How 5'9 Guards can Impact Winning: Lessons from Montigo Alford | The Gametime Guru Podcast
Release Date: 05/16/2025
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info_outlineAre you a shorter basketball player trying to stand out?
This episode is for you. Former Boise State standout and pro guard Montigo Alford (aka Tigo) shares exactly how shorter guards can dominate, impact winning, and build long-term success—on and off the court.
📌 What You’ll Learn:
- How to succeed as a 5'9 guard in high school, college, and pro basketball
- Why being a great teammate matters just as much as stats
- The importance of film study, consistency, and controlling your controllables
- What the jump from junior college (CSI) to Division I (Boise State) really looks like
- Montigo's pro basketball journey: from Germany to Colombia to the TBL
- How to train like a pro—including game-day weightlifting routines
- Why branding your name as a high school athlete matters more than ever
- The mindset needed to come back from three shoulder surgeries and keep going
- Answering Key Questions:
Can shorter basketball players still earn D1 offers and pro contracts? → Yes. Montigo breaks down the exact mindset, training, and roles shorter guards must embrace.
What does "impacting winning" really mean? → It’s not about dropping 30 points—it’s about defense, leadership, and embracing your role.
Is lifting weights during the season a good idea? → Absolutely. Montigo even hits the leg press right before games.
Why is social media so important for athletes today? → Because your first and last name is your brand. Coaches want to see what you’re about.
💬 Top Quotes from Montigo Alford:
“Your first and last name is your brand—treat it like one.”
“At 5'9, they counted me out. I used the weight room, the film room, and my mentality to prove them wrong.”
“Discipline and consistency—that's what basketball gave me.”
“It’s not about being the guy, it’s about impacting winning.”
📍 Who Should Watch This:
- Undersized basketball players with D1 or pro dreams
- Coaches helping players find their role
- Athletes navigating the overseas basketball world
- Parents and trainers who want the truth about what it takes
- Anyone who values grit, development, and doing the work
👤 Follow Montigo Alford / TGO Pro Athletics:
Want to train with TGO in the Treasure Valley? Search TGO Pro Athletics on Instagram or reach out directly via his IG: @montigo_alford @tgoproathletics
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