The Gametime Guru

Shane Larson
  • 5.0 (303)
  • Basketball
  • Updated Weekly

If you're looking for a unique perspective on sports, we'll bring you the content you want. Through interviews with different guests around the sports industry, we are delivering a panoramic view on sports. My goal is to help you see the world of sports through a different lens!

  1. 4d ago

    Ian Tatum: Offensive Line Coaching, Leadership & Simplifying Football

    How can football coaches simplify complicated concepts, develop smarter offensive linemen, and build stronger relationships with their players? In Episode 467 of The Gametime Guru, Shane Larson sits down with Coach Ian Tatum, a North Carolina football coach, offensive line educator, clinic instructor, and content creator known for making football strategy easier to understand. Coach Tatum shares his journey from beginning football in eighth grade to walking on at Gardner-Webb and eventually discovering that coaching was his true calling. He explains the transition from playing the game to teaching it, why great coaching requires more than a whistle, and how mentorship, communication, and genuine relationships shape athletes both on and off the field. In this episode, you will learn: Why youth football development requires structure and consistent coaching How to coach athletes at different ages and experience levels Why the crawl, walk, run teaching method is effective How Coach Tatum simplifies football concepts for players and coaches The importance of playside and backside offensive line rules How to teach gap schemes such as power, counter, and duo Why leverage and technique can help smaller offensive linemen succeed How offensive linemen process defensive fronts and solve problems at the line of scrimmage Why tight ends, H-backs, and bigger personnel groupings are returning to football The biggest life lesson Coach Tatum has learned from the game Coach Tatum also addresses the misconception that offensive linemen are simply the biggest players on the field. Offensive linemen must communicate, recognize defensive changes, understand multiple techniques, make decisions under pressure, and execute physically on every play. The conversation closes with one of Coach Tatum's most important lessons: be genuine. Players know when a coach truly cares, and authentic leadership can create relationships and memories that last far beyond a football season. This episode is valuable for youth football coaches, high school football coaches, offensive line coaches, players, parents, and anyone interested in football leadership, teaching, strategy, and player development. Follow Coach Ian Tatum: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachTatum  X/Twitter: https://x.com/CoachTatum90  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachTatum90  Support The Gametime Guru: Get 10% off Grit Sticks by using code GTG10 at checkout. Website: https://gritsticks.com Subscribe to The Gametime Guru for more conversations with athletes, coaches, and sports figures from around the world.

