Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective
Brian Windhorst and a team of ESPN's Insiders sort out life in and around the NBA world.
Archived Podcasts
Upset? Reacting to Game 1s: 4/15/19
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han and Rachel Nichols offer overall thoughts from opening weekend (3:20), if any favored team should be worried (10:20), offseason anxiety (39:00) and more.
Mega Hoops Playoff Podcast: 4/12/19
Zach Lowe, Ryen Russillo, Brian Windhorst and Bomani Jones each take you through their playoff previews. Zach thinks Rockets-Jazz is going to be the most interesting first-round series. Russillo and Bomani talk about Warriors playoff fatigue, who can beat them in the west and more. Plus, Brian Windhorst and the Hoop Collective discuss Denver-San Antonio, OKC-Portland and many other playoff matchups.
NBA Playoff Preview: 4/11/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim Macmahon and Andrew Han discuss the Magic Johnson resignation, Dirk's farewell (8:00), Portland's strange game (12:00), the East (15:00) & West (30:45) playoff match-ups and the cojones player of the month (46:00).
Emergency pod: Magic Johnson resigns: 4/9/19
Brian Windhorst, Kevin Pelton, Ohm Youngmisuk and Andrew Han conference call into an emergency podcast to discuss Magic Johnsons impromptu press conference and stunning news that he is resigning from the Lakers front office.
Submitting The 2018-19 NBA Awards Ballot: 4/8/19
Brian Windhorst, Kevin Arnovitz, Kirk Goldsberry and Andrew Han discuss the NBA Awards including MVP (4:30), Coach of the Year (10:00), DPLOY (20:00), ROY (27:00) All NBA First-Team (40:00) and many more. Listen to Brian & Kevin complete their ballots in real-time!
Goodbye, 2018-19 Lakers: 4/4/19
Brian Windhorst, Ohm Youngmisuk, Ramona Shelburne and Dave McMenamin discuss the failed season for the Lakers and LeBron James and wildly speculate what could come next.
Buyers' Remorse? : 4/1/19
Brian Windhorst, Bobby Marks, and Tim Bontemps discuss the many issues surrounding Kristaps Porzingis and the Mavericks (2:00), the Nikola Jokic ejection (20:00), the strange Warriors game (41:00) and much more.
Believe In Magic? : 3/28/19
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Kevin Pelton and Andrew Han discuss the Magic moving into the eighth seed (5:00), the Mavs (16:00), Lakers (23:00), and Knicks lottery chances (26:00), the Blazers fate post injury (35:00) and much more.
The Amazing MVP Race : 3/25/19
Brian Windhorst, Nick Friedell, Royce Young and Andrew Han discuss the front runners for the MVP race (2:00), the Rookie of the Year race (15:00), the Warriors getting into playoff mode (33:00), the Thunder (45:00) and much more.
March Sadness : 3/21/19
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Ramona Shelburne and Andrew Han recap Celtics-Sixers discussing Joel Embiid's dominance, the slipping OKC Thunder (14:00), Doc Rivers snubbing the Lakers (26:00) and much more.
2018 NBA Re-Draft : 3/18/19
Brian Windhorst, Kevin Pelton, and Mike Schmitz go through the first 14 picks of the 2018 NBA Draft and do a re-draft based on what we know today. Plus, discuss Zion Williamson and other up and coming NBA hopefuls (51:27).
Boogie's Back, Westbrook vs Fan, Dolan : 3/14/19
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Tim Bontemps and Andrew Han discuss DeMarcus Cousins' performance against the Rockets, what team could de-throne the Warriors (5:00), Russell Westbrook's interaction with a Jazz fan (12:00), James Dolan (20:00), Steve Ballmer (31:30) and much more.
Lakers' Woes And Pistons' Wins : 3/11/19
Brian Windhorst, Kevin Pelton and Kirk Goldsberry discuss Brandon Ingram's injury (3:30), the Lakers' mounting issues (10:00), the Pistons on an incredible hot streak (25:00), the Draft Lottery (45:00) and much more.
Postseason and Beyond: 3/8/19
Brian Windhorst, Tim McMahon and Michael C. Wright discuss the tight-knit Western Conference standings and why they don't believe in the Nuggets (1:10), the less-chaotic Eastern Conference (18:12) and the Lakers' possible offseason plans. Plus, Brian tells a quick Boban story (37:21) before discussing the futures of the 76ers and Celtics (41:30).
East Coast Road Trip : 3/4/19
Brian Windhorst is joined by Nick Friedell and Royce Young to discuss the Warriors east coast road trip questioning how they can utilize DeMarcus Cousins best (4:00), the current state of the Lakers including the pause on the Carmelo Anthony acquisition (20:00), the on-going drama with the Suns (30:00), Paul George's injury update (42:00) and much more.
No Margin for Error: 2/28/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan and Andrew Han discuss the Celtics' four-game losing streak and Kyrie Irving's recent mysterious behavior (00:50). Then, the crew discusses Dwyane Wade's game-winner (30:25) and how difficult the road ahead for the Lakers is (35:26). Plus, some speculation about Dirk Nowitzki and if will really call it quits after this season (42:05).
Large Sample-Size Theater: 2/26/19
Brian Windhorst welcomes ESPN NBA Writers Kevin Arnovitz and Kevin Pelton to break down the top teams in the Eastern Conference (4:36). Despite Boston's struggles, Windhorst still believes the Celtics are the team in the East to beat (13:56). Plus, the guys discuss the biggest threats to the Warriors in the Western Conference (19:30) and the Lakers' bleak playoff chances (30:40). Then, conversations about LeBron James and if he is still the best player in the NBA (42:10), as well as where Kawhi Leonard ranks among the NBA's top players (47:50). Lastly, the guys talk about who should win Coach of the Year (58:20).
The Irritating Beard: 2/20/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan and Tim MacMahon discuss the unintended consequences of the super max (3:28), a potential change in the Anthony Davis plan (7:14), the future of the Sixers (17:45), why other players are irritated with James Harden's performance (21:10), why the MVP race has become ideological (35:40), and the budding Celtics-Bucks rivalry (41:16)
All-Star Saturday Night: 2/16/19
Brian Windhorst and Andrew Han trek to Charlotte for All-Star weekend, interviewing players participating in the festivities and keeping record of their discussions leading up to All-Star Saturday night.
Balancing the Books: 2/15/19
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Dave McMenamin, Nick Friedell and Tim Bontemps chat about the faltering Lakers (1:15), reevaluate the Porzingis trade (24:05), LeBron seeing Zion Williamson in action (9:55), how good the 76ers' new starting lineup is (44:35) and more.
Pelicans/Lakers Non-Trade, Magic, Celtics, and the Mecca: 2/11/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan and Tim MacMahon discuss the fallout behind the Pelicans and Lakers non-trade (3:00), Magic Johnson's interview (14:00), the Celtics struggling and Kyrie's mindset going into the offseason (30:00), media speculation about players wanting to join the New York Knicks (47:00) and much more.
2019 Trade season debrief: 2/7/19
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han and Rachel Nichols parse the moves leading up to the 2019 trade deadline including the East race (1:30), the LA teams (16:20), Markelle Fultz leaving the 76ers (20:20) and more!
25 hours before the 2019 NBA trade deadline: 2/6/19
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han and Bobby Marks mini pod the Clippers-Sixers trade of Tobias Harris and the looming implications 25 hours before the 2019 NBA trade deadline.
