About the Guest(s):

Precious Ivy: Precious Ivy is a highly accomplished basketball coach currently serving as the head coach at Trinity Valley Community College.

With an impressive record of 126 wins and 20 losses over the past five years, she has developed more than 35 athletes for Division 1 schools and led her teams to two national championship games, four NJCAA tournament appearances, two of which were runner-up finishes, and one elite eight appearance.

A two-time region coach of the year, Precious Ivy draws on her rich coaching journey and personal experience as a junior college product to mold future basketball stars.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the "It's Just Different" podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with the formidable Coach Precious Ivy to discuss her illustrious coaching career and the distinct culture at Trinity Valley Community College.

A product of junior college herself, Coach Ivy shares insights into the unique journey of athletes through the junior college route, the importance of fostering a winning culture, and the pivotal role of community support in sustaining success. Her reflections are not just anecdotes but are embedded with actionable advice and authentic perspectives on the evolving landscape of collegiate sports.

Through lively dialogue, the episode delves into the transformation of junior college basketball over the years, emphasizing the impact of the transfer portal and the heightened attention on recruiting high school seniors.

Coach Ivy discusses the critical elements that define a championship team, including fostering a loud and competitive environment, cultivating discipline, and ensuring each student-athlete embodies the program's high standards.

Her frank and empowering discussion serves as a guiding light for athletes, coaches, and parents navigating the ever-changing collegiate athletics landscape, stressing the importance of being realistic and self-driven in realizing one's potential.

Key Takeaways:

• Junior college basketball has evolved from a transfer holding space to a vital starting point for high school seniors aiming for Division 1.

• Competition, loud communication, and discipline are essential ingredients in creating a championship-winning team culture.

• Self-awareness and realism are crucial for athletes and parents when evaluating college opportunities and making informed decisions.

• Coaches must balance maintaining traditional standards with adapting to new challenges presented by the contemporary athlete and sports environment.

• Preparing student-athletes for life beyond basketball is just as critical as preparing them for success on the court.

  
  

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About the Guest(s):

Coach Williams is a seasoned basketball coach with 14 years of experience across high school and college levels. Currently, she serves as the head women's basketball coach at Kilgore College, leading her team with a strong focus on development both on and off the court.

Her past roles include positions at Bossier Parish Community College, North Caddo High School, East Texas Baptist, and Texas A&M Commerce, reflecting a wide-ranging expertise in coaching, player development, and program building.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the "It's Just Different" podcast, host Ashley Roberts chats with Coach Williams about the nuances and evolving landscape of women's basketball, with a special focus on the junior college (Juco) pathway.

Williams shares her insights on the untapped potential and opportunities that Juco provides for student-athletes. The episode dives deep into Williams’ journey from coaching high school teams to leading a collegiate team, and how she manages her roles with family life.

Ashley and Coach Williams exchange ideas about the stigma that sometimes surrounds Juco. They explore effective ways for athletes and their families to navigate the recruitment process, debunking myths and emphasizing the value and prestige of Juco sports programs.

Williams discusses her approach to coaching, which balances athletic rigor with personal development, preparing her athletes for success beyond basketball. With a wealth of experience, she highlights the importance of communication between coaches, players, and parents to foster a thriving team environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Junior college basketball offers significant opportunities for athletes to develop skills and gain exposure.

• Coach Williams emphasizes building a strong culture and transparent communication with players and their families.

• Balancing family life and a coaching career is possible through organization and setting priorities.

• Encouraging parents to reflect positive support can enhance an athlete’s recruiting prospects.

• Region 14 is known for its competitive women's basketball teams and provides high-level exposure to athletes.

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About the Guest(s):

Byron Nelson High School's basketball team appears, including Coach Foster, Coach T Rob, and Coach Reeves. Coach Foster brings extensive experience from coaching in West Texas and Plano East, while Coach T Rob adds value with her background from Keller Central and her tenure as a varsity assistant. Coach Reeves is the team's dedicated strength coach, emphasizing athlete development.

Episode Summary:

This engaging episode captures insights from Coach Foster, T Rob, and strength coach Reeves as they share their perspectives on the evolving dynamics of high school basketball. The discussion highlights changes in coaching tactics, player development, and the significant role of a dedicated strength coach.

