About the Guest

Michael “Leftymike” Simmons is a respected basketball evaluator and director with deep roots in grassroots and advanced basketball. Known for his honesty and credibility, Leftymike brings experience as a coach, trainer, and national ranking evaluator.

His work with AAU programs and athlete exposure makes him a trusted voice for parents, players, and coaches navigating the modern basketball landscape.

Episode SummaryAshley is joined by Michael “Leftymike” Simmons for a real conversation about how AAU basketball has evolved — and what that means for today’s athletes and families. From shifting loyalty and an overload of program options to the realities of rankings and recruitment, this episode breaks down what actually matters in player development.

Leftymike shares insight into how athletes are evaluated beyond hype, why production and translatable skills matter more than ever, and how parents can better support their child’s journey without chasing every opportunity. The discussion also highlights the importance of mentality, versatility, and finding the right fit at the college level.

If you’re navigating AAU basketball, rankings, or college recruitment, this episode offers clarity in a space that’s often confusing.

Key Takeaways

- AAU basketball has shifted culturally, impacting loyalty and competitiveness

- Too many options can reduce accountability if families aren’t intentional

- Rankings should reflect production and skills that translate to the college game

- Development matters just as much as exposure

- Mentality, versatility, and fit are key factors in college recruitment

- Parents play a major role in navigating expectations and long-term success

Resources for Basketball Parents

Join the Basketball Parent Community:

https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Download the FREE Guide (Save Time, Money & Stress):

https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribe

Get the Basketball Parent Toolkit:

https://www.ashleynroberts.com/product-page/basketball-parent-toolkit

Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code Podcast for 15% off):

https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the Guest

Joey Simmons is a veteran basketball coach with over 30 years of experience developing young athletes. Throughout his career, Joey has coached with respected programs such as Texas Elite and Team Lex, helping countless players advance to the collegiate level.

Known for his honest, no-nonsense approach, Joey brings clarity to the often confusing world of AAU basketball, exposure, and player development.

Episode Summary

In this episode of It’s Just Different, host Ashley Roberts sits down with longtime basketball coach Joey Simmons to break down what parents truly need to understand about youth basketball and AAU programs.

Joey shares how the youth basketball landscape has changed over the years — from early exposure and rankings to the rising pressure placed on young athletes. He explains why development should come before exposure, how parents can avoid costly mistakes when choosing AAU teams, and why chasing circuit teams too early can do more harm than good.

This conversation is a must-listen for basketball parents navigating AAU decisions, recruiting timelines, and long-term player growth.

Key Takeaways

- Development should be prioritized over exposure at younger ages

- Not every athlete needs a circuit team to play college basketball

- Early rankings and reclassing often create unnecessary pressure

- Parents should research clubs carefully before committing

- Playing the long game leads to better opportunities down the road

Resources for Basketball Parents

Join the Basketball Parent Community:https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Download the FREE Guide (Save Time, Money & Stress):https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribe

Get the Basketball Parent Toolkit:

https://www.ashleynroberts.com/product-page/basketball-parent-toolkit

Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code Podcast for 15% off):https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the Host

Ashley Roberts is the host of the “It’s Just Different” Podcast and a former junior college basketball player who began her collegiate journey at South Plains Junior College before transferring to the University of Texas.

Now a basketball consultant, speaker, and founder of the Different Community, Ashley uses her platform to educate and empower parents navigating their athlete’s basketball journey.

Episode Summary

AAU tryout season can feel overwhelming — and parents often feel pressure to chase exposure at all costs. In this episode, Ashley breaks down what really matters when choosing an AAU basketball program.Ashley explains why attending multiple tryouts is critical, how to evaluate coaching beyond name recognition, and why development should always come before exposure. She discusses the hidden risks of burnout, the importance of confidence in athlete performance, and how highlight tapes fit into the recruiting puzzle.

Through practical advice and firsthand experience, this episode gives parents a clear framework for choosing the right AAU fit — one that supports both athletic growth and long-term success.