Game Time: 2/4/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan & Tim MacMahon discuss the plays to be made for Kyrie Irving (1:09) & Anthony Davis (8:58), weigh in on other intriguing trade possibilities (31:45) and much more. Plus, Tim's "Cojones Factor" Players of the Month for January (1:00:50).
ZING!: 1/31/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon & Ramona Shelburne break down every angle of the Kristaps Porzingis blockbuster (1:13), discuss the ripple effects on Anthony Davis (35:32), Kyrie Irving (41:06) and much more.
Brow Greetin': 1/28/19
Brian Windhorst, Kevin Pelton & Royce Young discuss the latest developments with Anthony Davis, the most likely destination for Davis and when a trade will take place.
Player Haters' Ball: 1/25/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan & Tim MacMahon discuss the hate aimed at James Harden (8:40), Victor Oladipo's injury (28:10), the hierarchy in the east (43:00) & more.
Boogie Is Back: 1/22/19
Brian Windhorst, Nick Friedell and Dave McMenamin discuss Dave's insane journey to the Duke vs Syracuse game (5:30), Klay Thompson's amazing offensive performance (12:00), the Lakers' current situation (20:00), where will Melo end up (25:00), the latest on the Pelicans and Anthony Davis (44:00) and much more.
Kyrie Apologizes, Doncic, Harden's Fatigue & More: 1/17/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan and Tim MacMahon Kyrie Irving's apology to LeBron (2:30), Luka Doncic and the Mavs (21:00), the Nets' win over the Rockets and the possible fatigue factor for James Harden (38:00).
Time To Panic?: 1/14/19
Brian Windhorst, Tim Bontemps & Kirk Goldsberry discuss the Lakers' struggles without LeBron (7:40), the Spurs' bounce-back (29:57), Boston's issues (51:00) & more. Plus, what's happened to all the good nicknames in the NBA?
Bucks, Harden, Celtics & Butler: 1/10/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan and Tim MacMahon discuss the Bucks' impressive win and James Harden (5:30), Story time about getting passes from NBA players (11:00), the Celtics (25:00), Jimmy Butler (45:00) and Patrick McCaw (55:00).
Thibs, Lakers, Butler: 1/8/19
Brian Windhorst, Ramona Shelburne and Nick Friedell discuss the firing of Tom Thibodeau (5:00), state of the Lakers 2019 edition (25:00), Jimmy Butler's relationship with the Sixers and where he may end up (30:00) and much more.
Kawhi, Pacers, All-Star Ballots: 1/3/19
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Andrew Han and Tim MacMahon discuss Kawhi Leonard's return to San Antonio and if he will get a tribute video (3:30), the Pacers' recent run (20:15), Pelicans-Nets (27:55), hypothetical All-Star ballots (36:00) Cojones Factor Player of the Month (50:45) and much more.
Rookie phenoms, in praise of the Nuggets: 12/24/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Andrew Han and Tim MacMahon marvel at the rookie class headlined by Luka Doncic (2:30), assess the Lakers as 2018 closes (18:15), dream up fantastical Celtics trades (27:55) and sing the praises of the Denver Nuggets (37:10).
AD to LA, Houston's Struggles, And Shenanigans : 12/20/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han discuss the possible Anthony Davis to LA situation (35:00), the Rockets (26:00), the Celtics tough schedule (16:50) and much more. Plus, Jackie calls out all the shenanigans.
Trade Talk, Joerger, Dolan sit down and more: 12/17/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim Bontemps and Kirk Goldsberry discuss the trade over the weekend and the confusion surrounding "Brooks" (5:00), criticism of Dave Joerger (15:00), James Dolan's interview with Ian O'Connor (30:00), Celtics on a roll (41:30), OKC guaranteeing Billy Donovon's contract (50:00) and much more.
A three-team non-trade: 12/14/18
An emergency pod with Brian Windhorst, Bobby Marks and Andrew Han trying to make sense of a deal between the Wizards, Grizzlies and Suns that fell apart over the confusion of which players would be traded.
Lakers Winning, Jordan Drama And Bulls Saga Continues : 12/13/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han discuss the Michael Jordan-Malik Monk situation (6:45), the ongoing Bulls drama (16:00), the Celtics, Luka Doncic's incredible week and much more.
Kawhi, Lakers & Ariza, Bulls Issues: 12/10/18
Brian Windhorst, Royce Young, Kevin Pelton and Andrew Han discuss what's more likely: Kawhi Leonard to the Clippers or Anthony Davis to the Celtics (3:00), issues with the Chicago Bulls (31:00), thoughts on the Lakers and if a trade for Trevor Ariza could help (42:00) and much more.
Kawhi, Lakers, Paul George, KD's Comments: 12/6/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han discuss last night's Raptors vs 76ers matchup (2:00), the Lakers' 4th quarter performance (10:30), Paul George putting the Thunder on his back vs the Nets (18:00), KD's comments on LeBron (50:00) and much more.
Spurs' Struggles, Fred Hoiberg Fired, A Ricky Davis Story: 12/3/18
Brian Windhorst, Michael C. Wright, Nick Friedell and Andrew Han discuss the Spurs' struggles (2:30), issues with their medical staff (25:00) and much more. Plus, a classic Ricky Davis story (21:52) and the crew discusses Bulls' HC Fred Hoiberg getting fired.
The Marvelous Mavs & Struggling Rockets : 11/29/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han discuss the thumping the Mavericks gave the Rockets and the year Luka Doncic is having. Plus, Jayson Tatum's struggles and the Cojones Player Of The Month (50:45).
Western Conference, Westbrook, Kawhi vs Pop, Jimmy Butler: 11/26/18
Brian Windhorst, Royce Young, Kevin Pelton and Andrew Han discuss the crazy Western Conference standings (2:00), Russell Westbrook's shot selection (20:30), Storytime with Brian on Sasha Pavlovic (32:00), Kawhi Leonard vs Pop (45:00), Jimmy Butler's tear (55:00) and much more.
Thanksgiving Question Marks: 11/21/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han discuss who's more talented: KD or Steph (2:20), Markelle Fultz's future (9:30), what to make of the Cavs' Dysfunction (20:00), Boston's issues and Terry Rozier's cryptic tweets (41:00), LeBron's return to Cleveland (51:00) and much more.
Warriors, Celtics, Kemba, Wizards ready to blow it up?: 11/19/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim Bontemps and Nick Friedell discuss Draymond Green's injury and what it means for the Warriors, the Celtics' progression from their early-season slump, Kemba Walker's incredible game and if the Wizards are ready to blow it all up.
Tension By The Bay: 11/14/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han discuss the dust-up between KD and Draymond Green and how that relates to the Warriors' internal struggles (3:00), Jimmy Butler's fit with the 76ers and the Eastern Conference (30:00), Carmelo Anthony's future (45:00) and much more.
Small Sample Size Theater : 11/12/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Kevin Arnovitz and Kevin Pelton discuss if the Milwaukee Bucks are legit contenders, Houston's problems, Boston's offensive struggles so far, Denver's case in the Western Conference and much more.
Jimmy Butler is traded: 11/10/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Nick Friedell and Bobby Marks launch an emergency session to break down the trade of Jimmy Butler from the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Philadelphia 76ers.
Running diary from Timberwolves-Lakers: 11/8/18
Brian Windhorst and Andrew Han catalog the day's events leading up to Timberwolves vs. Lakers starting at shootaround with Taj Gibson and Anthony Tolliver (4:30), Michelle Beadle and Chauncey Billups of NBA Countdown (15:30) and ending postgame with Rachel Nichols from The Jump (40:00).
