EP147: Building a Culture of Playing Towards Each Other with Ryan Gesler

In this episode, George is joined by Ryan Gensler, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of Akron, to explore how concept-based offense, relationship-driven leadership, and constraint-led learning shape modern team building and player development. Ryan shares lessons from his coaching journey across multiple programs and explains how cutting, spacing, and selflessness can become foundational offensive weapons. He also dives into practice design, blending traditional drills with constraints, building team culture through shared values, and trusting players to make decisions.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Ryan Gensler and His Coaching Path

01:00 – Coaching Influences and Concept-Based Offense

02:30 – Relationship-Driven Leadership and Program Culture

04:00 – Defining Core Values as a Head Coach

05:30 – Playing for Each Other and Selfless Basketball

06:30 – Using Cutting as a Primary Offensive Weapon

08:00 – Teaching Cutting Through Constraints and Small-Sided Games

10:00 – Solving Spacing and Dunker Spot Challenges

11:30 – Blending Traditional Player Development with Constraints

14:30 – Modernizing Traditional Drills for Decision-Making

17:30 – Developing Shot Quality and Contested Finishing

19:30 – Reinforcing Culture Through Assist-Based Rewards

21:00 – Emotional Intelligence and Off-Court Development

22:30 – Aligning Vision Through Team Retreats and Vulnerability

24:00 – Transformative Tip: Trust Your Players

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