Podcast with SMU Head Coach Rob Lanier

Introduction

• Guest: Rob Lanier, head coach at SMU
• Over 30 years in collegiate coaching
• Previous roles at Tennessee, Texas, Florida, Virginia, Rutgers, St. Bonaventure
• Head Coach at Siena and Georgia State
• Teams have made 12 NCAA tournaments, 19 total postseason bids
• Teams won 5 Conference titles, 3 regular season championships, 2 tournament crowns, and 5 league tournament finals

CoachSpeak.net

• Founded by Rob Lanier
• Created to give coaches a voice in their own words
• Started after attending a symposium in 2016
• Platform for coaches to share competence and experiences
• Features articles from prominent coaches like Dawn Staley, Matt Painter, Billy Donovan
• Provides a platform for less prominent coaches to share valuable insights
• Example: Rodney Terry's article on health awareness

Coaching Journey and Philosophy

• Early career: Assistant roles, learning phase
• First head coaching job at Siena at a young age, admits to not being fully ready
• Learned the importance of leadership and adaptability
• Influence of mentors like Rick Barnes and Billy Donovan

Experience at Georgia State

• Success with a 53-30 record in three seasons
• Adapted team identity mid-season in 2022 to focus on defense
• Overcame challenges such as COVID-19 related restrictions
• Emphasizes importance of humility, respect, and responsibility

Transition to SMU

• Challenges and excitement of coaching at a new program
• Importance of understanding the unique setup and adapting strategies
• Balancing professional transition with personal family dynamics

Core Values

• Humility, respect, and responsibility as guiding principles
• Focus on developing these values in players and staff

Player and Staff Engagement

• Importance of face-to-face communication
• Bringing in staff who align with core values
• Building relationships with existing players and integrating new recruits

Advice for Coaches

• Older coaches: Meet players where they are; adapt to modern challenges
• Younger coaches: Build a strong reputation; focus on work ethic, communication, and humility

SMU Basketball Program

• Unique aspects: Passionate fanbase, strong academic institution
• Opportunities for success in a vibrant city like Dallas
• Goal to create a successful and dynamic program