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From Melbourne, Australia to the brightest lights in American college basketball, Last-Tear Poa has one of the most powerful journeys we’ve ever featured on SportsLifeTalk’s You Got Next.

In this episode, KT and B Jones sit down with the Polynesian Princess herself — a former national champion at LSU, now a Sun Devil at Arizona State, and a player who’s built her name on lockdown defense, big-moment confidence, and a fearless mindset that travels anywhere.

This isn’t just a basketball story.
This is a story about betting on yourself, staying rooted in your culture, and turning every transition into fuel.

Last-Tear takes us back to the beginning: growing up in Australia, falling in love with basketball around age nine after watching her cousin play, and realizing the game could become something bigger than just a hobby. She talks about the pride of representing her roots, how family support shaped her, and why keeping her identity and accent matters — because forgetting where you came from was never an option.

She didn’t get handed a straight-line path. She chose the hard route.

One of the most inspiring parts of her story is how she came to the U.S. during a chaotic time (including the COVID era) and took the JUCO route — not as a backup plan, but as a calculated bet on herself.

JUCO gave her a chance to grow, build her name, and earn options — and that mindset is what separates her.

Because once she got her opportunity… she didn’t just join a program.

She joined history.

Last-Tear breaks down what it was like stepping into LSU during a major roster transformation under Kim Mulkey, where the outside world had opinions, expectations, and plenty of doubt.

But inside the locker room? It was all business.

She shares what it felt like being part of that championship run and how preparation + belief created something unstoppable. And yes — we talk about those big-time moments that live forever, including:

• the pressure of competing on the sport’s biggest stage

• being trusted in defensive matchups when it mattered most

• staying ready as a contributor who could change the game in a few possessions

That’s what champions do: stay ready.

After experiencing what it takes to win at the highest level, Last-Tear opens up about the decision to transfer to Arizona State, what she wanted next in her journey, and why this move is about growth, leadership, and writing the next part of her story with purpose.

She talks about her fit as a Sun Devil, what she’s bringing into that culture, and how her “unselfish, relentless, do-whatever-it-takes” style impacts the team.

This episode also hits deeper than hoops. Last-Tear speaks on what it means to represent Polynesian athletes, especially young girls who don’t always see themselves in this space. She’s not just playing for herself — she’s carrying something bigger.

And one of the coolest details we cover: the meaning behind her name — and how it connects to family and legacy (including the story you mentioned about it being connected to her grandmother).

Of course, she survives the SLT Initiation:

✅ Top 5 Music Artists
✅ Favorite superhero
✅ Theme song choice (yeah… she surprised us 😂)
✅ Life lessons from the game
✅ Put Us On — food spot + go-to order

And we get her personality the whole way: humble, funny, confident, and built for the moment.

Last-Tear makes it clear: she’s chasing the next level with intention. With women’s basketball expanding and more doors opening, she’s focused on:

• staying disciplined

• building her game and body

• continuing to lead

• preparing for the next stage

If you’re rocking with this episode, show love the SLT way:

💖 Drop a pink heart
📲 Share this episode with your hoop family
🎧 Download on Spotify + Apple Podcasts
🌐 Nominate the next guest: sltugotnext.com

Because around here… we don’t do fans.
We do family.

From the streets of Omaha to the sidelines of the WNBA — Coach Chevelle “Chevy” Saunsoci’s story is one of grit, faith, purpose, and relentless belief.

In this powerful episode of SportsLifeTalk’s You Got Next, we sit down with Phoenix Mercury assistant coach Chevelle “Chevy” Saunsoci to unpack her journey from being a 1,000-point scorer at Creighton University to becoming one of the rising coaching minds in the WNBA.

This is more than basketball.
This is about access.
This is about purpose.
This is about building something bigger than yourself.

Born in Little Rock, Arkansas and raised in Japan as a military brat, Coach Chevy grew up moving constantly, learning how to adapt, survive, and thrive in unfamiliar environments. Basketball became her anchor.

