The Woj Pod
The NBA's biggest stars, coaches, executives and newsmakers regularly join ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski on The Woj Pod. Interviews, analysis and storytelling from an unmatched lineup of NBA guests anywhere - only on The Woj Pod.
Archived Podcasts
Thunder GM Sam Presti: 12/6/19
Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti joins The Woj Pod to discuss the decision making process behind trading Paul George and Russell Westbrook this summer (1:54), how volatility is the new normal in the NBA (22:56), the myriad ways in which his job has changed since becoming the GM at 29 (46:03), and the lessons he learned while playing at Emerson College under Hank Smith (50:30).
ESPN's Zach Lowe: 11/25/19
ESPN's Zach Lowe joins The Woj Pod to discuss the framework of the NBA's negotiations with the NBPA on dramatic changes in the NBA schedule and calendar - including a 78 game schedule, a 30-team in season-tournament (7:57), a play-in round for the 7th and 8th seeds in the conference playoffs (19:36) and a reseeding of the conference finals (1:29).
The Phenomenon of Luka Doncic: 11/22/19
ESPN's Tim MacMahon, draft analyst Jonathan Givony and ex-Mavericks player development director Mike Procopio join The Woj Pod to discuss the emergence of Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic, including his rapid ascent into an MVP candidate, his draft evaluation as a European prodigy (4:39), Dirk Nowitzki's influence (24:23), the 2018 NBA draft night drama surrounding Doncic (13:02) and much more.
Shareef Abdur-Rahim: 11/20/19
NBA All-Star and G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim joins The Woj Pod to discuss the NBA minor league's impact on the NBA , life as an original Vancouver Grizzly (14:44), the gold medal run with the USA's 2000 Sydney Olympic team (21:54), living as a Muslim in America (36:01), and much more.
Bradley Beal: 11/15/19
Washington Wizards All-Star Bradley Beal joins The Woj Pod to discuss the evolution of his relationship with John Wall (18:30), Ray Allen's summer advice (3:15), what Paul Pierce taught him as a teammate (28:50), the responsibilities of a franchise player in good times and bad, and why he chose Billy Donovan at Florida.
Pacers president Kevin Pritchard: 11/8/19
Indiana Pacers president of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard joins The Woj Pod to discuss Victor Oladipo's progress on a return (1:51), winning with a low payroll (13:53), Larry Bird (22:04) and winning a national title at Kansas as part of Danny (Manning) and The Miracles (28:08).
Ryen Russillo: 10/29/19
Ryen Russillo of The Ringer joins The Woj Pod to discuss the early season of the NBA, including Lakers-Clippers (6:56), Warriors struggles (41:19), Harden and Westbrook (14:13), Kyrie Irving and the Nets (31:09), the Trae Young-Luka Doncic debate, Giannis and the Bucks, and much, much more.
Draymond Green and Bob Myers: 10/23/19
Golden State star Draymond Green and President/GM Bob Myers join The Woj Pod for an illuminating window into the Warriors' championship run (6:06), including the relationships and dynamics that propelled historic highs and combustible episodes- including an introspective and raw examination around the final season with Kevin Durant (20:22).
Marc Gasol: 10/21/19
Toronto Raptors center Marc Gasol joins The Woj Pod to discuss his whirlwind championship run with the Raptors, the difficulty of leaving Mike Conley Jr. and the city of Memphis (6:16), his commitment to playing for the Spanish national team (22:30), and much more.
ESPN's Doris Burke: 10/16/19
ESPN analyst Doris Burke joins The Woj Pod to discuss the LeBron James installment of the NBA's China drama, the Lakers and Clippers, her intrigue with the Utah Jazz (17:21), the post-Kyrie Irving Boston Celtics (20:39), the quagmire surrounding state of the Knicks (29:34), and much more.
The Woj & Lowe Show: 10/11/19
ESPN's Zach Lowe joins The Woj Pod as part of The Woj & Lowe Show, digging into the fallout of NBA and China relations in the aftermath of Daryl Morey's tweet and Adam Silver's statements, the legitimate championship contenders, trade candidates and the latest on the rookie contract extension class.
Cavaliers coach John Beilein: 10/4/19
Cavaliers coach John Beilein joins The Woj Pod to discuss his transition to the NBA at 66 years old, including a four decades journey from high school and small college coaching to the pinnacle of the profession.
Rob McClanaghan: 10/1/19
Trainer Rob McClanaghan joins The Woj Pod to discuss his decade in the NBA working with the league's biggest stars - including Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Derrick Rose, Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook - and his close proximity to some of the biggest free agent and NBA Draft stories of recent years. McClanaghan's new book, "Net Work: Training The NBA's Best and Finding the Keys to Greatness," is available now.
Lonzo Ball: 9/27/19
Lonzo Ball joins the Woj Pod to discuss joining the Pelicans, leaving the Lakers, Ball family matters, throwing lobs to Zion and how he's taken full control of his professional life.
ESPN's Brian Windhorst: 9/21/19
ESPN's Brian Windhorst joins The Woj Pod to dig deep into the NBA's strengthening of penalties and enforcement of tampering and salary cap circumvention, the practical impact it could have on free agency, the unregulated world of player-to-player tampering, flipping the order of free agency and the NBA Draft, why the elimination of the one-and-done draft rule remains stalled and Woj's most expensive phone bill ever.
Doc Rivers and Erik Spoelstra: 9/11/19
Two NBA championship coaches -- Doc Rivers and Erik Spoelstra -- join The Woj Pod to discuss a series of topics in a high-level conversation, including the coaching craft, the Celtics-Heat rivalry, the impact of Pat Riley in their careers, ownership and management support, the lack of NBA coaches in the Hall of Fame and the changes they've had to make as coaches with the shorter attention spans of the modern NBA players, and much more.
Ramona Shelburne: 8/20/19
ESPN's Ramona Shelburne joins The Woj Pod to go inside the reporting and making of her new 30 For 30 Podcasts series, "The Sterling Affairs," including Sterling's obsession with Lakers owner Jerry Buss and Donald Trump, why he wanted to kill a JJ Redick deal, how the NBA allowed him to exist as an owner for decades, and much more.
Blazers Guard CJ McCollum: 8/6/19
Portland Trail Blazers guard CJ McCollum joins The Woj Pod to discuss the wild Western Conference, his $100M contract extension, what would've changed his mind on playing USA Basketball this summer, the Blazers, NBA officiating, the Cleveland Browns, redrafting his 2013 NBA Draft Class, and much more.
Denver GM Arturas Karnisovas: 7/29/19
Denver Nuggets GM Arturas Karnisovas joins the Woj Pod to discuss the Western Conference arms race, the discovery and development of All-NBA center Nikola Jokic, the evolution of scouting perceptions toward European prospects, the KGB's role in allowing him to be the first USSR-born player to be allowed to leave for college basketball, playing against the Dream Team in the 1992 Olympics with Sabonis and much more.
Wizards GM Tommy Sheppard: 7/23/19
New Washington Wizards GM Tommy Sheppard joins The Woj Pod to discuss the future of Bradley Beal and John Wall, changing the way the franchise does business, mining the international talent pool, the influence of Mike D'Antoni on his career, working for Tark at UNLV and much more.
Rockets Coach Mike D'Antoni: 7/15/19
Houston Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Chris Paul/Russell Westbrook trade, tensions within the Rockets locker room, why James Harden's voice is so important in personnel decisions, coaching the season without an extension, how he's had to compromise his offensive system to fit Harden's talents, working for a new, hands-on owner and a lingering regret of how he coached the Suns/Spurs battles a decade ago.
David Griffin: 7/10/19
New Orleans Pelicans EVP of Basketball Operations David Griffin joins Adrian Wojnarowski to go inside the Anthony Davis trade, the art of the superstar trade, the rapidly changing discipline of NBA team building, why the journey to the Cavaliers 2016 championship missed joy and Zion Williamson.
Mike Conley, Jazz GM Justin Zanik: 7/8/19
Mike Conley joins Adrian Wojnarowski to reflect on being traded from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Utah Jazz, the realization that his time in Memphis was coming to an end, Marc Gasol's trade mid-season to Toronto and winning the title, and free agency's change to the league dynamics. Then, new Jazz GM Justin Zanik stops by to discuss how the Conley trade came together, the fluidity of free agents like Nikola Mirotic and parity in the coming season.
Zach Lowe: 7/6/19
In a crossover edition of The Lowe Post and The Woj Pod, Adrian Wojnarowski and Zach Lowe react to the Kawhi Leonard signing and Paul George trade. The two NBA insiders discuss how these deals immediately change the league, when Leonard targeted George as the guy he wanted to pair with, Oklahoma City's cloudy future, who could be in the market for Russell Westbrook if he's made available, how Toronto will move forward and more.
