Hoop Heads

Hoop Heads Podcast Network
Hoop Heads

The Hoop Heads Podcast is co-hosted by Head Start Basketball Founder Mike Klinzing and Coach Jason Sunkle. The Hoop Heads Podcast covers a wide range of basketball topics relevant to coaches, players, and parents. Listen in for interviews with personalities from across the basketball landscape. Our line-up of podcast guests includes some of the top minds in the game across all levels, from grassroots to the NBA. They’ll share insights to help you grow as a coach, improve as a player, or enhance your experience of the game as a parent. You’ll gain new perspectives on what the best coaches are doing, how they do it, and why they do it. We hope to make you think and challenge you to consider your approach to the game of basketball. We’ll also attempt to entertain and inform as we share our thoughts on the NBA and college hoops. We are passionately committed to the Hoop Heads Podcast and growing the game of basketball. Visit our website www.hoopheadspod.com to check out every episode we've ever recorded and learn more about what drives our show! Thank you for being a part of Hoop Heads Nation!Podcast by Hoop Heads

  1. 1 HR. AGO

    The NBA's Biggest Disappointments so Far in 2025 - Episode 1049

    On this episode, Mike and Jason discuss the biggest disappointments in the NBA so far this season. They analyze the struggles of key players and teams, including Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers and the Miami Heat's Jimmy Butler drama. They also express their disappointment over the absence of NBA analyst Zach Lowe, highlighting the impact of his insights on the basketball community. Next, Mike & Jason delve into the current state of several NBA teams and players, focusing on JB Bickerstaff's lack of complaining to officials as a result of the Detroit Pistons' successful rebuilding efforts, Luka Doncic's underwhelming season, the struggles of the Phoenix Suns, the disappointing performance of the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the ongoing challenges faced by Zion Williamson. Each segment highlights the expectations versus reality for these teams and players, providing insights into their future prospects. Magic Mind - The Shortcut to a Better Year? A Better Brain. Say goodbye to burnout, procrastination and sleepless nights, and hello to a sharper mind, calmer energy, and less stress. Two delicious daily shotsIncrease your productivity in the dayReset with deep restorative sleep at nightClinically-proven ingredients, science-backed results Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with my link: https://www.magicmind.com/hoopheadsjan Visit our Sponsors! Dr. Dish Basketball Our friends at Dr. Dish Basketball are doing things a little differently this month with $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish Rebel+, $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish All-Stat+, AND $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish CT+ during their first ever Semi-Annual Sales Event. Shop now and have your team more ready for the upcoming season than ever before. Fast Model Sports FastModel Sports has the most compelling and intuitive basketball software out there! In addition to a great product, they also provide basketball coaching content and resources through their blog and playbank, which features over 8,000 free plays and drills from their online coaching community. For access to these plays and more information, visit fastmodelsports.com or follow them on Twitter @FastModel. Use Promo code HHP15 to save 15% GameChanger Introducing GameChanger, a free app that provides you with data to make strategic coaching decisions and to deliver memorable moments to your team and its fans. Engage your players, empower your coaching decisions, and give parents the thrill of watching every play unfold in real time this season. Download GameChanger now on iOS or Android. GameChanger equips your team with the tools they need to succeed. Download it today and make this season one for the books. GameChanger. Stream. Score. Connect. Learn more at gc.com/hoopheads. Get automated highlight clips for all scoring plays as well as rebounds, steals, assists, and more. Plus free live streaming, advanced scorekeeping, and team management. The Coaching Portfolio Your first impression is everything when applying for a new

    1h 2m
  2. 2 DAYS AGO

    Matt Mann - Basketball Shooting Coach & Founder of Skills Within Hoops - Episode 1048

