The DC Coaches Basketball Podcast

The 2026 NCAA Tourney has the Coach's full attention, but not before a look back at some of the conference tourney play that helped dictate this year's March Madness field. The full-house of Ed Tapscott, Gordon Austin, Jimmy Patsos, Chris Knoche, and Gary Williams throw in their two cents about new coaching vacancies and mid majors in the Field of 68. Thanks for listening to another season of The DC Coaches Basketball Podcast.

With spring upon us, the coaches have that end-of-basketball-season 'golf itch' and blame the wind for some shaky early-season tee work. The group discussed recent upsets in college basketball, particularly focusing on the overall parity in mid-major conferences. Chris, Gary and Gordon discussed basketball coaching strategies, comparing the SEC and Big Ten conferences and the value of pick-up basketball. Finally, Gary expresses concern that there are too many small guys refereeing. 

 Happy Birthday to the vacationing Gary Williams! Gordon points out that in the nine years of the podcast, Coach Williams has only missed one show - the one when Jimmy impersonated him, which never would have otherwise happened. And in the coach's absence, Jimmy doesn't hesitate to go at it again. A few crazy NCAA stories this week and a riveting conversation with the affable and rising coach of the 26-3 St. Louis Billikens Mens' Basketball team, Josh Schertz.

This week the Coaches discussed Maryland's recent alumni day event and the performance of past teams that were coached by Gary. The group analyzed the Michigan-Duke primetime game and debated the merits of playing important games in Washington, D.C., and specifically on college campuses. The conversation shifted to the NBA All-Star game format and the issue of tanking in professional basketball. Finally, thoughts on potential solutions to stop teams from intentionally losing to improve their draft position were offered by each coach. 

The Coaches welcome George Mason head coach Tony Skinn, who shares his background playing for Nigeria in the Olympics and his experience coaching at various levels. The conversation covered the challenges of retaining players in the current transfer portal era, with Coach Skinn expressing acceptance of the new landscape while maintaining respect for the process. The round table concluded with appreciation for Tony's perspective as a young coach embracing the current state of college basketball.

The Coaches voiced concerns about college sports governance before transitioning to a detailed analysis of basketball strategies and end-game situations  All five coaches are on the line and explored various aspects of modern college basketball, including player development and coaching approaches, while sharing personal experiences and anecdotes about legendary figures in the sport. The episode finishes up with discussions about recent NBA trades, current college basketball rankings, and reflections on the evolving nature of guard play in the sport.    

Our favorite Basketball Coaches analyze the impact of transfers, NIL deals, and legal challenges on college basketball, with particular attention to the NCAA's role in regulating these changes. The conversation also touched on the return of John Wall to Washington, D.C., and the evolution of the NBA. Gary, Chris, Ed, Gordon and Jimmy all share personal anecdotes and insights about players and coaches they have known, reflecting on how the game has changed over time.

The Coaches open up this episode with a candid and concerning view of the recent major college basketball scandal involving point shaving and gambling activities and the modern betting systems that have made such activities more detectable.  The conversation concluded with discussions about NIL deals, legal cases involving college athletes, and current trends in college basketball, including Nebraska's record and conference comparisons. On the court, The Coaches discussed basketball defensive strategies and historical pressing tactics in college basketball, particularly focusing on the Big East era. 

The Coaches discussed Maryland basketball's current challenges and compared them to Gary's own difficult season experience from 1992. They explored the historical impact of the three-point shot in college basketball and shared memories of past games and coaching experiences at various institutions. The conversation concluded with discussions about NFL playoffs, college sports realignment, and a tribute to former basketball coach Bill Courtney.

 The Coaches have some fun exploring how court naming honors have become commercialized, with examples like Virginia honoring Tony Bennett and Detroit attempting to name a court after Dick Vitale despite his limited tenure there. The group also discussed the changing nature of college basketball recruitment, noting how elite talent has increasingly concentrated at Power Five schools, making it difficult for mid-major programs to retain top players beyond their freshman or sophomore years. The episode finishes up with reflections on how the commercialization of college sports has transformed traditional recruiting and tournament participation patterns.