Raptors, the East, Lakers and Kawhi: 11/5/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Ohm Youngmisuk, Tim Bontemps and Dave McMenamin discuss the Raptors (2:00), the top of the East (15:00), the Wizards (17:15), Lakers (24:20), Kawhi's future (37:30) and much more.
Rockets woes, Kyrie kicks rust, Cavs reboot: 10/31/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han discuss the issues with the Rockets (3:00), Kyrie's resurgence, his haircut and the Celtics' season so far (14:00), Story Time with Jackie Mac (18:30), what's wrong with the Wizards (22:00), the toxic internal situation in Cleveland (40:00), Tim's Cojones Factor Player of The Month (54:00) and much more.
Ty Lue fired, Thunder worries and the Spurs: 10/29/18
Brian Windhorst, Royce Young, Michael C. Wright and Andrew Han discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers quickly moving on from Tyronn Lue and the situation between Lue and the Cavs' front office (2:00), State Of The Union address on the OKC Thunder (28:00) and the San Antonio Spurs (40:00), tribute videos, Warriors troll Fergie and much more.
LA Fight, Week One Frights: 10/24/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han break down fight night in LA, including Rondo saying that special effects were used by the Rockets staff if Chris Paul is a good teammate and Luke Walton criticizing the refs (2:00). Plus, Storytime with Brian and Jackie on Darius Miles (24:40), revising the LA suspensions & reliving "Malice in the Palace" (40:00), the Celtics rocky start (45:30) and more.
Running commentary from LeBron's LA debut: 10/21/18
Brian Windhorst and Andrew Han record from LA for LeBron James' Laker debut and chat with Rachel Nichols on the fight (33:00), Adrian Wojnarowski on the construction of the Lakers (20:50), Michelle Beadle, Jalen Rose, Chauncey Billups and Paul Pierce for early impressions (30:00) and much more.
Tatum ready to rise, Anthony Davis ready to contend: 10/17/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Tim MacMahon and Andrew Han break down all angles of Celtics vs Sixers including Jason Tatum's potential superstardom (6:00), Pelicans vs Rockets (18:30), Anthony Davis' evolution as a player (23:00), his potential free agency (41:00), great Paul Allen stories (48:00) and much more. Plus, Storytime with Jackie Mac.
Basketball: A Love Story: 10/15/18
Jackie MacMullan talks to Basketball: A Love Story's creator Dan Klores about the making of the film, his love for the game of basketball, some of their favorite stories from the project and much more.
Lakers, Warriors, Butler, oh my!: 10/15/18
Brian Windhorst, Nick Friedell, Dave McMenamin and Andrew Han discuss the outlook for the Los Angeles Lakers, can KD and LeBron be working on something for next season (4:00), what do the Warriors have to look forward to this season (27:00), Jimmy Butler's practice fallout and much more.
Mavs Internal Drama, West playoff bubbles and Jimmy Butler: 10/10/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Jackie MacMullan and Andrew Han discuss the latest on the Mavericks' continued internal drama (5:00), pro-ready Luka Doncic can be a special player (15:00), can Dejounte Murray's torn ACL shake up the Western Conference playoff race (40:00) and some Jimmy Butler trade scenarios (1:00:00).
2018-19 Eastern Conference Preview: 10/8/18
Brian Windhorst, Nick Friedell, Kevin Pelton and Andrew Han preview the Eastern Conference.
GM Survey: 10/4/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Jackie MacMullan and Andrew Han discuss traveling and eating in China, the latest GM survey, how the Lakers will mesh, if Brad Stevens gets unfair treatment from the media and much more.
2018-2019 Western Conference Preview: 10/1/18
Brian Windhorst, Dave McMenamin, Michael Wright, Andrew Han and Tim MacMahon preview the Western Conference before training camp opens.
Kawhi Leonard is a Raptor: 7/18/18
Brian Windhorst, Bobby Marks, Andrew Han and Kevin Pelton sort out the parts of the Kawhi Leonard trade to Toronto (2:30), how good a DeMar DeRozan-led Spurs team could be (20:50), how good a Kawhi Leonard-Raptors team could be (28:10) and reactions to other league news (33:30).
2018 Las Vegas Summer League special: 7/11/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Nick Friedell, Andrew Han, Tim MacMahon and Amin Elhassan chat about the sights and sounds of Las Vegas Summer League, including the fervor for the summertime Knicks (3:45), the oddities of summer league (11:40), players that caught buzz (28:00), being the face of a franchise (32:00) and the Rockets (36:30).
Unpacking all the free agency machinations: 7/6/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan chat about LeBron (9:00), Carmelo's inevitable exodus from OKC (16:45), continuing speculation about Kawhi (20:20), the revamped Lakers (36:25), LeBron and the Cavs (52:15) and Boogie Cousins (66:50).
The remaking of the Lakers: 7/2/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Dave McMenamin, Andrew Han and Ramona Shelburne discuss the continuing ramifications of LeBron James going to the Lakers (2:00), the Rondo signing and its implications for Lonzo (6:55) and the Lakers renouncing Julius Randle (21:55).
LeBron to the Lakers emergency pod: 7/2/18
Brian Windhorst, Amin Elhassan and Rachel Nichols gather in the offices of ESPN LA to record an "emergency pod" about LeBron James choosing the Lakers in free agency and the subsequent news.
The day before 2018 NBA free agency: 6/29/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Andrew Han and Tim MacMahon read the tea leaves about LeBron's options (3:30), the shifting leverage in Kawhi trade scenarios (8:00), the Cavs' conundrum (25:30), Paul George (34:00) and other free agents (42:15).
LeBron, Paul George and free agency: 6/25/18
Ramona Shelburne, Royce Young and Dave McMenamin discuss free agency impressions for LeBron James and Paul George (2:20), the leaked Lakers pitch for George (10:10), the logic of LeBron to "team X" (20:10), the Paul George of it all (35:50) and potential wildcard scenarios (42:10).
2018 Post-draft reactions: 6/22/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan offer reactions to the Luka Doncic trade (2:45), other draft surprises (19:15), the implications on free agency (22:55), the next steps in the Kawhi situation (38:40) and picks they liked (44:50).
Conversations about the 2018 draft: 6/18/18
Kevin Arnovitz, Jonathan Givony, Mike Schmitz and Kevin Pelton discuss how a prospect's profile can fluctuate leading up to the draft (1:30), how to sift through the rumor mill (10:50), the top players in the 2018 draft (19:05) and draft night questions (36:10).
Adrian Wojnarowski, ESPN: 6/18/18
Adam Schefter talks to Sr. NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski about LeBron James' future (4:40), his life as an Insider (11:27), the origin of the "Woj Bomb" (26:10) and more.
Workshopping the Kawhi situation: 6/15/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan chat about the news Kawhi Leonard wants out of San Antonio and workshop the permutations and implications of the news.
Finals postmortem, what comes next for LeBron: 6/12/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne chat about the diss tracks in LA (3:10), the Warriors celebrating and making news (21:30), pining for LeBron in free agency (35:50) and awards (43:00).
Courtside after Game 4 of Cavs-Warriors: 6/9/18
Brian Windhorst, Amin Elhassan, Kevin Arnovitz and Andrew Han (feat. Steve Martinez of The Jump, Ros Gold-Onwude, Marcus Thompson, Ethan Strauss) offer reactions from the floor of The Q after Game 4 in Cleveland to chat about the Warriors sweeping the Cavs.
Colangelo sunk, Cavs on the brink: 6/7/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Kevin Arnovitz, Ramona Shelburne and Shelley Smith discuss Colangelo's departure from the Sixers (1:00), Game 3 of the NBA Finals (14:45), Durant's performance (33:15), the Cavs' offseason plans (38:10) and LeBron's plans (53:05).