    Matt Mann is a basketball shooting coach and the Founder of Skills Within Hoops. Mann's journey began in Australia where, with no formal training available, he taught himself basketball fundamentals using makeshift equipment and a relentless drive for improvement, eventually playing professionally in five different countries. Today, he channels his experiences into a thriving platform that transforms players into confident, consistent, and strategic scorers. I bring a global perspective to my coaching, having played basketball in five countries. His training is backed by mentorship from the NBA's top skills trainer, Drew Hanlen, and shooting expert, John Townsend. On this episode Mike and Matt discuss Matt’s inspiring journey from playing Division 4 basketball in Australia to achieving success as a trainer. Growing up in Australia, Matt initially had no exposure to basketball but found a passion for the game after filling in for a friend's team. His determination to improve and compete against his peers led him through various divisions, facing challenges and setbacks, including a significant injury that threatened his dreams. Eventually, he transitioned into coaching during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he discovered a natural talent for training young athletes. With mentorship from NBA trainers, Matt has developed a thriving coaching business, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals and communication in basketball. Follow us on Twitterand Instagram @hoopheadspod for the latest updates on episodes, guests, and events from the Hoop Heads Pod. Make sure you’re subscribed to the Hoop Heads Pod on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts and while you’re there please leave us a 5 star rating and review. Your ratings help your friends and coaching colleagues find the show. If you really love what you’re hearing recommend the Hoop Heads Pod to someone and get them to join you as a part of Hoop Heads Nation. Grab pen and paper before you listen to this episode with Matt Mann, basketball shooting coach and Founder of Skills Within Hoops. Website - https://www.skillswithinhoops.com Email - skillswithinhoops@gmail.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/skillswithinhoops/ Visit our Sponsors! Dr. Dish Basketball Our friends at Dr. Dish Basketball are doing things a little differently this month with $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish Rebel+, $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish All-Stat+, AND $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish CT+ during their first ever Semi-Annual Sales Event. Shop now and have your team more ready for the upcoming season than ever before. Fast Model Sports FastModel Sports has the most compelling and intuitive basketball software out there! In addition to a great product, they also provide basketball coaching content and resources through their blog and playbank, which features over 8,000 free plays and drills from their online coaching community. For access to these plays and more information, visit fastmodelsports.com or follow them on Twitter @FastModel. Use Promo code HHP15 to save 15% a...

    59 min
  3. 5 DAYS AGO

    Round Table 73 - What is an unconventional tactic, process, or strategy you've used that more coaches should be willing to try? - Episode 1047

    Welcome to the 73rd edition of the Coach’s Corner Round Table on the Hoop Heads Podcast. Each episode of the Coach’s Corner Round Table will feature our All-Star lineup of guests answering a single basketball question. A new Coach’s Corner Round Table will drop around the 15th of each month. January’s Round Table question is: What is an unconventional tactic, process, or strategy you've used that more coaches should be willing to try? Our Coaching Lineup this month: · Jerry Buckley – Bishop Kenny (FL) High School · Erik Buehler – Arapahoe (CO) High School · Hannah Dewater – Union Mine (CA) High School · Stephen Halstead – Grace College · Dave Hixon - Amherst College · Tim Jackson – Author of Understanding College Athletics Through The Eyes Of College Athletes · Bob Krizancic – Mentor (OH) High School · Dell Leonard - Mountain Home (AR) High School · Dan Miller – San Marcos (TX) High School · Katie Pate – George Mason University · Nate Sanderson – Mount Vernon (IA) High School · Don Showalter - USA Basketbal · Joe Stasyszyn – Unleashed Potential Please enjoy this Round Table episode of the Hoop Heads Podcast and once you’re finished listening please give the show a five star rating and review after you subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Be sure to follow us on twitter and Instagram @hoopheadspod for the latest updates on episodes, guests, and events from the Hoop Heads Pod. Visit our Sponsors! a href="https://info.drdishbasketball.com/promotion?utm_campaign=Hoop%20Heads%20Podcast&utm_source=Partner%20Podcast%20Read&utm_content=Jan2025%20Promo" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    38 min
  4. JAN 15

    Cavs at the Top & A Check In on the Current Playoff, Play-In, & Lottery Teams Around The League - Episode 1046

