative prowess. His previous works, such as "Belichick: The Making of the Greatest Football Coach of All Time," demonstrate his ability to dissect complex figures in the sports world. In "Never Stop," O'Connor's collaboration with Hurley results in a narrative that is both intimate and instructive, offering readers a playbook on resilience and leadership.

The book has garnered praise from notable figures in the sports community. Mike Krzyzewski, the legendary Duke coach, remarks, "Dan Hurley emerged from one of the finest leadership families our sport has known, so it is no surprise that he set a standard at UConn that few coaches have ever matched." ([simonandschuster.com](https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Never-Stop/Ian-OConnor/9781668095744?utm_source=openai)) Such endorsements underscore the book's credibility and the respect Hurley commands in the basketball fraternity.

However, while the book excels in portraying Hurley's personal struggles and triumphs, it occasionally veers into self-congratulatory territory. The narrative sometimes feels like an extended pat on the back, which might not sit well with readers seeking a more balanced perspective. Additionally, the book's focus is predominantly on Hurley's journey, with limited insights into the broader dynamics of college basketball coaching.

In conclusion, "Never Stop" is a raw and honest account of a coach's relentless pursuit of excellence against formidable odds. It serves as an inspiring read for those interested in sports, leadership, and personal growth. While it has its shortcomings, the book's candidness and the lessons it imparts make it a worthwhile addition to the genre.

Recommendation: Recommended.

written on: 10/9/2025