    Ian Tatum: Offensive Line Coaching, Leadership & Simplifying Football

  2. Jul 17

    How AI Is Changing Basketball: ShotTracker CEO Davyeon Ross

    How is artificial intelligence changing basketball coaching, player development, scouting, broadcasting, and performance analysis? In Episode 466 of The Gametime Guru Podcast, host Shane Larson sits down with Davyeon Ross, Co-Founder and CEO of ShotTracker, for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of basketball, technology, entrepreneurship, real-time analytics, and artificial intelligence. ShotTracker is helping change the way basketball programs understand what is happening on the court. By combining player and ball tracking, shot data, live statistics, synchronized video, advanced analytics, and AI-powered insights, the platform gives coaches and athletes a deeper look at performance than a traditional box score can provide. But Davyeon's story began long before ShotTracker. Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, Davyeon initially played soccer before discovering basketball as a teenager. Despite getting a relatively late start in the sport, his size, athleticism, footwork, shooting ability, and work ethic helped him earn a full college basketball scholarship in Kansas. After completing a successful college career, Davyeon had opportunities to play professional basketball overseas. Instead, he made the difficult decision to pursue a career in software engineering—a choice that would eventually allow him to combine his passion for sports with his expertise in technology. That combination ultimately led to the creation of ShotTracker. In this episode, Davyeon explains how the original idea began with a simple basketball problem: players and coaches were spending hours manually recording shots and performance data with pen and paper. He and his co-founder saw an opportunity to make that process more efficient, accurate, and valuable. Today, ShotTracker provides basketball technology that can automatically track shots, player movement, practice performance, scrimmage statistics, live game data, and video. Davyeon breaks down how the platform's different products help coaches evaluate players, review possessions, analyze opponents, validate the eye test, and make more informed decisions. In this conversation, Shane and Davyeon discuss: Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago Making the transition from soccer to basketball Moving to the United States at 17 years old Earning a full college basketball scholarship Adapting to a new country, culture, and level of competition Choosing software engineering over professional basketball The immigration and career factors that influenced that decision How Davyeon combined his love of sports and technology The original problem that inspired ShotTracker How ShotTracker measures shots, player movement, and team performance How basketball statistics can be synchronized with video How artificial intelligence can make film study and scouting more efficient Why analytics should support a coach's instincts rather than replace them How data can help quantify what coaches see during games and practices Why traditional coaches can still benefit from modern basketball technology Davyeon's friendship and mentorship relationship with former NBA Commissioner David Stern What Davyeon learned from David Stern about leadership and innovation Why great innovators are able to "see around corners" The future of AI, automation, and basketball analytics How technology could allow coaches to spend less time behind keyboards and more time developing players Davyeon also shares an important perspective for coaches who may be hesitant to embrace new technology. Tracking performance is not a new concept. Coaches have measured shots, possessions, lineups, and player development for decades. ShotTracker simply uses modern technology to make that process faster, easier, and more scalable. The conversation also explores how artificial intelligence could shape the future of basketball broadcasts and fan engagement. As data, video, and automation become more connected, fans may receive increasingly personalized ways to watch, understand, and interact with the game. Whether you are a basketball coach, player, parent, athletic director, scout, entrepreneur, technology professional, or sports fan, this episode offers an inside look at how AI and real-time analytics are helping shape the future of basketball. Learn more about ShotTracker: https://shottracker.com/ ABOUT THE GAMETIME GURU The Gametime Guru Podcast, hosted by Shane Larson, delivers a panoramic view on sports through conversations with athletes, coaches, executives, entrepreneurs, trainers, and influential sports figures from around the world. Each episode goes beyond the highlights and statistics to uncover the experiences, challenges, lessons, and defining moments that have shaped each guest's journey. Watch and subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegametimeguru Visit The Gametime Guru: https://thegametimeguru.com/ SUPPORT OUR PARTNERS Grit Sticks by Cross O Meats Premium meat sticks made with 100% American beef. Use promo code GTG10 at checkout. https://www.crossomeats.com/?ref=GTG10 Fascia Sticks A precision recovery tool designed to help athletes and active individuals target sore and tight muscles. Use promo code GAMETIME15. https://fasciasticks.com/GAMETIME15 Special thanks to: Nations Best Football Summit Legal Consulting Timberline Digital Marketing JOIN THE CONVERSATION Will artificial intelligence and real-time basketball analytics improve coaching and player development, or could teams become too dependent on technology? Follow, subscribe, and share this episode with a basketball coach, player, entrepreneur, or sports technology fan. Keywords: Davyeon Ross, ShotTracker, basketball analytics, artificial intelligence in basketball, AI basketball technology, basketball coaching technology, basketball player development, basketball scouting, sports analytics, real-time sports data, basketball tracking technology, coaching analytics, college basketball technology, sports technology entrepreneur, David Stern, basketball innovation, sports business, ShotTracker CEO, The Gametime Guru, Shane Larson.

