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Making the Team
Erik Soderborg
28 episodes
3 days ago
Conversations for high school basketball players and parents around the realities of what it takes to make a varsity basketball team. We interview coaches, players, and referees to give you an inside look behind the curtains of high school basketball.
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Basketball
Sports
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All content for Making the Team is the property of Erik Soderborg and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Conversations for high school basketball players and parents around the realities of what it takes to make a varsity basketball team. We interview coaches, players, and referees to give you an inside look behind the curtains of high school basketball.
Show more...
Basketball
Sports
Episodes (20/28)
Making the Team
Inside the Mind of a High School Coach – Gus Sopeña Gets Real

In this heartfelt interview, Making the Team host Erik Soderborg sits down with Coach Gus Sopeña, head coach of the Summit Academy boys basketball team, for an honest conversation about the emotional and mental challenges of coaching — and the deep rewards that come from helping young athletes reach their full potential.

Coach Sopeña opens up about:

The pressure and expectations coaches quietly carry

What it means to truly care about your players

How high school basketball shapes character beyond the court

The moments that make it all worth it — even when no one’s watching

Why building a strong team culture is more important than just winning games

📌 Whether you’re a coach, player, parent, or sports fan, this conversation is a reminder that coaching is about people first — and that some of the most meaningful victories happen off the scoreboard.

📌 Subscribe to Making the Team for more interviews with top athletes and coaches.

Be sure to check follow Summit Academy's journey on their Instagram page:

https://www.instagram.com/summitacademybasketball/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

⏰ TIME CODES ⏰

0:00 Intro Teaser

0:30 Getting into Coaching

8:52 Coaching Interview Process

22:23 From Assistant to Head Coach

23:55 The Bountiful Experience

33:00 The Life of a Coach

39:15 Mental Struggles of Coaches

40:45 Summit Academy Opportunity

47:00 Building a Winning Team

52:58 Balancing Coaching and Caring

1:02:27 Practice Plans

1:06:05 Conditioning Philosophy

1:11:05 Communication Between Players and Parents

#gussopena #basketballcoach #summitacademy #highschoolbasketball

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1 week ago
1 hour 18 minutes 37 seconds

Making the Team
More Than Basketball – Coach Amico’s Mission at Pine View High

In this inspiring interview, Erik Soderborg sits down with Coach Patrick Amico, the head coach of the Pine View High School Boys Basketball Team. Known for his leadership both on and off the court, Coach Amico shares how he's working to give his players more than just a basketball season — he’s giving them a high school experience they’ll never forget.

🏀 Topics covered include:

• How Coach Amico builds strong relationships with his players

• His coaching philosophy and why character matters as much as wins

• What it takes to lead a high school basketball program in today’s world

• Why giving kids a great high school experience is his #1 goal

• Behind-the-scenes stories from the Pine View basketball program

Follow the Pine View Program here: https://www.instagram.com/pineviewpantherbasketball/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:30 Successes of Last Season

4:00 What Coach is Learning

5:17 UVU Story

7:29 What Players Impress You

8:36 What Players Should Do Outside Practice

10:14 For Parents11:13 Coaching Staff

13:21 Accountability vs Relationships

14:47 Player Roles

15:55 Tryouts

17:06 Conditioning

17:44 Coaching Style

19:31 St. George Basketball Culture

21:19 Creativity vs Structure

22:48 Coaching in the Social Media Era

24:26 Mental Support for Players

25:53 Pre-High School Youth Programs

27:38 Referee Relationships

29:35 Assistant to Head Coach Shift

31:56 Life Outside Basketball

34:19 Balancing Everyone's Opinions

35:50 Fundraising

37:34 Helping Players Get To The Next Level

41:14 Go Where You Will Play

42:22 Coach's Legacy

43:39 Message For Pine View Parents

45:14 Hardest Part of Coaching

46:33 Best Part of Coaching

47:33 Advice to Seniors

#basketball #patrickamico #pineviewbasketball #pineviewhighschool #highschoolbasketball

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3 weeks ago
49 minutes 56 seconds

Making the Team
What it Takes to Play College Basketball Jon Judkins - Winningest College Coach in Utah History

Coach Jon Judkins share what he and his staff at Utah Tech look for when recruiting high school players to make their D1 Basketball team.

