Canada Basketball Podcast

On this episode of the Canada Basketball Coaching Podcast, Mike sits down with Micaëlla Riché — former NCAA Division I athlete, coach, Executive Director of Layup Basketball, and now a doctoral researcher exploring coaching methodology and athlete psychosocial needs.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Coaching as Stewardship & the Human Side of the Game

2. Her Playing Journey & Shift into Leadership

3. Layup Basketball: Access, Belonging, and Community Stewardship

4. Creating Psychological Safety & Trauma-Informed Coaching

5. Autonomy, Competence & Relatedness (Self-Determination Theory)

6. Coaching Methodology & the Constraints-Led Approach

7. The Cook → Chef Coaching Continuum

8. Regenerative Leadership & Co-Constructed Learning Communities

9. Helping Kids Fall in Love with the Process

Why This Episode Matters

This conversation is a masterclass in modern coaching that centres human development over tactics. Whether you coach elite athletes or 6-year-olds at a community centre, Micaëlla offers a powerful roadmap for creating environments where kids feel safe, motivated, connected, and inspired to grow — on and off the court.