The five coaches discussed college basketball scheduling challenges and the evolution of both college and NBA player development strategies, noting how colleges now prefer experienced players while the NBA drafts younger talent. They analyzed Maryland's recent basketball performance and debated the effectiveness of conference expansion on competitive play and tournament selection. The conversation also covered the NBA Cup tournament's impact on player motivation during the regular season and reflected on how traditional holiday basketball tournaments have declined due to television-driven scheduling changes.

All five coaches begin the show with some thoughts about college football's bowl picture and the high profile Notre Dame mess. Tap suggests that two-way G League contracts could help development but the Wizards are reluctant to use them.The group discussed the high-paced playing styles of Cornell and William & Mary, who are implementing a "Turbo Princeton" offense characterized by fast breaks and backdoor cuts. Gary shared his experience playing for Bud Milliken, who emphasized disciplined defense over offense, while Jimmy noted that both teams maintain high scores and fast-paced games, with GW and Towson both winning recent matches. The conversation concludes with Chris and Gordo mentioning that these teams continue to perform well even without their star players.

The business side of men's college basketball gets a close look by the coaches. The group discussed coaching transitions and compensation in college sports, with Gary reflecting on his own career moves between American, BC, Ohio State, and Maryland, noting how financial incentives and the desire for new challenges drive coaching changes. Chris and Jimmy discussed the recent departure of Kevin Willard from Maryland and its similarities to Lane Kiffin's football move to LSU, suggesting that such moves are often planned well in advance. The conversation concluded with a brief discussion about the timing of college basketball and football seasons, with Chris suggesting that the overlap between football playoffs in December and basketball season benefits college hoops by redirecting attention to basketball programs.

NIL is changing the very core of college athletics with schools operating 20 million dollar budgets and the Coaches ponder what's ahead. University of Maryland basketball is showing signs of improvement and Gary and Chris acknowledge the coaching done by Buzz Williams. Jimmy joins a bit late but brings some laughs to the party joking about his down computer.  Gordon has a good handle on the absurdity of LeBron's career. Running on makes, getting the most out of players, the special qualities of Tom Izzo, Roy Williams and Dean Smith, jockeying in the portal….. as usual, we cover it all.

Local college basketball icon Joe Smith gets some love from the coaches, but not before an in-depth conversation about scheduling in the NCAA. Tap helps the group breakdown the young talent proliferating men's college basketball and shares which players are already getting NBA attention. Shout outs to the old-school, inside game once mastered by Maryland's Lonnie Baxter and MD coach Buzz Williams' throw-back practices. 

The DC Coaches are back for a 9th year  informing and entertaining area hoop fans with an unparalleled perspective on college and pro basketball. This week the Coaches praise MD Coach Buzz Williams for his aggressive style of practicing, find some common ground on NCAA rule changes and collegiate gambling and discuss the overall value of Maryland/ Georgetown rivalry games set for the next four years.

On the back of the NCAA Selection Show, some odd decisions have Gary wondering why there aren't ex-coaches involved within the Committee. Gordon laments the lack of a parking spot for his return to Bender Arena and Chris is heading to Seattle with the Terps for what some believe could be a final four run. What would a good DCCB podcast be without some interference on Jimmy's line? When audible, some great tourney insight. Props to Ledo Pizza for their podcast sponsorship this season and for inspiring Tap's new chicken nugget salad.  A Coach's goodbye and hearty salute to John Feinstein. Thanks for the decades of entertainment you provided in every conceivable context. We're all better off for knowing you, John. Rest in Peace, long-time 'Friend of the Pod'. 

Big-Five legend and former American University Coach Fran Dunphy joins the podcast to help celebrate Gary's 80th Birthday. Players are more accountable to some fans for how they play now that pay is involved. The future of the college game is in need of leadership now more than ever, but Gary has the NCAA's record at 0-67.  Props to VCU (and Kelsey Knoche) for getting the #1 seed and yes, some love from the pod. With Fran and all our coaches in the house, that's over 250 years of combined coaching experience sharing basketball thoughts.  A profoundly emotional episode with six long-time friends reflecting back. Guest Shout Out' to John Griffin Jr.

