It looks like the policy is: Either you give your best effort (and by now all involved know approximately what that is; we did not see that today from those more capable), or I'll find someone else to that will. Personally, I like it. Strong implications.
Not gong to speculate whence the lack of effort stems; basketball notwithstanding, life generally rolls out plenty of occasions that test the mettle. Sometimes we dig a little deeper, nut up, find another gear...something...or we 'lose'. When that becomes anathema or simply basically unacceptable, then one is hopefully and justifiably compelled to find a way to win. When failure per se ceases to be a motivation, and a learning experience, there's not much left to draw upon.
There's more at stake here than just winning a basketball game, I sense, though...