Courtside from Game 2 of the Finals: 6/4/18
Amin Elhassan, Kevin Pelton, Kevin Arnovitz, Marc Spears and Brian Windhorst (feat. Aaron Dodson of The Undefeated and Andrew Han) chat courtside from Oracle Arena after Game 2 of the NBA Finals about Steph Curry's big night (2:00), CJ McCollum on Twitter (10:00), JR Smith with MVP chants (12:20), Finals fatigue (18:10), the Cavs' mood (25:20) and if Dub Nation will be the same in two years (35:05).
Wild and crazy Game 1 of the 2018 Finals: 6/1/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Kevin Pelton and Amin Elhassan discuss the varied reactions around Game 1 of the NBA Finals (2:35), overshadowed moments (9:50), downplaying suspensions and flagrants (16:05), the Cavs' collapse in OT (22:05), the Warriors' crunchtime lineup (28:50) and the block/charge controversy (32:15) and if Game 1 was the Cavs' best chance to make it a series (44:00).
Burner season in Philadelphia: 5/30/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan, Andrew Han and Tim MacMahon try to figure out the wild story of 76ers GM Bryan Colangelo allegedly using Twitter accounts to leak info (4:30), if there are realistic due process options (19:00) and speculating on the nature of how this alleged scandal came to light (30:30) and the best player of the postseason so far (47:00).
Cavs to the Finals, LeBron's epic performance: 5/28/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Nick Friedell, Andrew Han and Royce Young delve into the East finals series win by the Cavaliers over the Celtics (3:40), how high Jayson Tatum's ceiling is (7:40), if this is LeBron's best postseason performance (20:15) and a game of who wins Warriors-Rockets Game 7 (40:40).
Cavs on the brink, Rockets ready to pounce: 5/24/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan discuss the Cavs with their backs against the wall after Game 5 (2:10) and the likelihood Rockets-Warriors goes the full series (23:10).
'Magic' Curry, the young Celtics: 5/21/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Michele Steele and Ramona Shelburne discuss "magic" Steph and the Rockets-Warriors (2:20), the homecourt advantages in Celtics-Cavs (20:22), cussing in the NBA (25:55) and Celtics talk (35:10).
Reevaluating the conference finals: 5/17/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han and Tim MacMahon chat about the Rockets-Warriors series (2:05) and what's happening in Celtics-Cavs (28:50) after Game 2 of the respective conference finals.
What happened in Boston? Who picked the Rockets?: 5/14/18
Chiney Ogwumike, Andrew Han and Kevin Pelton discuss the surprising Game 1 result between the Celtics and Cavs (0:50). Later, Ramona Shelburne chats with Royce Young about his series prediction between the Rockets and Warriors (32:55).
Boston's future becomes the present, conf finals thoughts: 5/10/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan discuss the Celtics' bright future (3:30), what Kawhi's trade value is (13:45), the East finals (24:40), the West finals (37:25) and Paul George (59:20).
Four teams on the brink?: 5/7/18
Andrew Han, Royce Young and Ian Begley discuss LeBron's wild shot to put the Cavs up 3-0 over the Raptors (1:45), the Sixers facing elimination (27:25) and the Rockets surging (43:00).
Early thoughts on Round 2 of the playoffs: 5/3/18
Brian Windhorst, Chris Forsberg, Andrew Han and Tim MacMahon discuss the Rockets-Jazz series (2:20), the Celtics-Sixers series (20:50) and Raptors-Cavs (34:50).
What have we learned for Round Two?: 4/30/18
Andrew Han, Kevin Pelton, Ohm Youngmisuk, Nick Friedell and Royce Young autopsy the Thunders’ season (2:40), thoughts on the Rockets-Jazz series (9:40), the Warriors-Pelicans (21:45), the Raptors-Cavs series (30:35) and the Celtics-Sixers in round two (43:35).
LeBron's shot, free agency implications, playoff chatter: 4/26/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan talk about Game 5 in Cleveland (8:40), free agency implications (20:30) and observations from the first round (48:00).
Freakishly Good : 4/23/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Nick Friedell and Ramona Shelburne discuss Giannis Antetokounmpo (1:55), KD's mishap on Instagram (6:00), the Pelicans (12:10), the Sixers (25:45) and what's been the most fun so far in the playoffs (33:20).
Assessing the playoffs through two games: 4/19/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han and Kevin Arnovitz discuss the Rockets-Wolves series (3:00), the Cavs (12:00), what's going on with the Wizards (26:55), the Blazers (36:30), the Jazz (43:20) and Sixers-Heat (53:50).
Marathon Monday: 4/16/18
Marty chats with former NBA great and Memphis Tigers head coach Penny Hardaway (1:33). Plus, Marty talks about running in the Boston Marathon a year after the bombings (37:40)
Reactions to playoff opening weekend: 4/16/18
Andrew Han, Dave McMenamin, Kevin Pelton and Royce Young talk about the first weekend of playoff action with the Cavs losing (1:10), the Thunder's win over the Jazz (16:45), the Pelicans surprising win in Portland (29:40) and overreactions/underreactions to the first weekend of the playoffs (36:05).
Last night of regular season, playoffs: 4/12/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Royce Young and Jackie MacMullan chat about the finally settled playoff seedings (4:05), the Wolves-Nuggets "play-in game" (14:35), the East matchups (26:05), clutch scorer of the year (38:05) and coaching changes in the league (49:10).
How to make sense of regular season awards: 4/9/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike, Ohm Youngmisuk and Ramona Shelburne parse out the cases for Rookie of the Year (1:25), the conversations about who is the MVP (19:40) and LeBron's marathon season (32:10).
Kawhi, end-of-season awards, Kyrie news: 4/5/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan assess the continuing Kawhi issue in San Antonio (3:00), figuring out end-of-season NBA awards (22:45) and the news of Kyrie Irving's season being over (1:00:35).
Playoff seeding, the San Antonio crossroad: 4/2/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Andrew Han, Ohm Youngmisuk and Ramona Shelburne get together to chat about a Gordon Hayward sighting (3:40), the toughest lower seed in the East (6:05), the bottom of the West playoffs (12:35), the San Antonio crossroad (18:35) and the team with the most drama this season (34:15).
Tanking, MVPs, the value of awards: 3/29/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon and Nick Friedell discuss the race to tank (8:55), the case for splitting up the MVP (25:20) and the value of various awards (38:40).
Dinner with Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum: 3/28/18
Chris Haynes has dinner with Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum and chat about the rising Portland Trail Blazers (1:10), how the two guards complement each other (9:40), preseason expectations (16:30), All Star changes (30:35), unwritten rules of basketball (48:55), the Rockets (53:40), the problem with rankings (56:05) and developing as players (1:11:10).
Fultz returning, Warriors' injuries: 3/26/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne chat about the Sixers and the imminent return of Markelle Fultz (1:10), LeBron's MVP chances (11:10), Warriors' injuries (20:40) rookies and team fit (33:45) and Giannis (36:50).
Trying to beat LeBron, Blazers and Rockets, too washed for sneaker culture: 3/22/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Nick Friedell and Tim MacMahon chat about LeBron and the Raptors (3:45), the uneven Bucks (23:40), the Blazers and Rockets (32:05) and trying to decipher sneaker culture (37:15).
LeBron, Lillard and Westbrook (oh my): 3/19/18
Ramona Shelburne, Chiney Ogwumike and Royce Young chat about Ty Lue (2:55), LeBron (8:10), the impressive Blazers (13:50) and the resurgent Thunder (33:40).