On the heels of a tough last-second Maryland home loss, HOF Coach Williams breaks down what went right and wrong for the Terps at the end of their ranked match-up vs. Michigan State. Former Michigan State Head Coach Jud Heathcoat's 74 rules for coaching gets a good laugh and some appreciation from all the coaches. An onslaught of off -the-ball fouls in the AU-Navy showdown caught Gordon's attention as did the not so coincidental attendance of the Patriot League Director of Referees. Chris introduces the notion that shorter coaches contracts may play a big part in the future of college basketball. Jimmy and Tap compare the GM jobs in the NBA and similar positions evolving in college. Will the college GM eventually be over the coach? A good episode wouldn't be complete without a thorough discussion about today's referees and Jersey basketball history.

Replays and an absurd number of foul shots are slowing down the game of college basketball and the coaches have some ideas going forward. Chris takes a rare deep dive into the Freedom of Information Act and opines on North Carolina's transparent and declining revenues and what could be next for the Tar Heels. Tap talks about the problems with the NBA All Star Game while Gordon is pleased with AU's play of late, steering the Eagles toward a number one seed in the CAA. One tip for you young basketball players - don't jog when Coach Williams is in the house! The DC Coaches Basketball Podcast - a true education in basketball and more. 

 This is a newsworthy time of year for college and pro basketball and the Coaches have this year's highlights covered including the departure of Miami's Leonard Hamilton and the current college coaching carousel. Tap provides unique insight into the Luca Doncic to the Lakers trade, Gordon leads a conversation about the execution and value of the 'pick and roll' and we learn by his own admission, Gary is big into conspiracy theories. A true education in basketball and more. The DC Coaches Basketball Podcast -the pod the coaching fraternity lends an ear!

All five coaches are in the house for a spirited conversation about conference expansion, Super Conferences and the overall impact the dollar is having on college sports. A nod to Larry Brown, all 5' 10' and some high praise for Georgetown's Ed Cooley and American's Duane Simpkins. A new episode of the podcast the coaches listen to is now posted.

Replacing generational coaching talent and a high-level dissection of current NCAA coaching vacancies highlights this week's episode. Tap has the guys laughing when talking about interviewing LeMelo Ball, a shooting enigma in the NBA, who Chris states 'thankfully gets hurt a lot'. Shout out to a couple of good guys, coaches Bobby Cremins and Brian Earl.

The Coaches are excited to be back after the break taking a close look at Maryland Basketball and the importance of the Terps defending their home court this season. Situational coaching is a big topic of conversation as is Auburn's ability to score a whole lot of points. Jimmy expresses excitement about taking pictures with R2D2, but on the other hand has a few grievances to get off his chest. 'Romper Room' makes its annual visit to American University. Shout out to Dennis Ross. Friend of the Pod mention, Bruce Pearl and a lot of love for Greivis Vásquez.

The coaches agree that the NBA Cup takes a big risk with a neutral site championship. Tap lays out the details of how green bloods are running the show in today's college game and the importance of the emerging general manager role. Marlyland's Rodney Rice straight-up, mid range jumper stands out in a world of three point emphasis and Gary wants to see a couple of NBA and college exhibition games played without the three point line. Happy Holidays and thanks for listening - Chris, Gary, Ed, Gordon and Jimmy.

The Coaches have been watching a lot of basketball with holiday tournaments in full play and conference games on the horizon. Louie Carneseca is fondly remembered and Jimmy offers advice of carrying multiple ID's while in Wisconsin. Dan Hurley's Maui 'activity' is assessed and Tap laughs off Danny's thoughts of joining the NBA. Chris gets a few different answers to the debate of playing in Maui or taking NIL money. 'Friend of the Pod' mention goes to Coach Fran Dunphy.

With Gordo on the mend, Tap is back is the U.S. sharing his thought that there aren't enough rim protectors, particularly since hand-checking was disallowed. As always, Coach Knoche leads the group though a spirited conversation; this week about why pro coaches shy away from developing players in the best interests of winning now; the increasingly valuable role of the G League and the need for the return of the palm violation. The week's 'friend of the pod' mention goes to Coach Rick Barnes.

