Welcome back to another episode of the SBC Audio Experience! Today, we are excited to feature Joel Garcia, a dynamic VSL Alumni and the Director of Player Development for the Westchester Knicks. Joel’s journey in the sports world is a testament to his passion and commitment to player growth and team success. Born in New York, his basketball journey began at South Kent High School and continued at Southern University in Louisiana, where he also pursued his passion for art, earning a degree in Art History.
In this episode, Riley & Joel discuss:
- Joel’s transition from playing basketball to focusing on the business side of the sport, and what led him to pursue a career in player development.
- Building trust with his players and navigating the balance between on-court mentorship and off-court guidance
- How Joel is working toward his future career goals today
In his role, Joel focuses on ensuring player development by working closely with players on the court and analyzing game films. Joel has seamlessly transitioned into a vital role where he focuses on developing talent and fostering a winning culture. With an eye for talent and a strategic approach to player development, he is dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential both on and off the court. Tune in to hear Joel’s inspiring journey and valuable insights on navigating a career in sports, building trust with players, and how his past experiences continue to shape his future.
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SHOW NOTES
- Joel reflects on how pursuing both basketball and art history during college helped shape his diverse career path. (2:00)
- What led Joel to transition from playing basketball to focusing on the business side of the game? (3:58)
- How Joel’s background in art history influences his work today with the Westchester Knicks. (5:50)
- As Director of Player Development and Video, Joel walks us through his day-to-day responsibilities, including what a typical game day looks like. (6:25)
- Has Joel always been detail-oriented, or is this a skill he’s developed in his role as Director? (8:40)
- How does Joel build trust with his players and navigate the balance between on-court mentorship and off-court guidance? (9:11)
- Growing up around the Madison Square Garden arena, what lessons did Joel pick up that still influence him in his career today? (11:35)
- Joel shares how his experience at VSL molded him into the professional he is today. (13:00)
- What were Joel’s career expectations while interning at VSL, and how did those experiences shape his outlook? (14:30)
- Joel talks about the surprises he’s encountered in the industry and his current role. (16:23)
- Reconnecting with fellow VSL alumni: Joel reflects on how those relationships have evolved since Summer League. (17:25)
- Joel shares a memorable story of reconnecting with alumni during his current role. (19:17)
- How have Joel’s career goals evolved since starting his journey in basketball? (20:15)
- What is Joel most proud of in his career so far? (21:23)
- How is Joel working toward his future career goals today? (23:52)
- Joel reflects on his international travel background and how it informs his perspective on the current state of the league and where it’s headed. (25:12)