Ramona Shelburne: 7/4/19
Ramona Shelburne joins Adrian Wojnarowski to talk about how Kevin Durant's relationship with the Warriors deteriorated throughout the course of this past season and why he felt like an outsider on Stephen Curry's team. Then, the two NBA insiders discuss the future of Durant's new team, the Brooklyn Nets, and the remarkable turnaround of the franchise as compared to their crosstown opponents, the New York Knicks, who traded Kristaps Porzingis and failed to land any big-name free agents. Plus, Adrian and Ramona lay out Kawhi Leonard's options and what's at stake for each team, as well as Leonard's own legacy.
Jared Dudley: 7/2/19
Shortly after Adrian Wojnarowski breaks the news of a deal to sign with the Lakers, Jared Dudley joins The Woj Pod to openly recruit Kawhi Leonard to the Lakers over the Clippers, why LeBron James had to sign off on Dudley's desire for a deal, his old Brooklyn Nets recruiting Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, how a James/Anthony Davis/Kawhi Leonard Big 3 would be measured in history, his desire to play an enforcer role with the Lakers stars, his history in San Diego with Leonard and much, much more on the Woj Pod.
Brian Windhorst Talks Tampering in Free Agency: 7/1/19
ESPN's Brian Windhorst joins Woj to discuss tampering in free agency, how Nikola Mirotic leaving for the EuroLeague helped Bojan Bogdanovic, the speed at which free agency "ended" this year, if this is the end of the super-team era and if there should be a franchise tag in NBA.
Ryen Russillo on Free Agency: 7/1/19
On ESPN's debut of The Woj Pod, Ryen Russillo joins Woj to break down the latest in NBA free agency including the Nets going all-in for KD and Kyrie, discuss the Jazz's chances with the Mike Conley trade and what to make of the Sixers with Jimmy Butler headed to Miami.
Bobby Marks on free agency: 6/28/19
ESPN's front office insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod to discuss the countdown to NBA free agency, including the constructing of super teams, Kemba Walker and the Celtics, the question of spending restraint for teams with major cap space, and much more.
ESPN draft analyst Mike Schmitz: 6/18/19
ESPN NBA Draft Analyst Mike Schmitz joins The Woj Pod to set the stage for Thursday's draft in Brooklyn, New Orleans shopping the No. 4 pick, Toronto winning a championship without a lottery pick on the roster, Lonzo Ball's and Brandon Ingram's next steps in New Orleans, what LaMelo Ball needs to learn playing professionally in Australia, Africa's growing pool of big-time basketball talent and RJ Barrett and the Knicks.
ESPN's Bobby Marks: 6/10/19
ESPN's front office insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod to discuss Kevin Durant's impending return in Game 5, Kawhi Leonard's remarkable impact on the Raptors franchise, Masai Ujiri's decisions, Golden State's future and much more.
Sixers guard TJ McConnell: 5/29/19
Sixers guard TJ McConnell joins The Woj Pod to discuss Sixers playoff run, Brett Brown, his improbable journey as an NBA player and his summer free agency.
Suns coach Monty Williams: 5/23/19
Phoenix Suns coach Monty Williams joins The Woj Pod to discuss choosing the Suns over the Lakers, Robert Sarver, how personal tragedy changed his life and much more.
Minnesota's Gersson Rosas: 5/18/19
Minnesota Timberwolves President of Basketball Operations Gersson Rosas joins The Woj Pod on taking over the Wolves, KAT, the Rockets years including the James Harden trade, Yao, Daryl a Morey, his roots in Colombia, and the privilege and responsibility of becoming the NBA's first Latin top basketball executive.
Ryen Russillo: 5/10/19
Ryen Russillo joins The Woj Pod to discuss the NBA Playoffs, Game 7's, The NBA Draft, Zion Williamson, free agency and much, much more.
ESPN's Dave McMenamin: 5/6/19
ESPN's Dave McMenamin joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Raptors-Sixers series and storylines, Kawhi Leonard's dominance and future, and how a Ty Lue-LeBron James future will look with the Lakers.
Brooklyn's Caris LeVert: 4/27/19
Brooklyn Nets guard Caris LeVert joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Nets nasty playoff series with the Sixers, his late-blooming stardom, losing his father in high school, fighting back from a frightening injury this season, working out with Kevin Durant and much more.
Kendrick Perkins: 4/15/19
Kendrick Perkins joins The Woj Pod to declare himself retired from the NBA, discuss his desire to move into NBA coaching, talk of the purity of his season in the G League at 33 years old, the story of John Calipari recruiting him to Memphis, KG, KD's future in Golden State and much more.
The Woj & Lowe Show on ESPN: Playoff Special: 4/14/19
The Woj and Lowe Show returns with an NBA playoffs preview, how the postseason will impact summer free agency and the latest on the Lakers coaching search.
Toronto Raptors Pascal Siakam: 4/3/19
Toronto Raptors star Pascal Siakam joins The Woj Pod on his 25th birthday to discuss his remarkable rise into one of the NBA's best young players, his incredible journey from Cameroon, teenage life in seminary school, the profound impact of his late father, and how tired he's become of answering questions about Kawhi Leonard's future.
Toronto Raptors coach Nick Nurse: 3/29/19
Toronto Raptors coach Nick Nurse joins The Woj Pod to discuss coaching Kawhi Leonard, his long climb from the bush leagues of basketball to the NBA, Marc Gasol's indoctrination into the team and much, much more.
Doc Rivers: 3/26/19
Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers joins The Woj Pod to discuss the team's remarkable season, ceding front office power, how football coaches influenced his evolution, the Lawrence Frank/Michael Winger-led front office, negotiating his contract with Steve Ballmer, why he wanted to be a coach and much much more.
Pau Gasol: 3/24/19
Future Hall of Famer Pau Gasol joins the Woj Pod to discuss his illustrious professional career, his childhood dreams of med school, the evolution of the international big man in the NBA, getting traded to the Lakers for his brother, learning to co-exist and win with Kobe Bryant and much, much more.
Utah Jazz GM Dennis Lindsey: 3/12/19
Utah Jazz GM Dennis Lindsey joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Western Conference playoff chase, post-trade deadline fallout in the NBA, Rudy Tomjanovich's Hall of Fame candidacy, dealing with leaked trade talks and much more.
Sixers GM Elton Brand: 3/4/19
Philadelphia 76ers GM Elton Brand joins The Woj Pod to discuss his two massive trades for Jimmy Butler and Tobias Harris, how the Sixers will proceed forward with the two free agent stars, how impending free agency impacts the NBA locker rooms year-round, what it was like as Duke's first star underclassmen to declare early for the NBA Draft, playing for Donald Sterling's-Clippers, traveling to France in AAU ball with Lamar Odom and Ron Artest and much, much more.
ESPN Draft Analyst Jonathan Givony: 2/22/19
ESPN NBA Draft analyst Jonathan Givony discusses Zion Williamson, the role Duke and college basketball has played in his emergence, the NBA/NBPA negotiating hurdles to lower draft age and much more.
Atlanta GM Travis Schlenk: 2/17/19
Atlanta Hawks GM Travis Schlenk joins The Woj Pod to discuss the franchise's rebuild, the Trae Young/Luka Doncic trade, his years with the Warriors dynasty, working in the Heat video room for Pat Riley, growing up in rural Kansas and much more.
Jeff Hornacek: 2/10/19
Jeff Hornacek joins The Woj Pod to discuss his coaching tenure with the New York Knicks, Phil Jackson, his Suns run as coach, playing with Stockton and Malone in Utah, and his hopes of coaching again in the NBA.
Bobby Marks on the Trade Deadline: 2/1/19
ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Kristaps Porzingis trade, Anthony Davis talks, Kyrie Irving/Celtics and much more at the trade deadline.
Golden State's Steph Curry: 1/26/19
Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Warriors turbulent season, Kevin Durant, the joy of repetition and practice, his production company's new documentary on the 2015 South Carolina church massacre, playing with Seth in the All-Star Weekend 3-point competition and much, much more.
Orlando Magic's Nikola Vucevic: 1/23/19
Orlando Magic center Nikola Vucevic joins The Woj Pod to discuss his career season under coach Steve Clifford, his strong candidacy for the Eastern Conference All-Star team, lessons learned through years of losing and turmoil in Orlando, growing up the son of a Euro basketball star, playing for Doug Collins and the Sixers in his rookie season, witnessing Derrick Rose's knee injury in the 2012 playoffs and Vuc's 2019 summer free agency.