Coach Judkins is headed into his 21st season as the head coach of the Utah Tech Trailblazers Mens Basketball Team and is a Six-time Pacific West Conference Coach of the Year winner.

Coach Judkins (622 career wins and counting) became the first men’s coach in Utah collegiate basketball history to reach the 500-win mark back on January 28, 2017.

He then became the all-time winningest college coach in Utah history with career win No. 583 in 2021.

Prior to his arrival at Utah Tech, Jon was the head coach at Snow College for 13 seasons. In 2014, Judkins was inducted into the Snow College Athletic Hall of Fame.

Judkins played for one season at Dixie State (junior college) in the 1983-84 season before transferring to Utah State, where he became the first Aggie to post a triple-double. During the 1987-88 season, he helped lead the Aggies to the PCAA title and an NCAA Tournament bid.

🎙 Whether you’re a coach, player, or just love the game — this conversation is full of wisdom, stories, and Utah basketball history.

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:40 Biggest Accomplishment

2:36 Division 1 Adjustments

4:07 Recruitment Process

5:04 How to Get Seen

7:45 Role of High School Coach in Recruiting

9:23 Role of Parents

11:41 The 4 P's

13:51 Jumps from HS to JUCO to D1

14:36 Coaching Philosophy

16:30 Impact of NIL and Transfer Portal

19:44 Conditioning for Players

25:04 Weightlifting

26:10 Multi-Sport Athletes

29:07 Jon's Playing Experience

31:02 Early Coaching Career

37:50 Working on Skill vs Games

38:57 Stomping Foot

40:40 Advice to High School Seniors

46:01 What Does it Take to Win

#basketball #judkins #jonjudkins #utahtech #utahtechbasketball

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1 month ago
50 minutes 39 seconds

Making the Team
Basketball Coaching Masterclass - Chris Jones

Chris Jones has been coaching for decades, with most of his time at the college level with the University of Utah, Utah State, and Westminster.

He also coached professionally in England and now coaches the Highland Rams high school team in Salt Lake City.

Highland made it to the state championship this last season and Coach Jones shares his experience and knowledge about the game of basketball, coaching, and the lessons that come from this beautiful game.

Coach Jones shares the hard truths and proud victories from a decades-long career that’s impacted generations of athletes.

🎙 Whether you’re a coach, player, or just love the game — this conversation is full of wisdom, stories, and Utah basketball history.

Be sure to check follow the Highland Rams Instagram page:

https://www.instagram.com/highlandramsbasketball/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:52 Passion to Teach

2:34 Accountability vs Relationships

6:48 Playing the "Right Way"

10:20 Coaching College vs High School

15:51 College Recruiting Process

17:00 Getting on Recruiters' Radar

20:22 Realities of Playing in College

24:15 Highlights of Last Season

30:15 Winning Mentality

33:43 Tell The Truth

40:50 What is Coach Learning Now

46:35 Moving to Coach High School

51:29 Excitement for This Year

54:45 Close Games or Blow Outs

56:43 Coaching Influences

59:27 Rick Majerus Story

1:05:56 Rylan Jones Story

1:20:57 How to Play More

1:22:51 Time Machine Advice

1:23:49 Highland Program Legacy

1:27:23 Thanks all around

#basketball #chrisjones

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1 month ago
1 hour 30 minutes 11 seconds

Making the Team
Utah Basketball Star Rylan Jones Shares His Incredible Journey

We sit down with Rylan Jones — one of the most decorated high school basketball players in Utah history.

A two-time Mr. Basketball, state champion, and on the Utah high school basketball record books.