    On this episode of the Hoop Heads Podcast, Mike and Jason discuss their return after a brief hiatus, reflecting on the holiday season and the NBA Christmas Day games. They analyze the performance of the Cleveland Cavaliers, particularly their recent games against the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers, highlighting the team's resilience and playoff potential. The conversation also touches on the All-Star selections and the impressive performances of key players like Darius Garland and Evan Mobley. In this segment, the conversation delves into the Cleveland Cavaliers' lineup consistency and depth, highlighting the importance of having key players on the floor together. The discussion shifts to Evan Mobley's development and his potential to become a pivotal player for the Cavs. The conversation then transitions to an overview of the Eastern Conference, focusing on key teams like the Orlando Magic and the Detroit Pistons, while also addressing the struggles of the bottom teams, including the Wizards and Hornets. Next they discuss the playoff prospects of teams in the Western Conference. They also delve into the struggles of the Minnesota Timberwolves and the future of Zion Williamson with the New Orleans Pelicans. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on Cooper Flagg's potential landing spots and Ohio State's chances in the college football national championship game. Magic Mind - The Shortcut to a Better Year? A Better Brain. Say goodbye to burnout, procrastination and sleepless nights, and hello to a sharper mind, calmer energy, and less stress. Two delicious daily shotsIncrease your productivity in the dayReset with deep restorative sleep at nightClinically-proven ingredients, science-backed results Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with my link: https://www.magicmind.com/hoopheadsjan Visit our Sponsors! Dr. Dish Basketball Our friends at Dr. Dish Basketball are doing things a little differently this month with $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish Rebel+, $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish All-Stat+, AND $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish CT+ during their first ever Semi-Annual Sales Event. Shop now and have your team more ready for the upcoming season than ever before. Fast Model Sports FastModel Sports has the most compelling and intuitive basketball software out there! In addition to a great product, they also provide basketball coaching content and resources through their blog and playbank, which features over 8,000 free plays and drills from their online coaching community. For access to these plays and more information, visit fastmodelsports.com or follow them on Twitter @FastModel. Use Promo code HHP15 to save 15% GameChanger Introducing GameChanger, a free app that provides you with data to make strategic coaching decisions and to deliver memorable moments to your team and its fans. Engage your players, empower your coaching decisions, and give parents the thrill of watching every play unfold in real time this season. Download GameChanger now on iOS or Android. GameChanger equips your team with the tools they need to succeed. Download it today and make this season one for the books. GameChanger. Stream. Score. Connect. Learn more at a...

    1h 20m
  5. JAN 13

    Michael Rejniak - Senior Recruiting Coordinator at NCSA, Head Coach/GM of We Are D3 TBT, & Former College Coach - Episode 1045

    Michael Rejniak is a Senior Recruiting Specialist at NCSA, the GM/Head Coach of the “We Are D3” team in the TBT tournament, and a former college coach. Rejniak began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at The College of New Jersey from 2004-2006. His next stop was an assistant coach at Plymouth State for one season before he joined Hall of Fame Coach Dave Hixon as an assistant at Amherst for four seasons from 2007-2011. Coach Rej got his first opportunity as a head coach at Suny New Paltz where his teams recorded the most conference wins (9) since 1999 during the 2013 and 2015 seasons and he coached 5 All-Conference student-athletes and 4 1,000 pt scorers. Off the court, his teams equally performed well in the classroom, receiving the NABC Academic Team Excellence Award (cumulative team GPA of 3.0) his final 3 seasons. Following his six-year run at Suny New Paltz, Michael served as an assistant coach at Vassar College under BJ Dunne for one season before joining NCSA. Coach Rej has been the GM and Head Coach of the We are D3 TBT Team since 2018. The team competes annually in the TBT and is comprised of all former Division 3 All-Americans who are currently playing professionally. On this episode Mike and Coach Rej discuss the evolving landscape of college basketball recruitment and the challenges faced by Division 3 athletes. Rejniak emphasizes the importance of understanding the recruiting process early and how it has shifted from high school to AAU tournaments, affecting athletes’ visibility to college coaches. He discusses his journey from coaching at various levels to advocating for Division 3 players, highlighting the need for quality instruction and the unique skills that set successful players apart. Michael also reflects on the dynamics of coaching his own children and the balance between being a parent and a coach. The conversation delves into the significance of mental resilience in athletes, the impact of NIL on college sports, and the ongoing mission to elevate the visibility of Division 3 basketball. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @hoopheadspod for the latest updates on episodes, guests, and events from the Hoop Heads Pod. Make sure you’re subscribed to the Hoop Heads Pod on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts and while you’re there please leave us a 5 star rating and review. Your ratings help your friends and coaching colleagues find the show. If you really love what you’re hearing recommend the Hoop Heads Pod to someone and get them to join you as a part of Hoop Heads Nation. Take some notes as you listen to this episode with Michale Rejniak, Senior Recruiting Specialist at NCSA, the GM/Head Coach of the “We Are D3” team in the TBT tournament, and a former college coach. Website - https://www.ncsasports.org/ncsa-staff/michael-rejniak Email - mrejniak@ncsasports.org Twitter/X - @Coachrej Magic Mind - The Shortcut to a Better Year? A Better Brain. Say goodbye to burnout, procrastination and sleepless nights, and hello to a sharper mind, calmer energy, and less stress. Two delicious daily shotsIncrease your productivity in the dayReset with deep restorative sleep at nightClinically-proven ingredients, science-backed results Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with my link: a href="https://www.magicmind.com/hoopheadsjan" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 38m
  6. JAN 10