Joe Ingles: 1/16/19
The Utah Jazz's Joe Ingles joins The Woj Pod to discuss his success in trash talking, why he's so irritating to opponents, the remarkable growth of his game, Donovan Mitchell, EuroLeague basketball and why he buys sneakers at Nordstrom's.
Wes Wilcox and Bobby Marks on the NBA Trade Deadline: 1/11/19
Former Hawks GM Wes Wilcox and ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks join The Woj Pod to discuss the looming NBA trade deadline, including strategy for multiple teams, how the New Orleans Pelicans could handle the Anthony Davis situation, the contract buyout market and how the super-max contract has impacted free agency.
Brooklyn Nets guard Spencer Dinwiddie: 1/2/19
Brooklyn Nets guard Spencer Dinwiddie joins The Woj Pod to discuss his long journey to a new $34M contract, the fight out of the G League and into the NBA, why he didn't enroll at Harvard despite his acceptance, building his own shoe brand, and much more.
Jeff Van Gundy: 12/21/18
Jeff Van Gundy joins The Woj Pod to discuss his USA Basketball coaching experience, re-engaging with pro players after nearly a decade away from coaching, the power of the modern NBA player, and why he is dubious about whether most top high school players can physically compete in the G League as part of the program that would pay them $125K annually.
Memphis coach JB Bickerstaff: 11/30/18
Memphis Grizzlies coach JB Bickerstaff joins The Woj Pod to discuss the revival of Grit-'n-Grind, watching Marc Gasol and Mike Conley work every day, the emergence of rookie Jaren Jackson, the burden of the interim coaching tag, why he considered a move college basketball, the internal fight that a coach deals with to stay true to his principles and more.
Bobby Marks: 11/23/18
ESPN front-office insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod to discuss how the trade market is starting to take shape, distinguishing buyers/sellers, Markelle Fultz, Bradley Beal/John Wall, Orlando/Steve Clifford, Memphis and much more.
Chiney Ogwumike: 11/17/18
WNBA star and ESPN NBA analyst Chiney Ogwumike joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Golden State Warriors turmoil, saying no to Geno Auriemma in recruiting, the WNBA future and much more.
ESPN Draft Analysts Jonathan Givony and Mike Schmitz: 11/10/18
ESPN NBA Draft analysts Jonathan Givony and Mike Schmitz join the Woj Pod to discuss Duke's freshmen class of RJ Barrett, Zion Williamson and Cam Reddish who could go 1-2-3 in the June Draft, the surging NBA rookie class -- including Dallas' Luka Doncic and Memphis' Jaren Jackson, the impasse in NBA-NBPA negotiations on ending the one-and-done rule, and much, much more.
Brooklyn Nets GM Sean Marks: 10/30/18
Brooklyn Nets GM Sean Marks joins The Woj Pod to discuss his franchise's momentous rebuild, building a free agent destination in the modern NBA, the modern Warriors vs. the 2000's Spurs and much more.
ESPN's Brian Windhorst: 10/27/18
ESPN's Brian Windhorst joins The Woj Pod to discuss Houston's offer for Jimmy Butler, TImberwolves' trade options, Kawhi Leonard and the Raptors, the Sixers and LeBron James and the Lakers.
Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey: 10/21/18
Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey joins The The Woj Pod to discuss chasing a championship, delivering his superstars autonomy, his obsession with chasing big stars, the time invested into ideas and deals that never come to fruition, how he values chemistry now vs. years past and why his executive of the year trophy is still in a box.
ESPN's Zach Lowe: 10/18/18
ESPN's Zach Lowe joins The Woj Pod to discuss the biggest storylines surrounding the opening of the season.
Filmmaker Dan Klores on "Basketball: A Love Story": 10/4/18
Filmmaker Dan Klores joins The Woj Pod to discuss his 20-hour documentary series, "Basketball: A Love Story," that'll debut soon. They discuss much of his groundbreaking storytelling, including focuses on LeBron James, Bill Russell, Shaq and Kobe, and much, much more.
Bobby Marks on Jimmy Butler: 9/29/18
ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod to go inside the news, circumstances and marketplace surrounding All-Star forward Jimmy Butler's trade demand with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Ian O'Connor on "Belichick": 9/20/18
Best-selling author Ian O'Connor joins The Woj Pod to discuss his new biography, "Belichick."
Lee Jenkins: 9/18/18
Lee Jenkins joins The Woj Pod to discuss his bold move to the Los Angeles Clippers front office from Sports Illustrated.
Masai Ujiri: 9/14/18
Toronto President Masai Ujiri joins The Woj Pod to go inside the Kawhi Leonard trade, how the Raptors hope to resign the All-Star forward, DeMar DeRozan, Nick Nurse/Dwane Casey, his relationship with President Obama, his summer trip to Africa and much more.
Adam Schefter: 9/4/18
ESPN's NFL Insider Adam Schefter joins The Woj Pod to discuss his new book, ""The Man I Never Met,"" a memoir on his family, love and his football reporting life. They also discuss Tom Brady and the Patriots.
Ryen Russillo: 8/27/18
Ryen Russillo joins The Woj Pod to talk about the powerhouse class of 2019 NBA free agents, small market vs big market free agent challenges, the future of one-and-done and much more.
Grant Hill: 8/23/18
Grant Hill joins The Woj Pod on the cusp of his enshrinement into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, opening up about his journey to Springfield - his years as part of the Duke dynasty, his early All-NBA seasons with the Pistons, the darkness and isolation of his recurring ankle injuries with Orlando, his relationships with Steve Nash, Coach K and his parents, his role as Vice Chairman of the Atlanta Hawks and why he's still considering a future run for political office.
Jackie MacMullan: 8/21/18
ESPN's Jackie MacMullan discusses her revelatory five-part series on mental health in the NBA, including insights into revelations by Kevin Love, Paul Pierce, Chris Bosh and others. She talks about how the league is handling these issues, and what this means for the future.
ESPN's Jay Bilas: 8/9/18
ESPN's Jay Bilas to joins The Woj Pod to discuss the NCAA basketball rule changes, what makes sense, what doesn't and how it'll impact the NBA.
ESPN's Cassidy Hubbarth: 8/3/18
ESPN's Cassidy Hubbarth joins The Woj Pod to discuss the impact legalized gambling will have on the NBA, sideline reporting, NBA twitter and much more --- including ESPN NFL reporter Dianna Russini joining them in studio.
Brooklyn Nets' Jared Dudley: 7/26/18
Brooklyn Nets forward Jared Dudley returns to The Woj Pod to discuss his move back to the Eastern Conference, what NBA superstars want in free agency, why referee-players relations are so poor, and much, much more.
Charlotte Hornets coach James Borrego: 7/17/18
Charlotte Hornets coach James Borrego joins The Woj Pod to discuss leaving the Spurs for his first head coaching job, signing Tony Parker, building a relationship with Kemba Walker, the process of becoming a head coach in the NBA, what he learned under Gregg Popovich, growing up with a single mom in New Mexico, and much more.
Mike Budenholzer: 7/11/18
Milwaukee Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer joins The Woj Pod to discuss Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks future, the Hawks years, LeBron leaving the East, where and how he gets ideas and getting the courage up as a young assistant to raise a point with Gregg Popovich in a Spurs coach's meeting.
ESPN's Bobby Marks, Part 2: DeMarcus Cousins and the rest of summer free agency: 7/4/18
ESPN Front Office Insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod for a discussion on DeMarcus Cousins' move to the Warriors, and the storylines and moves still left to play out in July free agency.
ESPN's Bobby Marks: LeBron James, the Lakers and Kawhi Leonard: 7/4/18
ESPN Front Office Insider Bobby Marks joins the Woj Pod for the first of a two-part delve into NBA free agency, including LeBron James' move to the Lakers and the future of Kawhi Leonard in San Antonio.
ESPN Draft Analyst Jonathan Givony: 6/22/18
ESPN Draft Analyst Jonathan Givony joins The Woj Pod to discuss the aftermath of Thursday's NBA Draft, including the Michael Porter Jr., saga, the Luka Doncic/Trae Young trade, and much much more.
ESPN Draft Analyst Mike Schmitz: 6/15/18
ESPN NBA Draft Analyst Mike Schmitz joins the Woj Pod to breakdown the final days of maneuvering for Thursday's NBA Draft, including the Michael Porter saga, Luka Doncic, the art of the draft day 'promise' and much more.