Rylan shares the highs and lows of his incredible journey through high school, college, and now professional basketball.From starring at Olympus High School to competing at the University of Utah, Utah State, and Samford, Rylan breaks down the behind-the-scenes stories — including his final college season, where he nearly upset powerhouse Kansas in the NCAA Tournament.🎙 Topics covered:

Growing up in Utah basketball culture

Winning a state championship and breaking records

College hoops at three different programs

Playing on March Madness’s biggest stage

Advice for young players chasing their dream


If you’re a fan of Utah basketball, high school hoops, or inspiring sports stories, this is one you don’t want to miss.👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with top basketball talent.

Be sure to check follow Rylan's journey on his Instagram page:

https://www.instagram.com/rylanjones15/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:52 Coaches' Quotes

2:37 Playing the "Right" Way

5:36 Dad Coach Relationship

7:04 Getting Teammates to Play Better

9:10 What Should Kids Work On?

12:27 Calm, Competitive Mentality

13:52 Move From Logan to Olympus

16:30 Olympus Successes

20:42 Countering Scouting Reports

24:34 College Recruitment Process

27:55 University of Utah Experience

32:18 From the U to Utah State

37:30 Transfer Portal Experience

43:13 Samford Experience

48:12 Getting in Shape

49:48 NCAA Tournament Kansas Game

54:39 Next Play Mentality

57:48 Playing in Home Town

1:02:22 End of Season

1:03:53 Playing Professionally

1:06:08 The Future

1:09:00 Game Day Traditions

1:11:02 Outside Basketball

1:12:33 Staying Grounded

1:14:26 Advice to Freshman Self

1:16:01 Was it Worth It?

#basketball #rylanjones

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2 months ago
1 hour 17 minutes 26 seconds

Making the Team
Coach Landen Cummings - East High School

Coach Landen Cummings just finished his first year at East High School in Salt Lake City and he talks about what he looks for in players, lessons he's learned so far, and what he looks forward to with his team in the upcoming year.

Landen lives basketball. Playing in college and coaching through AAU, as an assistant high school coach, and now a varsity head coach.

Be sure to check out the East High Basketball Instagram page:

https://www.instagram.com/easthighbasketball/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:25 Pressure of Past Successes

2:22 Successes From Last Year

6:00 Advice for 1st Year Coaches

9:11 Building a Culture

12:00 Balance of Discipline and Caring

14:46 Looking to This Year

18:02 Coach Cummings' Style

19:17 Tryouts

24:32 Participation of Bench Players

26:50 Message to Parents

31:02 Picking a Staff

38:40 AAU vs High School

43:03 Time Outside Basketball

44:55 Landen's GOAT

47:29 How Playing Experience Impacts Coaching Style

50:00 Coach's Legacy

#basketballcoach #basketball #coaching

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2 months ago
53 minutes 2 seconds

Making the Team
The Realities of 27 Years as A High School Basketball Coach - Steve Galley

Coach Steve Galley is a legendary coach in the state of Utah. He started at Olympus High School, was the head coach at West Jordan and spent most of his career at Riverton High School - the school's first head basketball coach.

He was also the coach of the Riverton team that knocked Erik's team out of the state tournament his senior year.

Coach Galley is now a podcaster and professional coach for high-performance athletes and their parents.

Coach Galley's Podcast: The Stop Parenting & Start Coaching Podcast:

https://www.youtube.com/@UC_x0vx8w5LP5VWjSXQzRW1A https://open.spotify.com/show/4a0hrAkcEcdUlvn6C47kuo

Coach Galley's Website:

https://createtransformbecome.com/

Coach Galley's LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-galley/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