Five Division 1 basketball coaches and five good friends are reunited for an 8th podcast season thanks to Ledo Pizza and Gary's new favorite, the banana peppers topping. In this season's first episode, Ed checks in from his anniversary trip in France while his wife is sleeping and makes a statement appearance. The Coaches get into detail about Tony Bennett's departure from Virginia, the new NIL reality, the start of the NBA season and Gary's thoughts on guard-play for the Maryland Terps as they prepare for the Big Ten. Let the record show….the coaches are among the first to flirt with the idea of Cooper Flagg in a Wizards uniform.

The day following the NCAA Men's Final, Gary, Jimmy, Tap and Chris get together at LEDO in College Park to put a bow on the 2023-2024 college season and a final wrap on their 7th year together on the pod….. While Gordon is 'on assignment' in Pawleys Island, Jimmy is nominated for the 'All Lobby Team' earned from years of tournament attendance….Passing may be back in vogue and this pleases the Coaches as continuous ball movement is on everyone's mind…..Tap talks about the one time he was ejected as the Wizard's Head Coach and why he ran off the floor. …Thanks for a great season, Toyota, Ledo, ESPN630, Will, John, Ari, Lisa, Jeff, Michael, Dennis, Brett, Steve, Tim & Claude. Our Hall of Fame Crew to go along with our Hall of Fame Coach. See you in November!

Fresh off calling the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 games on television for the Men's NCAA Tournament in Boston, broadcaster Dan Bonner collaborates with the Coaches as they breakdown tourney games from the past weekend and look ahead to the Final Four…..In this penultimate episode of the 7th season, Gary reflects on his final four appearances and his appreciation for the players he had playing for him and emphatically informs Jimmy that gravy is not a beverage while Tap, Chris and Gordo take stock of their busted brackets and all concede the title to UConn. We'll see.

The Coaches make their predictions on another big NCAA basketball weekend…..Gary doesn't pick Duke for the 45th straight year….. Tap's experiencing back pain from excessive couch time and still sucks at picking games….. Gordon really loves the under in the Iowa State 'Sweet 16' contest….Jimmy has a serious moment reacting hours later to Baltimore's Key Bridge collapse….The legend of Dave Dickerson is recognized….Indiana is loosing recruits because of their uniform pants.

Gary, Tap, Gordo, Jimmy and Chris all take their shots at the Selection Process for the NCAA Men's Basketball Tourney and lay out their predictions for 2024. Expansion is again a hot topic and it's not happening at the same rate as football…..Jimmy loses his wallet and its found by a manager at Ledo Pizza - the ultimate sponsor. Chris has the thrill of a lifetime seeing the Mary Tyler Moore Statue in Minneapolis.

Tap and Jimmy share their late season travel impressions as they watch conference tournament play on behalf of the Timberwolves and Under Armor respectively…..Gary cites 'lack of intelligence' for conference location decisions and shares how he prepared for NCAA play and varying crowds in early rounds…..Fluctuations of point spreads with underperforming teams is beginning to make Chris sick to his stomach and leaving the group's betting except Gordon shaking his head….Showing trust in his players, Tap recalls picking up an $11,000 steak dinner….Chris Wilcox, Boo Bowers, and other athletic freaks.

Gary celebrates a birthday from Turks and Caicos and benefits from some tips from old friend Steve Buckhantz…..Eric Singletary and the SIdwell Friends program impresses Tap and the Coaches……As often is the case, Dennis Ross has the Boys laughing…..The Patriot League kicks off tournament season and Gordon is hoping for an American surprise……Like a 'jackass', Fran Dunphy continues to get the job done at LaSalle…..If you get a chance, go see a basketball game at Texas.

'Courtstorming' is an issue and the problem is not an easy solve…..Prolific scoring in college is becoming a rarity…..Epic fouls and epic reactions in the NBA…..Lafayette's HC Mike McGarvey joins the Coaches to talk about The Patriot League, defensive schemes, scheduling in today's game and Rainbow Johnson.