Coaches Foster and T Rob reflect on the changes in girls' high school basketball and how player empowerment has grown over time.

Emphasizing shooting techniques and dynamic plays, they discuss how current students, inspired by players like Caitlin Clark, are evolving in their gameplay.

The coaches also focus on the importance of having a dedicated strength coach to manage the physical development of the team, a role previously absorbed by head coaches juggling multiple responsibilities. This evolution reflects a broader movement for specialized coaching in high school sports.

The episode also covers the cultural shift within the Byron Nelson program. Post a challenging season without senior players, the school is nurturing a team culture of enthusiasm and high expectations.

The conversation touches on how shifts in training, offseason workouts, and even interactions with college recruiters have positioned Byron Nelson for a comeback. Coaches elaborate on integrating AAU coaching experiences, striking a balance between high school and AAU culture, and fostering a competitive environment that ensures both team and individual growth.

Key Takeaways:

• The evolution of girls' high school basketball reflects changes in play style and coaching methodologies, inspired by players like Caitlin Clark.

• Dedicated strength coaching is crucial for athlete development, helping relieve the burden from head coaches managing multiple roles.

• Byron Nelson High School is fostering a culture of enthusiasm, toughness, and high expectations, with the aim of building a resilient basketball program.

• Communication and managing relationships with parents are essential to a successful high school program, necessitating transparency and constant dialogue.

• Incorporating experiences from AAU basketball, the Coaching Staff at Byron Nelson High School is enriching their program, encouraging player exposure and development.

  
  

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About the Guest(s):

Yolanda Harris is a former collegiate player and mom of a former McDonald's All-American daughter Zay Green. She has played at Tennessee, Texas A&M, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and currently at Alabama.

Durmon Jennings serves as an associate coach at UNT. With a decade of experience in college basketball coaching, Jennings is recognized for his strategic recruiting methods and emphasis on fostering a dog mentality in his players. His approach integrates player development with a strong focus on teamwork and accountability.

Kendall Mosley is a San Diego State signee and a high school basketball standout. Kendall’s journey is marked by perseverance, having received college offers late in her high school career. Her dedication to honing her craft, especially her shooting skills, has positioned her as a promising talent in collegiate basketball.

Adhel Tac is currently playing for UNT's women's basketball team after experiences at both TCU and UTEP. Known for her versatile playing style and leadership qualities, she contributes significantly on and off the court through her seasoned insights and effective communication.

In this special birthday episode of "It's Just Different" podcast, Ashley Roberts brings together a dynamic panel to dive deep into the evolving landscape of women's basketball, the pressures of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, and the recruiting process. The guests share personal stories of resilience, highlight different facets of their careers, and discuss the vital importance of building a strong support system around athletes.

The episode discusses what's currently trending in basketball, including NIL impacts and athlete visibility. Coach Jennings elaborates on recruitment strategies and what they seek in prospective student-athletes. Kendall Moseley offers an inspiring account of her journey from an unknown to a sought-after talent, spotlighting the significance of perseverance and self-belief.

Adhel Tac reflects on navigating her college basketball path and emphasizes the importance of identity beyond sports. Another focal point of the conversation is the importance of social media as a branding tool, reinforcing its role in building a player's persona. As the guests recount experiences from their basketball journeys, they offer invaluable advice to both athletes and their parents.

Key takeaways:

• NIL deals are significantly impacting college sports, creating both opportunities and challenges for student-athletes.
• The recruitment process benefits from a strong support system where high school coaches and parents play crucial roles.
• A player’s unique talent should be complemented by a well-rounded skill set to stand out during recruitment.
• Navigating multiple school transfers can be daunting but rewarding by contributing to personal growth and resilience.
• Transitioning to college demands maturity and the building of a personal brand that extends beyond sports performance.

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About the Guest(s):

This episode features Coach Collins and her talented coaching staff from Cedar Hill High School, including the seasoned OG Coach Smith, Coach McBay, and Coach Frazier.

Coach Collins is a former Baylor standout who played under the renowned Coach Kim Mulkey and now leads the Cedar Hill Lady Longhorns basketball team.

She transitioned from aspiring to be a doctor to coaching thanks to her deep-seated passion for the game and the influence of mentors like OG Smith.