CHAPTERS

0:00 Intro

0:30 Toughest team/player to prepare for

1:46 Greatest Player He's Coached

2:25 Time Machine to Year

16:28 How Coaching has Changed

9:07 Imposter Syndrome

10:40 Parent Interactions with Kids

12:23 The Scoreboard of Society

18:12 Approaching Parents as a Coach

26:12 Player Pushback

28:02 Good Teams vs Bad Teams

31:24 Structuring Practice

33:48 Support Team for Players

36:07 Balancing Coaching and Friendship

38:30 Better Questions for Players

44:12 Understanding vs Doing

45:48 How Coach got into Coaching

51:02 Advice for Newer Coaches

52:00 High School Coaches are Set Up to Fail

58:53 How to Handle Losing Seasons

1:01:18 Stop Parenting & Start Coaching

1:05:50 Coach Galley's Other Interests

1:08:00 Connecting with Coach Galley

#basketball #highschoolbasketball #stevegalley

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3 months ago
1 hour 9 minutes 2 seconds

Making the Team
Copper Hills Head Coach - Brian Allfrey - Teaching More Than Just Basketball

Coach Brian Allfrey just completed his first year as the Copper Hills High School Boys Varsity Basketball Coach. While this is his first year as the Copper Hills head coach, Coach Allfrey has been coaching for decades, and is one of the most well-connected coaches in Utah. He shares the challenges of being a 1st year head coach, coaching a star talent like Isaiah Reiser, and building good young men on and off the court.Fun Fact: Coach Allfrey coached co-host Eric Bland when Eric was in High School. Be sure to check out the Copper Hills High Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/chhsbasketball/Please consider following us on social:https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.teamChapters:0:00 Intro1:04 Successes This Year2:03 First Year Observations4:33 Coaching Talent6:06 Learning From Others9:01 Coach Allfrey's Coaching Philosophy12:21 How Basketball Has Changed14:56 Coach vs Player15:50 What To Expect From Tryouts18:21 Coaching Your Own Kids19:37 Advice to 1st Year Coaches21:21 Picking a Staff23:15 Juggling Work and Coaching23:58 Dealing with Countless Opinions27:07 Life isn't Highlights28:45 Relationship with Officials31:20 Changing Coaching Style34:15 Developing Youth Programs37:07 Coaching and Family Pressures39:36 Developing College Players41:06 Advice for Parents of Players43:22 Practice Time46:39 Balancing Minutes and Conditioning51:43 Hopes for Copper Hills Program59:00 Scheme or Players1:00:56 Players or Coaches1:03:51 Message for Copper Hills Players and Parents#basketballcoach #basketball #coaching

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3 months ago
1 hour 7 minutes 26 seconds

Making the Team
One of Utah's Premier High School Point Guards - Isaiah Reiser

Isaiah Reiser is entering his senior season as the point guard of the Copper Hills High School basketball team. He is set to become the all-time leading scorer in Copper Hills school history and shares his mindset, work ethic, and goals for his basketball career.

Isaiah's IG:

https://www.instagram.com/isaiah.reiser/

Special thank you to DMCreative Films for the awesome highlight videos.

Give him a follow: https://www.instagram.com/dmcreat1ve_/

Be sure to check out the Copper Hills High Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/chhsbasketball/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast/sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Highlight Intro

0:49 1000 Point Mark

2:00 Balancing Scoring and Teammates

2:46 Youth Basketball

3:50 Family Influence

4:37 Other Sports

5:12 Isaiah's Strengths

6:56 Dealing with Pressure

8:30 Struggle with Perfectionism

9:55 Favorite Move

10:15 Preparing for Other Teams

11:40 Teammates

13:10 Upcoming Team

13:42 Not Overlooking Teams

14:30 Region Rivals

15:12 Game Day Traditions

17:20 Emotional Style

18:20 Favorite Shoes

20:05 Playing for Coach Allfrey

21:12 Building Team Chemistry

22:24 Realities of High School Basketball

25:45 Work Outside Practice

26:56 Best Player Isaiah's Played Against

27:37 Favorite Off-Court Moments

28:05 Instagram Question

29:17 Where Isaiah Wants to Improve

30:48 Isaiah's Future

31:38 Isaiah Outside Sports

32:03 Advice to Freshmen

#isaiahreiser #copperhillsbasketball #highschoolbasketball #basketballtraining #podcast #basketballplayer

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3 months ago
34 minutes 11 seconds

Making the Team
Most People Are WRONG About The Rules of Basketball

35-Year Basketball Official reveals the realities of high school officiating.

