Good ideas are like Nike sports shoes. They may facilitate success for an athlete who possesses them, but on their own they are nothing but an overpriced pair of sneakers. Sports shoes don't win races. Athletes do.

This quote is saying that having a good idea is important and can help you be successful, but it is not enough on its own. For example, having a pair of Nike sports shoes can help an athlete perform better, but the shoes themselves will not win the race. It is the athlete and their skill who determines success.