

The Transforming Basketball Podcast
Transforming Basketball
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!
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!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 9, 2024 • 13min
EP83: Why are Coaches hesitant to change?
In this episode, Alex Sarama is joined by is joined by Gray Thomas and Adam Omiecinski to discuss why as coaches, we can sometimes be hesitant to change and new ideas. They explore the reasons behind this reluctance and share their own experiences and insights. The conversation revolves around the challenges of changing belief systems, the association of coaching methods with personal identity, and the importance of having a support system when embracing a contemporary approach to coaching.
Learn about player development with our FREE activities book. Inside, you'll find 50 activity diagrams for your workouts and team practices:
https://education.transformingbball.com/Transforming-Small-Sided-Games-Book
Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book:https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7
Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources:https://transformingbball.com/products/
Connect with us:
Website: http://transformingbball.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball

Oct 2, 2024 • 30min
EP82: What the CLA Is and Isn't (Part 2)
In this discussion, Alex Sarama, a basketball coaching expert, and Gray Thomas, a specialist in the constraints-led approach, delve deep into the nuances of coaching. They clarify misconceptions about the constraints-led approach, emphasizing it as a framework rather than just a method. Personalization in coaching is highlighted, advocating for tailored practices that cater to individual player needs. The conversation also touches on innovative shooting techniques and the importance of systematic player monitoring to foster growth and performance on the court.

4 snips
Sep 25, 2024 • 31min
EP81: What the CLA Is and Isn't (Part 1)
In this discussion, Alex Sarama, an expert in online basketball coaching, and Gray Thomas, a coaching methodologies enthusiast, dive into the constraints-led approach (CLA). They clarify misconceptions, emphasizing that CLA is a holistic framework for performance rather than just a coaching method. Listeners will learn how individual, task, and environmental constraints affect skill acquisition. The duo shares practical examples that demonstrate how manipulating game scenarios enhances decision-making and player development—an essential listen for innovative coaches!

Sep 18, 2024 • 32min
EP80: Advice for Using a CLA in High School with John Murray
In this discussion, John Murray, an insightful high school coach formerly rooted in grassroots youth basketball, shares his journey into coaching. He delves into the transformative power of the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) for player development and emphasizes the importance of open communication and shared terminology. Murray highlights the challenges of traditional coaching mindsets and advocates for flexibility during practices. His experiences teach valuable lessons about adapting strategies and embracing the chaos of the game for better learning outcomes.

Sep 11, 2024 • 15min
EP79: What on earth is an affordance?!
Discover the intriguing concept of affordances in basketball and how they uniquely affect each player based on their skills and physical features. Explore the vital role coaches play in crafting practice environments that encourage diverse engagement. Learn about the benefits of promoting adaptive play and how strategic changes in gameplay can enhance performance. Delve into practical examples, especially within the pick and roll, showcasing how understanding these opportunities can elevate players' intuitive gameplay.

Sep 4, 2024 • 27min
EP78: By Any Means Basketball with Coleman Ayers
Coleman Ayers, an innovator in basketball training, focuses on deep skill development and the impact of cultural influences on player growth. He discusses reframing skill acquisition and the synergy between individual skills and team principles. Coleman emphasizes the need for innovative training methods and evolving coaching philosophies, particularly in youth basketball. He highlights the differences between U.S. and European development systems, advocating for a holistic approach that strengthens both individual and team dynamics.

Aug 28, 2024 • 17min
EP77: Why Players Don't Need Blocked Practice
In this episode, Alex Sarama is joined by Gray Thomas to delve into the debate surrounding blocked versus variable training in basketball. They challenge the traditional notions that have prevailed in the coaching world and advocate for a more holistic and strategic approach to skill development. By dissecting a viewer's comment on the topic, they provide a deep analysis of the concepts of skill acquisition, confidence-building, and the importance of informed practice.
Want to take a deep dive into the Transforming approach? Our FREE skill acquisition workshop is a comprehensive resource for you to learn about evidence-based coaching strategies. Get instant access here:
https://education.transformingbball.com/free-basketball-skill-aquisition-workshop
Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book:https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7
Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources:https://transformingbball.com/products/
Connect with us:
Website: http://transformingbball.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball

Aug 21, 2024 • 27min
EP76: Coaching the Italian Youth National Team with Alessandro Nocera
Alessandro Nocera, coach of the Italian Youth National Team, dives into the evolving world of basketball coaching. He discusses the importance of defensive principles and the shift toward conceptual offense. Alessandro emphasizes aligning strategies with modern trends and highlights the value of the Constraints-Led Approach in nurturing player development. His insights contrast European and American coaching philosophies, advocating for intentional practices that adapt to each player's unique journey, ultimately elevating youth basketball.

Aug 14, 2024 • 21min
EP75: Progressing Skills Training in North America with Tyler Leclerc
Tyler Leclerc, a basketball coach focused on skill development, joins to share insights on building strong relationships with high school coaches. He emphasizes the need for innovative training methods, like the constraints-led approach, to enhance player performance. Discussion includes navigating the competitive landscape of AAU basketball and the challenges players face. Leclerc advocates for game-based training and fostering creativity in drills, urging a shift in coaching practices to prioritize long-term player development over immediate wins.

Aug 7, 2024 • 53min
EP74: Athlete-Centered Coaching with Jesse Rawlings
Jesse Rawlings, a football coach with a rich background in New Zealand and the UK, shares his insights on athlete-centered coaching. He discusses the importance of embracing multi-sport development for youth athletes and critiques traditional coaching methodologies. Jesse highlights the pressures young athletes face in pursuit of professional dreams and advocates for a shift towards community-focused player development. His unique perspectives challenge conventional paths to success, emphasizing adaptability and innovation in coaching practices.