Watch/Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, & X!
Podcast Description
In this episode of The Champions Corner: Spotlight Stories, we sit down with Miles Lester, a former collegiate point guard turned coach, whose journey through the game is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days at Rice University to competing in the ACC at Wake Forest, Miles embraced every challenge, mastering his role as a teammate, leader, and student of the game. His perseverance and commitment led him to earn a scholarship in his final year, contributing to the biggest turnaround in ACC history.
After hanging up his jersey, Miles transitioned seamlessly into coaching, starting as a Graduate Assistant at the University of Houston. Under the legendary Kelvin Sampson, he was immersed in a culture of excellence, learning the intricacies of player development, video coordination, and what it takes to build a championship program. His experiences, from working in the NBA Summer League to sitting in on coaches’ meetings, provided him with a wealth of knowledge that he now brings to Drury University as an Assistant Coach.
Throughout this episode, Miles shares the invaluable lessons he’s learned—from leadership as a point guard to the work ethic required at the highest levels of the game. He opens up about the unique culture at Houston, the transition from player to coach, and how coaching is more than just a job—it’s a calling to serve others and make a difference. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, basketball insights, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Key Takeaways & Lessons Learned
- Choosing Rice University – Miles valued both academics and athletics, understanding the long-term benefits of a strong education alongside his basketball career.
- Freshman Year Challenges – As a young point guard, he learned the importance of leadership, adaptability, and embracing challenges early to grow as a player and teammate.
- Advice to His Younger Self – Live in the moment more and embrace the present.
- Transferring to Wake Forest – Making the leap as a preferred walk-on required humility, belief in himself, and a willingness to work without immediate rewards.
- Mindset at Wake Forest – His approach was to master his role, be the best teammate possible, and earn respect through effort and attitude.
- Earning a Scholarship – His perseverance and dedication were rewarded, proving that staying the course and maximizing every opportunity leads to success.
- Beyond Basketball – Off-Court Growth – Pursuing jobs and internships while balancing sports prepared him for life after college, showing the importance of networking and diverse experiences.
- Post-Grad Job Search & NBA Aspirations – He initially set his sights on an NBA coaching/front office career, but opportunities often come in unexpected ways.
- Volunteering at Houston – Taking an unpaid role in video and player development was a leap of faith, demonstrating the importance of betting on yourself and working hard in entry-level roles.
- Graduate Assistant Year Two – Gaining experience in coaching meetings and working under Kelvin Sampson helped shape his understanding of high-level coaching and program building.
- Houston’s Culture & Work Ethic – He learned firsthand what separates elite programs—accountability, toughness, and daily commitment to excellence.
- Transition to Drury University – Becoming an Assistant Coach gave him the platform to develop players, mentor young athletes, and continue his passion for the game.
- Advice for Young Professionals – Find your passion, be willing to start at the bottom, and commit to learning. The transition from sports to a career is about applying the same discipline, resilience, and mindset that led to success on the court.
This episode is packed with great lessons, that any current & former student-athlete can apply to their life.
What’s Next?
The journey doesn’t stop here! Our next Champions Corner: Spotlight Stories Podcast episode drops Monday, March 31st—stay tuned for another inspiring conversation
Leave a Reply