In Episode 10 of the GRIT Hoops Podcast, Coach Kerry dives into one of the most overlooked aspects of basketball development—mental awareness—and how mastering it can completely change your game. Inspired by a conversation with Coach Wade and an elite chess player’s story, this episode introduces a unique framework: the Three Levels of Awareness every player must understand and grow through.

Whether you're a coach, player, or parent, you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of what it means to truly "know the game", not just play it. Discover why many young athletes are stuck in levels one and two, and learn actionable strategies to help push yourself (or your player) toward level three, where prediction, manipulation, and elite decision-making live.

Key Topics Discussed:

• What a chess master’s loss can teach us about basketball IQ

• The 3 Levels of Awareness every player goes through:

  • Level 1: No awareness (just playing)

  • Level 2: Reactionary (responding to the moment)

  • Level 3: Predictive (manipulating outcomes)

• Why many kids are playing too early and not training enough

• How small-sided games (1v1, 2v2, 3v3) build real basketball IQ

• How “The GRIT Grid” tracks assertiveness and effort, not just stats

• The importance of effort-based metrics like attack rate and transition effort

• Free GRIT Grid consultation offer for players and coaches

• Examples of elite players like Steph Curry still investing in skill training

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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

In this compelling episode of the Grit Hoops podcast, Coach Kerry dives deep into the essence of hard work, drawing from his extensive experience with youth athletes. Joined by producer Chris Nesi, they explore the transformative impact of dedication and passion on players’ journeys. Featuring stories about standout athletes like Diamond Miller, Jaylen Blakes, Tucker Richardson, Belle Pellecchia, and Olivia Miles, listeners will gain insight into the traits that lead to success on and off the court.

Key takeaways include the importance of a genuine love for the game, the power of supportive environments, and strategies for fostering a strong work ethic in young athletes. Whether you're a player, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with valuable lessons to elevate your approach to basketball.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The true meaning of hard work
• Importance of passion in sports
• Profiles of successful athletes: Diamond Miller, Jaylen Blakes, Tucker Richardson, Belle Pellecchia, Olivia Miles
• Strategies for developing a strong work ethic

Join the Conversation:

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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

In Episode 8 of the GRIT Hoops Podcast, we challenge a long-standing myth in youth basketball development: the idea that young players shouldn't study the NBA. Coach Kerry breaks down why watching professional basketball—especially the NBA—is not only beneficial, but essential for maximizing a player’s potential. From learning high-level habits and skills to understanding elite mentality and work ethic, players at every level can transform their game by being true students of the sport.

This episode explores the importance of studying specific players who mirror your style and body type, the value of watching game film intentionally, and how observing both the triumphs and struggles of elite athletes can inspire growth and resilience. Whether you’re a player, coach, or parent, this episode delivers actionable insights that reinforce the GRIT philosophy: passion, performance, and relentless pursuit of greatness.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Why the NBA gets unfair criticism in youth development circles

• The developmental advantages of studying professional basketball

• Comparing styles of play across NBA, college, and high school levels

• What young players can learn from elite habits, like Steph Curry’s routines or James Harden’s postgame workouts

• Jalen Brunson’s use of “jailing” and how strategy impacts skill

• The value of watching women's professional basketball and international leagues

• How to adopt a pro-level mentality, even at a young age

• Learning from player setbacks and comebacks (e.g., Jayson Tatum's injury)

• The power of studying positive outcomes and the long-term impact of elite habits

Featured Examples:

• Jalen Brunson (Knicks)

• Steph Curry

• James Harden

• LeBron James

• Jason Kidd

• Diamond Miller, Olivia Miles, Jaylen Blakes, Makayla Blakes

Join the Conversation:

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• https://www.instagram.com/gritbasketball/
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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

In Episode 7 of the Grit Hoops Podcast, Coach Kerry from Grit Basketball breaks down how players, parents, and coaches can effectively self-assess performance using the Grit Grid. Forget the scoreboard and the stat sheet—learn how to evaluate your assertiveness, aggressiveness, and impact on the game, with or without the ball. Discover the value of tracking your touches, transitions, defensive pressure, and off-ball movement to uncover your true attack rate.

This episode will help you shift your mindset from traditional game judgment to purposeful self-evaluation—and give you tools to grow as a complete player. Want to take it even further? Coach Kerry is offering a free copy of the Grit Grid and a 30-minute video evaluation to podcast listeners.

• Why post-game self-assessment is crucial for long-term development.

• How traditional evaluations (“Did I score?”) can hurt growth.

• Introduction to the Grit Grid: a tool to track touches, aggression, and impact.

• How to define and measure passive vs. aggressive touches.

• What constitutes an “attack” during a game (shooting, passing, crashing boards, etc.).

