Larry O’Bannon Jr. on Career Alignment, Identity After Sports, and Redefining Success Artwork

The 5th Quarter Podcast with Sandy Adams

A bi-weekly podcast that delves into the lives of retired athletes as they navigate the uncharted waters of life after their competitive careers end.

Host, Sandy Adams, brings forth captivating interviews, sharing the stories of athletes who transitioned into new endeavors, discovered their purpose beyond sports, and the highs and lows along the way.

Plus a new mini series "On The Sideline" conversations with current athletes and people working in the sports world.

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The 5th Quarter Podcast with Sandy Adams

Larry O’Bannon Jr. on Career Alignment, Identity After Sports, and Redefining Success

January 07, 2026 • Sandy Adams Creative Group

- 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

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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