Warriors, Wolves, Cavs and enjoying sports: 3/15/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Tim MacMahon and Rachel Nichols free associate on the Warriors' injuries (2:55), the Timberwolves (13:40), Ty Lue and JR Smith (23:15), the surprising Pacers, Raptors and East seeding (30:30) and Finals pairings (49:20).
Challengers to Cavs-Warriors IV?: 3/12/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Ramona Shelburne, Ohm Youngmisuk and Dave McMenamin reflect on the Cavs' weekend in LA (1:35), if the Raptors can take the Cavs (7:45) and if the Warriors should be nervous about the Rockets (17:50).
Raptors, Rockets, West playoff race: 3/9/18
Brian Windhorst, Brandon Lowe, Andrew Han and Tim MacMahon chat about the viability of a Raptors-Rockets championship series (2:00), the Raptors' evolution (8:20), a 2017 draft revisit (16:45), the Clippers (19:15) and the West playoff mess (27:55). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Han unpack mental health, athletes and society (43:30).
Dinner with Kevin Durant and Michael Beasley: 3/8/18
Chris Haynes has dinner with Kevin Durant and Michael Beasley to discuss their early days of the friendship (0:40), playing AAU together (9:45), hooping in PG County (18:25), differing NBA paths (27:50), the trials and tribulations in the league (35:50) and what's next for them (45:35).
CJ McCollum, Portland Trail Blazers guard: 3/7/18
Kevin Arnovitz chats with CJ McCollum of the Portland Trail Blazers about the NBA as a workplace (4:20), the one-and-done rule (10:30), CJ's interest in business (13:50), the platform athletes have today (23:55), how the Blazers have changed (30:40) and CJ's list of questions (36:10).
Rockets, Raptors, winter horror stories: 3/6/18
Andrew Han, Kevin Pelton, Chris Forsberg, Bobby Marks and Nick Friedell ask how serious a threat the Rockets are to the Warriors (1:20), why people are looking past the Raptors (12:40) and winter horror stories (19:30).
Celtics, Cavs, Lonzo, Kawhi's shoes: 3/5/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne on the Celtics and Cavs (1:30), Lonzo Ball's surge (16:20) and Kawhi's shoe situation (20:25).
No Soup for You: 3/2/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Brandon Lowe, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan discuss the Warriors trip to DC (2:15), the best soup in Cleveland and food in Boston (10:10), Windhorst story time (26:10), the Sixers and Spurs (31:50) and Jimmy Butler (54:45).
Broken ankles or being dunked on?: 3/1/18
Amin Elhassan, Marc Spears and Chris Haynes go down the rabbit hole of James Harden breaking Wes Johnson's ankles and discuss whether it's worse to get viciously crossed over or to get dunked on.
Answering Listener Questions: 2/28/18
Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han answer listener questions from Twitter (0:55) and take a deeper look at the last bastion of amateurism (20:45).
Tanking, Anthony Davis, in-arena experiences: 2/27/18
Andrew Han, Nick Friedell, Bobby Marks and Chris Forsberg try to fix the tankathon underway in the league (1:50), marvel at Anthony Davis (24:20) and gripe about in-arena experiences (30:20).
Wizards, Spurs, Zaza, sideline reporting: 2/26/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Andrew Han, Ramona Shelburne and an interlude with Chiney Ogwumike to discuss the surging Wizards (2:05), the cruising Spurs (5:05), Pachulia-gate (11:35), how underrated Damian Lillard is (21:50) and the frenzy of sideline reporting (27:40).
Kawhi, the Lakers, tanking, rabbit hole: 2/23/18
Brian Windhorst, Brandon Lowe and Tim MacMahon discuss the Kawhi situation brewing in San Antonio (2:45), assess the Lakers' young talent (22:55) and going down a tanking/reminiscing about The Decision rabbit hole (34:20). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han tackle a favorite topic in NBA Twitter: Is a hot dog a sandwich? (56:15)
All-Star weekend, Dallas, Warriors in DC: 2/22/18
Amin Elhassan, Marc Spears and Chris Haynes reconvene to chat about on and off-the-court festivities at All-Star weekend (2:10), the Mavs' workplace (28:10) and the Warriors' D.C. plans (44:15).
How The Warriors Became Woke: 2/21/18
Doubletruck Stories: It's a combination of all that winning, Oakland's place in the black power movement and these unusual times. By Lonnae O'Neal and Marc J. Spears.
Mini-pod: All-Star Day 3: 2/18/18
Jackie MacMullan, Andrew Han, Steve Martinez and Baxter Holmes congregate inside Staples Center to give quick reactions to Day 3 of All-Star Weekend plus final thoughts on the events.
Mini-pod: All-Star Day 2: 2/17/18
Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Dave McMenamin give a quick take on Day 2 of All-Star Weekend.
Mini-pod: All-Star Day One: 2/16/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike, Andrew Han and Ramona Shelburne give a quick take on Day One of All-Star Weekend -- deep from the underbelly of Staples Center -- with insights from the Celebrity Game, Rising Stars Challenge and NBA community events.
Buckets, college basketball, two-way players: 2/16/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han and Jackie MacMullan are joined by Rob Perez to chat about his show Buckets (4:05), the brewing scandal in college sports (10:55), LeBron and Durant's car ride (30:55), getting in people's heads (40:30), Pierce's jersey retirement (47:10) and the Cavs' roster (55:10).
D'Wayne Wiggins, Tony! Toni! Toné!: 2/15/18
Marc Spears and Amin Elhassan call up D'Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Toné! to talk about his Warriors fandom (5:45), thoughts on Quincy Jones (12:00), working with the biggest names in music (16:40), the heyday of Tony! Toni! Toné! (28:50) and advice to players (33:00).
Front offices on deadline, tanking, media dining: 2/13/18
Andrew Han, Bobby Marks, Chris Forsberg and Nick Friedell discuss the logistics of making multiple trades at the deadline (2:35), tanking teams (14:00) and media dining (27:45). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Han answer listener questions (36:15).
Cavs again the king of the East?: 2/12/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Andrew Han and Ramona Shelburne on the new-look Cavs (3:05), if they can challenge the Warriors (14:20) and which incoming Cav helps the most (21:50).
How much did the NBA landscape change?: 2/9/18
Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan and Tim MacMahon recap the Cavs' deadline demolition (4:00), a Shaq story (13:00), the shrinking market for free agents (18:30), Rodney Hood and George Hill (25:30), if there's optimism now in Cleveland (36:45), Joe Johnson (42:00) and Boogie (48:05). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han try to disentangle idea of art being separate from the artist (56:10).
2018 trade deadline first impressions: 2/8/18
Amin Elhassan, Marc Spears and Chris Haynes convene after a frantic trade deadline to talk Cavaliers movement (2:15), Isaiah Thomas (9:10), Paul Allen's musical skills (20:30), Mudiay, Payton and depressed values (26:30), DeAndre Jordan (30:30), the Kings (34:15) and Wade's return to Miami (43:10).
Making sense of what we know: 2/7/18
Kevin Arnovitz and Kevin Pelton chat about Porzingis and injury causality (1:15), believing in the Raptors (9:20), what the Jazz should do (22:30), the evolving perception of bigs (26:00) and the Cavs (29:35).
'88 dunk contest, unseating LeBron, bad teams: 2/6/18
Andrew Han, Nick Friedell, Ohm Youngmisuk and Ian Begley recount the 1988 MJ vs. 'Nique dunk contest (4:45), if a trade could help a team unseat the Cavs (16:10) and bad team talk (30:30). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Han answer listener questions (46:50).
