Its Just Different Podcast

About the Guest(s): Coach Bishop is the head coach of the women's basketball team at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA). As a respected figure in the basketball community, Coach Bishop brings years of experience as both a player and coach, contributing significantly to SFA's success. Coach JoJo (Jordan Hernandez) serves as the assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at SFA. With a focus on building strong relationships with athletes, Coach JoJo is known for her ability to connect with players both on and off the court. Coach Steve Yang is the associate head coach at SFA. Known as Coach Yang, he brings a strategic approach to basketball, emphasizing the importance of both on-court skills and personal development. Episode Summary: The conversation explores the evolving landscape of college basketball recruitment, touching on significant changes such as the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) agreements. With insights straight from the coaching team, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the challenges and strategies involved in recruiting talented athletes. Highlighting themes like "recruiting strategies," "basketball talent development," and "building player relationships," the discussion delves into how the SFA coaching staff identifies and recruits players who exemplify good character and competitive spirit. Coach Bishop, JoJo, and Yang navigate the complexities of high school, JUCO, and transfer market recruitment while emphasizing the importance of developing versatile players who can adapt to the collegiate level. Key Takeaways: * Recruitment Evolution: The recruitment process has shifted with the introduction of the transfer portal and NIL agreements, emphasizing the need for finding experienced players ready to contribute immediately. * Importance of Character: SFA's coaching staff prioritizes recruiting players with strong character and leadership qualities that align with the university’s values. * Balancing Youth and Authority: Coach JoJo highlights the benefits of her youth in connecting with players while maintaining a professional coach-player relationship. * AAU Basketball Insight: The coaching team discusses the benefits and challenges of the AAU basketball scene, emphasizing competition and exposure. * Fit Over Prestige: Finding the right fit in a program is crucial for athletes to thrive, as opposed to simply choosing schools with prestigious accolades or facilities. Looking for a community of like minded parents growing, learning and celebrating each other? Join the Different Community. Check it out below.  https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community [https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community] Purchase Your Different Merch AND Enjoy 15% off  www.itsjustdifferentapparel.com [www.itsjustdifferentapparel.com] Subscribe to Its Just Different Youtube https://youtube.com/@itsjustdifferentpod?si=TVR3Z-T5jf9lDrfM [https://youtube.com/@itsjustdifferentpod?si=TVR3Z-T5jf9lDrfM]  Follow Social Media Accounts Ashley on IG: @_thisisashleyr Its Just Different: @itsjustdifferentpod

About the Guest(s): Coach Z (Zenarae Antoine): Head Coach of Texas State Women's Basketball, Coach Z has carved a successful career path through various institutions, including Louisville and Arkansas. Her expansive journey in basketball coaching is testament to her leadership in bringing teams to championship heights. She is recognized for fostering talent development and instilling strong community values within her teams. Coach Paige: A prominent member of the Texas State coaching staff, Paige returned to the institution after an initial stint as a graduate assistant. She brings championship experience as both a former collegiate athlete and coach, and was an integral part of the "So You Want to Be a Coach" program. Coach Luke, Coach T, and Coach Jerrica: These dedicated coaches each bring unique backgrounds and perspectives to Texas State. Luke is at his first role post-grad school, infusing the team with native Louisville insights and a fresh perspective. Coach T comes with experience as a head women's coach and offers a deep understanding of player development, while Coach Jerrica offers expertise from playing overseas and her transition from junior college coaching to a Division I environment. Episode Summary: This episode is packed with insightful discussions on the evolution of recruiting, the digital age's impact on college sports, and the distinctive blend of values and strategy employed by the Texas State Women's Basketball program. Special attention is paid to how current students and their families can navigate the often complex terrain of college recruitment. Within this conversation, the Texas State coaching team shares their insights on choosing the right fit for student-athletes, emphasizing the importance of evaluating coaching style, program values, and academic possibilities. The episode provides an insider's perspective on how coaches assess potential recruits and the qualities they prioritize beyond just skill — such as grit, adaptability, and holistic development. By addressing key concerns that many players and parents have about the recruitment process, Texas State's coaches help demystify what it means to be a Bobcat. Key Takeaways: * Recruiting in the Digital Age: The rise of digital platforms has transformed recruiting, offering new dynamics but also presenting challenges in authenticity. * Parental Influence in Recruiting: Coach Z emphasizes the importance of observing parental behavior during recruitment, stressing the impact on a player's future opportunities. * Defining a 'Good Fit': The Texas State coaching staff highlights the need for alignment between a player's goals, a program's style, and institutional values when choosing a college. * Value of a Diverse Coaching Staff: Diversity in backgrounds and perspectives among the coaching staff is vital to building a successful and harmonious team environment. * Growth and Development Focus: Texas State prioritizes developing student-athletes both on and off the court, preparing them for long-term success beyond their college careers.