Her older brother introduced her to the game at Misawa Air Force Base, and from that moment on, basketball became her comfort, her confidence, and her calling.

“Basketball became my comfort pillow,” she says.
“It helped me connect when everything around me kept changing.”

When her family relocated to Omaha, Nebraska, the transition was tough. New culture. New environment. New challenges. But Chevy leaned into the game — and the game carried her forward.

At Creighton University, Chevy became a certified bucket.

• 1,000+ career points

• All-MVC Second Team

• Elite guard play

• Leader on and off the floor

But her impact went beyond the box score. She was known for her basketball IQ, toughness, and ability to uplift her teammates.

After her playing career, she stayed close to the game — beginning her coaching journey at Creighton, where she learned the art of development, culture-building, and mentorship.

That’s when something bigger started calling her.

Coach Chevy saw a problem.

Too many talented kids.
Not enough resources.
Not enough access.
Not enough mentorship.

So she built a solution.

Her program Develop was born out of a mission to bridge the gap for underserved athletes — connecting young players to elite coaching, real mentorship, and life-changing opportunity.

“Access is everything,” Chevy says.
“If I can open a door for a kid, I’m doing my job.”

Develop isn’t just about basketball.
It’s about confidence.
It’s about belief.
It’s about building futures.

In 2023, Chevy sent an email hoping to volunteer.

God had other plans.

That email turned into an assistant coaching position with the Phoenix Mercury, one of the most iconic franchises in professional basketball.

Now she’s on the sidelines coaching legends, developing pros, and helping rebuild a championship culture.

“It was all God,” she says.
“I just stayed ready.”

Stepping into the WNBA brought new challenges:

• Coaching elite professionals

• Navigating injuries

• Rebuilding team culture

• Competing in the toughest league in the world

And Coach Chevy embraced it all.

With humility.
With hunger.
With heart.

Coach Chevy’s approach is rooted in connection.

She believes great coaching starts with:

• Trust

• Accountability

• Communication

• Empowerment

She meets players where they are.
She challenges them to grow.
She builds relationships that last beyond basketball.

“Basketball is the tool. The real work is developing people.”

Coach Chevy is just getting started.

She’s expanding Develop.
She’s building new pathways for youth athletes.
She’s continuing to grow as a WNBA coach.
She’s committed to being a bridge for the next generation.

Her vision is clear:
Create access.
Create opportunity.
Create impact.

This episode is for:

• Young athletes chasing dreams

• Coaches finding their purpose

• Parents seeking opportunity

• Anyone who believes in faith, work, and perseverance

Coach Chevy proves that when preparation meets purpose, destiny opens doors.

🎧 Tap in and hear how a volunteer email turned into a WNBA coaching career.

Texas basketball is built different — and Celeste Jackson is proof.

At just 15 years old, the 6’0” double-double machine out of Stony Point High School is already making serious noise across the state and on the national stage. Whether she’s wearing the Tigers jersey on Friday nights or suiting up for CyFair Elite on the Nike EYBL circuit, Celeste is showing the country what elite looks like.

In this episode of SportsLifeTalk’s You Got Next, we sit down with one of Texas’ fastest-rising stars to talk about her journey, her mindset, and what it really takes to compete at the highest level of girls’ basketball.

Celeste’s basketball journey started in fourth grade when her dad — a former Division I and Division II player — signed her up for a neighborhood team. At first, basketball wasn’t love at first sight. But after stepping on the court for her very first game, something clicked.

By seventh grade, the game became serious.

That’s when Celeste locked in.

Early morning workouts with her dad.
Late nights in the gym.
Extra reps.
Film study.
Strength training.
Skill development.

Today, she’s known for her physicality, her motor, her rebounding, and her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. She’s not just a scorer — she’s a complete player who brings toughness, leadership, and consistency every time she steps between the lines.

Wearing the CyFair Elite jersey means you’re carrying a target.

Competing on the Nike EYBL circuit means playing against the best players in the country while college coaches line the sidelines with clipboards and offers ready. Celeste talks about what it’s like playing on the biggest stages — from Louisville to Phoenix — and how the pressure of EYBL only sharpened her competitive edge.

