
What does it take to lead with purpose and transform every program you touch?
In this inspiring episode of SportsLifeTalk’s You Got Next, we sit down with Coach Sharnee Zoll Norman, Virginia Tech women’s basketball assistant coach and one of the sport’s most respected leaders.
From Philadelphia roots and an ACC-record career in assists at the University of Virginia to an 11-year professional run overseas and now eight seasons on the sideline, Coach Zoll’s journey shows how resilience, vision, and heart can rewrite the playbook.
Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:
🏀 Early Spark & Playing Legacy – Growing up on an Air Force base, learning the game alongside her dad, and becoming the ACC’s all-time assists leader before hearing her name called in the WNBA draft.
🌍 Global Perspective – Lessons from more than a decade of pro ball in Europe and her recent international scouting trips that expand Virginia Tech’s reach.
💡 Coaching Philosophy – A blend of tough love and deep care: “If you want to be a pro, I’ll coach you like one,” she tells her players.
🚀 Virginia Tech & Beyond – Helping the Hokies outperform expectations in the ACC and preparing for even bigger goals, including her own future as a head coach.
❤️ Life Beyond the Court – Balancing motherhood with coaching, and building a true family atmosphere for players and her young son alike.
Coach Zoll reminds us that basketball is bigger than wins and losses—it’s about leadership, transformation, and creating opportunities for the next generation.
🎧 Whether you’re a hoops fan, a coach, or simply someone chasing a big dream, this conversation will leave you fired up to lead and inspire.
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