About the Guest(s):

Steve Yang is an experienced college basketball coach with a rich history in the sport spanning over 18 years. He has a diverse coaching background, having worked across various levels, including high school, NAIA, JUCO, and Division 1 institutions.

Yang's journey has taken him from coaching at Georgetown, George Mason, Illinois Springfield, Winthrop, Missouri State, and McCook Community College to his current position at California Baptist University (CBU), where he is known for his dedication to the game and developing young athletes.

Episode Summary:

This episode of "It's Just Different" podcast delves into the insightful world of college basketball recruiting with guest Coach Steve Yang.

Host Ashley Roberts discusses key aspects of navigating through the complexities of college sports with the first college coach to recruit some of her kids.

Coach Yang shares his expertise on recruitment, the importance of building relationships in coaching, and the changing landscape of basketball with the introduction of the transfer portal.

In the conversation, Coach Yang emphasizes the role of hard work, dedication, and sincerity in the path to a successful basketball career.

He advises on how athletes and parents can best approach the recruitment process, the significance of asking thoughtful questions to potential coaches, and the importance of selecting the right AAU team.

Yang's perspective on the evolving dynamics of college athletics, especially with the impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) policies and social media, provides a contemporary understanding of the challenges and opportunities in sports today.

Key Takeaways:

• Athletes should focus on playing hard and improving their skills rather than solely relying on exposure in tournaments.

• The college recruitment process is increasingly complex with the addition of the transfer portal, which now includes a significant focus on monetary aspects.

• Understanding the intentions and values of college and AAU coaches is crucial for athletes to find the right fit for their academic and athletic aspirations.

• Coach Yang highlights the joy and pride in team achievements, like winning championships and participating in the NCAA Tournament for the first time.

• The wisdom shared by Coach Yang underscores the importance of genuine connections beyond the court, which can impact players' and coaches’ lives profoundly.

Looking for mentorship or film review services? Send us an email at coachroberts@cebasketball.org to find out more information!

Looking for Different Merch? Check out www.ashleynroberts.com

Its Just Different on Socials: itsjustdifferentpod

Ashley on IG: _thisisashleyr

About the Guest(s):

Isis Young is a professional basketball player, TV analyst, host, and entrepreneur. With an impressive academic background, Isis has earned three degrees, including two master’s degrees.

Her journey in sports media began at Syracuse University, a renowned institution for sports broadcasting. An unfortunate ACL injury during her playing career at Fordham led her to pivot towards broadcasting, where she found a new passion.

Since then, she has worked with multiple networks across March Madness and has developed a business focused on media training and coaching for athletes. Isis uses her expertise to help other athletes articulate their stories and build their personal brands.

Episode Summary:

In this captivating episode, Isis Young delves into her multifaceted career as a pro basketball player turned broadcaster. Young shares her experience finding her calling in sports media and emphasizes the value of authenticity and purposeful storytelling.

Isis discusses the importance of utilizing connections in college and focusing on both academic and athletic pursuits. She provides invaluable advice to athletes on navigating the college recruiting process, assessing the fit with potential schools, and building relationships.

Additionally, Young touches on the implications of the transfer portal in college sports and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• Athletes should leverage college resources and connections to build their future career paths alongside their sports endeavors.

• Choosing a college should be based on a plethora of factors, not just athletics: style of play, educational opportunities, and genuine interest.

• The transfer portal dynamics have changed, and athletes must be mindful of their reasons for transferring to ensure it aligns with their long-term goals.

• Building a brand as an athlete starts with being authentic on social media, which is pivotal from a young age and can serve as a recruiting tool.

• Isis Young aims to become a media training hub for serious athletes, teaching them to maximize their time on camera and articulate their personal brand successfully.

  
  

  Socials:

  Isis on IG: iceyoung23_

  Your World Enterprises: yourworldent_

  Ashley on IG: _thisisashleyr

  Its Just Different on IG: itsjustdifferentpod

### About the Guest(s):

Dr. Ariassa Wilson, commonly referred to as Coach Rees or Dr. Rees, is a multifaceted professional with roots in Tacoma, Washington. As a former basketball player, she has an impressive career trajectory that includes playing professionally overseas in countries like Brazil, France, England, Belgium, Holland, and Colombia.

She holds a master's in coaching and transitioned into a coaching career, which led her to be a head coach by the age of 25. Dr. Wilson is also the founder of a youth academy, has a significant coaching history at the community college level, and is now focused on leadership and empowering others through her role as a confidence coach and CEO of You Ish Coaching.

Additionally, she has expressed aspirations of owning a team and being a venture capitalist in the sports industry.

### Episode Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Ariassa Wilson shares her journey from an athlete to a coach, emphasizing the transformative power of community college athletics and the importance of hard work for achieving success.

The conversation navigates through her personal evolution, the changing landscape of women's basketball, and the critical role of social capital in athlete recruitment.Dr. Wilson's extensive experience lends her unique insights into the athletic world, from the local community college level all the way to the professional stage.

She speaks candidly about the challenges and opportunities athletes face today, both at the individual level and within the broader context of team dynamics and coaching.

