In this episode, George Vaz is joined by Robby Bostain, founder of Level 10 Basketball and former Division I and European pro. Robby shares how his holistic five-pillar approach—skills, fitness, mentality, nutrition, and leadership—helps athletes level up on and off the court. He also dives into how the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) unlocked creativity in his coaching, why giving athletes ownership accelerates growth, and the power of experimenting across sports. Bio:Robby Bostain is the founder of Level 10 Basketball in Bakersfield, CA, where he trains athletes through a holistic, five-pillar approach: skills, fitness, mentality, nutrition, and leadership. A former Division I player at Furman and a seven-year European pro, Robby blends high-level playing experience with a Kaizen-inspired “Level Up Plan” to help players improve daily. His training emphasizes mental resilience, game IQ, and complete player development. Chapters: 01:00 – Robby’s journey from D1 to European pro and coaching transition 05:00 – Holistic challenges: skills, fitness, nutrition, mentality, leadership 08:00 – Teaching affirmations & leadership at a young age 10:30 – Discovering CLA & how it transformed his coaching 13:00 – Drawing inspiration from other sports & creativity in practice design 17:30 – Using constraints to teach offense/defense balance 20:00 – Incentivizing good decisions instead of penalizing mistakes 22:00 – Coaching with principles vs. rigid set plays 24:00 – Embracing variability in shooting & training chaos 26:00 – Transformative tip Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/ Links:Website: http://transformingbball.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball
In this episode, George Vaz is joined by Norbert Opitz, a cornerstone of Alba Berlin’s youth development program. With over 20 years of experience, Norbert shares how Alba fosters player growth through representative practices, decision-making, and long-term development over short-term wins. He explains why Alba avoids “on-air” drills, how they use constraints to guide learning, and the importance of empowering players to play freely while building confidence in their shooting. Bio:Norbert Opitz is more than a coach—he's a cornerstone of ALBA Berlin’s developmental philosophy. With deep expertise in youth development, a strong emphasis on mental and physical growth, and a record of on-court achievements, Opitz continues to mold Berlin’s next generation of elite basketball players and coaches. Chapters: 01:00 – Norbert’s coaching journey and philosophy at Alba Berlin04:00 – What sets Alba apart: representative learning environments 05:00 – Using constraints to mirror real game challenges08:00 – Building confident shooters and daily shooting focus 11:00 – Teaching decision-making and advantage creation 14:00 – Balancing freedom with guided coaching 16:00 – Integrating offense and defense in practices21:00 – Generating quality shots against compact defenses26:00 – Transformative tip Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/ Links:Website: http://transformingbball.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball
In this episode, George Vaz is joined by Zay West, Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Atlanta Hawks and former NBA Academy Africa performance lead. Zay shares how evidence-based training, creativity, and environmental design can help athletes maximize performance, adapt faster, and return stronger from injuries. Chapters: 01:30 - Zay’s coaching journey to the Atlanta Hawks03:00 - Applying the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA)08:30 - Creativity in training & warm-ups09:30 - Return-to-play progressions13:00 - Scaling from control to chaos in drills17:00 - Engaging warmup games (tag, tennis ball, volleyball)22:30 - Teaching athletes how to fall safely24:00 - Achilles injury trends & prevention28:00 - Transformative tip Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/ Links:Website: http://transformingbball.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball
In this episode, George Vaz sits down with Ashley Cookson, Head of Basketball Performance and Head Coach of the Essex Rebels women’s team. Ashley shares his journey through coaching in the UK, Sweden, Canada, and Australia, and how ecological dynamics and constraints-led approaches shape his philosophy. Chapters: 00:00 - Ashley’s coaching journey across the UK, Sweden, Canada & Australia04:00 - Discovering ecological dynamics & adapting traditional coaching methods07:00 - Designing transition-focused drills and using constraints in practice13:00 - Lessons learned from different coaching cultures abroad21:00 - Recruitment, core principles of play, and keeping strategies simple25:00 - Transformative Tip Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/ Links:Website: http://transformingbball.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball
In this episode, George is joined by Cameron Mitchell—two-time NWAC South Coach of the Year and head coach of Portland Community College’s Panther Basketball Program. He shares how he’s led his team to back-to-back region championships and the most successful two-year stretch in program history. Cameron also explains why embracing controlled chaos, implementing the Constraints-Led Approach, and giving players autonomy have been key to success. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Coach Cameron Mitchell & career highlights 02:10 – First-year challenges as a college head coach 05:20 – Building a winning culture from day one 09:05 – Balancing team goals and individual development 12:45 – Strategies for recruiting and developing talent 16:20 – Lessons learned from consecutive championship runs 20:15 – Transitioning to the G League with Rip City Remix 24:40 – Advice for new and aspiring coaches 28:00 – Transformative Tip: Focus on culture, not just results Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/ Links:Website: http://transformingbball.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball
In this episode, Alex and Kerri dives deep into the balance between player development and winning, how to teach functional skills without over-prescribing, and practical ways to apply the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) in real team settings. They also share tips on involving more players in the offense, integrating other sports for better movement patterns, and aligning athletic goals with basketball needs. Chapters:00:00 – Why chasing wins can limit player growth 03:12 – The shift to a development-first mindset 07:40 – Using CLA & DL to create adaptable athletes 12:15 – Designing game-like practices 16:50 – Balancing competition and learning 21:08 – Helping players handle real-game pressure 25:35 – Final thoughts and key takeaways 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George sits down with Martina Navarro to explore how coaches can use the Athletic Skills Model (ASM) to transform fundamental skills into functional movements, build movement versatility, and add variability to warmups and practices. They also dive into why falling is such an essential skill and how transfer of learning helps athletes thrive across multiple sports. Chapters & Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 01:48 – Transforming Fundamental Skills into Functional Movements 05:00 – The Importance of Playing Different Sports 07:00 – Practical Ways to Introduce Movement Skills into Warmups 10:45 – The Athletic Skills Model Continuum 13:00 – The Fundamental 10 Explained 16:30 – Why Falling is a Critical Skill for Athletes 20:00 – The Concept of Transfer of Learning 23:30 – Applying ASM to Basketball Practice 27:00 – Martina’s Multi-Sport Background 28:30 – Long-Term Player Development & Relationships with Sport 29:00 – Transformative Tip for Coaches 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George is joined by Matt Cline to talk about building an elite offensive system at Missouri, creating a culture of connection, and coaching through creativity, freedom, and trust. They also explore how the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) has influenced Missouri’s training design and how empowering players has led to real transformation. Chapters: 00:00 – Building Elite Offense at Missouri 01:48 – Creating Offense Through Behaviors, Not Plays 03:27 – Transitioning into a CLA Coaching Mindset 05:59 – Designing Practices Around Transfer and Decision-Making 09:09 – Culture of Connection at Missouri 12:36 – Developing a Shared Language with Players 15:14 – Player Autonomy & Leadership On-Court 21:00 – Using Constraints to Build Skills & Identity 28:51 – Growing as a Coach and a Human 41:41 – Transformative Tip 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/ Links: 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
In this solo episode, we dive deep into one of the most underrated tools in a coach’s toolbox: intention. George breaks down how clear, purposeful intention can transform everything from season planning to small-sided game design, helping coaches build sessions that are aligned, impactful, and principle-driven. If you've ever found yourself adding constraints or drills without a clear purpose — this episode is for you. Learn how intention acts as the invisible string tying together your principles of play, constraint manipulations, and session structure. 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz is joined by Kerry Kuzbyt and Francois Lubino, discussing their experiences in coaching and player development. They explore the importance of non-negotiables in coaching, adapting movement solutions for young athletes, and creating safe environments for learning. The conversation highlights the role of competition in player development, the impact of female coaches in basketball, and the challenges faced in coaching young athletes. 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz and Loren Anderson discussed his journey into coaching through an ecological dynamics lens, emphasizing the importance of athlete-centered approaches, motivational interviewing, and creating representative learning environments. Loren shares insights on how to provide effective feedback and foster communication among athletes, ultimately aiming to enhance their development and performance. 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz is joined by Liam Jefferson and Will Twigg to discuss their experiences in creating a competitive environment for youth basketball players. They share insights on instilling values, non-negotiables, and the importance of player ownership in practice. They also reflect on adapting coaching styles to fit player development and offer transformative tips for coaches to enhance their practice environments. Chapters:00:00 - Creating a Competitive Environment in Basketball 03:05 - Values and Non-Negotiables in Coaching 05:54 - Accelerating Player Learning and Development 08:53 - Practice Design and Intentionality 12:05 - Constraints and Desired Behaviors in Practice 15:03 - Adapting Coaching Styles and Strategies 18:00 - Transformative Tips for Coaches 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz discusses how to implement Transforming Basketball Principles into basketball practice. He emphasizes the importance of designing practice environments that mimic game situations, effectively manipulating constraints to foster adaptable players, and utilizing nonlinear pedagogy for skill development. George also highlights the significance of setting clear goals for practice sessions and the value of reviewing practices to enhance learning outcomes. Chapters:00:00 - Transforming Basketball Practice: Key Principles02:52 - Effective Constraint Manipulation in Practice06:00 - Nonlinear Pedagogy and Skill Development09:09 - Intentional Practice: Setting Goals and Constraints 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George is joined by Marianne Davies to discuss the ecological dynamics approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, curiosity, and creating dynamic learning environments. She shares her journey in coaching, highlights the significance of representative learning, and offers practical advice for coaches to enhance their practice design and feedback mechanisms. Chapters:00:00 - The Importance of Authenticity in Coaching01:13 - Aha Moments in Ecological Dynamics03:44 - Creating Dynamic Learning Environments06:24 - Designing Effective Practice for Coaches10:22 - Stabilizing and Destabilizing Movements12:48 - The Rule of Thirds in Coaching Sessions14:52 - The Role of Representative Learning19:28 - Challenges in Coach Education22:08 - Feedback Mechanisms for Coaches and Athletes26:28 - Practical Advice for Coaches29:02 - Transformative Tips for Coaches 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George is joined by Paul Cortes shares his journey of adopting the Constraints Led Approach (CLA) in coaching basketball, leading his team to their first state championship. He discusses the importance of focusing on player relationships, adapting practice strategies, and implementing game situations to enhance decision-making. Paul reflects on the challenges faced during the season, including shooting slumps and defensive adjustments, while emphasizing the significance of trust and autonomy in player development. He also recommends valuable resources for coaches looking to transform their approach to the game. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to the Constraints Led Approach01:38 - The Journey to the State Championship02:34 - Adopting the Constraints Led Approach04:43 - Implementing Game Situations in Practice06:04 - Initial Reactions to the New Approach07:51 - Favorite Activities and Drills10:56 - Triggers and Set Plays12:01 - Defensive Strategies and Adaptability18:08 - Challenges Faced During the Season26:37 - Recommended Resources for Coaches29:44 - Final Thoughts and Transformative Advice 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz George Vaz discusses the importance of mastering conceptual offense in AAU basketball. He emphasizes the challenges faced in AAU, such as inconsistent practice attendance and the need for players to adapt quickly. Vaz advocates for using guiding principles instead of fixed plays, focusing on transition offense, and utilizing triggers to enhance offensive flow. He provides practical strategies for coaches to implement in practice, encouraging players to read defenses and create advantages on the court Chapters: 00:00 - Mastering Conceptual Offense in AAU Basketball 02:54 - Transition Offense Principles and Strategies 05:48 - Utilizing Triggers for Offensive Flow 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz speaks with JP Nerbun, an executive coach and consultant, about the principles of transformational coaching. They discuss the importance of creating a supportive team environment, building strong relationships with players, and effective communication strategies. JP emphasizes the need for coaches to model positive behavior, cultivate a strong team culture, and address negative dynamics within the team. The conversation also highlights the shift from extrinsic to intrinsic motivation and the significance of intentionality in coaching practices. JP shares practical tips for coaches to enhance their effectiveness and foster a positive atmosphere for player development. Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to Transformational Coaching 02:20 - Creating a Supportive Environment 05:17 - Building Relationships with Players 08:21 - Understanding Player Aspirations 10:18 - Establishing Team Culture 12:50 - Identifying and Cultivating Positives 14:59 - Modeling Positive Behavior 17:25 - Navigating Team Dynamics 20:42 - Fostering Intrinsic Motivation 22:17 - Intentional Communication in Coaching 27:33 - Transformative Tip Connect with JP Nerbun:Twitter/X: https://x.com/jpnerbunSubstack: https://jpnerbuntoc.substack.com/TOC Culture Consulting: https://www.tocculture.com/ Links mentioned: The Coach's Guide to Sports Parents: Proven Strategies for Transforming Parents from Obstacles to Allies - https://a.co/d/gP9vJ2TThe Culture System: A Proven Process for Creating an Extraordinary Team Culture - https://a.co/d/8NeqX16 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz is joined by Gerard Hillier, a coach and pedagogy manager at the Knox Junior Raiders program in Melbourne. They discuss the importance of a constraint-led approach in coaching, the transition from traditional methods, and how to effectively implement these changes in a coaching environment. Gerard shares practical applications for coaches, the significance of player development over short-term wins, and resources available for coaches to enhance their practice. Chapters:00:00 - Implementing Game Rules for Development01:44 - Understanding Pedagogy in Coaching02:10 - Journey to Constraint-Led Approach06:06 - Navigating Traditional Coaching Mindsets09:06 - Collaborative Coaching Practices12:15 - Practical Applications of Constraints18:02 - Balancing Player Development and Winning21:38 - Practical Tips for Coaches27:11 - Transformative Tip 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz discusses the importance of principles of play for youth basketball players aged 16 and below. He emphasizes that focusing on principles rather than set plays allows players to adapt to various coaching styles and develop a deeper understanding of the game. Key topics include creating advantages through spacing, shot selection, and practical coaching strategies to enhance player development. Chapters 00:00 - Principles of Play vs. Set Plays 02:46 - Creating Advantages Through Spacing and Decision Making 06:05 - Shot Selection and Game Constraints 08:50 - Practical Games and Coaching Strategies 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/ Links: 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
In this episode, George Vaz interviews Daniel Sokolovsky, a global basketball coach with experience in various countries. They discuss the importance of understanding cultural differences in coaching, the balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and the need for adaptability in coaching beliefs. Daniel shares insights from his diverse coaching experiences, emphasizing the significance of designing effective practices and the role of intentional constraints in training. Chapters: 00:00 - Cultivating a Coaching Environment 01:09 - Global Coaching Insights 03:27 - Balancing Motivation and Accountability 08:12 - Learning from Diverse Coaching Experiences 11:37 - Evolving Practice Design 15:05 - Intentional Training Environments 22:03 - Understanding Offensive Strategies 25:10 - Transformative Tip 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/ Links: 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