Cleveland problems, Rolling Celtics: 2/5/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne on the tightening NBA budget (6:30), the problems in Cleveland (9:30), Super Bowl post-mortem (30:25), the rolling Celtics (35:00) the Knicks self-sabotaging (37:35) and dunk contest excitement (40:10).
Thunder nuggets, CBA minutiae, guessing deadline moves: 2/2/18
Brian Windhorst, Brandon Lowe and Tim MacMahon discuss the end-of-game hijinks of Thunder-Nuggets (4:20), Mirotic to the Pelicans (15:00), Asik and CBA minutiae (28:05) and trying to forecast the trade deadline (32:05). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han explore the ethics of recruiting promises (48:20).
Jamal Crawford, Minnesota Timberwolves veteran guard: 2/1/18
Marc Spears and Chris Haynes call up Jamal Crawford to talk about favorite kicks (8:25), adjusting to cold weather (13:30), the Blake Griffin trade (14:55), what happened with Lob City (25:00), the Sterling tapes (31:30), the uncanny similarity of Lonzo Ball's sneakers (43:40) and if Seattle produces the best players (54:00).
Answering Listener Questions: 1/31/18
Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han answer listener questions about the MVP race (0:50), how to statistically evaluate front offices (8:30) and the increased friction between players and referees this season (13:00).
Blake Griffin? To the Pistons?: 1/30/18
Brian Windhorst, Royce Young, Bobby Marks and Kevin Pelton discuss their initial reactions to the Blake Griffin trade (2:10), parsing loyalty and leverage (13:25), the Clippers' future plans (23:00), the Pistons picture (28:25), Blake vs. Tobias vs. "the supermax" (38:15), if the Clippers got enough (44:10) and the changing market (52:20).
Cavs, Embiid-Russ, social media mea culpa: 1/29/18
Ramona Shelburne and Dave McMenamin discuss the state of flux for Cleveland (1:55), how much help the Cavs need (10:55), notoriety on social media (18:55), Embiid and Russ (28:40) and helping others (33:25).
All-Star draft and Countdown stories: 1/26/18
Brian Windhorst, Brandon Lowe and Jackie MacMullan discuss the All-Star draft (2:20), the third star of a Big Three (7:50), Kyrie and surgery threats (13:25), the NBA and gambling (32:20) and more NBA Countdown stories (46:25). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han ponder if social media is making everyone crankier (54:40).
Dwane Casey, Toronto Raptors head coach: 1/25/18
Marc Spears, Chris Haynes and Amin Elhassan call Raptors coach Dwane Casey to discuss the head coach firings this season (2:45), the difficulty in changing styles (9:45), figuring out how to beat LeBron (21:45), the young Raptors (28:00), working with GM Masai Ujiri (38:05), coaching abroad (41:40), Drake (50:35) and Kentucky (52:45).
Going around the Association: 1/24/18
Kevin Arnovitz chats with NBA writer Tom Haberstroh about how to make sense of the Cavs (0:40), scheduling and conference alignments (22:55), the crankiness around the league (38:00) and the Bucks situation (47:00).
NBA soap opera recap: 1/23/18
Andrew Han, Nick Friedell and Chris Forsberg discuss what it's like to become a meme (1:00), Love drama in Cleveland (8:20), Kidd gone in Milwaukee (15:15), Kawhi's unworldly trade value (25:10) and Lillard's meeting in Portland (29:55). Plus, Kevin Pelton and Kaileigh Brandt answer listener questions (34:05).
We need to talk about the Spurs: 1/22/18
Ramona Shelburne, Michael C. Wright and Ohm Youngmisuk discuss reports of a fraying relationship between Kawhi Leonard and the Spurs (1:25), his injury (8:10), Tony Parker (21:55), potential life after Pop (27:50) and Cavs disarray (31:00).
Being petty and dumping salary: 1/19/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Brandon Lowe and Tim MacMahon go behind the scenes of NBA Countdown (3:30), secret tunnels in L.A. (11:30), potential Houston trades (25:20) and what to do with Kemba Walker (38:30). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Han on the merits of doing your own research (57:35).
Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers star: 1/18/18
Chris Haynes and Marc Spears get on the line with Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard to talk about All-Star selections (4:20), market size (7:40), being a franchise legacy (10:20), staying connected to his neighborhood and more.
In the green room with Jackie MacMullan: 1/17/18
Kevin Arnovitz hangs out with Jackie MacMullan in the ESPN green room to chat about NBA profanity (1:20), the Clippers (5:40), the Kings (16:05) and Jackie Mac stories (23:15).
What Is Kyrie Irving Chasing?: 1/17/18
Doubletruck Stories: The inside story of Irving's last year in Cleveland, from his relationship with LeBron James to his demand to leave to what he is hoping to find as a member of the Boston Celtics. By Jackie MacMullan.
Are the Rockets and Clippers rivals?: 1/16/18
Tim MacMahon, Andrew Han, Bobby Marks, Chris Forsberg and Nick Friedell break down the postgame fracas in L.A. (2:10), officiating difficulties (11:05), most calculated players (20:30) and if the Clippers and Rockets are rivals (25:05). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Han answer listener questions (36:05).
Cavs-Warriors II, Lakerland, MLK: 1/15/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne assess Cavs-Warriors II (3:00), what the options are for the Cavs (9:35), CP3's return to LA (12:20), what to do in Lakerland (16:35) and the importance of MLK day (21:05).
Cavs keep pulling us back in: 1/12/18
Brian Windhorst, Andrew Han, Brandon Lowe and Tim MacMahon on the Cavs' losses (4:40), if it's time to panic in Cleveland (18:00), really reckless trade speculation (28:10) and figuring out Boogie's future (37:40). Plus, Kevin Pelton and Kevin Arnovitz discuss the demography and makeup of the NBA fan (57:40).
Elton Brand, former NBA star and current G League GM: 1/11/18
Marc Spears and Amin Elhassan chat with former NBA star and current Delaware 87ers GM Elton Brand about his post-playing career (4:40), rap battles with Shaq (15:20), Lou Williams (21:25), playing for Donald Sterling (27:55) AAU with Ron Artest and Lamar Odom (35:35) and college recruiting visits (42:30).
Kent Bazemore, Atlanta Hawks wing: 1/10/18
Kevin Arnovitz chats with Kent Bazemore of the Atlanta Hawks about cycling and fatigue (2:45), minutes played and travel (16:15) and beefing with the referees (29:40).
Tribute videos, charter vs. commercial travel, player camaraderie: 1/9/18
Andrew Han, Chris Forsberg, Bobby Marks and Nick Friedell discuss tribute video issues (2:20), commercial travel vs. team charters (13:25) and DeRozan and Lowry not talking to each other their first year together (22:15). Plus, Kevin Pelton and Kaileigh Brandt answer listener questions (29:15).
What to do about LaVar?: 1/8/18
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne break down what the Lakers are supposed to do about LaVar and the Balls (3:00) and Paul George's homecoming in LA (36:40).
ROY candidates, revisiting the Kyrie trade: 1/5/18
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Brandon Lowe and Jackie MacMullan discuss ROY candidates (8:20), East and West parity (16:15), player of the month (23:10), recent Wolves draftees (28:00) and revisit the Kyrie trade (34:10). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han analyze the aftereffects of Jason Collins' announcement nearly five years ago with Kevin Arnovitz (1:05:40).