    How AI Is Changing Basketball: ShotTracker CEO Davyeon Ross

  3. Jul 10

    Frédéric Guitton: How iTarget Golf Is Gamifying the Future of Driving Ranges

    Frédéric Guitton: How iTarget Golf Is Gamifying the Future of Driving Ranges What if the driving range became more than just a place to hit a bucket of golf balls? In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, Shane Larson sits down with Frédéric Guitton, Chief Revenue Officer of iTarget Golf, to talk about golf technology, driving range innovation, sports business, and how gamification is changing the way people experience the game of golf. This conversation is for golfers, driving range owners, golf course operators, sports entrepreneurs, families, and anyone interested in how technology can enhance sports experiences without taking away from the game itself. Frédéric shares how iTarget Golf is helping driving ranges create a more interactive and memorable experience through LED targets, interactive bay lights, ball tracking integration, and gamified golf experiences that reward players in real time. Instead of the traditional driving range experience where someone simply buys a bucket of balls and hits into an open field, iTarget Golf helps facilities create moments of instant feedback, competition, and entertainment. The goal is to make practice more fun, help golfers build confidence, attract new audiences, and give range owners new ways to grow their business. We talk about the gap between traditional golf practice facilities and high-end golf entertainment venues, and why there is a huge opportunity for driving ranges to become more engaging, more visual, and more family-friendly. Frédéric also explains several iTarget Golf products and concepts, including Night Saber, Strike Point, in-bay interactive lights, and Cash Cup Golf. Each product is designed to create a better player experience while also helping golf facilities improve customer retention, increase engagement, and create new revenue opportunities. In this episode, we talk about: How iTarget Golf is gamifying the driving range experience Why golf technology is changing the way people practice How LED golf targets create instant feedback for players Why driving ranges need to think beyond buckets of balls How range owners can create better customer experiences The difference between traditional golf practice and golf entertainment Why families and casual golfers are important to the future of golf How driving ranges can attract a wider audience How gamification can help build golfer confidence Why technology should enhance the sports experience, not take it over The business side of golf facilities and revenue growth Affordable installation and practical implementation for range owners Weather, maintenance, warranty, and operational questions How iTarget Golf is installing systems around the world The future of sports technology and golf innovation One of the biggest themes of this episode is that technology works best when it enhances the experience. Frédéric explains that the mission is not just to sell targets. It is to help create better memories, better practice sessions, better family experiences, and more opportunities for people to fall in love with golf. Whether you are a golfer looking for a more enjoyable way to practice, a driving range owner looking to grow your business, or someone interested in the business side of sports technology, this episode offers a fascinating look at where golf entertainment is headed. Learn More About iTarget Golf Website: https://itargetgolf.com Contact: info@itargetgolf.com GTG Partnerships Fascia Sticks As athletes, lifters, runners, coaches, and everyday movers, we all deal with tight spots that are hard to reach. That's why I'm excited to share Fascia Sticks. The Fascia Stick Pro is a stainless steel precision tool designed to help target smaller areas like the hands, feet, neck, jaw, temples, and around joints where tension can build up. It's portable, easy to keep in a gym bag, and can even be chilled in the freezer for cold therapy on those smaller areas. Whether you're training hard, recovering between workouts, coaching all day, or just trying to move and feel better, this is a simple tool worth checking out. Use my affiliate code/link here: https://fasciasticks.com/GAMETIME15 Disclosure: This is an affiliate link/code, which means I may earn a commission if you purchase through it, at no extra cost to you. Note: Fascia Sticks products are cosmetic wellness accessories and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Grit Sticks This episode is also supported by Grit Sticks, a 100% American-raised beef stick brand built for athletes, coaches, entrepreneurs, service members, and everyday people who refuse to quit. Grit Sticks are made for those moments when you need fuel on the go, whether you are training, coaching, working, traveling, or simply pushing through a long day. Available in flavors like Original, Jalapeño, and Teriyaki, Grit Sticks are all about true American grit and giving you a high-quality snack option when you need something quick and convenient. Use code GTG10 at checkout. Shop here: https://www.crossomeats.com/?ref=GTG10 Follow The Gametime Guru Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gametimeguru Twitter / X: https://x.com/thegametimeguru/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gametimeguru/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-larson-4b591944/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegametimeguru Follow and subscribe to The Gametime Guru for more conversations with athletes, coaches, business owners, and sports figures from around the world.

    Frédéric Guitton: How iTarget Golf Is Gamifying the Future of Driving Ranges

  4. Jul 3 ·  Video

    Andrew Mendel: 20-Year-Old Head Coach for Newfield High School and Ithaca College Football Player

