About

Nico BOURGADE is also the author of the mental guide, "1 on 1 with yourself" and the host of the podcast "The Mind Game of Basketball, 1 on 1 with  Yourself." 

Meet Nico BOURGADE

The Mental Performance Coach for Elite Basketball Players

Nico Bourgade is a mental performance coach working with top performers, including NBA and EuroLeague players, as well as members of several top-level national teams. 

He is also the mental performance coach for Žalgiris Academy in Kaunas, Lithuania, where he helps shape the mental game of some of the most promising Lithuanian players of their generation. 

His work bridges the gap between elite professionals and rising talents, providing them with the mental tools needed to perform at their best, develop confidence, and sustain long-term success in basketball.

From Player to Coach: A Journey Rooted in Basketball

Before becoming a mental performance coach, Nico spent 20 years as a player in France and the NCAA, where he developed firsthand experience of the game’s psychological and competitive demands. 

Transitioning into coaching, he pursued certifications in France, Lithuania, and the United States, quickly establishing himself as a true teacher of the game with a passion for passing on his knowledge.

Recognizing the growing importance of mental training in high-level basketball, Nico pursued specialized education in sport psychology, equipping himself with the tools to guide players effectively. 

He is an active member of the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP) and the European Federation of Sport Psychology (FEPSAC), staying engaged with cutting-edge research in the field.

A Mental Performance Specialist Exclusively for Basketball Players

Nico’s expertise is dedicated solely to basketball. Whether working with players from the NBA, the EuroLeague, national team members, or top European prospects, his approach is designed to meet the sport’s specific mental challenges.

His work enhances key aspects of the game, including:

• Free Throw Consistency – Developing routines and focus strategies to improve shooting under pressure.

• Turnover Reduction – Enhancing decision-making, composure, and spatial awareness.

• Handling Defensive Pressure – Strengthening mental resilience to maintain execution under intense physical play.

• Maximizing Intensity and Recovery – Teaching players how to sustain peak effort while staying mentally fresh.

• Regaining Focus Mid-Game – Implementing mental resets to bounce back from mistakes and shift momentum.

• Using Mental Tools for Performance Gains – Applying self-talk, visualization, and emotional control to create a competitive edge.

• Developing Basketball IQ – Understanding the game at a deeper level to anticipate plays, make smarter decisions, and read opponents effectively.

A Reputation Built on Trust and Excellence

Several players under Nico’s guidance have earned spots on their national teams, a testament to the impact of his methods. His reputation has also led some of the most prominent agents to send their players his way.

Known for his commitment, professionalism, and results-driven approach, Nico works with players who are serious about elevating their mental game and embracing mental training as a key factor in their success.

The non-negotiables:

• A relationship built on trust

• A real personal investment in every player or coach he works with

Want to Work on Your Mental Game with Nico?

Inquire about his availability by reaching out to him directly via email.