
The Transforming Basketball Podcast
Transforming Basketball is all about breaking away from the status quo by helping the basketball world make sense of evidence-based ideas. Within the podcast, contemporary skill acquisition ideas are introduced to change the way we think about basketball performance.
If you’re ready to join us in our quest to transform the basketball world, challenge the way things have always been done, and reflect deeply on our coaching and organisational approaches, then this is the podcast for you!
Latest episodes

11 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 34min
EP96: It Just Makes Sense with Jeff Schmidt
Jeff Schmidt, a seasoned basketball coach with over 25 years of experience, transitions from high school leadership to running his own training business in Northern Colorado. He shares insights on the powerful Constraint-Led Approach, emphasizing the need for individualized plans that cater to each player's strengths. Reflecting on his enriching experiences at a basketball camp in Italy, Schmidt discusses the importance of adaptability in coaching and how tailored environments can significantly enhance player development.

16 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 24min
EP95: Developing a Youth Program with Jon Yu & Neil Houghton (Part 2)
Join Jon Yu, a technical director in Vietnam focused on developing youth basketball programs, and Neil Houghton as they dive into innovative coaching strategies. They discuss how to create engaging environments for young players and the importance of fostering joy in the sport amid cultural differences. Key topics include overcoming player retention challenges and the significance of building a unified coaching philosophy. They also explore practical tips for effective practice plans and the value of community connection in basketball development.

30 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 26min
EP94: Developing a Youth Program with Jon Yu & Neil Houghton (Part 1)
In this insightful conversation, Jon Yu, a youth basketball coach in Vietnam, and Neil Houghton, his collaborative partner, share their expertise on youth player development. They discuss the importance of implementing ecological dynamics within a culturally diverse coaching landscape. Key topics include fostering player enjoyment, bridging communication gaps, and developing a unified coaching philosophy. They also tackle innovative coach education strategies, emphasizing the role of self-reflection and real-time collaboration for enhancing coaching effectiveness.

6 snips
Dec 25, 2024 • 32min
EP93: Wanting to Know the Why with Ari Braun
A seasoned high school basketball coach shares his transformative journey in adopting contemporary skill acquisition techniques. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the 'why' behind coaching methods and highlights the ecological dynamics framework for effective practice. The conversation explores the power of collaborative coaching, dynamic game-like scenarios, and fostering creativity among players. Engaging with the coaching community and learning from mistakes are key themes, creating a supportive environment for continuous development and innovation.

25 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 14min
EP92: Sean Keating 4v3 3v2
Sean Keating, the head varsity basketball coach from St. Peter, Minnesota, shares his revolutionary approach to youth basketball. He unveils the engaging 4-on-3, 3-on-2 game format that boosts skill acquisition through increased play opportunities. Sean discusses the impact of innovative constraints like scoring adjustments and defensive rules, enhancing kids' fundamental skills such as pivoting. His coaching philosophy makes the game more enjoyable for both young players and their parents, fostering a supportive learning environment.

Dec 11, 2024 • 26min
EP91: Developing Female Hoopers with Kerri Kuzbyt (Part 2)
Delve into contemporary skill acquisition in basketball, examining how traditional coaching often limits athletes. Discover the transformative techniques that promote adaptability and autonomy among female players. Learn about the importance of intentional practice, which enhances athletic enjoyment and potential. The discussion also highlights valuable lessons in vulnerability and competition that athletes can share, encouraging growth in and out of the sport.

8 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 28min
EP90: Developing Female Hoopers with Kerri Kuzbyt (Part 1)
Kerri Kuzbyt, an experienced basketball coach, shares her journey from diverse sports participation to coaching. She highlights the cultural differences in how males and females engage in competition and emphasizes creating challenging environments for skill acquisition. Kerri advocates for embracing failure as a learning tool, fostering unapologetic confidence among female athletes, and the importance of supportive, competitive atmospheres. Additionally, she discusses the benefits of multi-sport participation for young athletes, enhancing their overall development.

6 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 41min
EP89: Neil Houghton One Club Philosophy
Neil Houghton, an experienced basketball coach from Australia, shares his journey of transforming coaching philosophies. He emphasizes the Constraints-Led Approach and the importance of a 'One Club Philosophy,' which fosters collaboration among coaches across age levels. Houghton discusses innovative techniques like small-sided games and dynamic one-on-one play to enhance player engagement and decision-making. He also explores the implementation challenges of cohesive youth programs and how continuous support can elevate coaching effectiveness.

Nov 13, 2024 • 13min
EP88: Alex to Adam Transition
In this special episode, Alex Sarama announces his departure and introduces Adam Omiecinski as the new host. Alex reflects on the growth of the podcast, which now reaches 8,000+ listeners a week, and his new role with the Cavs. Adam discusses his background, his coaching philosophy focused on micro-level details, and future plans for the podcast.
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6 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 17min
EP87: Why Muscle Memory is Irrelevant
Gray Thomas, an expert in contemporary skill acquisition ideas, and Adam Omiecinski, who explores the nuances of muscle memory in sports, team up to challenge traditional beliefs in basketball. They argue that muscle memory is not as relevant as once thought, emphasizing skill adaptation and the critical role of context and attunement. Their discussion dives into the importance of decision-making and how a deeper understanding of movement can enhance coaching, urging coaches to embrace uncertainty for better player connections.