And Celeste thrives in that environment.

She takes pride in being the energy player.
The rebounder.
The vocal leader.
The teammate everyone can lean on when the game gets tough.

“People want to beat you just because of the name on your chest,” she says.
And she loves it.

At Stony Point High School, Celeste has become the heartbeat of the program. Her presence in the paint, her ability to score through contact, and her leadership have helped elevate the Tigers into one of Central Texas’ toughest matchups.

She’s the player coaches game-plan for.
The one opponents circle on the scouting report.
The one teammates trust when the moment gets big.

And she’s only getting better.

Off the court, Celeste is grounded, humble, and focused.

An only child, she values her family deeply and credits her parents for keeping her balanced through the pressures of elite basketball. When she’s not in the gym, she’s:

• Watching movies

• Shopping

• Hanging with friends

• Exploring new interests

She’s also serious about her future beyond basketball, with interests in business and dreams of becoming either a real estate agent or an ultrasound technician.

Because for Celeste, success isn’t just about hoops — it’s about building a life.

• Favorite emoji: 😂

• Top 5 artists: Drake, Lil Baby, SZA, Jhene Aiko, Summer Walker

• Favorite food: Seafood

• Austin food spot: Garbo’s lobster rolls 🦞

Celeste is locked in on her 2026 class journey and continuing to push herself outside her comfort zone. She’s focused on:

• Growing her game

• Expanding her skill set

• Competing nationally

• Leading her teams

• Preparing for the college level

And make no mistake — college basketball is coming.

Fast.

Celeste Jackson isn’t just another talented player.

She’s a leader.
A worker.
A competitor.
A student of the game.

She understands that greatness is built when nobody’s watching — and she puts in the work every single day.

This episode is a deep dive into:

• The mindset of an elite young athlete

• The grind behind the highlights

• The reality of EYBL basketball

• The pressure of being “the one”

• The discipline it takes to separate yourself

🎧 Tap in now and meet one of Texas’ brightest rising stars.

From learning under the legendary Pat Summitt to shaping the next era of women’s basketball at the University of Wisconsin, Ariel Massengale’s journey is a masterclass in faith, resilience, and leadership.

In this episode of Sports Life Talk, we sit down with Ariel Massengale to unpack a story that spans elite youth basketball, championship-level development, international competition, and the transition from player to coach — all rooted in purpose and preparation.

Raised in Bolingbrook, Illinois, Ariel’s love for the game started early under the guidance of her father, her first coach and biggest believer. Long nights watching SportsCenter, breaking down fundamentals, and learning to love the grind laid the foundation for what would become one of the most decorated careers in women’s basketball. By the time she reached high school, Ariel wasn’t just good — she was elite. A McDonald’s All-American and Gatorade Player of the Year, she had proven she belonged among the nation’s best.

That path led her to the University of Tennessee, where she played under Pat Summitt during one of the most significant and emotional chapters in the program’s history. Ariel reflects on what it meant to commit to Tennessee during Coach Summitt’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, the responsibility of carrying the Lady Vols standard, and the life lessons learned from a coach whose impact transcended basketball. Those years shaped not only her game, but her character, leadership style, and understanding of accountability.

Ariel’s journey didn’t stop there. She went on to represent Team USA, earning gold medals while competing against the world’s best. The pressure, discipline, and bond formed through international competition gave her a global lens on the game — one that later carried into her professional career overseas. Playing abroad sharpened her adaptability and deepened her appreciation for different styles of play, lessons she now passes on to the players she coaches.

Now an assistant coach at Wisconsin, Ariel is helping build a new identity for the program — one rooted in pace, player development, and culture. She opens up about recruiting with intention, creating locker rooms that win beyond the scoreboard, and why postseason-ready skillsets and character matter just as much as talent. Working under Head Coach Marisa Moseley, Ariel is part of a staff committed to growth, accountability, and long-term success.

