Ethan interviews Alex Gallagher, the head coach and athletic director at Noble & Greenough. They discuss Gallagher's extensive experience in coaching, his achievements with Nobles girls basketball team, and the importance of culture, teamwork, and character-building in sports. Gallagher reflects on the evolution of NEPSAC girls basketball, the increasing competitiveness, and the importance of maintaining a focus on the well-being and development of student-athletes. The episode also highlights specific players and programs that exemplify the high standards and growth within the NEPSAC conference.

Topics

00:31 Introducing Alex Gallagher: Nobles Coach and Athletic Director

02:05 Reflecting on Past Successes and Current Challenges

05:33 Building Team Chemistry and Culture

10:49 The Importance of High School Sports and Culture Building

17:39 Inspiration and Authenticity in Coaching

24:01 The Evolution of NEPSAC Girls Basketball

25:39 The Competitive Edge of Nsec

26:53 Evolution of Class A Basketball

27:27 Coaching Stars and Rising Talent

28:06 Depth of Talent in NEPSAC

31:12 The Rise of Women Coaches

33:13 Challenges and Growth in NEP Sac

40:01 Future of NEPSAC and Youth Sports

46:22 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

The guest is Cheshire Academy coach Jim McCarthy. Coach McCarthy reflects on the season's successful start and the challenges of the competitive Class AA league. He discusses the importance of team chemistry, the style of play, and key players such as John Spinoza, Justin Brown, and Aidan McGuire. The conversation also covers coaching philosophies, the evolution of basketball towards positionless play, and memories from McCarthy's extensive college coaching experience. A segment of true/false questions on basketball trends, led by producer David Diaz, rounds out the episode. Enjoy an in-depth look at the strategies and dynamics fueling Cheshire Academy's standout season.

Topics

00:42 Interview with Coach Jim McCarthy

01:01 Reflecting on the Season's Start

02:11 Team Dynamics and Style of Play

12:41 Player Highlights and Contributions

19:40 Challenges and Adjustments

26:11 Reflecting on the Importance of Film in Coaching

26:52 Memories and Lessons from College Coaching

28:13 Transition to High School Coaching

30:46 Challenges and Competitiveness in Class AA

33:48 Impact of Early Season Success on the Program

37:23 Full Court Press: True or False Predictions

46:45 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

Ethan Fuller and Steve Hewitt discuss the top prep basketball teams, players and surprising developments across different classes and leagues as the 2025 calendar year comes to a close. Key topics include standout performances, emerging talents and intriguing championship races in both boys and girls basketball. Looking ahead to 2026, the hosts are excited for potential marquee matchups and key player commitments.

Topics

00:27 Holiday Reflections and Winter Challenges

01:36 Prep Basketball Season Overview

02:47 AAA Boys Basketball Highlights

07:51 AAA Girls Basketball Highlights

12:17 AA Boys Basketball Insights

21:25 AA Girls Basketball Insights

24:26 Class A Boys Basketball Overview

25:15 Nobles' Strong Start and Key Players

26:15 Phillips Andover's Impressive Performance

28:04 Milton Academy and Other Contenders

29:40 Class A Girls Basketball Insights

32:32 Class B Boys Basketball Highlights

36:58 Class B Girls Basketball Highlights

39:56 Breakout Players to Watch

44:32 Reflecting on 2025 Highlights

47:45 Looking Forward to 2026