Name-dropped by Chappelle or Drake?: 1/4/18
Amin Elhassan, Marc Spears and Chris Haynes ring debate whether it's cooler to be name-dropped in a Dave Chappelle set or a Drake song (7:25), player references in music (20:30), how Kyrie Irving got his handles (28:55) and regions claiming players (33:15).
Are the Thunder who we think they are?: 1/3/18
Kevin Arnovitz and Royce Young discuss the expectations for the Thunder (3:20), Melo's role (6:50), what we learn about OKC when looking players who have left (16:55) and if the NBA is a civic pastime in Oklahoma now (28:55).
Disrespectful dunks, Isaiah's return, Wolves: 1/2/18
Nick Friedell, Andrew Han and Chris Forsberg on Anthony Davis' disrespectful dunk (2:20), Isaiah Thomas' impending return (10:00) and what's in store for the Timberwolves (18:50). Plus, Kevin Pelton and Kaileigh Brandt answer listener questions (34:30).
Rich Paul, Klutch Sports Group: 12/25/17
Chris Haynes, Marc Spears and Amin Elhassan speak with sports agent Rich Paul about his early dreams (6:30), his perspective on Nerlens Noel and Eric Bledsoe (20:40), LeBron free agency plans (28:05), thoughts on LaVar Ball (32:15), feelings on the music industry (38:35), future business plans (48:10) and music artists (56:50).
Sliding Celtics, what-if Kyrie deals, Rockets: 12/22/17
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Jackie MacMullan and NBA Countdown producer Brandon Lowe talk about the regressing Celtics (7:30), the future for Isaiah Thomas (19:10) and Banana Boat odds in Houston (33:20). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han on the scariness of change (57:05).
Baron Davis, former NBA star: 12/21/17
Marc Spears and Amin Elhassan share their favorite Baron Davis stories (3:00), then chat with Baron about his legacy (20:50), playing for the worst owner in sports (28:50), what players catch his eye (37:45) and thoughts on LiAngelo Ball and UCLA (40:30).
Isaac Chotiner, Slate.com: 12/20/17
Kevin Arnovitz and Isaac Chotiner of Slate assess the ascending Rockets (1:40), if the Warriors are impervious (21:15), the nature of NBA fandom (26:10) and the philosophy of player rest (37:00).
Are there any other East contenders?: 12/19/17
Dave McMenamin, Ian Begley, Chris Forsberg and Nick Friedell discuss whether any other team can come out of the East (1:15), defensive stoppers (15:30), surprise teams (22:00) and beat reporting stories (30:00). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han answer listener questions (42:25).
Kobe, Kobe, Kobe: 12/18/17
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne chat about Kobe Bryant's jersey retirement (1:30), Kobe disciples (10:00), Sixers-Thunder (25:10) and Chiney's scandalous story from her other podcast (33:05).
Harden and Rockets, Kawhi and Spurs: 12/15/17
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon and Jackie MacMullan discuss the surging Rockets (2:20), James Harden's MVP candidacy (15:45), Kawhi Leonard and the Spurs (20:00), the NBA referee turnover (29:40) and appropriate travel attire (36:30).
Player rappers, PG-13 and OKC, cold weather ASG: 12/14/17
Amin Elhassan, Chris Haynes and Marc Spears chat about player rappers (7:35), what to do with OKC and Paul George (28:15) and share stories from cold weather All Star Games (44:50).
The Greatest Story Ever Trolled: 12/13/17
Doubletruck Stories: Joel Embiid has turned the Sixers' famed process into performance art, and everyone is feeling merry and bright-for now. By Ramona Shelburne.
Trusting the Sixers: 12/12/17
Pablo Torre, Kevin Arnovitz and Jackie MacMullan discuss Ben Simmons (6:15), Joel Embiid (14:25), Brett Brown (19:00), re-litigating "The Process" (24:55), Sam Hinkie (40:15) and the future for Philly (47:30) in advance of Thunder-Sixers on Friday, Dec. 15 on ESPN.
Twitter Listener Questions: 12/11/17
Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han answer listener questions submitted via Twitter (0:30) and unpack the athlete outreach to a bullying video that went viral on social media (12:50).
Rookies, media dining, Hayward, gambling: 12/8/17
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon and Jackie MacMullan chat about Utah's Donovan Mitchell and the draft (3:30), Nerlens Noel and media-room dining (14:35), Gordon Hayward and the Celtics (23:55) and sports gambling (42:25). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han on loving success vs. fearing failure (54:20).
Randy Williams, close friend of Kevin Durant: 12/7/17
Amin Elhassan, Chris Haynes and Marc Spears chat with Randy Williams, close friend of Kevin Durant, about KD stories at Texas (2:45), Durant's move from OKC to Oakland (10:55) and the Balls on AAU circuit before the buzz (27:20).
Daryl Morey, Houston Rockets GM : 12/6/17
Kevin Arnovitz has breakfast with Houston GM Daryl Morey at Nate'n Al Delicatessen to discuss how Mike D'Antoni was hired (5:45), player evaluation (19:45) and the Rockets defense (27:30).
KD-Boogie scuffle, Thunder, Westbrook: 12/5/17
Royce Young, Tim MacMahon, Bobby Marks, Cristina Daglas and Andrew Han examine the Durant-Boogie kerfuffle (2:10), the Thunder (15:45) and Russell Westbrook (39:25). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Han answer listener questions (45:45).
Spurs, Livingston, Embiid, too early MVP talk: 12/4/17
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike, Ramona Shelburne and Andrew Han investigate the state of the Spurs (2:00), Thunder (15:05), the Livingston ejection (21:40), Embiid shade investigations (33:30) and early MVP talk (44:40).
Grizzlies, Clippers, Thunder and Spurs: 12/1/17
Tim MacMahon, Michael C. Wright and Nick Friedell talk about what's going on with the Grizzlies (4:40), Clippers (15:45), Thunder (18:10) and Spurs (26:55). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han take listener questions (40:45).
LeBron's ejection, Lonzo, Fizdale's firing: 11/30/17
Marc Spears, Chris Haynes and Marcus Thompson of The Athletic get together to chat about music tastes growing up (1:40), LeBron's ejection (15:55), Lonzo avoiding scuffles (22:30) and Fizdale's firing in Memphis (37:35).
Omri Casspi, Golden State Warriors: 11/29/17
Kevin Arnovitz chats with Golden State wing Omri Casspi on joining the Warriors, player misconceptions, his early career as a Jewish player and basketball in Israel.
Rose, Durant in OKC, Shade Investigation: 11/27/17
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne discuss the unexpected Derrick Rose hiatus (2:50), Durant's return to OKC (23:50) and shade investigation (41:50).
Thanksgiving Special: 11/22/17
Brian Windhorst, Rachel Nichols and Amin Elhassan share travel horror stories (8:55), the NBA's Thanksgiving strategy (25:15) and catfishing (35:35). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han answer listener questions (56:20).
Lakers, Butler iced, Embiid and Sixers, Isaiah: 11/20/17
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike, Andrew Han and Ohm Youngmisuk talk about the Lakers (2:30), if the circus around Lonzo matches early LeBron (13:15), Jimmy Butler getting iced (23:50), Embiid shade investigation (29:40), Sixers (35:10) and Isaiah Thomas (49:05).
Rockets, Celtics, Towns' marijuana stance, sliding Clippers: 11/17/17
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon and Nick Friedell talk Rockets and Celtics (4:55), Towns' marijuana advocacy (28:45), the sliding Clippers (41:15), a Portis-Mirotic update (49:05) and Jody Avirgan on the 30 for 30 podcast Hoodies Up (1:02:35). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han take questions (1:21:20).