Throughout the episode, Ariel speaks candidly about faith, resilience, and the mentors who poured into her — including the women who showed her how to lead with conviction and care. From navigating injuries to quieting doubt, her story is a reminder that success isn’t linear, and purpose often reveals itself through persistence.

This conversation isn’t just about basketball achievements — it’s about becoming who the game prepares you to be.

Whether you’re a player chasing the next level, a coach building culture, or a fan of women’s basketball history and its future, this episode delivers perspective, honesty, and inspiration from someone who’s lived every layer of the journey.

Press play and hear how Ariel Massengale is turning legacy into leadership — and impact into purpose.

Twin. Twin. Twin. Tulsa, Oklahoma… y’all really did that.

In this episode of Sports Life Talk’s You Got Next (Season 6: Savage Season), we sit down with the Davis Twins — Jada Davis (6’1”) and Micah Davis (6’2”) out of Union High School — and let’s be clear: these two are not smiling when the ball goes up. 😤🏀

We talk about how they started hooping at age 3, but really fell in love with the game in 8th grade, when everything clicked — the grind, the chemistry, and the realization that they could play at a high level. From Pro Skills (EYBL) to high school battles in Oklahoma, the twins break down what makes them special:

✅ their twin sync / on-court signals (yes… twin telepathy is REAL)
✅ the competitive fire of being “us vs them” while still pushing each other daily
✅ how they describe their games as versatile wings/guards who can defend, run, and impact winning
✅ why they’re a package deal — and why being together matters to them
✅ the mindset lessons they live by: leadership, resilience, and next play mentality

Then we get into the fun stuff SLT Nation lives for:

🔥 Moment of Truth (two truths and a fib — and the hosts got cooked 🤦🏾‍♂️)
🎶 Top 5 music artists
🦸 Favorite superheroes (Flash + Spider-Man… yep, the speed checks out)
🍗 Tulsa food talk: Clark Crew BBQ vs El Patron (ribs/sausage vs seafood boil… don’t start a war in the comments)
🐾 and yes… Frosty the dog pulled up like the real third guest

This is one of those episodes where you can hear the bond, the hunger, and the future. Tulsa’s got something special with these two.

Tap in and meet the real twins.

📌 Want to be featured on You Got Next? Nominate at SLTUgotnext.com
💬 Drop your Top 5 artists + your favorite set of hoop twins in the comments
🫶 And throw the finger-heart emoji if you’re rocking with the Davis Twins!

From a family-built foundation to the bright lights of the Big Ten, Coach Jasmyn Walker’s journey is rooted in purpose, preparation, and people.

In this episode of Sports Life Talk, we sit down with Coach Jasmyn Walker, assistant coach at the University of Iowa, to unpack a story defined by legacy, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to growth — both on and off the court.

Basketball wasn’t just something Jasmyn Walker played growing up — it was the family language. Raised by parents who are both Hall of Famers at Ferris State University, she grew up in a household where accountability, competitiveness, and love for the game were non-negotiable. That environment produced results. Jasmyn, along with her sister and brother, all became 1,000-point scorers, learning early that confidence comes from preparation and ownership. One phrase from home still echoes today: players make plays — a mindset that now shapes how she coaches.

As a collegiate player at Valparaiso University and Western Michigan University, Jasmyn carved out a standout career, finishing with over 1,100 points and a reputation as a versatile, high-IQ competitor. But it was after her playing days that her true calling began to take shape.

Her coaching journey took her through Ferris State, Davenport, Butler, and Purdue Fort Wayne, where her impact became impossible to ignore. At Purdue Fort Wayne, she helped guide the program to a school-record 23-win season in 2024, blending player development, analytics, recruiting, and adaptability into one complete coaching approach. She often describes herself as a “Swiss Army knife” — ready to serve wherever needed — with one goal in mind: helping young women grow.

That work opened the door to Iowa, where Jasmyn joined the Hawkeye staff under head coach Jan Jensen. Stepping into Iowa’s culture, fanbase, and expectations brought everything full circle. The standard is clear. The work is relentless. And the mindset is blue-collar. As Jasmyn puts it, you’re not going to outwork us.