About the Guest(s): Jeff Allen is the distinguished Head Coach of Collin College's women's basketball team, with an impressive track record spanning over two decades. Throughout his tenure, he has earned prestigious accolades including seven-time Conference Coach of the Year, TABC Coach of the Year, and WBCA two-year Junior College Coach of the Year. Allen is recognized for his exceptional ability to nurture talent and guide players through successful basketball careers, both on the court and in life. His strategic approach focuses on building a culture of excellence and emphasizing the importance of teamwork and communication. Episode Summary: This episode delves into the nuances of junior college basketball, the shifts in recruiting dynamics post transfer portal, and how Collin College sets itself apart in developing student-athletes ready to excel at higher levels. Throughout the discussion, Allen reveals insights around the changes in junior college recruiting due to the NCAA transfer portal, highlighting the increasing importance of international player recruitment and high school prospects. The episode covers the distinctive pathway and robust support Collin College offers its players, preparing them for both academic and basketball success. Allen emphasizes the importance of "fit" in a team's culture and how parents can better guide their children through the recruitment process, ensuring that decisions made are in the best interests of their athletic and personal growth. Roberts and Allen also explore the challenging yet rewarding journey of coaching a team heavily comprised of freshmen and the focus on teamwork and perseverance that has defined the program's success. Key Takeaways: * The NCAA transfer portal has significantly altered the recruiting process for junior college basketball, shifting focus towards international and high school recruits. * Establishing a winning culture and providing robust academic support have been pivotal in making Collin College attractive to prospective student-athletes. * Identifying the right "fit" for a player within a team’s culture is critical for success at the collegiate level and should be a focal point for parents and recruits. * Building strong relationships and networking within AAU circuits influences recruiting outcomes significantly. * Junior college can be an advantageous route for many athletes, as demonstrated by Collin College alumni who have advanced to various collegiate levels. Looking for a community of like minded parents growing, learning and celebrating each other? Join the Different Community. Check it out below. https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community [https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community] Different merch is available! Use code "Podcast" to get 15% off! www.itsjustdifferentapparel.com [www.itsjustdifferentapparel.com] Ashley on IG- _thisisashleyr Its Just Different on socials- @itsjustdifferentpod

About the Guest(s): Coach Dre: Coach Dre is a dedicated basketball coach, trainer, and father. Known for his work with young athletes, Coach Dre has made significant contributions to developing basketball talent, particularly in girls' basketball. He is the head coach at Ontario Christian High School and director of a youth basketball program. Coach Dre is committed to fostering a balanced approach to sports and personal growth. Special Kay (Kaleena Smith): Special Kay, also known as Kaleena, is a standout young basketball player known for her exceptional skills and leadership on the court. Recognized as one of the top players in high school basketball, Kaleena has modeled her game on prominent NBA players like Steph Curry and integrates both poise and talent into her play. She is now part of Team Adidas, where she aims to redefine the culture and inspire young athletes. Episode Summary: In this episode of "It's Just Different Podcast," host Ashley Roberts dives into an engaging conversation with Coach Dre and his daughter, basketball prodigy Special Kay. They explore the evolution of girls' basketball, discussing how the game's dynamics have shifted and how these changes align with the aspirations and skill sets of modern players. As they recount their experiences from recent competitions in Texas, listeners gain insights into the unique challenges and triumphs this father-daughter duo navigates in their sporting journey. Listeners will also discover how Kaleena, or Special Kay, balances the demands of being a top-ranked basketball player with maintaining her personal life and academics. Coach Dre elaborates on the detailed regimen that helps her stay at the forefront of her game, emphasizing crucial aspects like recovery and work-life balance. Throughout this insightful episode, the guests share wisdom about managing social media pressures, setting long-term career goals, and the importance of staying humble and grounded while navigating the path to success in sports. Key Takeaways: * The evolution of girls' basketball has led to more dynamic and skillful playstyles, comparable to boys' basketball. * Maintaining a rigorous yet balanced training schedule is crucial for success in high-level sports. * The importance of humility, faith, and relentless hard work in achieving and maintaining peak performance. * Balancing familial relationships and responsibilities with professional aspirations requires constant communication and setting realistic expectations. * The significance of preparing for "the unknown" to remain competitive and motivated. Looking for a community of like minded parents growing, learning and celebrating each other? Join the Different Community. Check it out below. https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community [https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community] Different merch is available! Use code "Podcast" to get 15% off! www.itsjustdifferentapparel.com [www.itsjustdifferentapparel.com] Ashley on IG- _thisisashleyr Its Just Different on Socials- @itsjustdifferentpod

About the Guest(s): Jason Key is a seasoned expert deeply entrenched in the basketball world. Known for his expansive knowledge of both the high school and AAU basketball circuits, he has helped numerous young athletes navigate their paths to college and the professional arena. Jason's insights are highly sought after, and his work has significantly contributed to discussions on the transformation of basketball at the preparatory level. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "It's Just Different," host Ashley Roberts sits down with Jason Key to delve into the evolving landscape of high school and AAU basketball. Jason, known for his profound connection to the sport, is celebrated for his insights into the developmental pathways of young athletes. This episode marks a special moment as Jason becomes the first guest to return for a part two, offering listeners deeper insights into the game. Throughout the conversation, Jason discusses the growing divide between AAU and high school basketball, exploring how prep schools have altered the basketball ecosystem, especially in states like Texas. He delves into the implications of such shifts on talent development and player exposure. The episode also offers an exploration of specific team and player projections, highlighting standout talents and anticipated matchups in Texas high school basketball. The discussion extends to emerging talents in Texas and notable rankings, with Jason providing forecasts that showcase his expertise in scouting and player development. Key Takeaways: * The divide between AAU and traditional high school basketball is growing, influenced significantly by the rise of prep schools. * Legal restrictions on NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals in Texas may drive top basketball talents to other states. * The UIL's new division system introduces dual state championships per class, complicating the traditional competitive structure. * Emerging young basketball talents are making significant impacts in Texas, with names like Aaliyah Chavez and Special K discussed as future prospects. * The Thanksgiving Hoop Fest is a much-anticipated event, featuring high-stakes matchups that spotlight top talents. Looking for a community of like minded parents growing, learning and celebrating with each other? Join the Different Community. Check It out below. ⁠https://www.skool.com/itsjustdifferent/about⁠ [https://www.skool.com/itsjustdifferent/about] Different Merch is Available! Use code "podcast" to get 15% off! ⁠www.itsjustdifferentapparel.com⁠ [www.itsjustdifferentapparel.com] Ashley on IG- @thisisashleyr Its Just Different on IG- @itsjustdifferentpod