Slappin' Glass Podcast

Roy Rana, an esteemed international basketball coach and head of the Jordanian National Team, discusses innovative program design and culture-building strategies. He emphasizes the importance of experiential learning, especially in initial meetings to foster team cohesion. Rana also shares effective communication methods across cultures, using visuals and tactile learning to engage players. He highlights the significance of one-on-one conversations in coaching and how redefining player roles can inspire growth and commitment.

Matt Wise, the head coach of Samford University women's basketball, explores the intersection of creativity and coaching. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication and a shared vocabulary, introducing his 'IT Factor' for recruiting—Intelligence and Toughness. Wise details innovative ball-screen teaching methods and how defensive principles need to be as precise as science, while offense embraces a 'jazz' approach. He also discusses cultivating confidence and mental zones to prepare players for high-pressure situations, creating a unique coaching philosophy that blends structure with creativity.

Dr. Sarah Sarkis, an executive leadership coach and psychologist, specializes in helping elite performers navigate stress and cultivate high-performing teams. She discusses how to metabolize stress as a fuel for clarity, rather than fear. Sarkis emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries for recovery and highlights how effective communication builds trust in competitive environments. Additionally, she explores the dynamics of friction in team culture and shares insights on motivating individuals by understanding their reward systems.

Shaka Smart, the head coach of Marquette men's basketball, dives into the intersections of consciousness and coaching. He discusses how awareness, acceptance, and action shape players’ growth and team culture. Smart emphasizes the delicate balance between team needs and individual development, sharing lessons from coaching legends. He also explores defensive strategies like generating steals and teaching ‘appropriate help.’ Additionally, he highlights the importance of journaling and learning from other sports, showcasing his journey of continuous leadership growth.

Bob Richey, the Head Coach of Furman Men's Basketball, shares insights from his journey in rebuilding the program. He emphasizes the importance of top-down alignment across all levels for sustainable success. Richey discusses his unique blend of coaching influences and his offensive innovation strategies, including 'playing without pause' and 'bridging' offensive concepts. He also dives into player development through specific skill work and highlights the significance of clear defensive objectives. Lastly, Richey advocates for lifelong learning and strong relationships in coaching.

In this episode, Belmont Head Coach Casey Alexander sits down with Slappin' Glass and breaks down his offensive philosophy, defensive evolution, and coaching journey. From assisted-basket strategies to player empowerment, Coach Alexander shares how three decades of culture and continuity shape Belmont basketball.Offensive Philosophy & EfficiencyAssisted Baskets: Nearly top-10% nationally, built on recruiting unselfish, high-IQ players who prioritize team offense over isolation.Ball Movement with Control: High passing volume paired with impressively low turnovers, thanks to system-oriented players.Pace & Tempo: Focuses on shot quality, not the clock; emphasizes quick transition opportunities whenever the defense isn’t fully set. Runs a motion offense with freedom for players to break plays when advantages arise.Teaching Style: Concepts over DetailsConceptual Framework: Players learn broad principles, making reads in the flow of the game instead of memorizing plays.Player Empowerment: Every recruit gets the “green light,” fostering confidence and freedom from day one.Quality Shot Standards: Uses a unique “four-point shot” grading system in practice — shots only count if they meet strict criteria for rhythm, balance, and positioning.Recruiting & CulturePersonnel First: Success starts with finding the right offensive-minded, team-first players.Cultural Consistency: A 30-year standard of excellence, with a 3.5 team GPA and multiple Academic All-Americans.Flexibility in Recruitment: Willing to adapt for players with elite intangibles like toughness, competitiveness, and leadership.Defensive AdjustmentsLate-Season Turnaround: From bottom-third nationally to top-10 defense in the final five games, driven by greater physicality.Switching Philosophy: Shifted from over-switching (which bred passivity) to a system that demands initial defender engagement.Simplicity in the Gray Areas: Prioritizes communication, effort, and competitiveness over complex schemes.Coaching Development & ConnectionPlayer Relationships: Continuous growth focus, investing in personal connections and development.Direct Communication: Honest, demanding, but never manipulative.Career Foundation: 16 years under Hall of Fame coach Rick Byrd — patience and preparation that became his best investment.To join coaches and championship winning staffs from the NBA to High School from over 60 different countries taking advantage of an SG Plus membership, visit HERE!

Grant McCasland, head coach of Texas Tech, shares his winning coaching philosophy rooted in building a strong culture. He discusses the importance of prioritizing people, belief, and grit in fostering teamwork. McCasland explains the transformative role of elite defenders and no-middle defensive strategies. He candidly offers insights on timeout strategies and the significance of involving family in his coaching journey, reflecting on how authenticity and connection lead to success in sports.

Coby Karl, an NBA and G-League coach, dives into his holistic coaching philosophy that emphasizes the interconnectedness of players and strategies. He discusses how empathy and trust are vital for development, both on and off the court. Listeners will learn about the importance of starting with fundamentals to foster creativity and confidence. Coby also shares tactical insights on offensive strategies, including the effectiveness of early possessions and cuts. His personal reflections on leadership depth and handling adversity offer valuable lessons for anyone in sports.

Dan Earl, Head Coach at Chattanooga Mocs, shares his insights on offensive creativity rooted in a Princeton-inspired system. He emphasizes the pivotal role of the five-man in randomizing plays and making quick decisions. Earl also discusses the art of cutting and screening, detailing why his team excelled in efficiency last season. On late-game strategies, he tackles tricky dilemmas like fouling up three and defensive alignments, blending advanced analytics with foundational coaching principles to enhance player development.

Scott Lagas, Head Coach of Mercy University Women’s Basketball, shares his expertise in transforming the program into a formidable force. He delves into the unique 'Wolf Defense' strategy that combines pack line principles with a no-middle approach. The discussion highlights the significance of peer-to-peer recognition in building team culture and accountability. Drawing parallels between surfing and basketball, Lagas emphasizes decisiveness. He also breaks down the intricacies of their high-split offense, focusing on rim pressure and effective spacing for scoring opportunities.