• How to hold yourself accountable on defense and in transition.

• The importance of being assertive, even without the ball.

Join the Conversation:

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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

In this episode, Coach Kerry tackles a hot-button issue in the basketball world: is the Transfer Portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era hurting the game—or helping it evolve? Coach Kerry breaks it all down with a nuanced take on how these changes are reshaping high school, college, and youth basketball.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why NIL and the Transfer Portal aren’t “ruining” basketball—but are definitely changing the landscape.

• How college players benefit from increased mobility and monetization.

• The real impact on high school players' recruitment and development.

• Why coaches are embracing the portal—and what it means for building rosters.

• Strategies for high school athletes to stay competitive:

  • JUCO, post-grad, and reclassing explained.

  • The critical importance of training, self-awareness, and skill-based development.

  • How to evaluate your current level and create a plan for growth.

• The role of trainers, parents, and coaches in athlete development.

• What college coaches are really looking for: primary attackers who can create their own shot.

Coach Kerry’s Message: This new era of basketball requires smarter strategies, deeper commitment, and earlier preparation. Instead of fearing change, players, parents, and coaches need to adjust and adapt.

Featured in This Episode:

• Personal stories and examples, including the development journey of pro player Tucker Richardson.

• A call to action for players to be honest about their current level and put in intentional work.

Join the Conversation:

Email us your questions and feedback: [email protected]

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• https://www.instagram.com/gritbasketball/
• https://www.facebook.com/gritbasketball

Share your thoughts using #GRITHoopsPodcast

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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

In this game-changing episode of the GRIT Hoops Podcast, Coach Kerry talks about what it really takes to become a great shooter. Forget what you thought you knew — he's breaking down common shooting myths, examining the mechanics used by the world’s top shooters, and laying out the GRIT method for developing confident, consistent scorers.

Coach Kerry shares his personal journey from questioning traditional shooting teachings to spending part of his career as the East Coast Director for Pro Shot Shooting System, and now teaching players all over how to truly shoot the basketball.

Whether you're a coach, player, or parent, this episode is your blueprint for turning any athlete into a dangerous shooter.

• Why most traditional shooting advice is outdated

• The essential components of elite shooting mechanics

• The difference between one-motion and two-motion shots—and when to teach each

• Why "square up" and "follow your shot" are myths to leave behind

• The science behind dipping, turning, and finger release

• Footwork fundamentals: hop vs. one-two and when to use them

• Why drills like one-handed shooting might be doing more harm than good

• Game-like shooting drills that actually translate to performance

• How Steph Curry, Larry Bird, Kobe Bryant, Caitlin Clark, and others shoot—and what we can learn from them

• Real success stories from players like Michaela Blakes, Tucker Richardson, Olivia Miles, and Diamond Miller

• Why being a shooter is not something you're born with—it's something you build

Join the Conversation:

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• https://www.instagram.com/gritbasketball/
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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

In this episode of the Grit Hoops Podcast, Coach Kerry breaks down why attacking is always the answer—both on and off the court. From celebrating standout players like Belle Pellecchia and Michaela Blakes to dissecting the "Attack First" mindset, we explore how this approach can elevate teams, simplify decisions, and supercharge player development. Coach also answers a great question from Coach Lamont Robinson on building long-term success through skill-based practices. Let’s get after it—attack first!

The heart of the episode centers on what “Attack First” means in basketball terms. It’s not just about putting up shots—it’s about rebounding like Dennis Rodman, defending like Patrick Beverley, and recognizing scoring or assist opportunities without overthinking. It’s about mindset over mechanics, trusting your training, and playing with intention.

A key takeaway for coaches is the 80/20 rule: 80% of practice time should be spent on skill development—shooting, finishing, ball handling—and only 20% on system work. This is where long-term growth happens. Coach Kerry emphasizes the value of teaching reads, not just plays. When players know how to attack based on what the defense gives them, the need for scripted sets fades.

Finally, Coach answers a listener question from Coach Lamont Robinson about building long-term success through skill-based practices. The answer is clear: teach skills, emphasize mindset, and create decision-makers on the court.

This episode is a blueprint for anyone looking to build a culture of growth, resilience, and performance. As always, Coach Kerry leaves us with a simple message: greatness isn’t given, it’s earned. So keep putting in the work—and remember, attack first.

Join the Conversation:

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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

In this episode of the Grit Hoops Podcast, Coach Wade and Coach Kerry explain why traditional basketball positions can hinder a player’s long-term success. They discuss how limiting players to specific roles prevents skill development, adaptability, basketball IQ, and overall growth. Learn why positionless basketball is the key to unlocking a player’s full potential and how coaches, parents, and players can foster a more well-rounded game.

