Episode Summary:

In this powerful episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with Zay Green — professional basketball player and former McDonald’s All-American — to talk about the real journey behind the WNBA dream.

Zay opens up about multiple ACL injuries, mental health battles, and the emotional rollercoaster of transferring between schools like Tennessee, Texas A&M, and UAPB. Through it all, she never gave up — and her story is a true testament to resilience, faith, and focus.

This episode gives listeners an honest look into what it really takes to push through when the odds are stacked against you — and how parents, coaches, and athletes can better navigate injuries, recruiting, and the pressure of high-level basketball.

Key Takeaways:

- Resilience Through Injury: Zay’s story proves that adversity can build the mindset needed to go pro — if you don’t quit.

- Authentic Communication Matters: Being real during the recruitment process helps athletes land in the right situation

.- The Role of Parents: Support is important, but athletes need space to make their own decisions and learn from them.

- Transfer Portal Talk: Zay shares honest thoughts on how the portal is being used — and how it’s affecting the game.

- Inspiring the Next Generation: Her journey is a blueprint for any young female athlete who needs a reminder to keep going.

Helpful Links:

Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% off

https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠

Episode Summary:

In this powerful episode, Ashley Roberts sits down with Jeremie Hart, Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at SMU, to talk all things player development, adversity, and recruiting.

Jeremie shares how his own setbacks shaped his career — and what parents need to understand about their role in the process.From overcoming personal challenges to finding his purpose through coaching, Jeremie breaks down the difference between training and true development, how faith and hard work go hand-in-hand, and why resilience is missing in today’s athletes.

Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete — this episode is packed with lessons that go far beyond basketball.

Key Takeaways:

- Adversity is part of development: Don’t protect your athlete from every challenge.

- Coaches are watching parents too: Your sideline behavior matters more than you think.

- Player development is more than drills: It’s about mindset, consistency, and patience.

- Coaching should be purpose-driven: Integrity, value, and long-term growth always win.Stay in your lane: Everyone’s path is different — and that’s okay.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with Ashley Frazier, former Director of Player Development for the Chicago Sky (WNBA) and founder of SYQ Hoops Academy.

Frazier shares her journey from playing at the University of Arizona to shaping athletes at both the professional and youth levels. She opens up about the importance of choosing the right trainer, the value of JUCO as a pathway to D1, and why fundamentals remain the foundation of success — even at the pro level.

The conversation also dives into the growing need for women coaches in girls’ basketball, how to empower young female athletes, and why social media can be both a powerful tool and a distraction for today’s players.

Packed with practical advice, real talk, and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for parents, athletes, and trainers looking to navigate the modern basketball landscape.

Key Takeaways:

- Trainer Selection: Not every trainer is for every athlete — find the right match for skill level and goals.

- JUCO Opportunities: Junior college can be a game-changing step toward D1 basketball.

- Fundamentals Matter: Footwork, shooting form, and core skills should never be overlooked.

- Women in Sports: Female representation in coaching and mentorship is critical for growth.

- Social Media’s Role: Build visibility but keep it authentic and purposeful.

Helpful Links:

Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% off

https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