In this blog post, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the Founder and Executive Director of Hoop Love Academy to discuss the inspiration behind the academy, its mission and vision, the various programs and services it offers, what sets it apart from other basketball training programs, future goals, community engagement opportunities, and the personal journey of the Founder. Join us as we delve into the heart and soul of Hoop Love Academy and learn how this incredible organization is making a profound impact on the community and beyond.

I'm immersed in Jon Gordon’s latest book, Difficult Conversations Don’t Have to Be Difficult. This insightful read is necessary for anyone in a leadership role—whether you're a manager, coach, teacher, or team leader. In my experience as a basketball coach, I've seen firsthand how critical it is to equip our players with the skills to navigate challenging conversations. The ability to handle these discussions with confidence and empathy is not only beneficial on the court but also in every aspect of life.

The transfer portal has made it more difficult for high school players looking to get into college basketball. College basketball recruiting has more year-to-year evaluations than in the past. I remember the days of going to AAU events and trying to get an early start on the younger up-and-coming players

Darris Nichols’ Radford University Men’s Basketball team was ranked #2 in the nation in Baseline out of Bounds offense in 2023-2024, averaging 1.099 points per possession.

I remember as a child my dad coming home from working at a factory in the summer and then changing clothes to pour concrete. He paved sidewalks, porches, and stepping stones at people's homes for extra money.

A standout player at West Virginia, Nichols was an assistant coach under Mike White at both Louisiana Tech and Florida before running his own program. After tallying 21 wins a year ago in his second season as a head coach, Nichols now has Radford firmly on the map in the Big South. Keep an eye on this guy if the Highlanders make the 2024 NCAA Tournament.

Early bird pricing is available for up to 60 campers for each of the 2024 Darris Nichols Basketball Day Camps at Donald N. Dedmon Center. Camps will take place June (10-13) and July (15-18).

When I was in college, our mental health therapist, Tony Onorato, had us read “Oh, the places you’ll go” by Dr. Seuss as a team before film. We did not understand the exercise until we really listened to the message.

When I worked for Mike Young at Wofford College, we would eat lunch at the on campus dining hall, Burwell, and he would always walk through the kitchen. I never asked him why but, I think I know now. He made sure he showed love to what I call “invisible ingredients” ... and I’m not talking about the food, I’m referring to the people preparing the food.

The outdoor courts that used to sit beside Peters Hall on Radford University’s campus taught me the difference in playing vs. competing. Growing up in Radford, my brother Shane Nichols and I always watched our Dad, Bill Nichols, compete against the locals and Radford students.

Today we are finishing our four-day Darris Nichols Basketball Camp at Radford University, where we have kids between the ages of 6-15. The enthusiasm the participants have shown has been infectious - there have been times I was sure they would get tired, but they didn’t let up.

As I got ready for our last day, I was reflecting on the event and thinking about life lessons I’m able to draw from it.

Limited spots remain for the Darris Nichols Basketball Day Camp at Donald N. Dedmon Center, June 12-15, 2023. The four-day camp is open to all genders aged 6-15 and will feature Radford Men’s Basketball coaches and players.