The Coaches take a shot at solving the NBA All Star mess. Utilization of video on the bench adds to further aggravation with referees. UConn's up and down week. "POW!" Kevin Willard gets T'd with some verbal sauce. RIP Lefty!

Hall-of-Famer Gary Williams addresses whether he had NBA opportunities while coaching college and how he now shares basketball advice with his granddaughter. Tap's wife tries to take his Ledo Card. Jimmy is dubbed, "One of One'.   The Coaches reflect on snow games leading to the fun of open seating, an active NBA trade deadline that included the Wiz adding draft pieces and how possible transfers by semester will lead colleges to play 'ringer ball'. 

News and Notes on and off the court….and in the courtroom! Gary provides some 'old school' insight into Maryland's challenges with Rutgers and shooting in general. Cutting, post feeds and aggressive rim play are helping Colorado State's Nico Medved compete in the ultra competitive Mountain West.

The coaches expand their analysis to the Baltimore Ravens after Gary and Jimmy's team loses an opportunity to go to the Super Bowl. Maryland men's basketball wins in front of three of the coaches in the stands. Bracketology makes its first appearance now that its February, Chris laments the absence of Jahmir Young for this year's Bob Cousy point guard award and Tap says the NBA big man is coming back.

What would the Coaches wear if they were on the sideline today? Mid-season coaching changes at DePaul and with the Milwaukee Bucks get some attention and former American U standout Craig Sedmak gets some love.

Its prime basketball season as conference play begins and the Coaches are on the road scouting and broadcasting. Tap appears frozen solid in Detroit while Chris is burrowed in a Chicago hotel.The Portal continues to change the nature of the recruiting. Maryland's more diverse ball handling is helping the Terps with production on offense and The TOP 25 gets a look over now, and what's ahead.

NCAA conference play is underway and the Coaches assess who has the early edge and which current coaches are most encouraged. Advanced scouting in today's game is an art with film replacing in-person visits. Five-out sets dominate the NBA as perimeter shooting becomes a a dominant part of the pro game. The growing value of the plus/minus statistic since its inception in 2010. Brought to you by Toyota and Ledo Pizza

Our basketball coaches take their shot at assessing the recent football bowl games and the thinking that goes into who actually plays. Gary addresses the new model for college scheduling and the coaches embrace a visit from old friend Fran Fraschilla. All Hail playground-ball.  

The coaches provide their perspective on the continuing transfer portal laws, regulations and challenges for a coaches staff. Tap is keeping his eye on mid major talent and state schools. Jimmy is working overtime ....and who doesn't get in a fight at a place called Tubby's Sports Bar? Howard Bison's head coach Kenny Blakeney joins the pod with a compelling, local 'Coach Speak' segment.

All five coaches are in the house trying to make some sense of recent portal transactions, keeping star recruits, recent net rankings and varying college program philosophies. Gary and Gordo pay tribute to Earl Monroe. American Head Coach and local basketball legend Duane Simpkins shares his thoughts on his new team and the Patriot League. A must listen, as always, for every basketball coach at every level.

The five coaches discuss the value and repercussions of certain big wins and losses in December. The Rise of Big Five Basketball and the lure of games at The Palestra. College ball in Philadelphia vs. DC. Gary scolds Jimmy for being late.

Weather issues; Gary's Xs & Os; Possession by possession vs. up and down; The art of passing; Coaches taking on other coaches during the game; Tournament expansion and too much bitching for star NBA players.

Gary, Tap, Chris and Jimmy fuel extended discussion about playing early season games in Hawaii, the NIL impact on mid-major schools, the value of 'buy' games and a review of American University's recent overtime loss to Georgetown.

Chris, Gary, Gordon, Tap and Jimmy return for another year of great college and pro basketball talk. This week's pod features a fascinating discussion about Jim Harbaugh's suspension... from a coaching perspective.

The Coaches remember their friend Billy Hahn, the stories are plentiful.   Where will Hunter Dickinson end up?   NIL will play its part!   In fighting, all fighting, things get heated on all competitive levels.   Ask Rudy G.   NBA play-in games have given us some good hoops to watch.   OKC runs the out-of-bounds plays, of course to the Coaches' liking!  Enjoy the Season Finale!