Episode 20: Dr. Harvey Lamey

Hoover doesn’t just talk about standards—they live them. In this episode of Building a Champion, Jordan and Brian sit down with Hoover High School Athletic Director Dr. Harley Lamey to unpack a historic year in Alabama high school basketball. The boys finished a perfect 35–0 to claim a third straight 7A state title, while the girls secured their fifth consecutive championship (11th since 2001). Dr. Lamey shares the mindset behind Hoover’s mantra—“Best is the standard”—and how the program develops unselfish stars, calm under pressure, and senior-led accountability. You’ll hear how the boys handled late-game drama in the title win over Florence, how the girls answered a second-quarter surge from Hillcrest to control the second half, and why community support and tough national schedules matter. Plus: culture, leadership, and why holding athletes accountable is a form of love.Chapter Markers00:00 Expectations & “Best Is the Standard”01:08 Why Hoover Basketball Is a Dynasty02:38 Boys’ 35–0 Season & Title Game Poise10:50 Girls’ Five-Peat & Senior Leadership14:08 Other Programs Making Noise (XC, Track, Volleyball, Softball, etc.)20:52 Community, Pressure, and Pride22:36 What’s Next: Chasing National-Level Excellence24:44 Scheduling the Best (IMG, Alaska trips, national tourneys)24:44 Game Time Decisions (Rapid Fire)31:12 Closing & Culture TakeawaysShow Notes HighlightsBoys: 35–0, first undefeated 7A season; third straight titleGirls: Fifth straight state championship; 11th since 2001Culture: “Champions in all we do,” senior-led standards, unselfish starsCommunity: Packed arenas, “Boneyard” student section, program-wide prideBroader success: XC near-miss, track dominance, volleyball back-to-back Final Fours, softball, baseball, eSports titlesCoaching: Accountability as love; building players and people