For any athlete, coach, or parent, this information is a must-watch to better understand how to work with referees, even if you disagree with calls. Turns out, most people don't actually know basketball rules, and your fiery taunting of referees is not helping, but hurting your team.

Special thanks to Bret Kinghorn for being willing to answer the tough questions and provide these valuable insights.

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast/sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters

0:00 Teaser

0:55 Getting Started in Officiating

2:30 How to Become a High School Ref

6:05 How Referees are Evaluated

9:54 How to Talk to Referees

12:32 Are Make Up Calls Real?

13:48 What is a Charge?

15:07 How to Handle Missed Calls

18:04 Players Talking to Referees

19:20 Parents Talking to Referees

21:15 Throwing a Parent Out

22:41 Trigger for a Technical

23:55 Personal Relationships with Coaches

25:31 Humanizing Officials, Coaches, and Players

27:50 Game Preferences

28:25 What Makes a Good Coach or Player?

30:02 Do Officials Know Good Players?

33:05 Flopping Rule

35:10 What is a Travel?

39:55 Rules that Aren't Rules

41:58 The Art of the Call vs By The Book

44:55 Rivalry Games

48:10 Not Working Games with Certain Coaches

50:03 Worst Thing a Parent Has Said

52:32 Funny Parent Stories

56:00 Referee Shoes and Uniform

59:06 Clothing Mishap Story

1:00:52 Handling Injuries

1:03:22 Throwing a Jump Ball

1:03:54 Over and Back Rule

1:04:32 Equality is NOT the Job

1:06:52 Player Trash Talk

1:08:30 Does Arguing with Refs Help?

1:10:37 Official Shortage

1:13:24 Greatest Athletes He's Officiated

1:17:15 Bothered By Missed Calls

1:18:00 Why Referee?

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4 months ago
1 hour 23 minutes 54 seconds

Making the Team
The Difference Between High School and College Basketball - Ike Palmer

Ike Palmer is a 6'6" wind currently playing at Utah State Eastern. In his freshman season, he averaged 17 points per game and is a force to be reckoned with.

Ike had a stellar high school career at Herriman High School and currently holds several school records, including scoring 39 points in a game.

Ike shares his perspective on the transition from high school to college athletics.

Follow Ike here:

https://www.instagram.com/ikepalmerr/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast/sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Highlight Reel

0:35 High School vs College

1:32 Workout Routines

1:58 College Practices

2:41 College Recruitment Process

4:28 Being a Scorer

5:41 Ike's Stats

7:24 Helping Former Teammates

7:53 Different Coaches

9:00 Family Influences

10:10 Mentality from Rookie to Veteran

11:28 College Game Day & Travel

12:29 Advice to Freshman Self

12:51 Best Players Ike's Played Against

14:04 High Intensity Environments

15:01 Basketball Shoes

15:29 Favorite Basketball

16:11 Work in the Offseason

16:27 Utah Top 50

17:50 Biggest Jumps as a Player

18:39 Memorable Plays

19:14 Basketball Terminology

20:04 Signature Move

21:05 Advice to Younger Players

21:43 Dealing with Failure

22:30 Advice to Parents

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4 months ago
23 minutes 25 seconds

Making the Team
What Do You Do When You Want to Quit? - Lance Gummersall

It's easy to give in to self-doubt and the urge to quit, especially when facing challenges. But by focusing on mental strength and grit, you can learn to believe in yourself and push through those tough times.

Lance Gummersall is entering his 19th season as a coach. It will be his 2nd year as the Riverton Head Basketball Coach and he shares the challenges and struggles of building a program from year one.

Lance shares how a competitive drive and will to win is impossible to ignore, but the life lessons for the kids are most important.

Special thank you to Jackson Bilawa for the great coaching videos and pictures.