    Andrew Mendel: 20-Year-Old Head Coach and Ithaca College Football Player In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, Shane Larson sits down with Andrew Mendel, one of the most unique guests we have had on the show. Andrew is a current college football player at Ithaca College, where he plays defensive end, and he is also the head boys basketball coach at Newfield High School in Newfield, New York. At just 20 years old, Andrew is balancing college football, academics, internships, leadership responsibilities, film study, practice planning, and building a high school basketball program. This conversation dives into how he manages that workload, why coaching became such a passion for him at a young age, and how being a college athlete helps him become a better coach. Andrew shares how he first became obsessed with coaching and leadership while he was still in high school, how he started learning from coaches early, and why building genuine relationships with players matters more than X's and O's. We also talk about the Newfield community, the culture he is building within the basketball program, the grind of being a college football player, and how leadership has no age limit. This episode is packed with lessons for athletes, coaches, parents, young leaders, athletic directors, and anyone who cares about culture, player development, and the impact sports can have on people. In this episode, we talk about: Andrew Mendel's role as a college football player and high school basketball coach Playing defensive end at Ithaca College Becoming the head boys basketball coach at Newfield High School How Andrew started learning coaching while still in high school Why relationships matter more than X's and O's Building culture inside a basketball program The grind of college football Balancing school, football, internships, and coaching Why being coached every day helps Andrew become a better coach Why coaching helps him become a better football player and leader The importance of being genuine with players Newfield basketball and the power of community Andrew's three program pillars: work hard, be a great teammate, and enjoy the journey Why "who you are" matters inside a program The life lessons Andrew has learned through sports Andrew's story is a reminder that leadership is not about age. It is about preparation, passion, humility, consistency, and the willingness to show up for people every single day. Whether you are a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, this conversation will give you a lot to think about when it comes to leadership, culture, and what it really means to build something the right way. Follow / Learn More Andrew Mendel – Ithaca College Football Profile: https://athletics.ithaca.edu/sports/football/roster/andrew-mendel/24235 Newfield Athletics: https://www.newfieldschools.org/page/athletics Newfield Boys Basketball Schedule: https://www.schedulegalaxy.com/schools/153/teams/55981 The Gametime Guru YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegametimeguru GTG Partnerships Fascia Sticks As athletes, lifters, runners, coaches, and everyday movers, we all deal with tight spots that are hard to reach. That's why I'm excited to share Fascia Sticks. The Fascia Stick Pro is a stainless steel precision tool designed to help target smaller areas like the hands, feet, neck, jaw, temples, and around joints where tension can build up. It's portable, easy to keep in a gym bag, and can even be chilled in the freezer for cold therapy on those smaller areas. Whether you're training hard, recovering between workouts, coaching all day, or just trying to move and feel better, this is a simple tool worth checking out. Use my affiliate code/link here: https://fasciasticks.com/GAMETIME15 Disclosure: This is an affiliate link/code, which means I may earn a commission if you purchase through it, at no extra cost to you. Note: Fascia Sticks products are cosmetic wellness accessories and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Grit Sticks This episode is also supported by Grit Sticks, a 100% American-raised beef stick brand built for athletes, coaches, entrepreneurs, service members, and everyday people who refuse to quit. Grit Sticks are made for those moments when you need fuel on the go, whether you are training, coaching, working, traveling, or simply pushing through a long day. Available in flavors like Original, Jalapeño, and Teriyaki, Grit Sticks are all about true American grit and giving you a high-quality snack option when you need something quick and convenient. Use code GTG10 at checkout. Shop here: https://www.crossomeats.com/?ref=GTG10 Follow and subscribe to The Gametime Guru for more conversations with athletes, coaches, and sports figures from around the world.

    Andrew Mendel: 20-Year-Old Head Coach for Newfield High School and Ithaca College Football Player

  5. Jun 26

    Jake O'Neil: From Fruitland, Idaho to Professional Basketball Overseas

    Jake O'Neil: From Fruitland, Idaho to Professional Basketball Overseas How does a small-town athlete from Fruitland, Idaho go from motocross, golf, and no major basketball recruiting spotlight to playing professional basketball overseas? In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, Shane Larson sits down with Jake O'Neil, a professional basketball player whose journey is anything but ordinary. Jake grew up in Fruitland, Idaho, where basketball was not always the main focus. Before chasing basketball at the highest levels, he spent much of his early athletic life around motocross and golf. Jake opens up about what changed when he started taking basketball seriously, how the weight room transformed his game, and why strength, confidence, and preparation became such important pieces of his development. He also shares the adversity he faced after a major leg injury and a difficult season of life that forced him to rebuild mentally, emotionally, and physically. From there, Jake's story becomes one of belief and opportunity. After starting college as a golfer at Boise State, he eventually walked on at the College of Idaho with one mindset: all he needed was a shot. That opportunity led to a standout career, a College of Idaho national championship, a move to Division I basketball at Idaho State, and eventually a professional basketball career overseas. This conversation is packed with lessons for athletes, parents, coaches, and anyone chasing a goal that might not look realistic from the outside. Jake's story is about betting on yourself, staying ready when opportunity comes, building toughness through adversity, and learning how to become a professional before you ever get paid to be one. In this episode, we talk about: Growing up in Fruitland, Idaho Why Jake focused on motocross and golf before basketball How strength training changed his basketball career Why the weight room matters for young athletes Overcoming a major leg injury before his senior season Choosing Boise State golf before returning to basketball Walking on at the College of Idaho Winning Freshman of the Year as a walk-on The College of Idaho national championship run What made that C of I team special Transitioning from NAIA basketball to Division I at Idaho State How rebounding became Jake's calling card What overseas professional basketball is really like The mindset required to keep chasing the next level Whether you are a basketball player, coach, parent, Idaho sports fan, College of Idaho fan, Idaho State fan, or someone who loves an underdog story, this episode with Jake O'Neil is one you will want to hear. GTG Partnerships Fascia Sticks As athletes, lifters, runners, coaches, and everyday movers, we all deal with tight spots that are hard to reach. That's why I'm excited to share Fascia Sticks. The Fascia Stick Pro is a stainless steel precision tool designed to help target smaller areas like the hands, feet, neck, jaw, temples, and around joints where tension can build up. It's portable, easy to keep in a gym bag, and can even be chilled in the freezer for cold therapy on those smaller areas. Whether you're training hard, recovering between workouts, coaching all day, or just trying to move and feel better, this is a simple tool worth checking out. Use my affiliate code/link here: https://fasciasticks.com/GAMETIME15 Disclosure: This is an affiliate link/code, which means I may earn a commission if you purchase through it, at no extra cost to you. Note: Fascia Sticks products are cosmetic wellness accessories and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Grit Sticks This episode is also supported by Grit Sticks, a 100% American-raised beef stick brand built for athletes, coaches, entrepreneurs, service members, and everyday people who refuse to quit. Grit Sticks are made for those moments when you need fuel on the go, whether you are training, coaching, working, traveling, or simply pushing through a long day. Available in flavors like Original, Jalapeño, and Teriyaki, Grit Sticks are all about true American grit and giving you a high-quality snack option when you need something quick and convenient. Use code GTG10 at checkout. Shop here: https://www.crossomeats.com/?ref=GTG10 Follow and subscribe to The Gametime Guru for more conversations with athletes, coaches, and sports figures from around the world.