The coaching staff is a diverse team with various backgrounds, bringing a unique blend of experience from different schools that contribute to the dynamic development and success of the Cedar Hill basketball program.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "It's Just Different Podcast," the conversation revolves around the journey and insights of Coach Collins and her coaching staff at Cedar Hill High School.

As they prepare their team for success, the coaches delve into the evolution of girls' basketball, discussing the transition towards a more positionless style of play and how the sport has gained tremendous popularity over the years.

Coach Collins’ remarkable journey from Baylor player to becoming a coach underlines a life dedicated to basketball, enriched by experiences that shape her coaching philosophy.

Coach Collins and her staff explore the significance of laying a strong foundation for the future, akin to their roles in schools like Dunbar and Summit, which set the stage for championship success. Discussions on developing players both athletically and personally highlight the importance of preparing athletes for college-level play, underscoring the holistic approach Cedar Hill champions. Culture and discipline are core themes, vividly illustrated by their unique boot camp that fosters unity and resilience, preparing their athletes to face challenges head-on.

The episode concludes with insights into successfully managing parent relations and creating a supportive environment for young athletes, setting Cedar Hill apart as a trailblazer in girls' basketball.

Key Takeaways:

• Evolving Style: The shift towards a positionless style of play in girls' basketball has made the game more dynamic and engaging.

• Laying Foundations: Coach Collins emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation and culture for long-term success in sports.

• Development Focus: Preparing players for college involves rigorous training, discipline, and attention to personal development beyond athletics.

• Unique Practices: Cedar Hill's boot camp is a discipline-focused training regimen that builds teamwork and resilience among players.

• Community and Support: A strong network of supportive parents and a collaborative coaching environment are crucial for a successful sports program.

  
  

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About the Guest(s):

Coach Greer: Coach Greer is the head coach of the Lincoln High School Lady Tigers basketball team, taking the helm in 2019 after a successful tenure with the boys' team, including a state championship win in 2016. His coaching career spans over 17 years, with extensive experience and accomplishments from various institutions including Harold W. Lane Middle School and Gateway Charter Academy.

Coach Rock: An alumnus of Lincoln High School and former player, Coach Rock brings deep-rooted connections and a strong motivational presence to the coaching staff. She is known for her disciplined approach and enforcing team norms.

Coach Tay: Another distinguished former player from Lincoln High School, Coach Tay excelled as a state MVP and has contributed significantly to the empowerment and cohesion of the current team. She emphasizes family culture and maintaining the Lincoln tradition.

Coach Lynn: Known for her energetic and uplifting presence, Coach Lynn focuses on the holistic development of the young athletes at Lincoln High School. Her background includes playing for Dunbar High School before joining Lincoln's coaching staff.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "It's Just Different," host Ashley Roberts engages in a lively discussion with the renowned coaching staff of Lincoln High School's Lady Tigers, including Head Coach Greer, Coach Rock, Coach Tay, and Coach Lynn.

They delve into the intricacies of building a successful girls' basketball program, the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ethos that drives their team's strong family culture.

From their initial successes with the boys' team to transitioning to the girls' program, the coaches share insightful behind-the-scenes stories.

They reflect on the significance of community support, the role of senior leadership, and the importance of maintaining disciplined, defensively strong players.

With a young roster and high aspirations, the Lincoln Lady Tigers are set on making their mark in the upcoming season and aim to uphold their storied tradition amid structural changes in state championships.

Key Takeaways:

• Building a Strong Foundation: The Lincoln coaching staff emphasizes the significance of a robust defensive base and fostering a strong family culture within the team.

• Transition Challenges: Coach Greer discusses the hurdles faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how the team navigated unprecedented restrictions to maintain momentum.

• Leadership and Legacy: Utilizing former players as coaches has fortified the program, ensuring a continuity of tradition and relatable mentoring for the young athletes.

• State Championship Aspirations: Despite changes in competition formats, the team's focus remains on achieving excellence and targeting the state championship with unwavering determination.

• Support System: The role of community and parental involvement is highlighted as integral to the team’s sustained success and cohesion.

  
  

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About the Guest(s):

Coach Marcus: Coach Marcus is the head coach at La Vega High School, with a distinguished career in both AAU and high school basketball. He has led his team to multiple state championships and is known for his dynamic coaching style and emphasis on discipline, fundamentals, and a winning culture.

