Season 1, Episode 20
Building a Champion Building a Champion with Dr. Harley Lamey, Hoover High School
In this episode
Dr. Harley Lamey
Athletic Director
Hoover High School
Hoover High School delivered one of the greatest seasons in Alabama high school basketball history. In this episode of Building a Champion, host Jordan and co-host Brian sit down with Dr. Harley Lamey, Athletic Director at Hoover High, to unpack a true dynasty: the boys’ basketball team finished 35–0 to win a third consecutive Class 7A state championship, while the girls’ basketball team claimed a fifth straight state title (11th since 2001).
We break down:
How Hoover’s “Best Is the Standard” mindset fuels daily excellence
The boys’ undefeated 35–0 season and late-game poise vs. Florence in the 7A championship
The girls’ 51–44 title win over Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa—surviving a second-quarter surge and controlling the second half
Senior leadership, unselfish stars (team over stats), and calm under pressure
The role of community and the “Boneyard” student section in elite Hoover athletics
Scheduling national competition (IMG, Alaska trips) to raise the standard across sports (track & field, cross country, volleyball, softball, baseball, eSports)
If you’re a high school coach, AD, or sports parent looking to build culture, this episode shows how Hoover sustains success across seasons and sports—without losing sight of character and accountability.
Listen now for actionable insights on culture, leadership, and championship habits in high school sports.

Chapter Markers
- 00:00Hoover’s mantra: “Champions in all we do” & Best Is the Standard
- 01:08Why Hoover Basketball is a dynasty
- 02:38Boys 35–0 season & 7A title game vs. Florence
- 10:50Girls five-peat vs. Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa & senior leadership
- 14:08Other Hoover programs: XC, track & field, volleyball, softball, baseball, eSports
- 20:52Community pride, Boneyard student section, packed arenas
- 22:36What’s next: chasing national-level excellence
- 24:44Scheduling the best (IMG, national tournaments)
- 24:44Game Time Decisions (rapid-fire)
- 31:12Closing: culture & leadership takeaways
Back to All Episodes