    Jake O'Neil: From Fruitland, Idaho to Professional Basketball Overseas

  6. Jun 19

    Athlete Mental Health, Identity & Confidence with Tyra Rickman

    Athletes train their bodies every day, but how often do they train their minds? In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, I sit down with Tyra Rickman, former collegiate basketball player, counselor, coach, and founder of Rickman Health and Wellness, to talk about one of the most important topics in sports today: athlete mental health. Tyra played college basketball at the College of Idaho, coached high school athletes here in the Treasure Valley, and now works directly with athletes on the mental health side of performance. In this conversation, we talk about the pressure young athletes face, the transition from high school to college sports, athletic identity, anxiety, depression, confidence, emotional regulation, and the tools athletes need to handle life both on and off the court. One of the biggest themes in this episode is identity. So many athletes define themselves only by the sport they play. But what happens when they get injured? What happens when they do not play as much as they expected? What happens when the season ends, the jersey comes off, or life hits hard? Tyra explains why athletes need to understand who they are outside of sports and how that foundation can help them build real confidence, resilience, and emotional strength. We also talk about practical mental skills athletes can use, including daily check-ins, learning how to name emotions, understanding where stress shows up in the body, building a mental health plan, and treating the mental game the same way athletes treat physical training. This episode is not just for athletes. It is also for parents, coaches, trainers, counselors, and anyone who works with young competitors. Tyra shares great insight on how coaches can better support their players, why listening matters, how to help athletes compartmentalize emotions, and why coaches also need to take care of their own mental health during the season. In this episode, we discuss: Why athlete mental health matters The pressure young athletes face today How athletic identity affects confidence The transition from high school sports to college athletics Why athletes need to know who they are outside of their sport Anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation in athletes How to build mental skills the same way you build physical skills Why daily check-ins can help athletes manage stress How coaches can better support athletes as humans Why coaches need mental health tools too The importance of creating a plan for mental performance How Rickman Health and Wellness supports athletes and teams Tyra also shares how she works with athletes through Rickman Health and Wellness, including mental health programs, athlete-focused support, team talks, and virtual options for athletes outside of Idaho. Learn more about Tyra Rickman and Rickman Health and Wellness here: https://rickmanhw.com Follow Rickman Health and Wellness on social media: @RickmanHW If you are an athlete, parent, coach, or someone who cares about the future of sports, this conversation is an important reminder that athletes are humans first. Make sure to subscribe to The Gametime Guru Podcast for more conversations that help you see sports through a different lens.