Utah Jazz star Donovan Mitchell: 6/7/18
Utah Jazz star Donovan Mitchell joins The Woj Pod to discuss his breakout rookie season, his battle with Ben Simmons, learning how to become a franchise player, Quin Snyder, and why he believes he can be a recruiter to bring star talent to the Jazz.
ESPN's Bobby Marks: 6/2/18
ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod to discuss Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the Bryan Colangelo saga in Philadelphia, NBA free agency and much more.
Trail Blazers star CJ McCollum: 5/22/18
Portland Trail Blazers star C.J. McCollum joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Blazers playoff exit and future, building an identity in an NBA small market, growing up a LeBron James fan outside Cleveland, his new Pull Up podcast, the league's salary cap and much, much more.
Lakers forward Julius Randle: 5/21/18
Lakers forward Julius Randle joins The Woj Pod to discuss his restricted free agency this summer, the franchise's decision to not offer him a contract extension to protect salary cap space, Lonzo Ball, and much, much more.
ESPN draft analysts Jonathan Givony and Mike Schmitz: 5/16/18
ESPN draft analysts Jonathan Givony and Mike Schmitz join The Woj Pod to discuss the aftermath of the NBA Draft lottery, how Phoenix, Sacramento and Atlanta will view their picks, the politics of the draft combine process for players, and how Danny Ainge and Boston has managed to have so much success in the evaluation of players.
ESPN's Bobby Marks and Brian Windhorst: 5/11/18
ESPN's Brian Windhorst and Bobby Marks join the Woj Pod to discuss Dwane Casey's firing, the coaching market, Boston's future, and how the Cavaliers can sell LeBron James on a future with the Cavaliers.
Ian Begley: 5/4/18
ESPN's Ian Begley joins The Woj Pod to discuss the New York Knicks hiring of David Fizdale, the process leading to his four-year deal, its impact on Kristaps Porzingis' future, and the Celtics and Sixers rapidly moving toward years of dominance in the Eastern Conference - and perhaps the NBA.
ESPN's Ramona Shelburne and Royce Young: 4/27/18
ESPN's Royce Young and Ramona Shelburne join The Woj Pod to discuss the NBA playoffs.
Steve Clifford: 4/24/18
Steve Clifford joins The Woj Pod to discuss his dismissal as the Charlotte Hornets coach, Kemba Walker, earning players' respect in the NBA, the loss of practice time in the NBA, coaching Yao Ming.
ESPN Front Office Insider Bobby Marks: 4/14/18
ESPN Front-Office Insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod to discuss the NBA Playoffs, breaking down the coaching searches, tanking, and the race for NBA Executive of the Year.
Mina Kimes on Euro prodigy Luka Doncic: 4/9/18
Mina Kimes joins The Woj Pod to discuss her newly released and remarkable ESPN The Magazine story on European teenage basketball sensation Luka Doncic, who could be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. Mina talks about her time reporting the story on Doncic in Spain, including her conversations with NBA stars Goran Dragic and Kristaps Porzingis about him. Mina and Woj go in-depth on a teenage prodigy still largely shrouded in mystery to NBA fans.
David Griffin: 4/4/18
David Griffin joins The Woj Pod to discuss the NBA coaching market, how NCAA coaches like Jay Wright and John Beilein could fit into the NBA, how he conducted the search for David Blatt in Cleveland and his years with new Basketball Hall of Famers Steve Nash, Jason Kidd and Grant Hill with the Suns, and much more.
Kelly Dwyer: 4/2/18
Popular NBA writer Kelly Dwyer joins The Woj Pod to discuss the league as its rolls into the final days prior to the playoffs, as well as the early days of the basketball internet, his time together with Woj at Yahoo, mental health in the NBA, and much, much more.
ESPN's Tim Legler: 3/22/18
ESPN's Tim Legler joins The Woj Pod to discuss James Harden's MVP season, the Rockets-Warriors matchup, the evolution of the three-point shot in the NBA, Legler's incredible journey to the NBA, how much more valuable Legler's shooting talent would be in the modern NBA and his desire and belief that he could succeed as a college basketball coach.
Portland president Neil Olshey: 3/7/18
Portland Trail Blazers President of Basketball Operations Neil Olshey joins The Woj Pod for a wide-ranging visit on Rip City, chasing Golden State and Houston in the West, the Chris Paul trade/Chauncey Billups waiver claim with Clippers, NBA playoff realignment, the idea of the NBA possibly returning to high school gyms, and much, much more.
Denver owner Josh Kroenke: 3/1/18
Denver Nuggets owner Josh Kroenke joins The Woj Pod to discuss alternative ideas to NBA early entry, how he chooses his GM's, inside the legendary Carmelo Anthony trade, the passing of agent Dan Fegan, and much, much more.
ESPN's Ramona Shelburne: 2/23/18
ESPN's Ramona Shelburne joins The Woj Pod to discuss the sexual harassment and abuse scandal rocking the Dallas Mavericks, the impact on women working in these environments, the state of Kawhi Leonard's relationship with the San Antonio Spurs and the possibility of postseason changes in the NBA.
Toronto coach Dwane Casey: 2/17/18
Toronto coach Dwane Casey joins The Woj Pod to discuss the revelatory season for the Toronto Raptors, coaching in the All-Star Game, his years with Shawn Kemp and Gary Payton, pro basketball in Seattle and a conversation about gun violence in America.
Golden State's Klay Thompson: 2/16/18
Golden State's Klay Thompson joins The Woj Pod for a visit live on site at the NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. Thompson and Woj discuss his future free agency, growing up with Steph Curry in the NBA, Game 6 of the 2016 Western Conference Finals, fathers and son in the NBA, his 60-point game and much, much more.
Tim Legler and Bobby Marks on the trade deadline: 2/9/18
ESPN analyst Tim Legler and front-office insider Bobby Marks join The Woj Pod for a post-NBA trade deadline edition. Legs, Marks and Woj walk through Cleveland's dramatic roster overhaul, including how it impacted LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Isaiah Thomas. They talk about the Lakers free agent bid, how the Utah Jazz gambled on Jae Crowder's recapturing his Boston-self in coach Quin Snyder's system, and much, much more.
NBA Trade Deadline with ESPN's Bobby Marks: 2/3/18
ESPN's front-office insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod to breakdown the NBA Trade Deadline. Marks and Woj discuss the complexities of the Cleveland Cavaliers making a deal, the logjam of bad contracts flooding the market, and some of Bobby's best stories working in the Nets front office on past deadlines.
Tom Crean: 1/26/18
ESPN basketball analyst Tom Crean - the former head coach at Indiana and Marquette --- joins The Woj Pod to discuss how NBA teams mine college coaches for information on draft prospects, Pat Riley's process in drafting Wade out of Marquette, Victor Oladipo's journey to the All-Star game, how he's made the transition from coaching to TV for the season, and much, much more.
Jalen Rose: 1/23/18
Jalen Rose joins the Woj Pod to discuss the Cavaliers dysfunction, Paul George's free agency, advantages of playing college basketball, why he longs to play Michigan's 1993 NCAA title game loss to North Carolina over again, how players only meetings tend to go in the NBA, and why he was able to make such a seamless transition from an NBA career to broadcasting.
DeMar DeRozan: 1/8/18
Toronto Raptors All-Star DeMar DeRozan joins The Woj Pod for an introspective visit on the cusp of his fourth NBA All-Star selection and the Raptors rise to the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. DeRozan talked about going most of his first year with teammate Kyle Lowry and barely talking or interacting with him. He discussed how close he once came to asking for a trade out of Toronto, about what true leadership means in the NBA, about his obsessive pursuit of greatness and the price that needs to be paid. DeRozan and Woj discussed in detail about growing up in Compton, internalizing a childhood of witnessing senseless gang violence and murder and how he carries that with him as an adult.
Jeff Van Gundy: 12/29/17
Jeff Van Gundy joins the Woj Pod to discuss his coaching assignment with USA Basketball, the state of NBA officiating, the OKC Thunder and much more.
Victor Oladipo: 12/18/17
Indiana Pacers guard Victor Oladipo discusses his breakout season in the NBA, the impact Russell Westbrook had on his work ethic and commitment, the dysfunction of his early years with the Orlando Magic, why many colleges overlooked him out of high school, his close bond with former Indiana Hoosiers coach Tom Crean, repairing his relationship with his father, and the inspiration of a younger sister who has overcome a hearing loss.
76ers coach Brett Brown: 12/11/17
Philadelphia 76ers coach Brett Brown joins The Woj Pod to discuss teaching and nurturing his young stars, Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, the unique process of No. 1 overall pick Markele Fultz's shoulder rehab, the Sixers' failed pursuit of Manu Ginobili in free agency two years ago, and much much more.
