Slappin' Glass Podcast

This week on Slappin’ Glass, we’re joined by data scientist and creator of the rapidly growing college basketball analytics platform EvanMiya.com, Evan Miyakawa. Evan’s work has become a trusted resource for coaches at every level—particularly those looking to cut through the noise of early-season statistics and understand which metrics actually matter.In this conversation, Evan shares how coaches can separate interesting numbers from useful ones, why certain teams have unique statistical fingerprints that predict success, and how lineup data can be leveraged far more effectively than most programs currently use it. We also unpack defensive priority stats (threes, rim, free throws), halftime box score interpretation, and the origins of Evan’s “kill shot” metric—his way of measuring and predicting momentum swings across a season.Whether you’re analytics-comfortable or analytically curious, Evan offers a clear, practical roadmap for applying data without drowning in it. What You’ll Learn1. How to Separate Useful Analytics from Interesting NoiseEvan explains why the highest-value decisions come from combining your coaching intuition with clean, adjusted data—not relying fully on either side. He details how to weigh early-season sample sizes, refine priors, and avoid overreacting to statistical outliers. 2. Identifying the 2–3 Metrics That Predict Your Team’s SuccessTeams often win and lose in repeatable ways. Evan breaks down how programs can identify their own “keys to victory,” giving coaches clarity on what to prioritize in practice, scouting, and game planning. 3. Making Better Lineup Decisions (and Avoiding the Small-Sample Trap)Learn why 30 possessions can reveal a spark worth exploring, why 100+ possessions create real confidence, and how lineup data—properly adjusted for opponent strength—helps avoid misleading results. 4. How to Read a Halftime Box Score with Meaningful PurposeEvan shows which stat pairings matter most and how to judge whether a discrepancy is signaling a real problem or simply reflecting tempo and game context. 5. Prioritizing Defensive Outcomes: Threes, Rim, Free ThrowsA clear breakdown of how these three areas interact, and why understanding your opponent’s tendencies can simplify what your defense should take away. 6. The “Kill Shot”: Understanding and Predicting Momentum RunsEvan’s 10–0 run metric reveals why preventing opponent runs is more predictive of elite performance than generating them—and why the duration of a run often tells the real story.7. Coaching the Moments Around RunsFrom smart timeout usage to identifying schematic breakdowns, you’ll learn how to stop a slide early or create momentum without burning resources unnecessarily.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!

Dwaine Osborne, Associate Head Coach at Youngstown State, is renowned for his offensive efficiency in college basketball. In this conversation, he dives deep into his approach to elite shot selection, emphasizing analytics-driven decision-making and the importance of paint efficiency. Osborne shares teachings on First-Touch Decisions (FTDs), balancing player confidence with analytical insights, and how fewer, deeper practice concepts lead to better execution. He also unveils effective ATO strategies and discusses the key habits of tagging up, providing valuable insights for coaches at all levels.

In this engaging discussion, Justin Bokmeyer, Director of Basketball Operations for the Brooklyn Nets, shares insights drawn from his multifaceted career, including stints at West Point and the NBA Academy. He emphasizes the importance of a people-first approach in building high-performance teams. Justin discusses systems thinking as a means to reduce silos and improve collaboration, highlights the value of pre-mortems for better decision-making, and underscores effective onboarding as vital for long-term success. His military leadership lessons offer unique perspectives on accountability and culture.

Ken Pomeroy, a renowned college basketball statistician and creator of the KenPom ratings, teams up with Jordan Sperber, the founder of HoopVision, to explore the nuances of basketball analytics. They discuss the true meaning of pace in the game, emphasizing possession quality over mere speed. The conversation unveils how teams can achieve success with different styles and why elite offenses now hold sway in championships. They also share practical insights on shot selection, revealing how small changes can yield big gains without drastic roster overhauls.

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!