Also featured in the episode are key members of his coaching staff: Coach Vic, Coach Lane, and Coach Ednie, who each bring their wealth of experience and skills to the program, focusing on various aspects from player development to discipline and weight training.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of high school basketball with La Vega High School's renowned coaching staff, headlined by the esteemed Coach Marcus. Known for their recent back-to-back state championships, the La Vega Pirates' coaches reveal the secrets behind their success, their rigorous training regimens, and the incredible journey that has brought them to the brink of a potential three-peat.

Coach Marcus shares insights on building a strong basketball program grounded in discipline, dedication, and a relentless work ethic. Emphasizing the critical role that a supportive and knowledgeable coaching staff plays, he introduces us to Coach Vic, Coach Lane, and Coach Ednie.

They each discuss their unique contributions to the team's success, from fostering fundamental skills at the junior high level to ensuring athletes' physical fitness and emotional well-being. Together, they paint a vivid picture of a program where hard work, family values, and a we-over-me mentality prevail.

The episode delves into the importance of creating a well-rounded athlete development system that starts from junior high, highlighting how early discipline and hard work can build the foundation for future success.

Coach Marcus and his staff also discuss their approach to challenging their team with a tough schedule, motivating athletes to be their best, and maintaining high standards in practice to mirror the intensity of college-level training.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the makings of a champion basketball program and the dedication behind the scenes.

Key Takeaways:

• Building a Winning Culture: Emphasize discipline, fundamentals, and a we-over-me mentality to create a cohesive, winning team environment.

• Importance of Early Development: Integrate rigorous training and discipline from junior high to prepare athletes for high school competition.

• Handling Parental Expectations: Manage and address parents' concerns while focusing on the development and best interests of the athletes.

• Maintaining High Standards: Run high-tempo, intense practices to ensure athletes are prepared for college-level basketball and beyond.

• Continuous Improvement: Adapt and evolve strategies while staying true to core principles to push for consecutive state championships.

  
  

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About the Guest(s):

Lancaster High School Coaching Staff:

• Coach Howard: Former state champion as both player and coach. Has experience at multiple high schools and college basketball. Currently leading Lancaster High School.

• Coach Kevin: Described as a winner and heavily emphasizes skills development.

• Coach Bragg: Known for his laid-back style and deep basketball knowledge.

• Coach Swift: Valued for his passion and experience in coaching at the national level.

• Coach Davis: Former professional basketball player bringing youthful energy and recent playing experience.

  Coach McKinney: Known for her intensity, organizational skills, and loyalty, acting as Coach Howard's right hand.

  
  

  Episode Summary:

• Join host Ashley Roberts on this milestone 50th episode of the "It's Just Different Podcast" as she celebrates with the powerhouse coaching staff of Lancaster High School, led by the inspirational Coach Howard.

  This episode dives deep into the roots of success and the relentless drive of a team determined to make history in high school basketball.

  In this insightful conversation, Ashley explores Lancaster's unique culture, the different coaching philosophies, and the profound impact of having a dedicated and diverse coaching staff.

  From Coach Kevin’s emphasis on skill development to Coach Swift’s expertise in player development and recruitment, the discussion is rich with keywords relevant to high school basketball coaching, team management, and building winning programs.

  Coach Howard shares her journey from college coaching to leading high school teams to state championships, highlighting the importance of loyalty, mutual respect, and relationship-building in coaching young athletes.

  The Lancaster staff collectively embodies a cohesive vision of greatness, with each member playing a pivotal role in forging a competitive and supportive environment.

  This episode is packed with insights on resilience, teamwork, and the necessary mindset to overcome adversity in sports and life.

  Key Takeaways:

  • Unified Vision: Success in coaching comes from loyalty, mutual respect, and a shared vision among the staff and players.

  • Development Focus: Emphasizing both fundamental and advanced skills development is crucial for preparing athletes for their next levels—whether high school, college, or professional.

  • Community and Culture: Building a winning program involves a supportive community and administration, as well as a deep understanding of the school's culture.

  • Handling Adversity: Resilience and strength are critical for overcoming the challenges and backlash that come with competitive sports.

  • Personal Connection: Establishing personal relationships with players helps in gaining their buy-in and commitment, ensuring they perform at their peak levels.

    
    

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