She also opens up about recruiting at the highest level — not as selling a vision, but as alignment. Finding athletes who fit Iowa’s culture, who value development, relationships, and consistency, and who want to be part of something bigger than themselves. For Jasmyn, recruiting isn’t transactional — it’s relational.

Beyond basketball, this episode pulls back the curtain on who Jasmyn Walker is away from the gym. A lover of music playlists, Marvel movies, and old-school Transformers films, she also talks food, faith, and staying grounded through it all. Her belief in God’s timing and favor is central to how she approaches every step of her journey.

This conversation is about more than wins and losses. It’s about staying adaptable, serving where you’re planted, and understanding that growth happens when preparation meets opportunity.

Whether you’re a player chasing the next level, a coach navigating the profession, or a fan who loves learning what builds elite programs, this episode delivers insight, honesty, and inspiration.

Tap in and hear how Coach Jasmyn Walker is helping shape the present — and future — of Iowa women’s basketball.

At just 16 years old, Nation Williams isn’t chasing the future — she’s becoming it.

In this episode of Sports ifeTalk, we sit down with Nation Williams, one of the most dynamic young talents in the country, to unpack a basketball journey that started in kindergarten and has already reached the national stage.

Basketball has always been part of Nation’s DNA. Raised in a family where the game was a way of life, her love for basketball was sparked early by her mother — a former player who introduced her to the game long before she could reach the rim. What started as joy and curiosity quickly turned into discipline, consistency, and a deep understanding of the work required to be elite. As Nation shares, basketball isn’t just something she does — it’s part of who she is.

Standing at 6’2”, Nation brings a rare blend of size, motor, and versatility. But what separates her isn’t just physical tools — it’s effort. She talks about how energy and hustle are non-negotiables, even on off days. Whether it’s rebounding, running the floor, defending multiple positions, or expanding her offensive game, Nation is committed to becoming a complete player. She opens up about working on her perimeter skills, ball-handling, and shooting range — understanding that evolution is required at the next level.

Family remains the backbone of her success. Her mother, who wore the iconic number 24, is also her primary trainer, holding her accountable while pushing her to grow. Her sister — a college basketball player — has been both teammate and role model, making their shared state championship run one of the most meaningful moments of Nation’s life. Those family conversations aren’t just about points and stats — they’re about fit, adaptability, and learning how to impact the game in different systems.

Nation’s résumé already speaks volumes. She’s a state champion. A Gatorade Player of the Year. And a gold medalist with USA Basketball, representing her country on the international stage. She reflects on what it meant to wear “USA” across her chest, compete against elite talent, and realize that her preparation belonged on the world stage.

Looking ahead, Nation is clear about her vision. Short term, she’s chasing another state title and continued growth. Long term, she’s focused on finding the right college program — one that values development, relationships, and leadership as much as wins. For her, success isn’t just about basketball — it’s about becoming a better person, teammate, and leader.

Off the court, Nation’s personality shines just as bright. She loves school for the social connections, enjoys subjects like science and English, and brings a natural charisma wherever she goes. Her favorite emoji — 😉 — says it all: confident, joyful, and locked in.

This episode is a reminder that greatness doesn’t happen overnight — it’s built through family, effort, humility, and belief.

Nation Williams isn’t just next up — she’s already here.

Tap in and hear how one of the nation’s brightest young stars is building her path, one possession at a time.

Meet Payton Starwalt — one of the most technically gifted young shooters in the nation and a rising star who’s redefining what the future of women’s basketball looks like.

Hailing from Albany, Oregon, Payton’s journey didn’t begin in packed gyms or under bright tournament lights — it started in her own backyard, on a hoop her dad built during the pandemic. What began as a way to pass the time quickly became her obsession. By sixth grade, Payton was spending hours on that court, sharpening her shot and building the foundation for what would become an elite national reputation.