NBA Draft analyst Jonathan Givony: 12/8/17
NBA Draft analyst Jonathan Givony joins the Woj Pod to discuss the remarkable emergence of Utah rookie Donovan Mitchell, impressions of his years of scouting the Lakers' Lonzo Ball, why Slovenian guard Luka Doncic could go No. 1 in the NBA Draft, how the younger Ball brothers overseas odyssey could go, the building of a mock draft and potential unintended consequences of allowing high school players back into the NBA Draft.
Golden State GM Bob Myers: 11/20/17
Golden State Warriors general manager Bob Myers joins The Woj Pod for a far-reaching conversation on the Warriors burgeoning dynasty, the pressure of winning, the battle against complacency, struggling with life balance, Danny Ainge's role in getting him his front office job, Steph Curry's willingness to bring Kevin Durant to the Warriors, a mistake he regrets with ex-coach Mark Jackson that helped him to work with Steve Kerr, and why he cried at the final buzzer of the Warriors 2017 NBA Finals victory over Cleveland.
Utah Jazz's Rudy Gobert: 11/15/17
Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert joins The Woj Pod to discuss his emergence as an All-NBA center, Dion Waiters' role in his knee injury, the loss of Gordon Hayward, the rise of French national basketball and hopes of beating Team USA in the Olympics, and much, much more.
ESPN's Bobby Marks and Royce Young: 11/9/17
Royce Young and Bobby Marks of ESPN join The Woj Pod to breakdown the Oklahoma City Thunder's present and future, Brad Stevens, Kyrie Irving and the Boston Celtics, and much much more.
Clippers Lawrence Frank and Michael Winger: 11/1/17
Los Angeles Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank and GM Michael Winger visit Woj Pod to discuss how a new front office starts to build out its infrastructure, process and long-term planning. Frank and Winger discuss how they've approached a new partnership, share duties, bring influences from past stops and work to integrate them into a new program. Frank and Winger discuss Steve Ballmer, Doc Rivers, Blake Griffin and the departure of Chris Paul in free agency.
Best-selling author Jack McCallum: 10/25/17
Best-selling author Jack McCallum joins The Woj Pod to discuss his new book "Golden Days," on the modern Golden State Warriors and the early 70's Lakers, including insight into Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, Jerry West, Pat Riley and more. McCallum, a Hall of Fame basketball writer, discusses covering the NBA in the glory days of Jordan's Bulls, Bird's Celtics and the Detroit Bad Boys.
ESPN's Brian Windhorst and Bobby Marks: 10/19/17
ESPN's Brian Windhorst and Bobby Marks join the Woj Pod to breakdown the early NBA season, Gordon Hayward's injury, LaMarcus Aldridge's contract extension, how the Lakers need to clear cap space to chase LeBron James and Paul George, the Rick Pitino post-scandal interview, the state of the Chicago Bulls and much more.
Ian Begley: 10/12/17
Ian Begley, the Knicks beat writer for ESPN.com, joins the Woj Pod to discuss the totality and residual damage of the Phil Jackson regime, the Carmelo Anthony exit, the issues surrounding Kristaps Porzingis' future in New York and the pathway for the Knicks to resurrect the franchise's credibility and standing in the NBA.
Tim Connelly: 10/9/17
Denver Nuggets president of basketball operations Tim Connelly joins The Woj Pod to discuss the discovery and emergence of Nikola Jokic, evaluating skill vs. athleticism in the draft process, why trades are hard to make in the NBA, the East-West balance of power and his favorite amusement park vacations as a kid.
Gary Parrish: 9/29/17
Gary Parrish of CBS Sports joins the Woj Pod to discuss the criminal scandal that has rocked the basketball industry, including its impact on the future of college and pro basketball, elite basketball prospects, the possibility of USA Basketball and the NBA taking a greater roll in amateur basketball, Rick Pitino's past, present and future, and much more.
Mitch Kupchak: 9/25/17
Mitch Kupchak joins The Woj Pod to discuss his storied career as Los Angeles Lakers general manager, his dismissal in February, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, Phil Jackson and David Stern's veto of the Chris Paul trade.
Jared Dudley joins The Woj Pod: 9/19/17
Jared Dudley of the Phoenix Suns joins The Woj Pod for a terrific visit on the state of the modern NBA, salaries, the impact of the Golden State Warriors on NBA locker rooms, free agency, playing ball with an old Michael Jordan and a young Greek Freak.
Zach Lowe joins The Woj Pod: 9/8/17
Zach Lowe joins The Woj Pod to discuss NBA Draft Lottery reform, Carmelo Anthony, the Cavaliers plan with the 2018 first-round pick via Brooklyn/Boston, NBA tampering, and Harvey Araton's Hall of Fame weekend in Springfield, Mass.
ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks: 8/31/17
ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks joins the Woj Pod to breakdown the finality of the Celtics-Cavaliers blockbuster trade, examine the behind-the-scenes of the deal, Boston's magnificent rebuild, Cleveland's road in LeBron James' final year and how Isaiah Thomas' future free agency could unfold.
Doris Burke: 8/22/17
Doris Burke joins The Woj Pod and discusses the Cavaliers quagmire, Chris Paul and James Harden in Houston, social consciousness in the NBA vs NFL and much more on the show.
Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey: 8/17/17
Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey joins The Woj Pod to discuss James Harden, Chris Paul, the Rockets ownership sale, risk-taking as a GM, NBA awards, and much more.
Patrick Beverley: 8/3/17
Clippers guard Patrick Beverley joins The Woj Pod to discuss his challenge with the Clippers, his years with Houston, why he wanted a trade from the Rockets, how the NBA has evolved on the court, summer free agency and why he thinks so many players don't play hard enough.
D'Angelo Russell: 7/26/17
Brooklyn Nets guard D'Angelo Russell joins The Woj Pod to discuss his arrival with the Nets, his exit from the Lakers, the ups-and-downs of his brief L.A. career, Magic Johnson's comments upon his departure and much, much more.
Gordon Hayward: 7/24/17
All-Star forward Gordon Hayward sits down with Adrian Wojnarowski for an exclusive and introspective study of the free agent process that led him to leave the Utah Jazz for the Boston Celtics. Hayward goes into great detail about the meetings with Pat Riley and Miami, Brad Stevens and Boston and an emotional final visit with his Jazz teammates. Hayward discusses how he left the Miami visit thinking that he might sign with them, left Boston even more torn and spent the final 24 hours going back and forth between Utah and Boston. Hayward also opens up about how leaving the Western Conference for the East opens up possibilities to become a consistent All-Star.
Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer: 7/23/17
Clippers owner Steve Ballmer joins Adrian Wojnarowski for an extended SportsCenter interview on the Woj Pod. Ballmer discusses the departure of Chris Paul, the Clippers culpability in losing him and the decision to trade the All-Star guards for assets instead of losing him in free agency. Ballmer discusses the lessons learned as an NBA owner, the hiring of Jerry West, competing against the Lakers and the restructuring of his front office around President and Coach Doc Rivers.
The Vertical's Michael Lee joins Woj on the NBA Playoffs: 5/3/17
Michael Lee of The Vertical joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj for an NBA playoffs edition. Michael and Woj breakdown the series', including the epic Isaiah Thomas-John Wall matchup, the Warriors without Steve Kerr, how LeBron James' breaks the spirit of Eastern Conference teams and Michael Lee's historic role in introducing Soulja Boy and Jay Z into the old Cavaliers-Wizards rivalry. All that and a lot more on the Vertical Podcast with Woj.
Erik Spoelstra joins Woj: 4/28/17
Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra joins Adrian Wojnarowski for a visit on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. In a rare extended interview, Spoelstra goes into great detail on the Heat's improbable regular season success, the Big Three era with Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh, his relationship with Pat Riley and why the idea of someday becoming a president/coach in the NBA intrigues him. Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra joins Adrian Wojnarowski for a visit on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. In a rare extended interview, Spoelstra goes into great detail on the Heat's improbable regular season success, the Big Three era with Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh, his relationship with Pat Riley and why the idea of someday becoming a president/coach in the NBA intrigues him. Spoelstra talks about growing up in an NBA family in Portland, playing pro ball in Germany, and the fateful day that Hank Gathers died on the court against his University of Portland team.
Karl-Anthony Towns joins Woj: 4/24/17
Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj to discuss his rapid rise to stardom, his national championship regret at Kentucky, giving up his chance to play USA Basketball to elevate the Dominican Republic national team, and whether he will intercede on the issues separating his mentor Kevin Garnett and Minnesota ownership.