Be sure to check out the Riverton High Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/rivertonhoops/

Please consider following us on social:https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast/sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:26 Our Town

1:14 Positive Memories

3:40 Player Sentiments

4:59 Balancing Competitiveness

9:02 Tryout Experience

11:21 How to Stand Out as a Player

13:24 Building Youth Programs

18:50 Players Transferring

19:31 Coaching Mentors

24:04 Scheming with the Team

25:36 Picking a Staff

28:40 Relationship with Referees

31:05 Playing Underclassmen

33:26 What Separates Great Players

35:14 Why Does Lance Coach?

38:53 Toughest Years

44:25 Sneaker-head

45:51 Designing Gear

47:58 Filtering Everyone's Opinions

51:57 Game Day Decisions

54:45 Team Shoes?

55:32 Wrapping Up

#basketball #highschoolbasketball #coach #coaching #podcast

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4 months ago
57 minutes 13 seconds

Making the Team
Davis Darts Senior Captain's Dagger 3 Crushed the Hearts of his State Championship Opponents

Bryker Couser is a vocal senior team captain of the Davis Darts. They are fresh off their 2025 Utah 6A State Championship and Bryker made some crucial plays down the stretch to put the game away for his team. Bryker talks about accepting his role on the team, being ready for big moments, and his future. Special thank you to Red Petal Media and Isaac Fisher SportsPhotos for the insanely awesome highlight videos and pictures. Be sure to check out the Davis High Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/davishighbasketball/Please consider following us on social:https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast/sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.teamChapters: 0:00 Highlight Reel1:01 Recap of Bryker's Dagger 34:06 State Championship Environment5:58 Bryker's Role9:13 Bryker's Youth9:56 High School Work11:20 Pressure12:15 Fear of Failure13:27 Finality of High School14:44 Coach Sims16:22 Assistant Coaches18:07 Questions from Instagram23:00 Relationship with Teammates24:00 Game Day Traditions27:29 Realities of High School29:32 Future Plans30:03 Was it Worth It?31:18 Advice to Freshmen#basketball #highschoolbasketball #basketballtraining #podcast #basketballplayer

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6 months ago
33 minutes 32 seconds

Making the Team
Utah's 6A Player of the Year - Coleman Atwater

Coleman Atwater is one of Utah's top basketball players. He is a prolific scorer, and the senior leader of the State Championship Davis Darts. He led the state in 3 pointers and was the 2nd leading scorer in 6A. Coleman is a serious athlete, but he's also brilliant, earning academic all state honors. He has devoted a lot of time and energy to becoming the player and young man he is. We hope you enjoy his insights. Special thank you to Red Petal Media and Isaac Fisher SportsPhotos for the insanely awesome highlight videos and pictures. Be sure to check out the Davis High Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/davishighbasketball/Please consider following us on social:https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast/sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.teamChapters: 0:00 Introduction1:30 Recap of this Season3:51 Coleman's Role5:01 Dealing with Defensive Attention6:58 Battles with Opinions9:42 Whose Opinion Matters11:55 Coleman's Work Ethic16:25 Signature Spin Move18:28 Becoming a State Champ21:17 Playing for Coach Sims24:57 Game Day Traditions28:35 Coleman's Teammates30:09 Favorite Shoes32:35 Off the Court Passions34:22 Questions from Instagram37:32 All Star Game39:14 More Qs from Instagram43:38 Becoming him46:36 Advice to Freshmen

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6 months ago
51 minutes 20 seconds

Making the Team
Bennett Wright's Journey from Soccer Player to Basketball Team Captain and State Champion

