- Larry O’Bannon Jr. made a conscious decision early in his career to plan for life after basketball—so retirement wouldn’t catch him unprepared.

In this episode of The 5th Quarter Podcast, Larry shares how thinking ahead while still playing at the University of Louisville helped him navigate a 15+ year professional career overseas—and transition smoothly into life after the game.

Coached by Rick Pitino, Larry learned resilience, mental toughness, and the importance of moving forward quickly—lessons that proved just as valuable after basketball as they were on the court. From earning an accounting degree as a built-in Plan B to playing professionally across Europe and South America, Larry was intentional about preparing for what came next.

We talk about identity beyond sport, redefining success, and building a life that aligns with your values—on and off the court.

In this conversation, we cover:

• Why Larry chose accounting in college as a long-term strategy
• Lessons from Coach Rick Pitino that carried into his post-playing career
• How international basketball shaped his perspective and adaptability
• Making the transition from athlete to investor, coach, and broadcaster
• Redefining success through family, purpose, and alignment

P.S. Larry also shares how hosting The Player’s Perspective Uncensored podcast allows him to stay connected to the game—mixing basketball conversations with a growing appreciation for bourbon, creating a unique lane of content that reflects where he is now.

Find Larry online:

Podcast @theplayersperspectivePodcast

Instagram @larryobannon

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What does it take to move 4,000 miles from home to a new city & school sight unseen and become a national champion? Gabriela Zych has the answer.

In this episode, Sandy Adams sits down with Gabriela Zych, University of Memphis rifle standout and the first national champion in Memphis rifle history.

Gabriela shares her journey from Anchorage, Alaska to Memphis, how she discovered shooting in high school, and how mindset, consistency, and perseverance helped her build a record-breaking career both on the range and in the classroom.

She opens up about her training, competing under pressure, balancing academics with athletics, and the mental discipline that drives her success.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• How Gabriela discovered rifle in high school and decided to stick with it
• Her move from Alaska to Memphis to pursue her sport
• The mental discipline behind precision shooting and high-pressure competitions
• Competing outdoors at the USA Shooting National Championships
• Maintaining a 4.0 GPA while excelling at the national level
• Journaling, mindset, and building resilience as tools for success
• Her goals for coaching and giving back to the sport

Gabriela’s story shows that growth comes from showing up, trusting yourself, and putting in the work—even when stepping into the unknown.

NIL Opportunities: HERE

Follow Gabriela on Social Media:

• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/zychgabriela
• Instagram: @zych.gabriela | X: @zychgabbi

For full show notes, visit:

Send us a text.

💬 This episode includes a special message about Sandy’s LinkedIn Makeover service—designed to help professionals show up online with confidence. Want your profile to reflect your expertise and stand out? Book your makeover at sandy-adams.com/linkedin.

Grab my new book, "The Visionary Personal Brand Playbook" and start building your brand today. Grab your copy at sandy-adams.com/playbook

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Follow The 5th Quarter Podcast:
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🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite platform.
📺 Watch on our Youtube channel

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Former soccer standout Jazzmin Mancilla opens up about resilience, reinvention, and life after sports.

After 15 years on the field, national titles, and two ACL tears, she’s now navigating motherhood, a big move to Tennessee, and launching her own soccer training business.

Highlights:

• 2× national club champion (Arsenal & Legends FC)
• Cal State Fullerton: multiple Big West titles
• Overcame 2 ACL tears & major injuries
• Coached club & college soccer, then worked in finance
• Played amateur soccer overseas (Europe & Australia)
• Relocated from California to Knoxville for a fresh start
• New mom to a 16-month-old son
• Launching her own soccer training business

Connect with Jazzmin:

• Instagram: @jazzfootball25
• LinkedIn: Jazzmin Mancilla
  
  

Jazzmin’s story shows how to reinvent yourself, balance new responsibilities, and create purpose beyond the game.

Send us a text.

💬 This episode includes a special message about Sandy’s LinkedIn Makeover service—designed to help professionals show up online with confidence. Want your profile to reflect your expertise and stand out? Book your makeover at sandy-adams.com/linkedin.

Grab my new book, "The Visionary Personal Brand Playbook" and start building your brand today. Grab your copy at sandy-adams.com/playbook

Support the show

Follow The 5th Quarter Podcast:
Instagram | Threads | X | Facebook | Linkedin | Youtube

🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite platform.
📺 Watch on our Youtube channel

Connect with us: Website | Email

Follow Host Sandy Adams on Instagram | Linkedin | X | YouTube | Website