    Joel Wallace - LeTourneau University Men's Basketball Associate Head Coach - Episode 1044

    Joel Wallace is the Men’s Basketball Associate Head Coach at LeTourneau University where he works under his brother James who is the YellowJackets Head Coach. Wallace was named the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches Small College Assistant Coach of the Year following the 2023-24 season. Previously, Wallace spent two seasons as a graduate assistant with the Minot State men's basketball program. Prior to Minot, Wallace spent two years at Ridgewater College as an assistant coach after beginning his coaching career as a student assistant at Southwest Minnesota State under head coach Brad Bigler. On this episode Mike and Joel discuss the profound impact of relationships in coaching and the importance of prioritizing player development over wins. Growing up in a basketball-centric family, Joel reflects on how his father's coaching style shaped his approach, emphasizing connection and understanding with players. He shares insights on the balance between maintaining high standards and providing emotional support to athletes, particularly in a collegiate environment. As he navigates the challenges of building a competitive team, including roster changes and the quest for NCAA tournament success, Joel highlights the joy he finds in coaching and the new experiences of being a father. His journey illustrates how fostering a nurturing culture can lead to success on and off the court, reinforcing the idea that coaching is fundamentally about relationships. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @hoopheadspod for the latest updates on episodes, guests, and events from the Hoop Heads Pod. Make sure you’re subscribed to the Hoop Heads Pod on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts and while you’re there please leave us a 5 star rating and review. Your ratings help your friends and coaching colleagues find the show. If you really love what you’re hearing recommend the Hoop Heads Pod to someone and get them to join you as a part of Hoop Heads Nation. You’ll want to have your notebook handy as you listen to this episode with Joel Wallace, Men’s Basketball Associate Head Coach at LeTourneau University. Website - https://letuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball Email -  joelwallace@letu.edu Twitter/X - @CoachWallace30 Magic Mind - The Shortcut to a Better Year? A Better Brain. Say goodbye to burnout, procrastination and sleepless nights, and hello to a sharper mind, calmer energy, and less stress. Two delicious daily shotsIncrease your productivity in the dayReset with deep restorative sleep at nightClinically-proven ingredients, science-backed results Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with my link: https://www.magicmind.com/hoopheadsjan Visit our Sponsors! Dr. Dish Basketball Our friends at Dr. Dish Basketball are doing things a little differently this month with $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish Rebel+, $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish All-Stat+, AND $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish CT+ during their first ever Semi-Annual Sales Event. Shop now and have your team more ready for the upcoming season than ever...

    50 min
  7. JAN 8

    One Wish for Every NBA Team Heading into the Rest of the Season - Episode 1043

    On this episode of the Hoop Heads Podcast, Mike goes solo and shares wishes & resolutions for all 30 NBA teams as they head into 2025. The conversation is divided into two main sections: insights on Eastern Conference teams and Western Conference teams, providing a comprehensive overview of the current NBA landscape. Visit our Sponsors! Dr. Dish Basketball Our friends at Dr. Dish Basketball are doing things a little differently this month with $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish Rebel+, $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish All-Stat+, AND $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish CT+ during their first ever Semi-Annual Sales Event. Shop now and have your team more ready for the upcoming season than ever before. Fast Model Sports FastModel Sports has the most compelling and intuitive basketball software out there! In addition to a great product, they also provide basketball coaching content and resources through their blog and playbank, which features over 8,000 free plays and drills from their online coaching community. For access to these plays and more information, visit fastmodelsports.com or follow them on Twitter @FastModel. Use Promo code HHP15 to save 15% GameChanger Introducing GameChanger, a free app that provides you with data to make strategic coaching decisions and to deliver memorable moments to your team and its fans. Engage your players, empower your coaching decisions, and give parents the thrill of watching every play unfold in real time this season. Download GameChanger now on iOS or Android. GameChanger equips your team with the tools they need to succeed. Download it today and make this season one for the books. GameChanger. Stream. Score. Connect. Learn more at gc.com/hoopheads. Get automated highlight clips for all scoring plays as well as rebounds, steals, assists, and more. Plus free live streaming, advanced scorekeeping, and team management. The Coaching Portfolio Your first impression is everything when applying for a new coaching job.  A professional coaching portfolio is the tool that highlights your coaching achievements and philosophies and, most of all, helps separate you and your abilities from the other applicants. Special Price of just $25 for all Hoop Heads Listeners. Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with our link: https://www.magicmind.com/hoopheadsjan If you listen to and love the Hoop Heads Podcast, please consider giving us a small tip that will help in our quest to become the #1 basketball coaching podcast. https://hoop-heads.captivate.fm/support Twitter/X Podcast - @hoopheadspod Mike - @hdstarthoops Jason - @jsunkle Instagram a...

