Episode 308: Stas Ovdieienko, War and Basketball

Guest: Stas Ovdieienko, Ukrainian Superleague Head Coach

In this week’s basketball coaching conversation, Ukrainian Superleague head coach Stas Ovdieienko joins the Basketball Podcast to share insights on war and basketball.

Stas Ovdieienko is a prominent Ukrainian basketball figure, who has made significant contributions to the sport as a player and coach. Ovdieienko boasts an impressive 17-year career as a professional basketball player. During this time, he achieved significant milestones, including being crowned the champion of Ukraine and securing the Superleague Cup. Transitioning from player to mentor, Ovdieienko spent 2 years as an assistant coach before taking the reins as the head coach of BC Zaporizhzhia in the Ukrainian Superleague.

However, tragedy struck when the war reached his doorstep—quite literally. Despite his dedication to the sport, the conflict forced him to confront a new reality.

Stas Ovdieienko’s journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to basketball, even in the face of adversity and I am grateful to share it with you.

Breakdown

1:00 - Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine

6:00 - Impact of Conflict on Ukraine Basketball

11:00 - Normality

12:30 - Leadership

15:30 - Humor

16:23 - 17:31 - Hoopsalytics AD 2

18:30 - Mental Toughness

21:00 - Solution-Based Coaching Interventions

26:00 - Talk To Yourself

28:30 - Team Building

31:00 - Conclusion