Brett Brown joins Woj: 4/12/17
Philadelphia 76ers coach Brett Brown joins Adrian Wojnarowski for a conversation on the rapid development of Joel Embiid, the elements of coaching that become more important to Brown as he gets older and how he's learned to work with new GM Bryan Colangelo.
CJ McCollum joins Woj: 4/7/17
Portland Trail Blazers guard CJ McCollum joined The Vertical Podcast with Woj. McCollum discussed his partnership with Damian Lillard, the challenges that comes with a $100M contract, his path from a small college to NBA stardom and much more.
Dennis Lindsey joins Woj: 4/6/17
Utah Jazz general manager Dennis Lindsey joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj and discusses in great detail his franchise's research into NBA data on how the league has officiated the franchise over the past few years. Lindsey offers a something rare out from an NBA GM: A detailed, data-driven window into how the NBA's referees have officiated his team in recent years, and why the findings concern the organization. Utah has spent a great deal of time and resources investigating the accuracy of officials' calls against the Jazz --- and how he's a proponent for the NBA to make even more referee data available to teams. Lindsey also discussed the impending free agency of Jazz star Gordon Hayward, the hiring and emergence of Quin Snyder as one of the league's finest coaches, his background working with Gregg Popovich and RC Buford in San Antonio and an amazing childhood growing up with his parents in Texas as part of a household that included dozens of abandoned children whom the Lindsey's took in.
Jeff Van Gundy and Tom Crean join Woj: 3/29/17
Jeff Van Gundy and Tom Crean join Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast to discuss the pronounced and subtle differences between NBA and college coaching, including some great Bill Parcells, Dwyane Wade/LeBron James and Harbaugh brothers stories.
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka joins Woj: 3/24/17
Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. Pelinka lays out the franchise's vision to rebuild the storied organization, including big-game hunting in free agency. Pelinka, who represented Kobe Bryant, talks about his transition from a prominent player agent into the front office. Pelinka talks about his history with the Fab 5 at the University of Michigan, where he took part in three NCAA Final Fours.
Derek Fisher joins Woj: 3/21/17
Derek Fisher joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast for a candid visit on his tenure as New York Knicks coach --- and what's next for him. Fisher detailed his relationship with Knicks president Phil Jackson, the triangle offense, the mistakes he made and lessons he learned as a young coach.
NCAA Tournament and NBA Draft with Jonathan Givony: 3/15/17
Jonathan Givony of Draft Express joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj to break down the NCAA tournament's potential impact on the 2017 NBA Draft. Givony and Woj offer some bracket tips before digging into UCLA's Lonzo Ball, Duke's Jayson Tatum, and many of the stars who'll impact this year's deep NBA Draft. Givony delivers great perspective on how team's weight March Madness in context of a prospect's overall body of work.. Woj and Givony also discuss the Luka Doncic, the 6-foot-8 teenager tearing up the EuroLeague for Real Madrid, a player whom many believe will be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 Draft.
The MVP Race: 3/8/17
Michael Lee of The Vertical joins Adrian Wojnarowski to break down the MVP race (including Westbrook, Harden and Leonard) the impact of Kevin Durant on Steph Curry's season in Golden State, the Coach and Executive of the Year races and much, much more. The Vertical's shoe insider Nick DePaula also joins Woj to discuss the shoe endorsement dynamics of the MVP race, the summer sneaker free agency of Giannis Antetokounmpo and the potential shoe marketing might of UCLA's Lonzo Ball.
Serge Ibaka joins Woj: 3/3/17
Toronto Raptors forward Serge Ibaka visits with Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Ibaka talks about his arrival in Toronto as the potential missing piece on an Eastern Conference championship contender, the run in Oklahoma City with Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden, his journey from the Congo and his summer free agency. All that and more on the The Vertical Podcast with Woj.
NBA Trade Deadline Podcast: 2/24/17
Adrian Wojnarowski and Bobby Marks breakdown the deals of the NBA Trade Deadline, including the future of Paul George in Indiana, Jimmy Butler in Chicago and the Boston Celtics.
Inside the DeMarcus Cousins trade: 2/20/17
Adrian Wojnarowski and Vertical front office insider Bobby Marks break down the DeMarcus Cousins trade in a bonus edition of The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Woj and Marks go inside the process and drama that led to Cousins trade from Sacramento to New Orleans, and what the ramifications will be for both franchises.
Ettore Messina joins Woj: 2/15/17
San Antonio Spurs assistant Ettore Messina joins The Vertical Podcat with Woj. Messina, a legendary European coach, discusses what it's like to work with Gregg Popovich and immerse himself into the unique Spurs culture. Messina talks about his years as Dean Smith's interpreter on the Carolina coach's trips to Italy and his years coaching Micheal Ray Richardson in Italy after his banishment from the NBA for substance abuse. Messina talks about his desire to become the first European-born and raised NBA head coach and what the distinct differences are between coaching in Europe and the United States.
Dwyane Wade joins Woj: 2/13/17
Three-time NBA champion Dwyane Wade joins Adrian Wojnarowski for a probing hour of conversation on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Wade speaks with great candor on his split with Heat president Pat Riley, the building of the Big Three with LeBron James and Chris Bosh and how that free agent coup transformed the powerbase of the modern NBA star. Wade talks of his future with the Chicago Bulls, how he evolved with Heat coach. Erik Spoelstra and why he was so uneasy about climbing into the Banana Boat for the first time.
Julius Randle joins Woj: 2/8/17
Lakers forward Julius Randle joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Randle discusses the influences of Kobe Bryant and Metta World Peace on his young professional career, the intense scrutiny of life as a Kentucky Wildcat, John Calipari and how he's approaching fatherhood with his newborn son after growing up without his father in the household.
Jerry Krause joins Woj: 2/1/17
Legendary Chicago Bulls general manager Jerry Krause joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj for an extensive visit. Krause goes into great detail on the building of the Bulls dynasty, the genius and competitive will of Michael Jordan, MJ's retirement and return, the hiring of Phil Jackson from the Albany Patroons and the dynamic drama of those relationships. Krause goes into great detail on his painstaking processes as a basketball and baseball scout, the lessons Red Holzman taught him on the scouting trail and the most important quality beyond talent that he needed to surround Jordan with on the Bulls (yes, mental toughness) Krause tells of his anxieties on the phone discussing trades with Celtics GM Red Auerbach, the amazing chain of events that led him to making a draft night deal for Scottie Pippen and how as a member of the Phoenix Suns organization in the early 1970's, the organization talked with Bob Knight about becoming the franchise's coach - and why the offer was never made. And finally, Krause talks about his deep desire to be elected into the Basketball Hall of Fame, where he's finalist again in 2017.
Joe Dumars joins Woj: 1/25/17
Hall of Fame player and executive Joe Dumars joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. In his first extended interview since leaving a 14-run as Detroit Pistons GM in April of 2014, Dumars goes deep into his championship run in the 2000's, the turbulent final seasons, the Rasheed Wallace trade that completed a championship team and the Kobe Bryant deal that never happened. Dumars talks about his desire to work as an NBA GM again, what he's learned away from the front office grind and how he'd approach a new challenge. Dumars also talks about his affection for Pistons coach Chuck Daly, his childhood in rural Louisiana and a teenage AAU team that included Dumars, Karl Malone, Benny Anders and Benoit Benjamin.
Isaiah Thomas joins Woj: 1/18/17
Boston Celtics All-Star guard Isaiah Thomas joins Woj on the Vertical Podcast to go inside his spectacular season, watching Patriots quarterback Tom Brady up close, his relationship with his childhood idol Allen Iverson, the NBA stars that he would pay to watch and his belief that he can be a franchise star on a championship-level team.
Jerry Ferrara joins Woj : 1/11/17
Actor Jerry Ferrara joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. Ferrara recounts his love of basketball and the New York Knicks, how the game intertwined in his character, "Turtle", on the HBO show "Entourage" and his prolific history as an adult fantasy camp basketball maven. Ferrara talks about his young days growing up in Brooklyn as a Knicks fan, his relationship with Kristaps Porzingis and his secret desire to take an internship in an NBA front office someday. He talks about his memories of Lamar Odom and Jerry Buss in the tapings of Entourage, the bond of the cast and why the show worked for so long.
Nerlens Noel joins Woj: 1/9/17
The Philadelphia 76ers Nerlens Noel joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Noel discusses his future in Philadelphia, his summer free agency, his thoughts about a possible trade and living through the embarrassment of the Sixers losing streaks and tanks as well as growing up the No. 1 high school prospect in America.