Key Takeaways

- Choose the right fit, not just the biggest name

- Development matters more than exposure — especially early

- Playing grade level can often lead to better growth

- Confidence plays a major role in performance and recruiting

- Parents should ask coaches direct, intentional questions

Resources for Basketball Parents

Join the Basketball Parent Community:

https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Download the FREE Guide (Save Time, Money & Stress):

https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribe

Get the Basketball Parent Toolkit:

https://www.ashleynroberts.com/product-page/basketball-parent-toolkit

Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code *Podcast* for 15% off):

https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the Guest

Chuck is a dedicated parent and basketball coach who plays a central role in guiding A'zyua Blair's development both on and off the court. With a strong connection to the basketball community, Chuck emphasizes strategic decision-making, mentorship, and character development in youth sports.

A'zyua Blair is a rising star and basketball prospect in the Class of 2027, navigating the competitive youth basketball and AAU landscape with maturity, focus, and long-term vision.

Episode Summary

In this episode of It’s Just Different, host Ashley Roberts sits down with Chuck, the parent and coach of rising basketball talent A'zyua Blair (Class of 2027), for a real and insightful conversation about what it truly takes to support a young athlete’s journey.

The discussion dives deep into the realities of AAU basketball, college recruiting, and the often-overlooked role parents and guardians play in shaping an athlete’s path. Chuck shares how intentional mentorship, maturity, and strategic choices have guided A'zyua’s growth in a highly competitive basketball environment.

This episode goes beyond highlights and rankings, shedding light on the business of youth sports, the importance of finding the right teams and platforms, and how families can better prepare athletes for long-term success—both on and off the court.

Key Takeaways

- Maturity Matters: Developing emotional and mental maturity is just as important as skill development.

- Parents Play a Major Role: From planning to decision-making, parents help shape an athlete’s future more than many realize.

- Choosing the Right Environment: The right AAU team and competition level can significantly impact development and exposure.

- Every Journey Is Different: Success doesn’t follow one path—adaptability and timing are key.

- Understanding the Business: NIL, finances, and education are becoming essential parts of youth sports conversations.

Resources for Parents & Players

How To Pick An AAU Team In 2026: https://stan.store/_thisisashleyr/p/h...

Join the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Download the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribe

Get the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/produc...

Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the Guest

Casey Boyd brings a unique perspective to youth basketball as both a coach and a parent. After spending 15 years as a CPA in the corporate world, Casey transitioned into coaching girls basketball during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is currently the high school basketball coach at Grace Prep and an AAU coach with True Texas Hoops.

Casey is also the mother of one of the most highly sought-after young athletes in the country, giving her firsthand experience navigating development, recruiting, and balance in youth sports.

Episode Summary

In this episode of It’s Just Different, host Ashley Roberts sits down with Casey Boyd to unpack the realities of youth basketball from a parent and coach perspective. Casey shares her unconventional journey from corporate accounting to coaching, and how that transition reshaped her approach to athlete development, leadership, and family life.

The conversation dives deep into key topics parents often struggle with — including whether athletes should play up or on level, how to choose the right AAU program, and how to balance ambition with long-term development. Casey emphasizes the importance of game reps, mental growth, team fit, and trusting the process rather than chasing exposure too early.This episode also highlights the growing impact of women-led basketball organizations, the importance of maintaining healthy parent-athlete relationships, and why allowing kids to enjoy the game is critical for sustainable success.

Key Takeaways

- Playing on an age-appropriate level can significantly impact confidence, skill development, and basketball IQ

- Parents should prioritize development, reps, and environment over status and hype

- Balancing parenting and coaching requires intentional boundaries and trust

- Women-led and independent basketball programs play a vital role in youth development

- The right team fit can make or break an athlete’s long-term growth

Resources for Parents & Players

How To Pick An AAU Team In 2026: https://stan.store/_thisisashleyr/p/h...

Join the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Download the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribe

Get the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/produc...

Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):

https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the GuestJason Terry is a current NBA coach and the founder of the AAU program Lady Jets. With experience at the highest levels of the game as both a NBA player and coach, Jason is deeply invested in grassroots basketball and youth development. His work centers on building strong culture, teaching life skills, and helping athletes navigate AAU basketball the right way — on and off the court.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Jason Terry joins the podcast to break down the realities of modern AAU basketball and youth player development. From adapting coaching styles to fit today’s athletes to understanding when a player should play up, Jason shares real-world insight shaped by years of experience in both professional and grassroots basketball.The conversation provides valuable guidance for parents and athletes navigating AAU decisions, highlighting red flags to watch for, how to evaluate program fit, and why development must go beyond wins and exposure. Jason emphasizes mentorship, accountability, and building strong relationships as key pillars for long-term success in basketball and life.Key Takeaways- Choosing the right AAU program starts with understanding development, not hype- Program fit, coaching style, and culture matter more than reputation- Playing up should be a strategic decision, not an emotional one- Parents must recognize red flags in AAU environments- Mentorship, coachability, and competitiveness drive long-term successResources for Parents & PlayersHow To Pick An AAU Team In 2026: https://stan.store/_thisisashleyr/p/h...Join the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/communityDownload the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribeGet the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/produc...Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the GuestCoach Roland Jones is an Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Old Dominion University. With a long track record of developing athletes and guiding them through the college recruiting process, Roland is known for his honest, no-nonsense approach to player development, mindset, and long-term success. His insights come from years on the recruiting trail and inside college locker rooms.Episode SummaryIn this episode of It’s Just Different Podcast, we sit down with college basketball coach Roland Jones to break down the realities of today’s high school and college basketball recruiting landscape. From the rise of prep schools and the transfer portal to the growing influence of social media and AAU basketball, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what really matters when it comes to earning and keeping a college opportunity.Roland explains why many talented high school players struggle at the next level — and why mindset, mental toughness, and research often matter more than raw talent. He also speaks directly to parents, addressing common misconceptions around scholarships, coaching promises, and “the right fit.” This episode is essential listening for players, parents, and coaches navigating modern basketball recruiting.Key Takeaways- Mindset Is Everything: Success at the college level starts with mental preparedness, coachability, and resilience.- Recruiting Isn’t Just Talent-Based: Fit, culture, and coaching style often outweigh name recognition.- Prep Schools & AAU Are Changing the Game: Traditional high school pathways are evolving rapidly.- Social Media Has Consequences: Online pressure impacts confidence, identity, and development.- Parents Play a Major Role: Education and research are critical to making informed recruiting decisions.Resources for Parents & PlayersHow To Pick An AAU Team In 2026: https://stan.store/_thisisashleyr/p/h...Join the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/communityDownload the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribeGet the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/produc...Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the Guest

Tiffany Mitchell is a WNBA veteran and South Carolina Gamecocks legend with over 10 years of professional basketball experience. She has played for multiple WNBA franchises, including the Indiana Fever, Minnesota Lynx, Connecticut Sun, Las Vegas Aces, and Seattle Storm.

Tiffany was the first player of the Dawn Staley era to have her jersey retired and be inducted into the South Carolina Hall of Fame. Today, she also serves as an online fitness coach, helping others prioritize health, discipline, and longevity.

Episode Summary

In this powerful episode of It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with WNBA veteran Tiffany Mitchell to unpack what it truly takes to survive — and thrive — at the highest levels of basketball.

Tiffany shares raw insight into her journey from elite youth basketball and South Carolina dominance under Dawn Staley to navigating the realities of the WNBA and overseas play. She discusses the mental toughness required to last in professional sports, the value of tough coaching, and how today’s athletes must balance NIL opportunities with long-term development.

The conversation also dives into Tiffany’s remarkable recovery, a moment that reshaped her perspective on basketball and life. From resilience and adaptability to building purpose beyond the game through fitness coaching, this episode delivers real lessons for athletes, parents, and anyone chasing excellence.

Key Takeaways

- Mental and physical resilience are non-negotiable at the professional level

- Elite competition and strong relationships accelerate athlete development

- NIL decisions should align with long-term goals, not just short-term money

- Adversity can redefine purpose and fuel growth beyond sports

- Success on the court is strengthened by support systems off the court

Resources for Parents & Players

How To Pick An AAU Team In 2026: https://stan.store/_thisisashleyr/p/h...

Join the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):⁠https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community⁠

Download the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:⁠https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribe⁠

Get the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):⁠https://www.ashleynroberts.com/product-page/basketball-parent-toolkit⁠

Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):⁠https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com