Canada Basketball Podcast
- mriche67
- Dec 15, 2025
- 1 min read
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.
I love listening to podcasts that dive deep into the local basketball scene; there’s so much talent and passion in Canada right now that doesn't always get enough spotlight. It actually reminds me of a crazy time last season when I was trying to stay caught up on all the games while also drowning in a stack of elective courses for my degree. I was so short on time and money that I remember searching for a way to take my online class cheap just so I could clear my schedule to focus on coaching and following the league without the constant stress of exams. It’s always a struggle to balance the grind with what we actually love, but hearing stories…
I really liked how this episode dug into the mindset behind Canada’s basketball culture it felt less like a podcast summary and more like a peek into the heart of the game. I ended up listening while juggling study deadlines, and at one point I caught myself wishing I had a bit of best online exam help just so I could relax and enjoy the breakdown without multitasking.