Dr. Lorenzo Guess

Dr. Lorenzo Guess is the Director of Athletic Performance/Men’s Basketball Strength & Conditioning at Michigan State University, a Leadership Course Instructor, and Public Speaker. He has spent more than a decade at Michigan State University shaping athletes not only into stronger players but also into better leaders. As the Director of Athletic Performance and the Director of Strength & Conditioning for men’s basketball, he is recognized as much for his ability to inspire and mentor student-athletes as for his elite training expertise.

Named to his current basketball role in August 2022, Dr. Guess works daily in the state-of-the-art Draymond Green Strength & Conditioning Center, guiding players through programs designed to maximize their potential on and off the court. His coaching goes beyond physical development—he teaches discipline, leadership, and resilience, building habits that last long after their playing careers.

Previously, as MSU’s Director of Player Enrichment for a decade, Dr. Guess ran the “Overtime” program, helping football players grow in character, leadership, and life skills. He also taught a Student Leadership course at MSU, reinforcing his commitment to preparing young athletes for success beyond the game.
A former Spartan himself—earning letters in both football and basketball—Dr. Guess understands firsthand the challenges student-athletes face. That experience drives his passion for helping players grow as people, students, and competitors. His doctoral research on the educational barriers African American male student-athletes face underscores his dedication to supporting athletes well beyond the weight room.
Respected nationally as a Master Strength and Conditioning Coach, Dr. Guess blends technical mastery with genuine care for his players, making him one of the most impactful mentors in college athletics today.

Dr. Lorenzo Guess takes you into the huddle and behind the scenes to provide valuable insight into the daily structure and mental preparation required to excel at all levels of athletics. Whether a beginner or veteran in the sport’s arena, the tools to enhance your performance are presented to the reader in an organized and usable format.
~ Mark Dantonio, Hall of Fame Head Coach, Most Winning Coach in Michigan State University history

Not only does Dr. Guess have a passion for athletics, but he also cares deeply about blessing and guiding young men to become successful husbands and fathers in society after their sports careers are over.
~ Spencer Brown, Saskatchewan Roughrider Football Club Inc., former MSU Football Student-Athlete

Coach Guess was one of the best coaches I’ve had, both in training and more importantly in life. He taught us lessons to help strengthen our bodies and also our minds for our careers after college. He’s hands-on and cares about the guys he works with. A special human being. He’s a guy I grew to love, and I cherish our relationship.
~ Davis Smith, Basketball Operations Manager, New Orleans Pelicans, former MSU Basketball Student-Athlete

DO NOT let the cover mislead you into thinking this book is only for basketball players or even athletes. This is a MUST READ—not only will it help you become a better athlete, but you will also learn lessons you can APPLY to improve your daily life. Structure and discipline will take you far, but when combined with your dedication and DECISIONS, the impact can be everlasting. This book takes you on that journey. Improve your confidence both on the field and in your everyday life. The author, Dr. Guess, is living proof. Dojo Decisions can be passed down for generations, helping your lineage grow while sharpening your extended family to become “examples” of how to attack life.
~ Darqueze Dennard, DB Coach, Czech Republic, Michigan State Hall of Famer, Unanimous All-American, Jim Thorpe Award Winner, First Round Draft Pick

I have known Dr. Lorenzo Guess since he was 13 years old. Lorenzo gained national recognition as a high school athlete in football and basketball. His success in college and beyond has been marked by leadership, innovation, and academic achievement. Lorenzo has worked closely with many top-tier athletes to help them reach their full potential. His guidance and advice are highly sought after by a broad range of serious athletes.
~ William Gray, Ed. Sp., Retired Psychologist