Bennett Wright is a Senior Team Captain for the 2025 6A State Champion - Davis Darts. Bennett shares his basketball story and how accepting his role to make the team better meant putting aside some personal glory to achieve success for the entire team. We are grateful to have him on the show and hope you enjoy his perspective. Be sure to check out the Davis High Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/davishighbasketball/Please consider following us on social:https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast/sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.teamChapters:0:00 Bennett's Highlight Intro0:46 Recap of this Year4:05 Kumbaya Moments & Communication6:04 Bennett's Youth7:22 Bennett's Love of Basketball7:53 Winning the State Championship9:19 Bennett's Playing Style9:52 Bennett's Favorite Players10:18 Game Day Traditions11:43 Favorite Shoes12:28 Team Captain Roles13:30 Playing for Coach Sims14:08 Teammates14:35 Fighting Perfectionism15:09 Off the Court Life15:43 High School Basketball Experience17:30 Questions from Instagram19:13 Advice to Self#basketball #davishighschool #utahbasketball

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6 months ago
20 minutes 51 seconds

Making the Team
The Life of a Two-Sport High School Athlete (and State Champion)

Croydon Christensen is a 6’6” Senior Team Captain for the 2025 6A State Champion - Davis Darts. He is a foundational piece to this team and their success.

Croydon shares his thoughts on the season and how he has managed to successfully navigate the stresses and pressures of high school life, all while being an incredible, two-sport athlete with basketball and baseball. We are grateful to have him on the show and hope you enjoy his perspective.

Be sure to check out the Davis High Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/davishighbasketball/

Please consider following us on social:

https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast/sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team

Chapters:

0:00 Croydon Highlight Intro

0:55 Recap of this Year

2:30 Croydon's Youth

6:18 Trying Out as Freshman

7:19 Defining Role on Team

9:38 Two Sport Athlete

11:23 Talking Baseball

12:46 Dealing with Pressure

15:18 Croydon's Teammates

17:20 Questions from Instagram

18:46 Croydon outside sports

19:39 Croydon's Future Plans

20:48 Role as Team Captain

21:30 Balancing Opinions

22:55 Game Day Traditions

25:45 Coach Sims

27:37 Memories to Remember

28:44 Advice to Self


#basketball #davishighschool #utahbasketball

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6 months ago
30 minutes 2 seconds

Making the Team
From Making the Team to Varsity Captain and 2-Time State Champion

Luke Owen is the Varsity Team Captain of the 2-time State Champion Olympus Titans in Salt Lake City, Utah.Luke's character, toughness, and work ethic propelled him into a starring role for his senior season at the basketball powerhouse - Olympus High. Luke is a great basketball player and a solid young man. We hope you enjoy this interview with Luke Owen and learn something from his experience. Luke's Accolades:• 2024/25 2nd Team All State• 2024 & 2025 State Championships• Team CaptainPlease consider following us on social:https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.teamCHAPTERS0:00 Luke Intro0:40 Recap of the year1:32 Taking more responsibility2:44 Dealing with pressure4:14 Growing up as a kid6:13 Growing into high school role8:42 Role Models9:18 Different Arenas10:11 Biggest rival11:26 State Championship Behind the Scenes12:14 Playing for Coach Barnes14:27 Sneakerheads talk shoes15:58 Game Day Traditions18:04 Playing Style18:52 Mission Call19:15 Luke's Best Shot20:45 Family Legacy21:08 Luke's Teammates23:20 Luke's Stats24:12 Realities of High School26:03 Looking back on High School27:11 Luke off the court27:26 All Star Game28:57 Favorite NBA & College players29:55 Questions from Instagram33:12 Siblings and family35:04 Parting Advice#basketball #highschoolbasketball #lukeowen #olympusbasketball

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6 months ago
36 minutes 24 seconds

Making the Team
2025 Utah's Mr. Basketball & Back-to-Back State Champion - Gavin Lowe | Olympus High

