McDonald's All American Boys East Co-Head Coach Mark Lieberman

The staff of “Inside the Games” recently spoke with Mark Lieberman, co-head coach of the McDonald’s All American Boys East squad. Lieberman is in his twelfth year as head coach of the Monsignor Pace Spartans in Miami, Fla. 

Lieberman talks about co-head coach Darryl Burrows, Miami-area prep superstar Kenny Boynton, and his coaching strategy for the upcoming McDonald’s All American Games in Miami on April 1.  

ITG: How did it feel being named head coach for the McDonald’s All American Games?

ML: Even up until now it hasn’t fully sunk in. It’s a great personal accomplishment. This Game is the crown jewel. I’ve received congrats from friends and coaches around the country. Having my friends, players and everyone come out to watch us will be a great thing.   

ITG: What do you know about your co-head coach for the boys east team, Darryl Burrows?

ML: Darryl is a coaching icon in South Florida at Dillard and has numerous state championships. We spent eight days together in Beijing China working at a skills camp and became good friends. He’s a great family man and a great coach.  

ITG: What can you tell us about local standout Kenny Boynton who was recently named a McDonald’s All American?

ML: We played against Kenny’s team when he was in the eighth grade. He scored 17 points in the forth quarter and we knew then that he was a tremendously gifted player. I’ve followed his career and know he’s a hard worker and a good person. Knowing the time he puts in to make himself an elite player, I’m just looking forward to working with him. 

ITG: What’s the strategy for coaching a roster of the most elite high school all stars?

ML: That’s a good question. Every kid who plays basketball is competitive. These kids just happen to be the best of the best. We’ll just need to go out there and have fun and try to get them as much playing time as possible. I know when it’s time to play the Game, everyone’s engine will be revved up, but I want to make sure they also enjoy the week. 

ITG: You were at a press conference in Miami that brought local reporters together to learn about the Game-week festivities. Did you learn anything about the McDonald’s Games you didn’t know before hand?

ML: Yes. I learned about how proceeds (from the Game) go to the local Ronald McDonald House, and what a great event this is. Since then, I’ve read up on RMHC and it’s amazing. To be a part of a Game that gives back is very rewarding. They do so much good for so many. 

ITG: Beyond being a basketball coach, what advice would you give the McDonald’s All Americans about their lives off-the-court?

ML: The same advice I’d give my players: fame is fleeting. It’s great now and they should enjoy it, but they’ll see at the Ronald McDonald House that there are a lot of people less fortunate. Lot’s of people will be watching what they do on and off the court and looking up to them. They should take basketball and use the game to better themselves and other people.  

ITG: Who is your favorite coach of all time; the coach you look up to most?

ML: Rick Patino. Ever since I was young, I’ve always admired him and how hard he got his team to play. Also, his pressing and attacking nature - on offense and defense - is something I’ve model my teams after. 

ITG: What do you like to do away from the game?  

ML: There isn’t a whole lot of time away from basketball for me. When I can relax, I play a little golf - as badly as I do - but enjoy spending time with friends too. 

ITG: Any pre-game rituals?

ML: Probably not for the McDonald’s Game. Maybe I’ll take a quick jog, but I’m not overly superstitious. Any coach will tell you the hour before any game is nerve wracking. After tip-off I’m fine and you trust how you prepared for that game, but I’m always anxious before the game. 

ITG: What’s your single most memorable coaching experience so far?

ML: I could bore you with tons of moments. I’ve been fortunate to be a part of five state championships and they all stand out. But one of my players heard I was selected to coach the (McDonald’s All American) Game and he called to congratulate me. Just the fact that some of our former players stay in touch with our program and they come and speak to the kids, it’s special for me. 

At the time of this interview, Coach Lieberman’s Spartans had just won their district title in pursuit of a third-straight Florida Class 4A state championship — and the fifth state title under his tenure. Good luck, Coach. We’ll see you in Miami!