She also delves into her current work, focusing on mindset, habits, and skills essential for living out one's purpose. Her Doctorate in Organizational Leadership further informs her approach to personal and professional growth.

### Key Takeaways:

* The role of community colleges in shaping athletes' futures and the need to value this path more.

* Hard work as a differentiator: Challenges with the current athletic culture and the importance of true dedication.

* Social capital's impact on recruiting: Coaches and players need to network effectively for successful career advancement.

* The new landscape for athletes in an era of social media and NIL deals: Opportunities, challenges, and the importance of making informed decisions.

* Dr. Wilson's vision for the future, including becoming a venture capitalist in sports and potentially owning a sports team.

CHAPTERS:

0:00 - Intro

2:47 - What's Different

4:35 - Coach Reese Introduction

6:45 - Coaching Changes & Improvements

16:26 - Networking Advice for Athletes at Small Schools

20:32 - Coaching Career Motivations

24:47 - Navigating the AAU Process for Athletes & Parents

34:38 - Questions to Ask College Coaches

36:53 - Benefits of Community College for Athletes

41:40 - Decision Making in School Selection

48:52 - Top 5 Insights

52:42 - Recap: What's Different

53:44 - Leave a Message

55:27 - Closing Thoughts

About the Guest(s):

Yvonne Turner is renowned for her exceptional basketball career, having been recognized as the Big Twelve Player of the Year and a formidable defensive player.

Despite not being drafted immediately after college, Anderson's perseverance led her to a successful international career, playing in countries like Hungary.

She was labeled the oldest rookie in the WNBA at the age of 27 and has played for teams such as Phoenix Mercury and Seattle Storm.

Off the court, Turner contributes to her community through her involvement with a non-profit organization, DEVELOP, which aims to provide resources and training to young athletes in Nebraska.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the podcast, host Ashley Roberts engages with standout basketball player Yvonne Anderson in a candid conversation about her inspiring journey from collegiate basketball to professional leagues around the world and her unyielding passion for the sport.

The dialogue plunges into Turner late draft into the WNBA, her impressive career overseas, and her take on the transformation of women's basketball.

Yvonne reflects on her athletic evolution, discussing how playing in different countries and leagues helped refine her craft, and emphasizes the significance of being a resilient defender—highlighting that her defensive prowess was a key factor in distinguishing her from other players.

Key Takeaways:

• Yvonne Turner persistence led her to a successful professional basketball career, including playing in the WNBA as the oldest rookie at 27.

• Defense is a crucial skill that set Anderson apart and played a significant role in her basketball career advancement.

• Turner highlights the importance of not settling and making informed decisions in a basketball career, advocating for picking a college team that aligns with personal goals.

• Turner's nonprofit organization, DEVELOP, is dedicated to empowering young athletes through training and resources, emphasizing community contribution.

• Despite the glamour of professional sports, Turner underscores the need to remain grounded, stay coachable, and value personal growth along with professional development.

Yvonne on IG: @vonnvonn22

Ashley on IG: @_thisisashleyr

Its Just Different on IG: Itsjustdifferentpod

About the Guest(s):

Alexis Hyder is a former professional basketball player who brings a wealth of experience from both her collegiate and international playing careers.

She played for the University of North Texas and Louisiana State University during her college years, and she later took her talents overseas to play professionally in countries such as Sweden and Australia.

After a diligent career on the court, Alexis encountered setbacks with injuries, notably two ACL tears that would eventually lead her to the sidelines as a coach, poised to share her knowledge and passion for the game.

Currently, she is serving as the recruiting coordinator at Lindenwood University, providing guidance and expertise to young athletes navigating the realms of competitive basketball and recruitment.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Alexis Hyder offers a raw and candid perspective on the transition from being a collegiate athlete to a professional player and now a mentor and recruiting coordinator.

Her insights delve deep into the intricacies of coaching, the evolution of the recruiting process, and the mental fortitude required to overcome injury and adversity.

Key Takeaways:

• The modern era of coaching requires a nuanced understanding of each athlete's needs and the ability to adapt communication and motivational strategies accordingly.

• The recruitment process for athletes has evolved significantly, with social media and NIL rights changing the game for upcoming basketball stars.

• Alexis advises student-athletes and their parents to actively engage in the recruiting process by asking critical questions about fit, style of play, and coaching philosophies.

• Athletes should be placed in the best possible scenarios to showcase their skills and should maintain consistency in team selection to increase visibility to college coaches.

Alexis on IG: _alexishyder

Ashley on IG: _thisisashleyr

Its Just Different on socials: @itsjustdifferentpod

About the Guest(s):

Sarah Miles is a seasoned figure in the world of women's basketball, having both played and coached basketball.

She played collegiate basketball at West Virginia and has since transitioned into coaching. As a graduate assistant at West Virginia, Sarah got her start in coaching and has since served in various coaching roles across multiple universities, including the University of Denver, Central Michigan, and Northwestern.

Her experience and knowledge make her a distinct voice on the intricacies of college basketball recruiting and coaching.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Sarah Miles dives deep into the current landscape of college basketball, particularly focusing on recruiting and the transfer portal.