Basketball is not like football—players are not locked into rigid roles with fixed responsibilities. However, many coaches and programs still emphasize positions at an early age, unintentionally stunting a player's development. Here’s why this is a problem:

1. Players Become One-Trick Ponies

   • Specializing in one skill (e.g., only shooting or only playing in the post) makes a player easier to defend.

   • Even elite shooters, like Steph Curry, have a diverse skill set that extends beyond shooting.

   • Being labeled as a "center" or "shooter" prevents a player from expanding their game.

2. Lack of Adaptability

   • Players need to be ready to adjust to different roles as they move through different levels of competition.

   • A center in middle school might not be tall enough to be a center in high school or college.

   • Jalen Brunson, an elite point guard, uses post footwork—showing that every player benefits from diverse skills.

3. Limited Court Awareness and Basketball IQ

   • Players locked into one position don’t learn how to read the game from different perspectives.

   • Understanding multiple roles enhances decision-making, ball movement, and overall game strategy.

   • Positionless players can anticipate plays better and react more effectively on both offense and defense.

4. Hindered Long-Term Growth

   • Youth players are still growing physically and mentally. A 12-year-old post player might be a shooting guard by age 16.

   • Developing all-around skills ensures that a player can adjust to their future role, whatever it may be.

   • College and pro teams look for well-rounded players who can fit into various systems.

To maximize a player’s potential, coaches and parents should:

1. Encourage ball-handling, shooting, and defensive versatility for all players.
2. Avoid locking kids into specific roles at a young age.
3. Develop footwork, finishing, and off-ball movement regardless of size or skill set.
4. Teach basketball concepts that apply across all positions (e.g., spacing, decision-making, and passing).

By focusing on skill development rather than fixed roles, players will be better prepared to compete at higher levels and contribute more effectively to their teams.

Join the Conversation:

Email us your questions and feedback: [email protected]

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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

In this episode of the GRIT Hoops Podcast, we take a hard look at the state of youth basketball development in America. Is AAU the problem? Are we too focused on games and results instead of real skill-building? We break down why the system is failing young athletes and, more importantly, how players, parents, and coaches can take control of the development process.

• The Real Reason Young Players Struggle – It’s not confidence, it’s lack of skill development.
• Why Youth Basketball is Broken – The overemphasis on gameplay and winning over actual skill-building.
• Is AAU Really the Problem? – Why AAU isn’t the issue and how it can actually help players get recruited.
• How to Fix Youth Development – The importance of structured training, small-sided games, and focusing on fundamentals.
• Advice for Parents & Coaches – How to guide young athletes toward real improvement.

Fundamentals First: Players need a strong foundation before they start focusing on competition. Game Play vs. Training: Why structured development should be prioritized over just playing more games. Skill Over Positioning: Players should develop all-around skills rather than being boxed into positions too early. The Role of Parents: How to find the right training opportunities and avoid falling into the “game result” trap.

Rich (email) - How should coaches handle parent pressure for equal playing time? James (email) - Balancing player freedom with executing a game plan – how much is too much?

Join the Conversation:

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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.

March Madness is here, and we’re celebrating the incredible GRIT Basketball players competing at the NCAA Division I, II, and III levels in the 2025 tournament! In this special bonus episode, we give a well-deserved shoutout to the athletes who have put in the work and earned their spot on the biggest stage in college basketball.

Plus, we highlight GRIT alumni making waves in professional basketball, including WNBA Finals standout Diamond Miller and former Colgate star Tucker Richardson, now playing in Belgium.

• Layla Castro – Stevens University
• Belle Pellecchia – NYU (#1 in the country)
• Brianna Montajes – Montclair University
• Amanda Rapel – Gettysburg University
• Hampton Sanders – NYU (#8 in the country)

• Isaiah Honis – Dominican College
• Jayden Honis – Dominican College

• Olivia Miles – Notre Dame (Top 5 in the country)
• Mikayla Blakes – Vanderbilt (Top team in the country)
• Jaylen Blakes – Stanford University
• Zio Kim – Princeton University
• Brynn Farrel – Providence (Senior)

• Diamond Miller – Currently playing overseas and a 2023 WNBA Finals competitor with the Minnesota Lynx
• Tucker Richardson – Playing professionally in Brussels, Belgium (former Colgate standout)

Join the Conversation:

Email us your questions and feedback: [email protected]

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• https://www.instagram.com/gritbasketball/
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Share your thoughts using #GRITHoopsPodcast

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GRIT Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing high-level athletes through elite training, strategic coaching, and a relentless focus on skill development. Our mission is to build players who are not only fundamentally sound but also mentally tough, competitive, and prepared to excel at every level of the game.