John Hammond joins Woj: 1/4/17
Milwaukee Bucks general manager John Hammond joins the Vertical Podcast with Woj to discuss the drafting and development of Giannis Antetokounmpo, the modernizing of the Bucks franchise, his years under Joe Dumars building the Pistons championship team and his own harrowing life story. All that and much more with John Hammond and Adrian Wojnarowski.
Adrian Wojnarowski's Year in Podcasts: 12/28/16
Adrian Wojnarowski goes inside the 2016 roster of shows on The Vertical Podcast with Woj, telling behind-the-scenes stories on visits with the biggest names in the game as well as answers audience questions. From Adam Silver to Bob Myers, RC Buford and Joel Embiid, Manu Ginobili and Patrick Ewing, Woj takes his audience on a tour de force through the inaugural year of the podcast.
Marc Gasol joins Woj: 12/21/16
Memphis Grizzlies All-Star Marc Gasol joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Gasol and Woj break down the story of Gasol's improbable journey from an oveweight teenager into the best center in the world. All that and more on The Vertical Podcast with Woj.
David Fizdale joins Woj: 12/16/16
Memphis Grizzlies coach David Fizdale joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Fizdale discusses his long journey, from the crossfire of growing up in South Central L.A., to fighting stereotypes often assigned to young African-American assistant coaches, to his partnership with head coach Erik Spoelstra in coaching the Big 3 to two NBA titles in Miami. Fizdale talks about his impressive 18-9 start as the new head coach in Memphis, how his Heat pedigree under Spoelstra and Pat Riley prepared him for the opportunity and his strong feelings about the gun issue in America's cities and towns.
Bobby Marks joins Woj: 12/14/16
Vertical Front Office Insider Bobby Marks joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj to breakdown the start of NBA trade season, including reporting on multiple teams plans and hopes to improve themselves and the players who could be on the move.
Luke Walton joins Woj: 12/8/16
Lakers coach Luke Walton joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj to go inside his coaching influences, Golden State Warriors pedigree and hopes to turn the Lakers back into a destination for free agent stars.
Jamal Crawford joins Woj: 11/30/16
Los Angeles Clippers guard Jamal Crawford joined Adrian Wojnarowski for an entertaining visit on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Crawford talks about his incredible 17 year NBA journey, including stories that include Michael Jordan and Jay Z and Samuel L. Jackson. It's an incredible visit for basketball junkies, truly a must-listen.
Donnie Walsh joins Woj: 11/23/16
NBA legend Donnie Walsh joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj to cover one of this generation's most accomplished basketball lives. From the building of the Pacers franchise around Reggie Miller to the challenges of navigating the New York Knicks under owner James Dolan, Walsh details the triumphs and tribulations of a quarter of a century of running NBA front offices. Walsh covers fascinating territory in his life, including how he nearly accepted a job in Richard Nixon's law firm, and his memories of playing and coaching under Dean Smith at the University of North Carolina.
Draymond Green joins Woj: 11/21/16
Golden State Warriors All-Star Draymond Green delivers an illuminating visit on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Green and Adrian Wojnarowski discuss everything from Green's personal quest to harness his professional and personal volatility, his recruitment of Kevin Durant, his surprising benching on Team USA in the Olympics and his love and history with football. Green talks about his obsession with becoming the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year, the 2016 NBA Finals loss to Cleveland and the power that players possess in building NBA super teams.
Seth Curry joins Woj: 11/16/16
Dallas Mavericks guard Seth Curry visits The Vertical Podcast with Woj to discuss his jagged journey to the NBA, the blessings and burdens of life as MVP Steph Curry's younger brother, growing up playing ball with Muggsy Bogues and much, much more.
Joel Embiid and Brett Brown join Woj: 11/11/16
Philadelphia's 76ers center Joel Embiid and coach Brett Brown join Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast for an extended conversation on the young star's remarkable journey to prominence in the NBA. In one of his first extended interviews, Embiid discusses nearly quitting during his long rehabilitation process, his younger brother's tragic death and for the first time discloses his friendship and line of communication with Tim Duncan. Embiid talks about the flawed stereotypes that Americans have about African players, and the jokes that he has played on people concerning his childhood upbringing. All this and more on Embiid and Brown's visit to The Vertical Podcast with Woj.
Jonathan Givony joins Woj: 11/9/16
DraftExpress' Jonathan Givony joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj to breakdown the early returns on the 2016 NBA rookie draft class, the top prospects for 2017 and the trends in players evaluation throughout league front offices.
Luis Scola joins Woj: 11/2/16
Luis Scola of the Brooklyn Nets joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj for a fantastic visit centered around one of the unique global basketball careers of this era, including his Argentina national team partnership with Manu Ginobili, turning pro at 15 years old and playing with 40-year old ex-NBA players Earl Cureton and John Long, Olympic gold, his role in the NBA-vetoed Chris Paul trade, how the NBA has become more like the NFL in terms of player preparation and much, much more.
D'Angelo Russell joins Woj: 10/26/16
Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell sits down with Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast to discuss life as the No. 2 overall pick, Luke Walton, Kobe Bryant, growing up as a Rajon Rondo fan in Louisville, playing with Ben Simmons in high school and much, much more.
Jerry West joins Woj: 10/19/16
Jerry West joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj for an illuminating visit that ranges from Kevin Durant's recruitment to Wilt Chamberlain, the Showtime Lakers to Kobe-Shaq, to growing up in an abusive home in rural West Virginia.
The Vertical Front Office Insider Bobby Marks joins Woj: 10/12/16
Vertical front office insider Bobby Marks joins Woj to set the table on the 2017 summer free agent market including Chris Paul and Kyle Lowry, the latest on trade scenarios for Sacramento's Rudy Gay and much, much more on the cusp of the 2016-'17 season.
Tim Connelly & Michael Malone join The Vertical Podcast: 10/7/16
Denver Nuggets GM Tim Connelly and coach Michael Malone join Adrian Wojnarowski on the The Vertical Podcast to take listeners inside the GM-coach dynamic in the NBA. Connelly and Malone take Woj inside the dynamic of how the working relationship works, how they try to avoid pitfalls that have doomed other relationships and how they collaborate on ideas and decisions. They talk about how they handle agents, players and ownership in trying to align themselves to build a winning program.
Kendrick Perkins joins Woj: 9/30/16
Kendrick Perkins sits down with Woj for a candid conversation about wanting to bridge the personal divide between his ex-Oklahoma City Thunder teammates, Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, the retirement of his mentor, Kevin Garnett and preparing for his next NBA playing opportunity at 31 years old. Perkins and Woj look over the center's 13 year NBA career, including the 2008 championship season with the Boston Celtics, and his years playing with LeBron James, Paul Pierce, Garnett, Durant, Westbrook and Anthony Davis. Perkins discusses his jump from high school to the NBA and the lessons of professionalism that helped make him such a valuable locker room presence.
Patrick Beverley joins The Vertical Podcast: 9/28/16
Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley joins Adrian Wojnarowski for a powerful visit on the The Vertical Podcast with Woj. In a raw and emotional conversation, Beverley, one of the most intense and relentless players in the league, traces his ferocity to the violent streets of Chicago's west side as a young man. Beverley talks about why he has no almost no friends in the NBA, still finds himself most comfortable in his old neighborhood and details the short list of rival guards whom he thinks are willing to go to-toe with him. Beverley talks about why other guards have failed to displace him as James Harden's backcourt mate and how egos and a lack of trust derailed the Rockets a year ago.
KG edition of The Vertical Podcast with Woj: Brian Scalabrine remembers Kevin Garnett: 9/23/16
In honor of Kevin Garnett's retirement, Brian Scalabrine joins the Vertical Podcast with Woj to take listeners inside his five years in Boston with KG, with stories on his influence, impact and unforgettable imprint on the NBA. Scalabrine details the opponents that KG most disliked, his ferocity within the locker room and why KG's the most unique teammate of his NBA career.
Bryan Colangelo joins The Vertical Podcast: 9/21/16
Philadelphia 76ers President of Basketball Operations Bryan Colangelo joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. In a wide-ranging and insightful interview, Colangelo discusses everything from the Sixers rebuild to the pressure of his family name to his runs as the Suns and Raptors' top executive.
Marques Johnson joins The Vertical Podcast: 9/14/16
Five-time NBA All-Star and actor Marques Johnson joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. Johnson finds context with race and sports in the modern time set against his days at UCLA in the mid-1970's and experiences in the racially-divided 1980's NBA. From his All-Star years in Milwaukee, to the indignities of the Donald Sterling Clippers, to personal tragedy with the drowning of his son, Marques Jr., and the embarking of a successful acting career including his iconic role in White Men Can't Jump, Johnson delivers an entertaining and enlightening visit with Woj.