    46 min
  8. JAN 6

    Rick Boyages - Former College Basketball Coach & Administrator- Episode 1042

    Rick Boyages has worked inside the college sports industry as a basketball coach, special assistant, conference administrator, and consultant for 39 years. Most recently, he spent 12 years as vice president for men’s basketball at the Big Ten Conference in Chicago. His role included oversight of event management, game operations, conduct policies, and officiating. During his tenure, Rick served as sport liaison to 31 head coaches, 30 athletic directors, and dozens of network television executives, arena directors, and NCAA stakeholders. As executive director of the Collegiate Officiating Consortium, LLC, he simultaneously directed men’s basketball officiating operations for 65 Division I institutions in 22 states. Boyages also spent time as associate commissioner for the Mid-American Conference and special assistant to the athletic director at Ohio State University. His 19 years as a college basketball coach included stops at Ohio State, Boston College, William & Mary, and Bates College. He was an integral part of Big East and Big Ten championship seasons with Ohio State and Boston College, and coached in five NCAA Tournaments, two Elite Eight’s, and a Final Four with the Buckeyes in 1999. As a consultant, Rick has advised clients in areas including sports tech, higher education, and professional/international basketball. On this episode Mike & Rick his extensive journey through coaching, administration, and officiating. He discusses the evolution of the NCAA landscape, highlighting the complexities introduced by NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) legislation and the transfer portal, which have significantly altered the dynamics of college sports. Boyages reflects on his experiences at the Big Ten Conference, where he oversaw officiating and implemented a successful training program for referees, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and development in the officiating community. He also recounts the influence of his father, a youth basketball coach, on his coaching philosophy, prioritizing empathy and fundamental skills over rigid structures. As he embarks on a new chapter teaching leadership at Denison University, Boyages aims to inspire and connect with the next generation of athletes and coaches, sharing lessons learned from decades in the game. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @hoopheadspod for the latest updates on episodes, guests, and events from the Hoop Heads Pod. Make sure you’re subscribed to the Hoop Heads Pod on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts and while you’re there please leave us a 5 star rating and review. Your ratings help your friends and coaching colleagues find the show. If you really love what you’re hearing recommend the Hoop Heads Pod to someone and get them to join you as a part of Hoop Heads Nation. Get ready to take some notes as you listen to this episode with Rick Boyages, former college basketball coach and administrator. Website – https://denison.edu/people/rick-boyages Email – boyagesr@denison.edu Twitter/X – @coachboyages Visit our Sponsors! Dr. Dish Basketball Our friends at Dr. Dish Basketball are doing things a little differently this month with $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish Rebel+, $3,000 Off the Dr. Dish All-Stat+, AND $3,000 Off the Dr.

    1h 38m
4.4
out of 5
352 Ratings

About

The Hoop Heads Podcast is co-hosted by Head Start Basketball Founder Mike Klinzing and Coach Jason Sunkle. The Hoop Heads Podcast covers a wide range of basketball topics relevant to coaches, players, and parents. Listen in for interviews with personalities from across the basketball landscape. Our line-up of podcast guests includes some of the top minds in the game across all levels, from grassroots to the NBA. They’ll share insights to help you grow as a coach, improve as a player, or enhance your experience of the game as a parent. You’ll gain new perspectives on what the best coaches are doing, how they do it, and why they do it. We hope to make you think and challenge you to consider your approach to the game of basketball. We’ll also attempt to entertain and inform as we share our thoughts on the NBA and college hoops. We are passionately committed to the Hoop Heads Podcast and growing the game of basketball. Visit our website www.hoopheadspod.com to check out every episode we've ever recorded and learn more about what drives our show! Thank you for being a part of Hoop Heads Nation!Podcast by Hoop Heads

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