Ben Simmons, Fultz, Kuzma, Intimidating Arenas: 11/16/17
Amin Elhassan and Marc Spears are joined by Keith Pompey to talk about the expectations on the Sixers (7:50), intimidating arenas (13:30), Ben Simmons (27:00), Markelle Fultz (30:55) and if Kyle Kuzma is the best Lakers rookie (43:00).
Young Sixers, Fun Knicks: 11/15/17
Kevin Arnovitz and Chris Herring marvel at the young Sixers (0:35), the unique Ben Simmons (15:50), how history will view Sam Hinkie (25:00) and how fun it is to be a Knicks fan again (28:55).
Petty Cavs, Blooming Celtics, Road Stories: 11/14/17
Jorge Sedano, Baxter Holmes, Chris Forsberg and Dave McMenamin talk about the Cavs in New York(0:55), the Celtics' lofty position (11:10), if Cleveland takes Boston seriously (21:30) and road stories (24:20). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han answer listener questions (36:40).
Streaking C's, Rolling Thunder, Rockets role players: 11/13/17
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne discuss the streaking Celtics (3:30), the Thunder star power (16:20), Rockets role players (28:20) and shade investigations (36:50).
Cavs-Rockets, Ray Allen, struggling Thunder: 11/10/17
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon and Jackie MacMullan discuss Cavs-Rox (3:10), how much Cleveland misses Kyrie (12:00), Ray Allen (21:30) and OKC's struggles incorporating stars (34:50). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han ruminate on a listener question (49:10).
Former Phoenix Suns coach Earl Watson: 11/9/17
Chris Haynes, Amin Elhassan and Marc Spears speak with former Phoenix Suns coach Earl Watson about what happened this season (5:15), Eric Bledsoe's situation (14:35), his days at UCLA with Baron Davis (28:40), Kansas basketball (34:15), the death of his brother (39:30) and one hot take (45:20).
NBA insider Alex Spiro: 11/8/17
Kevin Arnovitz speaks with attorney Alex Spiro about his interactions with players, teams, the league and how good his hometown Boston Celtics look.
Bledsoe and Bucks, Wolves, Listener questions: 11/7/17
Jorge Sedano, Baxter Holmes and Nick Friedell break down LeBron's Instagram post (0:38), Bledsoe to the Bucks (2:45), the state of the Wolves (14:50) and what's left of the Bulls after Portis-Mirotic (22:20). Plus, Kevin Pelton, Kaileigh Brandt and Andrew Han answer listener questions (36:15).
Big performances, Melo's ejection, Warriors-Cuban: 11/6/17
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne discuss Harden and Porzingis' big performances (1:55), if LeBron's 57-pointer was more impressive (23:25), Melo's ejection (39:10), Warriors and Cuban (46:20) and shade investigation (58:45).
Kyrie conspiracies, Cavs' struggle, meals on Pop: 11/3/17
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Kaileigh Brandt, Andrew Han and Kevin Pelton discuss Kyrie's double down on conspiracy theories (3:30), the Cavs' continued struggles (13:20) and meals on Popovich (28:30). Plus, Kevin and Kaileigh open shop to answer questions (37:10).
Surprising Magic, NBA life as a Muslim: 11/2/17
Amin Elhassan and Marc Spears are joined by former NBA player Tariq Abdul-Wahad to talk about the Magic (2:30), Dubs-Spurs (9:15), life in the NBA as a Muslim (16:50), Lonzo vs. Lillard (46:25) and what Olajuwon does with cognac (31:30).
Small Sample Size Theater: 11/1/17
Are the Celtics better than we thought (3:25), are the Knicks a .500 team (9:50), how good is Ben Simmons (13:40) and is Wiggins already fully formed (19:30)? Kevin Arnovitz and Kevin Pelton investigate in Small Sample Size Theater.
Slow Cavs, Ringzz, Porzingis, Thunder, Wolves: 10/31/17
Jorge Sedano, Baxter Holmes, Ian Begley and Royce Young on if they're concerned about the Cavs (1:00), "ringzz" as a legacy grade (9:40), Porzingis and the Knicks (19:50) and how the Thunder (26:45) and Wolves (38:50) look so far.
BONUS: 30 for 30 Season Two Sneak Peek: 10/30/17
The Hoop Collective shares the trailer for Season Two of 30 for 30 Podcasts, launching November 14th, as well as one of our favorite episodes from Season One, Yankees Suck.
Slow start for Cavs-Dubs, top of the West, travel horror stories: 10/30/17
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne ask if it's too soon to panic about the Cavs and Warriors (1:05), the top of the West (16:10), travel horror stories (24:15) and shade investigations (31:45).
Sixers, surprising Clippers, coaching hot seats: 10/27/17
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon and Jackie MacMullan talk about the interesting week with the Sixers (7:00), the preposterous young big men in the league (15:20), the surprising Clippers (24:00), Boogie's night back in Sac (54:20) and storytime with Jackie Mac (38:15).
Boogie Returns to Sacto, Suns' Dysfunction Junction: 10/26/17
Amin Elhassan, Marc Spears and Chris Haynes talk about DeMarcus Cousins' return to Sacramento (4:10), Spears story time around a young Melo (15:30) and the mess in Phoenix (33:28).
Memphis Grizzlies and Pro Wrestling: 10/25/17
Kevin Arnovitz and Andrew Han spend a few days with the Memphis Grizzlies and discover how the city's pro wrestling history informs the team's game operations as Grizz (the mascot) prepares for a stunt.
Phoenix fiasco, the Brow, Bay Area villains, Lakers: 10/24/17
Jorge Sedano, Israel Gutierrez and Baxter Holmes talk about the mess in Phoenix (1:13), Anthony Davis and the Pelicans (15:00), if the Warriors are villains (25:10), Lonzo and the Lakers' future (32:50) and week one hot takes (46:40).
Wiggins' winner, shooting yips, Giannis' rise, Warriors: 10/23/17
Cassidy Hubbarth, Chiney Ogwumike and Ramona Shelburne discuss the first week of the NBA: Wolves-Thunder (1:03), shooting yips (9:25), Bledsoe tweets (18:36), shade investigations (25:15), Giannis' rise (32:30) and motivating the Warriors (42:33).
Lonzo, Rockets, Thunder and lottery reform: 10/20/17
Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon and Jackie MacMullan chat about Lonzo (and LaVar's) NBA debut with the Lakers (4:00), first thoughts on the Rockets (14:55) and Thunder (23:45) and Mark Cuban's proposed lottery reforms (39:20).
Spurs' Equality Message: 10/19/17
Amin Elhassan and Marc Spears speak with Knicks GM Scott Perry about taking over the Knicks, his time with the Pistons and how non-athlete minority personnel can rise in a front office. Then, Michael C. Wright joins to talk about the Spurs' protest and does LaMarcus Aldridge have a burner billboard?
Doc Rivers: 10/18/17
Doc Rivers joins Kevin Arnovitz to discuss the departure of Chris Paul, the disintegration of last season's Clippers culture, when players should (and should not) protest and why do coaches get free suits?
The East season preview: 10/17/17
Brian Windhorst, Rachel Nichols and Jackie MacMullan preview the Eastern Conference for the 2017-18 season. How much of a rivalry is Cavs-Celtics? Are there any serious challengers to Cleveland in the near term?
Podcast Help
New to Podcasts?
It's easy. All you have to do is click the iTunes button below to subscribe to this podcast.
If you don't already have iTunes, you can download it here.