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▶️ Show Notes
This episode of the PREP Athletics Podcast features an engaging conversation with Coach Max Gordon from St. Paul’s School. We dive into Coach Gordon’s journey through New England prep schools, his insights into coaching, and what sets St. Paul’s apart. Topics covered include the differences between reclassing and post-grad years, finding the right fit for players, and the development of high academic and athletic programs. Coach Gordon also shares his thoughts on recruiting strategies, the balance of academics and athletics, and how to prepare athletes for the next level in college basketball. If you’re navigating the world of prep school basketball, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.
⏱️Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to Coach Max Gordon and St. Paul’s School.
1:06 Max’s transition to prep school as a student; choosing the right fit and becoming college-ready.
3:16 Max’s experience at Carnegie Mellon and advice for student-athletes during their college selection process.
5:10 Reclassing vs. post-grad year: understanding the benefits and considerations of each.
8:56 Insight into the reclassing process and how it benefits players academically and athletically.
11:25 The distinct advantages of attending St. Paul’s, from academics to community.
12:03 Coach Gordon’s approach to basketball at St. Paul’s – high academic standards, strong sense of community, and competitive athletics.
16:13 Recruiting strategies and building a strong team culture without post-grads.
17:45 Placement strategy: Helping athletes find the right college fit through personalized attention and strong connections.
20:57 Discussion on the competitiveness of Class A basketball and how prep school classes impact the game.
23:28 Max Gordon’s thoughts on alumni, notable St. Paul’s graduates, and playing the “Name the Prep School Alumni” game.
27:14 The future of prep school basketball: depth, coaching changes, and the growth of Class A competition.
30:08 What does it take to be a D1 guard today? Skills, intelligence, and the mental game.
33:16 Quick hitters – best players Max has coached/played against, favorite movies, and hobbies.
36:43 Closing remarks and reflections on what Coach Gordon seeks in players at St. Paul’s School.
📌 Key Topics:
✅Revitalizing a Program: Coach Max Gordon’s journey transforming St. Paul’s Boys Basketball into a competitive New England team.
✅Historic Success: Achievements including St. Paul’s first winning season in over a decade, NEPSAC Class A Playoff berth, and victories over Class AAA opponents.
✅Balancing Academics & Athletics: The approach to developing student-athletes who excel both on the court and in the classroom.
✅Recruiting and Player Development: Strategies for developing versatile players and finding the right fit for college-bound athletes.
✅Community & Fundraising Efforts: Contributions to the American Cancer Society through the Coaches vs. Cancer program and fostering a strong team culture.
🗒️ About Max:
Since taking over as head coach in 2017-18, Coach Max Gordon has revitalized the St. Paul’s Boys Basketball program, achieving its first winning season in over a decade, three consecutive Top-3 finishes in the Lakes Region League, and a historic 2022-23 season with 15 wins and a berth in the NEPSAC Class A Playoffs. With experience as a camp and AAU coach, a USA Basketball Gold Certification, and a successful playing career at Carnegie Mellon University, Coach Gordon has led St. Paul’s to become one of the most competitive prep teams in New England.
🔗 Connect with Max:
Email | mgordon@sps.edu
Twitter | https://twitter.com/spsmbb
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/spsmbb/
LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-gordon-846983161/
🔗 Connect with Cory:
Website | https://www.prepathletics.com
Twitter | https://twitter.com/PREP_Athletics
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/prep.athletics/
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/PrepAthletics
Email | coryheitz@gmail.com
Phone | 859-317-1166
🔖 Subscribe to the PREP Athletics Podcast:
iTunes | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prep-athletics-podcast/id1546265809?uo=4
Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6CAKbXFiIOhoHinzsReYbJ
Amazon | https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3c37179d-3371-47f9-9d97-fd569e8802a7/prep-athletics-basketball-podcast
Website | https://prepathletics.com/prep-athletics-podcast/
🏀About Us:
PREP Athletics is your trusted partner in navigating the prep school journey for your family. With over a decade of experience, I’ve successfully placed players in top prep schools, leveraging my own post-grad year experience and deep family ties to the world of prep school and professional basketball. Our mission is to guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring if prep school is the right path for you, we find the perfect fit to achieve your academic and athletic aspirations.
👉 Subscribe for insights, tips, and success stories in prep school athletics.
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