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This Week’s Hoop Heads Podcast Episodes
“THE TRIPLE DOUBLE” #24 WITH ROB BROST, BOLINGBROOK (IL) HIGH SCHOOL BOYS’ BASKETBALL HEAD COACH – EPISODE 1229
The 24th edition of “The Triple Double” with Rob Brost, Bolingbrook (IL) High School Boys’ Basketball Head Coach. Rob, Mike, & Jason hit on three basketball topics in each episode of “The Triple Double”.
What does your locker room talk sound like after you lose the final game of your season?
What is your process for reviewing the season to begin preparing for the next one?
What is the spring/summer plan for Rob’s son Trey who graduates this year and is headed to Michigan Tech next season? No AAU basketball so how does he get ready for his freshman year of college basketball?
NBA STANDINGS SMORGASBORD – EPISODE 1230
On this episode of the Hoop Heads Podcast Mike and Jason discuss the red hot Hawks and Lakers while trying to figure out if role player Lebron is sustainable into the playoffs. Next, they talk about Cade Cunningham’s collapsed lung and the possibility that there could be a silver lining for the Pistons. After that they take a closer look at Wemby and the Spurs’ chances of winning the NBA Title followed by some speculation on where Giannis may end up next season. They wrap up with a quick discussion of Ant’s injury and Reed Sheppard joining the starting lineup in Houston.
KARL BARKLEY - FOUNDER OF D3DIRECT - EPISODE 1231
Karl Barkley is the founder of D3Direct. D3Direct exists to share the stories of NCAA Division 3 student-athletes and explore their journeys from recruit to the real world. D3Direct is the go-to source for info & advice on D3 recruiting, admissions, and post-grad ventures. Karl speaks directly to D3 student-athletes and coaches to learn about their college experiences and share those takeaways through the D3Direct Platform.
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This Week’s Coaching Articles
This article presents the idea that the rise of analytics has reduced creativity and “free play” in basketball by overemphasizing efficiency and optimal decisions. Players are increasingly guided toward prescribed actions rather than learning through exploration and instinct. The article suggests that this shift may limit long-term development, especially for younger players who benefit from unstructured play.
This article explains that a “guided defender” is used as a constraint to shape how offensive players learn, rather than acting randomly or passively. By controlling defensive behaviors (like positioning or coverage), coaches create more game-like situations that force players to read, decide, and adapt - improving perception-action coupling and decision-making. This approach aligns with modern skill acquisition principles by emphasizing variability, realism, and exploration instead of repetitive, scripted drills.
This article outlines practical ways coaches can intentionally build strong team culture through clear standards, daily habits, and consistent communication. It emphasizes that culture is created through what coaches allow, reinforce, and model every day. Successful programs focus on accountability, relationships, and shared purpose rather than relying solely on talent.
This Week’s NBA Articles
This article explains why Kon Knueppel’s emergence as one of the best shooters can be attributed to years of disciplined repetition and refined mechanics rather than sudden improvement. His consistency stems from footwork, balance, and shot preparation developed over time. The article reinforces that elite shooting is built through intentional habits, not shortcuts.
This article explains why the NBA is seriously exploring expansion, with Las Vegas and Seattle emerging as the leading candidates for new franchises. Commissioner Adam Silver is weighing financial windfalls, market size, and long-term league balance before making a decision. Expansion would significantly impact roster distribution, the draft, and overall league structure.
This article details why Billy Donovan has become a potential candidate for the North Carolina job while his future with the Chicago Bulls remains uncertain. His college success and experience make him an attractive option if he chooses to return to the NCAA. The situation highlights how NBA instability can intersect with high-profile college openings.
This Week’s College Basketball Articles
This article This compiles the numerous coaching changes across college basketball during the 2026 offseason. It reflects how performance expectations, NIL dynamics, and the transfer portal are accelerating turnover at all levels. The list serves as a real-time snapshot of how quickly programs are reshaping leadership in response to results.
This article describes Utah State as one of the most influential and attractive mid-major jobs due to consistent winning, strong fan support, and program stability. The school’s ability to develop talent and compete nationally elevates its reputation beyond typical mid-major status. It has become a launching pad for coaches seeking bigger opportunities.
This article explains how evolving eligibility rules, particularly around transfers and extra years, are reshaping the concept of a “Cinderella” team. Many underdog programs now feature experienced, older players rather than unknown freshmen. As a result, tournament surprises are becoming more about roster construction than pure unpredictability.
This Week’s YouTube Coaching Videos
This video 3 finishing warm-up drills that transfer to games. These drills are:
Less physical
Lower contact
Still decision-based
Game transferable
This video breaks down how to beat full-court pressure, both man-to-man and zone presses, using simple, repeatable concepts that work for youth and new players at every level.
This video breaks down a simple 3-part strategy to:
control angles
eliminate separation
contest shots the right way
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