What do college coaches really look for in high school players... and how can 3on3 basketball help prepare them?

In this episode, we’re joined by Coach Kendrick Wilson - former college coach, player, and now a consultant for high school and college programs. Coach Wilson breaks down how the game is evolving, what it really means to be a “smart player,” and why 3on3 basketball is such a powerful teaching tool.

We talk about:

- How 3on3 builds basketball IQ and decision-making

- What stands out in college recruiting (and what doesn’t)

- Confidence, communication, and creating basketball minds

- Why today's game demands more than just skill work

Whether you're a coach, parent, or player, this conversation is packed with insight.

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What exactly is basketball IQ...and how do you teach it?

In this episode, Kevin and Coach J break down what makes a player “smart” on the court, and why 3on3 basketball is the fastest way to develop high-IQ players. From spacing and anticipation to decision-making and communication, we cover the traits that separate good players from great ones....and give coaches and parents real ways to develop those skills.

Plus:

• Signs of low and high basketball IQ
• Why great passers are often the smartest players
• How watching film (the right way) boosts awareness
• How 3on3 reps build anticipation, trust, and feel for the game

Whether you’re a coach, parent, or player, this one will help you see the game differently.

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3on3 or 5on5? This episode breaks down what each format teaches best — and how to use both to develop smarter, more confident players.

We talk about game flow, player roles, skill reps, and real-time decision-making. Plus: how to structure your practices to get the best of both worlds.

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In this episode, we’re reacting to our powerful 2-part interview with Coach Dave, breaking down the biggest stories in 3x3 basketball from Big3 brawls to FIBA World Cup stunners.

- What we learned from Coach Dave
- Why 3x3 is the ultimate "reset" for players
- Our take on the Dwight Howard–Lance Stephenson scuffle
- Historic FIBA 3x3 upsets — including Mongolia’s magical run
- What USA 3x3 teams need to catch up

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In Part 2 of our interview with Coach Dave (Founder of Northwest 3on3 and Purpose Driven Athlete), we discuss what it means to support young athletes beyond the game.

We talk about:

- What to do when you get burned out as a coach

- How parents can help kids rebuild their belief after a tough season

- The most common mindset struggles kids face today — and how 3on3 helps address them

- The powerful life lessons that can come from a 3on3 basketball league

This episode is for coaches, parents, and leaders who want to build more than just better players.

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In this special interview, we sit down with motivational speaker, certified mindset coach, and founder of Northwest 3on3 (Coach Dave) to explore how 3on3 basketball can unlock growth in players that traditional formats often miss.

We discuss:

• Why quieter kids often thrive in 3on3
• How confidence and identity are built through setbacks
• What burnout looks like for coaches — and how to push through
• How 3on3 changes the way we define success in youth sports

Coach Dave brings powerful insights, real stories, and encouragement for coaches and parents working to raise stronger athletes and people.

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Coach Kev’s League → https://3on3live.com

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Next week: Part 2 of our interview with Coach Dave — diving deeper into mindset, leadership, and building up the next generation of athletes.

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Confidence isn’t built on the bench. In this episode, Coach Kev and Coach J break down how 3on3 basketball helps players find their voice through more touches, more reps, and more involvement. They share stories from their programs and practical ways to build confidence in every player — especially the quiet ones.

Includes a powerful clip from Coach Nick Logalbo (USA 3x3) on how 3on3 helped one of his stars unlock her leadership.

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In this episode, we share real examples of how to use 3on3 in your practice — from cutthroat defense to screening actions and more. Plus, we announce 3on3 Hoops Nation and wrap with a personal Off the Court convo. Subscribe at 3on3hoopsnation.com and follow @3on3hoopspod on Instagram.

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