Now a top-100 player in the Class of 2027, Payton is known for her pure shooting mechanics, high basketball IQ, and ability to impact the game as a scorer, creator, and leader. Her shooting numbers border on unbelievable — including a viral moment where she knocked down 105 out of 107 threes in a single session. But what makes Payton special goes far beyond percentages. It’s her mindset. Her calmness. Her ability to stay in rhythm under pressure. And her fearless approach to the moment.

In this episode, Payton opens up about:

• How a backyard hoop turned into a springboard for national success

• The perfectionist mentality that fuels her development and consistency

• Why she doesn’t overthink shots (and how that mindset keeps her locked in)

• Her goals for West Albany High School — and why she believes her team can make a deep run

• What she’s looking for in a college program and where she hopes to grow her game next

• Her dreams of someday coaching, mentoring younger athletes, and competing at the highest level

• Life off the court: baking, traveling, family time, and the special bond she has with her younger sister Avery

Payton’s story is a powerful reminder that greatness isn’t just about being gifted — it’s about falling in love with the work, embracing the slow climb, and choosing every day to get a little better. Whether you’re a player, coach, parent, or fan of the women’s game, this episode offers an inside look at the mindset and habits of one of high school basketball’s most promising young stars.

Press play to hear how Payton Starwalt is rewriting what excellence looks like — one jump shot at a time.

Some athletes play basketball. Others live it.

Meet Wrigley Green — a rising junior whose passion for the game has already carried her across states, from Chicago to Oregon to Texas, and into the spotlight as one of the most exciting young players in the nation. Her story is about more than buckets and highlights — it’s about family, resilience, and an unstoppable drive to chase greatness.

Wrigley’s love for basketball started early — really early. At just three years old, her dad put a basketball in her hands, and she’s never let go. Growing up playing in co-ed leagues, often the only girl on the court, Wrigley learned how to compete fearlessly.

“I just loved it ever since,” she says. “It didn’t matter who I was playing against — I just wanted to win.”

When her family moved to Oregon, that love turned into focus. Club basketball became her classroom. Discipline and hard work became her teachers. By the time her family settled in Texas, Wrigley had already built the foundation of a future star — ready to take on one of the toughest basketball regions in America.

Now representing the Argyle Lady Eagles, Wrigley has become a must-watch player. Her shooting range is deadly, her energy relentless, and her work ethic unmatched.

“I give everything I have, every single game, every single practice,” she says.

One unforgettable moment? Dropping 37 points during an Adidas 3SSB circuit game against one of the nation’s top teams. “Sometimes you’re just in the zone,” she laughs. “That was one of those nights.”

Playing for Texas Lone Star, Wrigley has thrived in a system that rewards effort, teamwork, and grit — the same qualities that have made her a leader on and off the court.

With her junior year underway, Wrigley’s sights are set on the next level. Her goal? To earn a scholarship, play in March Madness, and one day make it to the WNBA or the pro leagues overseas.

“It’s been my dream forever. March Madness is even my ringtone!” she laughs.

When she talks about basketball, her energy is contagious. She’s not just chasing trophies — she’s chasing growth, competition, and the chance to inspire other girls to chase their dreams too.

Off the court, Wrigley is all heart. She loves hanging out with friends, cooking, shopping, and yes — dominating in fantasy football. “I just love talking,” she admits with a smile. “That’s why I want to go into sports broadcasting one day.”

Her family plays a huge role in her journey. Whether it’s her brother introducing her to tennis or her dad pushing her to keep working, the Greens have built an environment of support, love, and accountability.

Wrigley Green isn’t just an athlete — she’s a reminder that dreams come true when passion meets preparation. Her story is proof that the path to success isn’t always straight, but with faith, family, and focus, anything is possible.

“If you want it, go for it. Nobody’s going to give it to you — you’ve got to earn it.”

Wrigley Green’s rise is just beginning — and you can be part of it!

• 💥 Hit subscribe on SportsLifeTalk’s You Got Next wherever you listen to podcasts.

• 📲 Share this episode with someone chasing their own dream.