Her insights shed light on the challenges and strategies coaches face as the dynamics of student athletics evolve. Sarah passionately discusses the critical importance of building authentic relationships and the art of coaching in today's sensitive and competitive environment.

From the outset, the conversation with Sarah Miles encompasses a multitude of topics, starting with the stark contrasts between past and present recruitment practices. The introduction of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and the ramifications they have on the recruitment process are unpacked in detail.

Later, the discussion pivots to the whirlwind world of the transfer portal—its operations, challenges, and impacts on high school and college players.

Sarah provides a window into her journey through different coaching roles, revealing the path that led her to her current position and her aspirations for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• The shift in college sports, particularly basketball, where present-day athletes often have different expectations and approaches compared to previous generations.

• The intricacies and challenges of navigating the transfer portal as coaches seek suitable recruits for their programs.

• The consequential nature of NIL deals and their influence on the decision-making processes of athletes and the offerings of universities.

• The delicate balance coaches must maintain between mentoring, relationship-building, and the strategic elements of coaching in a more sensitive athletic landscape.

• The power of starting small in a coaching career and the value of learning from various roles and experiences within different basketball programs.

Sarah on Socials: _coachmiles15

Its Just Different on social: itsjustdifferentpod

Ashley on socials: _thisisashleyr

About the Guest(s):

Rich Anderson is a seasoned figure in the world of AAU basketball with over 26 years of experience. He has a track record of helping athletes secure college placements, significantly contributing to the development of young talent across boys' and girls' divisions.

Anderson is the owner of Texas U Basketball, an AAU program based in Dallas, Texas, which he has represented for several years, even partnering with major circuits such as Under Armour Association (UAA).

Episode Summary:

In an episode brimming with insights, Rich Anderson sits down to discuss the complexities and dynamics of AAU basketball in Texas and beyond. With a candid tone, Anderson shares his extensive background, touching upon the struggles and triumphs that come with running a competitive AAU program. This conversation isn't just about sports; it's a deep dive into the heart of youth athletic development and the business acumen required to stay afloat and succeed in a saturated market.

As Anderson recounts the journey through Texas' AAU basketball landscape, he highlights how passion can drive success and the need to pivot and evolve as a program director.

Exploring the intricacies of athlete recruitment and retention amidst fierce competition, Anderson also sheds light on the importance of understanding and appreciating the unseen efforts that go into athlete development.

Key Takeaways:

• AAU basketball in Texas is highly competitive, with a saturated market that presents challenges for both players and directors.

• Rich Anderson emphasizes the importance of transparency and setting correct expectations in the recruiting process to avoid misunderstandings and disappointments.

• The discussion touches on the crucial role of directors in nurturing talent and the intensity of work behind the scenes, including maintaining relationships with college coaches and managing logistics.

• Anderson's passion for coaching shines through, along with his desire to positively impact the AAU space and leave a lasting legacy.

• The current state of AAU is explored critically, with suggestions on how to improve its health and stability for future generations.

  
  

  Notable Quotes:

• "Every year in Texas, it's gonna get ugly, and it gets ugly."

• "I'm really big on setting expectations on the front end."

• "You have to treat it [AAU] like a business."

• "If you want to go hard, and this is going to be your livelihood, you have to treat it like a business."

• "Sometimes you gotta let that kid go, let people take their bumps."

About the Guest(s):

Saniya Burks is a high school basketball prodigy who's made waves with her outstanding performances on the court. Known for her scoring prowess, she once netted an astonishing 75 points in a single game, proving her athletic excellence.

Currently committed to playing at Texas State, Burks has demonstrated remarkable patience and resilience in her journey, overcoming the stereotypes of being a small guard from a small town to clinch multiple D1 offers.

Leading the nation in scoring and known for her 75-point game, Burks shares her insights on staying patient, battling against double teams, and ultimately securing a spot at Texas State despite the challenges of hailing from a smaller school and playing for an independent AAU team.

Key Takeaways:

• Persistence is Key: Saniya Burks underscores the importance of patience and seizing every chance to showcase talent, as it can lead to unexpected opportunities.

• Independent AAU Teams Facing Challenges: Burks highlights the shifting landscape of AAU basketball, where independent teams like Texas Truth face difficulties in gaining exposure for their players due to the rise of circuit-only events.

• Overcoming Stereotypes: Despite being a small guard from a small school, Saniya showcases how talent and hard work can lead to D1 offers, debunking the notion that larger schools or teams are a necessity for recruitment.

• Maintaining Composure: Saniya shares strategies for handling the pressure of being double-teamed, which includes staying composed and aggressive on the court.

• Family's Role in Athlete's Decision: Saniya emphasizes the role her parents played in allowing her to make her own decisions regarding her AAU team, demonstrating the importance of family support in an athlete's journey.

  
  

  Notable Quotes:

• "Be patient, like, every chance you get. Cause you never know who looking."

• "Are they sure this, like, you got 63 points? I was like, what? I was like, I got what?"

• "This is where I'm going. So they thought I could only do that with players that's not as talented as this girl."

• "Let your kids choose. Let hear them what they want to do before you just do something for them."

• "I didn't know I was gonna score 75 points and get all this buzz."

  
  

  
  

  
  

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