It was 1909 when the first notion of “Father’s Day” was ever heard. There were no greeting cards, just the idea that dads deserved to be recognized for who they are and what they do. Today, Father’s Day is recognized as somewhat of a national holiday and people celebrate the dads in their lives each year with gifts and praise.

In the Cooper household, the very first concept of a father’s courage, selflessness and love mattering most still holds true.

Michael Cooper has four children, Michael Jr., Simone, Miles and Nils with ages varying from 4-28 and each kid has had a different experience with their father but all share the same sentiment.

“He is an amazing father,” said Simone, 26. “When I was growing up, I never knew how big his job was because he always there. He would come home and give us all of his energy. He was never too tired and he made us feel like it was all about us.”

In talking to Coop, it’s evident that his kids are most important in his life and he takes his position as “dad” more seriously than any job. The time it takes to have a career as an NBA star and professional coach would be hard to manage for anyone let alone balance raising kids AND making them feel special.

“It doesn’t matter what your job is,” said Cooper. “Nobody has a choice on what life they are born into and it’s something you just do. I try to take time for all of my kids and I love them all the same.”

Easier said than done right? Apparently not. Cooper prides himself on making sure that his family comes first. He checks in from the road when he’s not at home, he brings his kids to practice and events and even in his busiest times flies across the country to surprise them.

“My favorite memory is when he flew to Philadelphia and came to my very first football game,” said Miles, 19. “I was in 7th grade and I had never played before. He flew all the way there just to see me. He did it just to surprise me. That’s the kind of dad he is. He goes the extra mile to let us know that we are most important to him.”

Isn’t that the true testament of what a father does? Someone that is always there for you, that is always on your side and loves you no matter what? ”

They are all different and I have to give each of them different types of attention. The most important thing is that I’m always there for them, no matter what is going on,” said Cooper.

Coop has learned a lot from being a parent, stating that “fatherhood isn’t easy” but that it’s worth it.

“Being a father means the world,” said Cooper. “I cherish it every day. My kids bring me joy and happiness every day. To me, being a dad means being supportive during the good times and the bad times and being a teacher and that’s what I try to do.”