    Athlete Mental Health, Identity & Confidence with Tyra Rickman

  7. Jun 12

    Collaborative Leadership Lessons from Soccer with Winsor Jenkins

    What can soccer teach us about becoming better leaders? In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, I sit down with Winsor Jenkins, author, leadership development coach, and expert in collaborative leadership, team development, and organizational development. Winsor has spent decades helping leaders and teams grow, and in this conversation, we dive into why so many organizations struggle with collaboration, communication, trust, delegation, and leadership mindset. Winsor is the author of The Collaborator and Game of Teams, two books that use soccer as a metaphor for leadership and teamwork. We talk about why soccer is such a powerful model for modern business, especially in a world where teams need to adapt quickly, move together, trust one another, and perform without waiting for constant direction from the top. In this episode, we discuss: Why collaborative leadership matters in today's workplace How soccer can teach us about teamwork, trust, and adaptability The difference between command-and-control leadership and collaborative leadership Why leadership is more about mindset than skill set How leaders can avoid becoming the bottleneck for their teams Why even "A players" still need coaching and development The importance of delegation, self-awareness, and trust What business teams can learn from "keeping their shape" Why grit and persistence matter in sports, business, and leadership This conversation is a great reminder that sports are bigger than the game. Whether you are leading a team in business, coaching athletes, managing people, or trying to grow personally, there are powerful lessons we can take from the way great teams operate. Learn more about Winsor Jenkins, his books, blog, and leadership development work here: https://winsorjenkins.com/ Sponsored by Grit Sticks This episode is brought to you by Grit Sticks, the perfect protein-packed snack for athletes, coaches, busy parents, business owners, and anyone who needs clean fuel on the go. The Gametime Guru audience understands the value of preparation, discipline, toughness, and doing things the right way. That is exactly why Grit Sticks are such a strong fit for this community. They are made with 100% American beef, packed with 14-15 grams of protein, and made with zero MSG, no hormones, and no nitrates. Whether you are heading to practice, driving to a tournament, coaching all weekend, working long hours, or just trying to stay on track with your nutrition, Grit Sticks give you a clean and convenient option without the garbage ingredients you find in a lot of gas station beef sticks. Use code GTG10 at checkout to save 10% on your order. Shop here: https://www.crossomeats.com/?ref=GTG10 You can also learn more about Grit Sticks here: https://www.gritstick.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to The Gametime Guru Podcast and leave a review. I appreciate your support as we continue to bring on guests who help us see sports through a different lens.

  8. Jun 5

    Blaine Wright on Leadership, Culture & Building Columbia Basketball

    What does it take to build a winning basketball program? In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, I sit down with Blaine Wright, head coach of the Columbia High School Boys Basketball program in Nampa, Idaho, for a powerful conversation on leadership, culture, accountability, and building something bigger than basketball. Coach Wright shares how Columbia Basketball has created a culture centered around "oneness," belief, trust, love, and buy-in from players, coaches, parents, and the community. This conversation goes far beyond X's and O's. It is about what real leadership looks like when you care about the people you lead while still holding them to a high standard. Blaine talks about growing up in Shelley, Idaho, competing as a multi-sport athlete, getting married young, learning responsibility early, and how those experiences helped shape the coach and leader he is today. He also shares what he has learned from winning programs, why leadership is relationships, and why every player matters — including the players who may not get many minutes on the court. We also dive into the rise of Columbia Boys Basketball, the energy around the program, the power of community support, the "Man in the Arena" award, the importance of selfless leadership, and what it means to build a culture where players truly believe in each other. If you are a coach, athlete, parent, business leader, teacher, or someone who cares about leadership and team culture, this episode is for you. In this episode, we discuss: How Coach Blaine Wright helped build a winning culture at Columbia High School Why "oneness" has become the heartbeat of Columbia Basketball How love and accountability can work together in leadership Why winning is a skill that must be taught The importance of multi-sport athletes in high school sports Why every player needs to feel valued, even if they are not the star How business leadership and basketball coaching overlap What today's young athletes are facing off the court Why selfless leadership matters in sports, business, and life What Columbia Basketball is building for the future This is one of those conversations that reminds us why sports matter. It is not just about wins, trophies, or stat sheets. It is about people, culture, relationships, and helping young athletes become better men. Subscribe to The Gametime Guru Podcast for more conversations with coaches, athletes, sports figures, and leaders who help us see sports through a different lens.

    Blaine Wright on Leadership, Culture & Building Columbia Basketball
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About

If you're looking for a unique perspective on sports, we'll bring you the content you want. Through interviews with different guests around the sports industry, we are delivering a panoramic view on sports. My goal is to help you see the world of sports through a different lens!

Information

  • Creator
    Shane Larson
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    499
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 GTG Media All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    The Gametime Guru

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