In episode 247, Max chats with former Boomers and NBL star Matthew Hodgson! Matthew opens up on one of the more unique and emotionally challenging journeys in Australian basketball - from not seriously playing the game until his teenage years, to earning a scholarship to Southern Utah, representing the Boomers, and building a long professional career in the NBL. But beyond the highlights, this conversation dives deep into the mental side of elite sport. Matthew speaks candidly about his struggles with self-confidence throughout his career - even during periods where coaches, teammates, and people around him believed he could become something special. From battling self-doubt and pressure, to overthinking performances, injuries, changing roles, and feeling mentally lost at different stages of his journey, he gives a rare insight into the internal battles athletes often face behind the scenes. We dive into his development through the AIS, the realities of American college basketball, and the transition into the professional game with Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth. He also reflects on Adelaide’s championship-contending years under Joey Wright, his breakout seasons with the Brisbane Bullets, and the challenges surrounding his time at the Perth Wildcats — including pressure, scrutiny, and trying to rebuild confidence while navigating difficult circumstances. Plus, we discuss resilience, identity, leadership, mindset, and the lessons basketball has taught him both on and off the court. A raw, honest and deeply reflective conversation on pressure, self-belief, growth, and the realities of professional sport. All this and much more in episode 247 of Sporting Max! www.instagram.com/sportingmax.podcast/