• 💬 Drop a mind-blown emoji (💥) in the comments to show Wrigley some love!

Because from Chicago to Oregon to Texas, one thing’s clear — Wrigley Green’s name belongs in the spotlight. 🌟

🏀 From the Playground to the Big Stage🔥 Texas Takeover: The Rise of a Star🏆 Chasing Big Dreams🎤 Beyond Basketball: The Personality Behind the Player🌟 Why Wrigley Green’s Story Matters💬 Join the Journey

From doing laundry and cutting film to strategizing alongside one of the most dynamic head coaches in college basketball, Coach Jake Whitehead has mastered the art of turning humble beginnings into high-level success.

In this episode of SportsLifeTalk’s You Got Next, we dive deep into Jake’s rise from a homeschooled kid in Illinois to an assistant coach under Coach Yo at Ole Miss Women’s Basketball, one of the most exciting programs in the country. His journey is raw, unconventional, and proof that passion plus patience always wins.

Jake didn’t have the traditional road into basketball. He wasn’t a high school star or a college athlete — he started as a manager at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), doing the behind-the-scenes work no one else wanted. Laundry. Gear. Film breakdown.

“It wasn’t glamorous, but I knew this was my way in,” he says.

Guided by mentors who saw his hunger, Jake leaned into video coordination, learning the analytics, patterns, and tendencies that define elite basketball. His eye for detail and relentless drive opened the door that would eventually lead him to the sidelines in Oxford.

Before he ever drew up plays, Jake was building scouting reports. His experience as a video coordinator gave him an edge few coaches have.

“You watch enough film and you start seeing the game differently,” he explains.

That skill became his superpower. Now as an assistant coach, Jake uses analytics and film study to help Ole Miss outthink and outplay the competition — from breaking down opposing offenses to identifying hidden edges that win games.

Working under Coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin — affectionately known as Coach Yo — has been transformative. Her energy and fearless leadership have made Ole Miss one of the toughest programs in the SEC.

“She’s fearless,” Jake says. “Her leadership makes it easy to recruit and win here. My job is to make her life easier and help this team achieve greatness.”

Together, they’ve built a culture defined by discipline, joy, and relentless competitiveness — a mix that’s propelled the Rebels toward consistent national relevance and their sights firmly set on a Final Four run.

For Jake, success isn’t just about strategy — it’s about people.

“You’ve got to meet people where they’re at,” he says.

Whether it’s mentoring players, recruiting future stars, or connecting with families, his approach is rooted in understanding and empathy. He’s not just coaching basketball — he’s shaping young women to win in life.

When he’s not in the film room, Jake keeps it country. His playlists feature Eric Church, Morgan Wallen, and Travis Tritt, while “Jesus Walks” by Kanye West serves as his personal anthem of faith and perseverance.

And if you’re ever in Oxford? Find him at Old Coop Wings, where lemon pepper and garlic parmesan are the go-tos. 🍗

“Good food and film — that’s a perfect day,” he laughs.

Coach Whitehead isn’t content just being part of the story — he wants to help write the next great chapter in Ole Miss basketball.

“We’re trying to go to a Final Four. That’s the goal. I told Coach Yo that’s what I came here for.”

With his combination of film expertise, recruiting savvy, and relentless energy, there’s no doubt Jake’s rise is only beginning.

Coach Jake Whitehead’s story proves that the road less traveled can lead straight to greatness.

What part of his journey inspired you most?
Drop your favorite emoji 🔥❤️ in the comments, tell us your go-to wing flavor, and join the movement by following @SportsLifeTalk.

🎙️ Subscribe to SportsLifeTalk’s You Got Next — where we celebrate the players, coaches, and creators who are changing the game, one story at a time.

🏀 The Path Less Traveled🎥 Film Don’t Lie: The Power of Analytics💪 Learning Under Coach Yo: Culture and Confidence💡 Lessons Beyond the Sidelines🎶 Off the Clock with Coach Whitehead🔥 The Vision Ahead💬 Join the Conversation