In this episode, George is joined by Ryan Gensler, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of Akron, to explore how concept-based offense, relationship-driven leadership, and constraint-led learning shape modern team building and player development. Ryan shares lessons from his coaching journey across multiple programs and explains how cutting, spacing, and selflessness can become foundational offensive weapons. He also dives into practice design, blending traditional drills with constraints, building team culture through shared values, and trusting players to make decisions.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Ryan Gensler and His Coaching Path
01:00 – Coaching Influences and Concept-Based Offense
02:30 – Relationship-Driven Leadership and Program Culture
04:00 – Defining Core Values as a Head Coach
05:30 – Playing for Each Other and Selfless Basketball
06:30 – Using Cutting as a Primary Offensive Weapon
08:00 – Teaching Cutting Through Constraints and Small-Sided Games
10:00 – Solving Spacing and Dunker Spot Challenges
11:30 – Blending Traditional Player Development with Constraints
14:30 – Modernizing Traditional Drills for Decision-Making
17:30 – Developing Shot Quality and Contested Finishing
19:30 – Reinforcing Culture Through Assist-Based Rewards
21:00 – Emotional Intelligence and Off-Court Development
22:30 – Aligning Vision Through Team Retreats and Vulnerability
24:00 – Transformative Tip: Trust Your Players
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