Gavin Lowe is Utah's Mr. Basketball after his incredible 2024/2025 season. In his junior year, he led the Olympus Titans to back-to-back state championships. Gavin is a tenacious, relentless player who's toughness and aggression cause chaos for other teams. He is backed by some incredible teammates and a legendary coach in Matt Barnes. We hope you enjoy this interview with Gavin and learn something from his mindset. Gavin's Accolades:• 2024/25 MaxPreps Player of the Year• 2024/25 Utah's Mr. Basketball• 2024 & 2025 State Championships• 1st team All StatePlease consider following us on social:https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.teamCHAPTERS0:00 Gavin Intro1:02 Expectations for the year2:02 Losing Stars from last year3:28 Goals for 20263:53 Preparing for the target5:11 Gavin's work ethic7:53 Balancing Life8:58 Gavin's Workouts12:16 Gavin's Mental Strength15:57 Life Supporters18:07 Favorite Team Memory18:48 College Recruitment20:23 Funny Car Story21:20 Relentless23:00 Dealing with Pressure24:11 Defensive Prowess26:46 Nicknames27:23 Teammates31:38 Practices33:17 School Size Rivalries34:26 Playing for Matt Barnes36:33 Trash Talk38:04 Advice for Younger Kids40:38 Preferred Basketball43:07 Favorite Shoes44:31 College Preference45:33 Parting Advice#basketball #highschoolbasketball #gavinlowe #olympusbasketball

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6 months ago
46 minutes 5 seconds

Making the Team
Our Favorite Basketball Shoe of the Past 30 Years

Erik has a problem and called an intervention for himself after he purchased his 7th pair of Book 1s. Other Eric is here to encourage Erik's obsession with these shoes and we discuss what makes these shoes special while comparing with Jordans, Currys, and Way of Wade alternatives. Congratulations to Andy Strong for winning the Basketball giveaway!Book 1 Contest Rules:• Subscribe to this YouTube Channel and comment with your favorite basketball shoes of all time. • Follow us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/• Comment on this Instagram post with your favorite basketball shoes of all time: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHqvF9tJXy8/?img_index=1* BONUS ENTRIES *• 1 Extra entry for every person you tag in your comment on the Instagram post (up to 5 bonus entries). • Comment on our TikTok Channel:https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.teamCHAPTERS0:00 Calling an Intervention1:58 Jordan One Take 52:42 Curry 124:39 Way of Wade 808 V46:52 Book 112:29 Booker Story14:29 GOAT Shoes16:11 Thoughts on Team Shoes17:42 New Giveaway!18:45 Retro Shoes21:56 Must Haves in a Shoe24:50 Done Buying Shoes25:35 Prime of Life#basketball #book1 #basketballshoes

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6 months ago
30 minutes 28 seconds

Making the Team
State Champion Coach Shares the Keys to a Successful Basketball Program

Coach Chad Sims, head coach of Davis High School in Kaysville, Utah, has won two state championships in the past 4 years in Utah High School Basketball’s highest class designation (6A).

His teams are known for their physical defense, aggressive play, and disciplined teamwork. Coach Sims was kind enough to sit down with us and go over the keys to his program’s success over the past 14 years and what players and parents can expect from the high school basketball experience in an excellent program. Be sure to check out the Davis High Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/davishighbasketball/Please consider following us on social:https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/

https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.teamChapters:0:00 Chad Sims0:57 Did you expect this?2:35 Final moments of State4:39 Life and Basketball5:35 Creativity within a Structure10:03 Davis Tradition11:59 Developing Youth Programs17:00 Choosing Assistants19:11 Multi-Sport Athletes22:49 Building Toughness & Aggression25:01 Confidence in Kids26:50 Managing a Stellar Player31:25 Game Day Traditions34:49 Captains Leading27:14 Parent Communications41:43 Winning in Hostile Environments43:07 Dealing with Losing Seasons46:28 Learning from other Coaches48:06 Chad's Coachisms48:56 Challenges of Losing as a Coach51:03 Technicals and Referees53:24 What does it take to Win55:01 Luck's Involvement55:55 Drawing up a Play1:00:23 Baseline Out of Bounds Play1:02:07 Advice for Youngsters1:05:17 Questions from Instagram1:07:13 Wrapping Up

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6 months ago
1 hour 7 minutes 59 seconds

Making the Team
Conversations for high school basketball players and parents around the realities of what it takes to make a varsity basketball team. We interview coaches, players, and referees to give you an inside look behind the curtains of high school basketball.