Confidence is Key: Isaiah Coleman-Lands' Lifelong Mindset

There was never a doubt in Isaiah Coleman-Lands' mind after the ball came off his hand. In the final moments of a 2018 mid-season matchup at Wright State, the then-sophomore guard slid into position, set his feet, and released a pure jumper as time expired, delivering the final blow and lifting Miami to a 65-62 victory.

"The play wasn't even drawn up for me," Coleman-Lands admitted with a smile. "You practice those shots when you're young, so I knew it was cash as soon as it left my hand."

Confidence has never been a problem for Coleman-Lands, who is now preparing for his final season suiting up for the RedHawks. It's a trait that has been instilled in him since he was young and one he has leaned on several times throughout his life.

Growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, Coleman-Lands recalls his mother ingraining in him and his older brother the idea never to let their confidence waver, regardless of the situation.

Coleman-Lands used this advice throughout his childhood, especially when he first laced up his sneakers and picked up a basketball. The Miami guard remembers battling against his older brother, Jalen, and anyone else around the neighborhood who was willing to challenge him. Despite him not being the largest player on the court, Coleman-Lands developed an almost innate feel for the game to ensure he left his mark every time he stepped on the floor. That confidence added another key piece to his repertoire as the young guard prepared to enter high school.

Coleman-Lands and his family relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, right before he reached high school. Along with his brother, the young guard ultimately enrolled at La Lumiere School, a premier boarding school just three hours north of his family's new hometown.

Both boys were part of a group that helped elevate La Lumiere to national prominence, securing a national title in 2017. Still, the transition from home was admittedly tricky for Coleman-Lands.

"It was a highly competitive environment, and it forced me to grow up real quick," he said. "Living on your own at 14, you have to gain some kind of maturity to thrive."

And thrive, he did. With his brother by his side and with his strong sense of self, Coleman-Lands went on to be a 4-year letter winner, a McDonald's All-American nominee, and a national champion during his time at La Lumiere.

As Coleman-Lands began to pursue potential opportunities in college, he was looking for two specific things: good academics and a chance to play from the beginning. Miami checked both boxes, which made Oxford an excellent fit for Coleman-Lands as he looked to take his game to the next level.

During his first year at Miami, Coleman-Lands noticed personal growth both on and off the court. On the court, the young guard had to acclimate to a new style of play.

"The game was faster. You're playing against grown men who are at the same level of talent as you," The senior RedHawk explained. "The preparation is totally different as well. You can't just roll the ball out and start playing."

However, the more significant adjustment for Coleman-Lands came off the court.

College is an unfamiliar environment for everyone when they first step on campus, and Coleman-Lands knew that. So throughout his first year, he challenged himself to step out of his comfort zone and meet new people, something that he looks back on with fond memories.

"I didn't want to be the guy that just stayed to himself or the basketball team," Coleman-Lands recalled. "So I made sure to make an effort to be approachable and just be another guy on campus."

Now coming into his final season, Coleman-Lands draws on his lessons and experiences to ensure he goes out on his terms. After a sophomore year where injuries kept him sidelined and then a 2020-21 season where nothing was ever certain, the senior guard is relishing the idea of finally stringing together a complete season.

As a leader on the team, Coleman-Lands recognizes the new role he is stepping into and is completely embracing the responsibility. The senior guard said that so many people have mentored him over the years that it's time for him to return the favor and help set a standard of success for future teams at Miami.

Until the time comes to hang up his jersey, Coleman-Lands is completely devoted to the RedHawks program and is constantly working to instill in his teammates the same confidence he carries with him. None of the game-winners, the injuries, or the uncertainties matter anymore. All that matters is the here and now, and Coleman-Lands isn't taking a moment for granted.

His goal is nothing less than a MAC championship, and his confidence may be exactly what the RedHawks need to bring a trophy back to Oxford.

Find more Front Row Features at MiamiRedHawks.com/FrontRowFeatures.

Confidence is Key: Isaiah Coleman-Lands' Lifelong Mindset

Players Mentioned

Isaiah Coleman-Lands

Related Videos