B4LR pod

Rok Razdevšek

Welcome to my podcast! As a basketball strength coach, I’m all about unlocking what makes athletes and teams thrive. Join me as I sit down with players, coaches, scouts, and insiders to explore the hard work, mindset, and stories behind success in basketball. Real conversations, real passion—this is where the game gets personal."

  1. 03/04/2025

    #30 Kostas Chatzichristos EUROLEAGUE’s premier STRENGTH COACH & Director of Performance at Fenerbahce Istanbul

    In this episode, Rok Razdevšek talks with Kostas Chatzichristos, a veteran in strength and conditioning in European basketball, about how training has evolved over the years. They discuss the role of technology in player development, the balance between data and coaching instincts, and why personalized training is key. Kostas shares insights on managing the demands of a long season, supporting players both physically and mentally, and the pressures of working with elite teams. He also emphasizes the importance of building a strong coaching community through ESCCA (EuroLeague's Strength & Conditioning Coaches Association). Make sure you check out the event in Torino on June 27-28thhttps://escca.net/portfolio/5th-escca-summit/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kostas Journey in Basketball Strength and Conditioning 03:04 Evolution of Strength and Conditioning in Basketball 08:30 Emerging Trends in Basketball and Strength Conditioning 15:27 Integrating Technology in Player Development 19:50 Data-Informed vs. Data-Driven Decisions in Coaching 27:36 In-Season Training Strategies 30:07 Balancing Physical and Mental Demands 33:14 Creating a Supportive Environment 35:02 Managing Pressure and Expectations 37:36 Thriving Under Pressure 42:16 Building a Community in Strength and Conditioning #euroleague #fenerbahçebeko #cskamoscow #basketballperformance #strengthandconditioning #basketballpodcast #strengthandconditioningcoach #europeanbasketball 🔔 Subscribe for more Basketball S&C tips: ‪@B4LR.‬ 📲 Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rokrazda

    50 min
  2. 13/03/2025

    #28 JESSE EDWARDS on his JOURNEY to the NBA

    In this engaging conversation, Jesse Edwards shares his journey from a young basketball player in the Netherlands to making his NBA debut with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He discusses the competitive spirit fostered by growing up with two older brothers, his transition to serious basketball at IMG Academy, and the challenges faced during his college years at Syracuse. Jesse emphasizes the importance of patience, strength training, and mental toughness in his development as a player. He also reflects on his experiences in the G League, the significance of learning from teammates, and his aspirations for the future, including goals for the Dutch national team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jesse Edwards 04:20 Childhood Basketball Memories 07:28 Path to IMG Academy 09:09 College Experience and Recruitment 11:08 Growth and Development at Syracuse 14:12 Lessons from College Basketball 16:16 Memorable Moments in College 18:05 Skill Development and Training 19:56 Typical Training Day and Off-Season Plans 22:15 Mental Breaks and Recovery 23:38 Finding Balance in the Off-Season 24:51 Learning from the Best: Player Development 27:14 G League Experience: Challenges and Growth 30:16 The Fight for Recognition in the G League 32:29 Team Dynamics vs. Individual Goals 33:04 Memorable Moments: Game Highlights 34:23 Watching from the Sidelines: Learning Opportunities 36:31 Mental Toughness: Navigating Tough Stretches 39:43 Finding Balance Beyond Basketball 41:45 Future Aspirations: Goals and Dreams

    47 min
  3. 26/01/2025

    #27 Ty Birts: from unknown PROSPECT to OVERSEAS STAR

    Ty Birts, an American professional basketball player with an inspiring underdog story, stands at 6 feet 6 inches (198 cm) and plays as a forward for ERA Nymburk, a top Czech team competing in the Basketball Champions League. In this episode, Ty shares his incredible journey from playing Division II basketball to making it in the professional ranks overseas. He dives into the challenges he faced, the importance of mental resilience, and how his faith has been a guiding force through tough times. Ty also provides valuable advice for aspiring players and reflects on his future goals, emphasizing hard work, consistency, and personal growth. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Ty Birts and His Journey 02:30 From Division II to Professional Basketball 06:44 The Reality of Overseas Basketball 10:33 Adapting to European Basketball 12:52 Challenges and Breakthrough Moments 15:37 Experiences in Serbia and Coaching Styles 19:32 Current Season and Team Dynamics 22:32 Strength Training and Preparation 25:49 Faith and Personal Growth 29:02 The Other Side of Professional Basketball 32:21 Advice for Aspiring Players 35:12 Future Goals and Aspirations Key Takeaways: Ty Birts embodies the underdog mentality, constantly striving to prove himself. The transition from Division II to professional basketball is demanding but rewarding. Mental toughness is essential for success in professional sports. Faith plays a major role in Ty's life and career. Adapting to European basketball requires learning to play without the ball. Building strong relationships with teammates and mentors is crucial for growth. Consistency and discipline are key to achieving long-term goals. Professional sports require sacrifices and a realistic mindset. Having a solid support system and representation is vital for aspiring athletes. Ty is determined to reach the highest level possible and give back to his community. 👉 Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE for more basketball content and performance tips: B4LR YouTube Channel 📲 Follow me on Instagram for more training content: @rokrazda

    38 min

About

Welcome to my podcast! As a basketball strength coach, I’m all about unlocking what makes athletes and teams thrive. Join me as I sit down with players, coaches, scouts, and insiders to explore the hard work, mindset, and stories behind success in basketball. Real conversations, real passion—this is where the game gets personal."