Off the Beaten Path Hoops

Josh Pastner, the all-time leading rebounder at Arizona, shares his stories and lessons from a coaching journey shaped by legendary mentors and high-pressure jobs. He reflects on learning under Lute Olson ("one of the greatest clinicians and practice coaches in sports history"), what it was like stepping in at Memphis at just 31 years old after John Calipari’s historic run, and the intensity of leading a program where basketball defines the city. Pastner also talks Georgia Tech, including winning an ACC Championship and the iconic face shield that became part of One Shining Moment. From coaching philosophy to adaptability and leadership, this episode offers insight into the experiences that shaped Pastner and led him to UNLV.

Insightful. Honest. Unfiltered. In this episode, we sit down with Donnie Tyndall to trace his remarkable coaching path, from his early days at St. Catherine’s in Kentucky to joining LSU and forming a lasting connection with Kermit Davis. Coach Tyndall shares stories from his unforgettable run at Morehead State, the challenges he faced during NCAA issues at Tennessee and Southern Miss, and the lessons learned from a 10-year show cause penalty that changed his life and career. We also dive into his comeback through his work in the NBA G League.

Few people can say they’ve lived nearly half a century in the game of basketball. Coach Brian James has. With 49 years of coaching experience, James has seen the sport from every angle — from small-town roots in Taylorville, Illinois, to the biggest stages in the NBA and college basketball.In this episode, BJ takes us inside some of the defining moments of his journey: what it was like to go from high school to the NBA, to work alongside Doug Collins, to coach and manage the competitive fire of Michael Jordan, and to help Chris Collins lead Northwestern to its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearances. James also reflects on the enduring role basketball plays in Taylorville and the life lessons the game continues to teach.Whether you’re a lifelong hoops fan or just curious about the stories behind the sidelines, this conversation offers a rare window into the relationships, challenges, and triumphs that define a true coaching career.

Dean Keener joins Episode 52 of Off the Beaten Path Hoops to tell his story that starts in northern Ohio and winds through Five Star Camp, Davidson, a truck stop in Indiana, a friendly office mate, a Monday night moment and the top grassroots basketball events in the country. Enjoy the conversation!

The founder of the Georgia Stars Basketball tells us about the humble beginnings of the program in Bartow County, the steep learning curve in recruiting and competing, and the breakthrough that happened with young William Avery at the helm. From Nike to Coach K, and from church gyms to the NBA, Norman has been through it all. Listen for great stories, lots of connections and some Peach Jam championship memories.

Here's the story of Dan Evans, a basketball coach who remembers every play from every game, got a job in the South off HoopDirt (along with connections, relationships and fate), and took the University of North Georgia Nighthawks to the Elite Eight.

We kick off Season 4 with Gonzaga assistant coach R-Jay Barsh who tells us the importance of opening the gym for anyone and everyone, including Isiah Thomas, along with how to build relationships that last. And make sure you ask him is how...

Coach Campbell tells us his path from player to coach, a battle with cancer and Barksdale tales.

From mentors and role models to John Thompson mix ups and Final Four visits - it's all here in OBP46 with legendary North Carolina Wesleyan coach John Thompson.

From maxing out your credit cards to leading a top division one program, Coach Richie Riley is a true example of following an off the beaten path to the top of the profession. Hear about his mentors, his insights, his work as a golf caddy and who can get you out of a speeding ticket.

Welcome to Season 4 of OBP, our off the beaten path basketball podcast for coaches living in obscurity, working in obscurity and even for those who have made it out of obscurity. In OBP44, our hosts catch up, tell stories and preview the season.