Posted on March 27, 2026

By Dr. Keith Adams

As I prepare for the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four and the NABC Convention in Indianapolis, my reflections aren't merely on tournament brackets or scouting reports. Instead, I am thinking about a partnership that has redefined my perspective on the global game.

When the NABC Mentor Circle paired me with François "FD" Zebaze in August 2024, we were strangers separated by an ocean. Today, he is a cornerstone of the CKA SAVE Project and a vital contributor to the Odd Coaches Podcast (OCP).

The Foundation: The Strategic Power of Mentorship

My success story with FD didn't happen by accident; it was nurtured by the intentional, data-driven structure of the NABC Mentor Circle. In my three decades as an educator and athletic administrator, I have seen many programs try to manufacture connections. The Circle is different—it is specifically designed to develop coach-to-coach relationships that transcend geography and demographics.

By fostering "Conversation over Confrontation" and bridging generational gaps, the Circle achieves three critical pillars:

• Professional Evolution: Promoting the growth of young coaches while challenging seasoned veterans to remain sharp and adaptable.
• Knowledge Transfer: Offering a direct bridge for emerging leaders to learn from those of us who have navigated the complexities of athletic administration.
• Integrity and Advocacy: Supporting the sanctity of the coaching profession through transparent, honest dialogue.

To maintain this standard, the NABC requires consistent engagement—at least one monthly consultation supplemented by ongoing digital touchpoints. This consistency allowed FD and me to build a lasting bridge from Maryland to France.

A Two-Way Street: Learning Through Mentorship

While the program was designed for me to mentor FD, his passion has been a profound gift to my own career. FD, who coaches in France while eyeing the NCAA or NBA, has become a true "Brother in the Game."

"FD's dedication is unmatched. Waking up for 5:00 AM Zoom calls across time zones isn't just about discipline; it’s about a shared vision. FD, you have brought as much to my life as I hope I have brought to yours." — Dr. Keith Adams

In FD’s Own Words:

"I could not have imagined finding a mentor as dedicated as Dr. Keith Adams. His leadership, generosity, and commitment to my growth have been nothing short of life-changing." — François "FD" Zebaze

Advancing the Game: Connect with CKA in Indy

While in Indianapolis, I am on a mission to advance the CKA SAVE Project’s independent research. I will be moving throughout the convention and Final Four venues to connect with the heartbeat of our sport: the coaches and the players.

How to find me: Look for the CKA SAVE Project or Odd Coaches Podcast branded gear. If you see me, please stop me! I want to hear your story and provide you with one of our "Leave-Behind" Resource Cards. These cards are more than a handshake—they are an invitation to provide the data that will shape the future of our profession.

Your Voice Matters: Three Landmark Studies

On the back of these cards, you will find QR codes linking to three critical studies I am currently conducting. I am personally inviting coaches and student-athletes to contribute their perspectives to this research:

1. Student-Athlete Motivation in the Evolving Landscape: Examining how NIL, the Transfer Portal, and the post-pandemic environment impact academic and athletic drive.
2. Student-Athletes' Perspectives on Collective Bargaining: Exploring athlete views on employment status, compensation, and their rights within the collegiate system.
3. Coaching in the Era of NIL and the Transfer Portal: Investigating how recruitment strategies and coaching philosophies are shifting in real-time.

“These studies are essential for understanding the evolving needs of the modern student-athlete. By gathering these insights, we can inform best practices that truly 'Find the Balance' between academic success and athletic development.”

Join the Global Authority: The Odd Coaches Podcast (OCP)

If we don't cross paths in the crowd, I invite you to join our digital community. We have built a platform that stands as a global authority on coaching leadership—offering "Coaching Wisdom, Real Talk, and Unrestricted Access."

• A Year-Round Masterclass: With a legacy of 900+ videos and 700+ episodes, my "Cavalcade of Stars" and I bring you directly into the rooms where the real decisions are made.
• The Global Access Initiative: We bridge the gap between theory and the field of play, delivering original content 52 weeks a year to ensure you stay ahead of the curve.

Listen & Subscribe: FD recently joined me on Episode 740 to discuss our journey and the future of international coaching. The Future of the NBA Is Global |OCP EP 740

The NABC Mentor Circle changed the trajectory of our year. I look forward to shaking your hand in Indianapolis as we work together to build a stronger, more balanced future for the game we love.