Nick DePaula, The Vertical's shoe insider: 9/7/16
On the cusp of the Basketball Hall of Fame inductions, Vertical shoe insider Nick DePaula joins Adrian Wojnarowski to explore the sneaker legacies of Allen Iverson, Shaquille O'Neal and Yao Ming. The three transcendent stars have fascinating and intertwined legacies in the shoe industry, creating, maintaining and leaving legacies still resounding across the global landscape.
Guest host Kyle Lowry visits with Villanova coach Jay Wright: 8/31/16
Toronto Raptors All-Star guard Kyle Lowry takes over as the guest host and sits down with his college coach, Villanova's Jay Wright, on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Lowry, a gold medalist for Team USA in the Rio Olympics, visits with Wright on the Villanova campus for a wide-ranging discussion on their relationship, the tumultuous start to Lowry's college career and Lowry's impact with the players on 'Nova's 2016 national championship team. Lowry and Wright engage in an honest, often hilarious conversation that covers over a decade of history together. For Raptors, Villanova and NBA fans, it's a must-listen.
Billy Donovan joins The Vertical Podcast: 8/26/16
In his first extended interview since free agent Kevin Durant left for Golden State, Oklahoma City coach Billy Donovan sat down with Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Donovan goes into detail on the circumstances around Durant's departure, and Russell Westbrook's decision to renegotiate his contract and eliminate his 2017 free agency. Donovan discusses the dynamic among Durant, Westbrook and Serge Ibaka throughout the Thunder's season, and the franchise's run into the Western Conference finals. Donovan describes how the team will be structured around Westbrook and how he envisions the All-Star guard's role within the team structure. Donovan talks about his coaching journey, beginning as a Long Island high school guard playing Pearl Washington in New York, a college guard under Rick Pitino at Providence, and Donovan's own minor league basketball career - as well as the Florida Gators. Donovan goes into detail on transforming from a quiet player into the kind of orator that has made him one of the game's elite coaches.
Billy King joins The Vertical Podcast: 8/24/16
On the doorstep of Allen Iverson's enshrinement into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, former Philadelphia 76ers GM Billy King joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast to go inside the legendary guard's persona and career. King delivers incredible insight and storytelling into the tumultuous and triumphant Sixers run with Iverson. From his battles with coach Larry Brown, the infamous practice press conference, near-trades and scrapes with the commissioner's office, King has some of the most unique insight into the complexities of Iverson. King offers tremendous perspective on Iverson's cultural impact, his fierce loyalty and popularity and his ultimate undoing with the Sixers. King helped build an NBA finalist around Iverson and had the ultimate front-row seat for one of the most fascinating players and periods in NBA history.
The Vertical's Michael Lee and best-selling author Mark Kriegel join The Vertical podcast.: 8/17/16
The Vertical's Michael Lee and best-selling author Mark Kriegel join Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. From Rio, Lee discusses the issues surrounding Team USA and it's uneven performance in these Olympic Games. Lee and Woj discuss why the U.S. team has failed to dominate, and where the blames lies - from coaching staff through the roster. Kriegel joins the podcast to discuss his New York Times best-seller, "Pistol: The Life of Pete Maravich," one of Woj's favorite basketball biographies. Kriegel goes deep into the psyche of Pistol and his father, Press Maravich, and one of American sports' most fascinating father-son partnerships.
Rod Thorn joins The Vertical Podcast: 8/10/16
NBA great Rod Thorn joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical podcast for a wide-open and engaging visit on his 50 years in pro basketball. Thorn tells an array of stories from his days as a tortured All-American in Jerry West's shadow at West Virginia, to the barnstorming days of the NBA, to competing with Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell. Thorn tells of the genius of Julius "Dr. Jr" Erving in his days as a coach with the ABA's Nets, the demons of Marvin "Bad News" Barnes with the St. Louis Spirits and what made Spirits' radio voice Bob Costas so irritating in two-on-two pick up basketball games. Thorn talks about drafting Michael Jordan in Chicago, trading for Jason Kidd in New Jersey and why he fired Byron Scott after back-to-back NBA Finals appearances. The stories keep coming from Thorn on a terrific edition of The Vertical Podcast with Woj.
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist joins The Vertical Podcast: 8/3/16
Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist visits with Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. MKG discusses his journey from the No. 1-rated eighth grader in America to top Kentucky basketball recruit to the No. 2 pick in the NBA Draft, including the loss of his father and a personal battle with stuttering. All this and more with MKG on the Vertical Podcast with Woj.
Doc Rivers joins The Vertical Podcast: 7/28/16
Los Angeles Clippers president and coach Doc Rivers joined Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. In a revealing hour, Rivers reaffirms the franchise's commitment to Blake Griffin, goes inside the franchise's recruitment of Kevin Durant and lays out the vision for the Clippers' building out of its front office infrastructure. Rivers goes into great detail on his relationship with Steve Ballmer, and tells the story of how he threatened to quit his job three weeks into his tenure under Donald Sterling. Rivers discusses how close Paul Pierce is to retirement and the franchise's plans to let Pierce finish his career for one-day elsewhere if he decides to walk away. Rivers goes into detail on his history with Kevin Garnett, his Celtics championships and near-misses and his desire to continue coaching in the NBA.
Chauncey Billups joins The Vertical Podcast: 7/27/16
Five-time NBA All-Star Chauncey Billups joins Adrian Wojnarowski on the The Vertical Podcast with Woj. In a candid and far-reaching conversation, Billups discusses why he turned down the top assistant coaching job with the Orlando Magic this spring, his conflicted emotions over Kevin Durant joining the Golden State Warriors, and how his Detroit Pistons' championship team was the most anti-Super Team of the modern era. Billups discusses how he went about helping Carmelo Anthony to become a leader in Denver, balancing his love for Larry Brown with disillusionment over how Brown was navigating his Pistons departure for New York in the middle of the 2005 NBA Finals series against San Antonio, to the most indelible memories of the Malice at the Palace. Billups also talks about his unique Hall of Fame candidacy as a player who struggled his first several few years in the NBA.
Chris Carrino joins The Vertical Podcast: 7/20/16
Brooklyn Nets radio play-by-play voice Chris Carrino and founder of the Chris Carrino Foundation for FSHD joined Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. Carrino discusses the craft of radio play by play in the New York market and the evolution of the medium. Carrino goes deep into his diagnosis with FSHD, a form of muscular dystrophy that has slowly eaten away at his muscular functions. Carrino talks about hiding the condition for years before finally going public, starting a foundation and raising money for research that has made real medical advances to find solutions.
Spurs GM RC Buford on Tim Duncan: 7/14/16
In an emotional and nostalgic conversation, Spurs general manager RC Buford joins Adrian Wojnarowski to discuss the life, legacy and retirement of Tim Duncan. In his first interview since the retirement of Duncan on Monday, Buford, one of the architects of five Spurs titles, lays out in magnificent detail his emotion over the retirement of one of the NBA's true icons. Buford describes the franchise's coming to terms with his departure, how he impacted daily life in San Antonio and intimate details of a partnership that helped win five NBA titles and over 70 percent of its regular season games over the past two decades. Buford even goes into the process of filing a waiver claim to the league office upon Duncan's retirement. Buford discusses how close the Spurs came to losing Duncan in free agency to Orlando, how the organization worked together with him on important decisions and how Coach Gregg Popovich and Duncan would managed a complicated, sometimes contentious and always loving relationship.
David Griffin joins The Vertical Podcast: 7/13/16
Cleveland Cavaliers general manager David Griffin joined Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. In a wide-ranging discussion, Griffin discussed on the Cavs' improbable championships comeback, LeBron James' imprint on the team and the GM's belief in how the team thrived within crisis. Griffin laid out the process of team building around James, the firing of David Blatt and what he learned about putting together rosters working for a decade and a half with the Phoenix Suns. Griffin talks about his own journey from a PR intern to NBA executive, turning down GM jobs in Memphis and Denver before finally getting the opportunity to run the Cavs. He talked about the community of GM's, the pressures of the job and the scrutiny on the processes of running teams.
Mike D'Antoni joins The Vertical Podcast: 7/12/16
Houston Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni joined Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. D'Antoni goes deep on how he's using his imagination to maximize James Harden's talents, what he's learned is most important in coaching the modern NBA superstar and how the Knicks and Lakers experiences will shape his time with the Rockets. D'Antoni discusses what went wrong with the Knicks and why he ultimately quit the job. D'Antoni goes deep into the Seven Seconds or Less success with the Suns, the emergence of Steve Nash as an MVP and whether he regrets leaving him for New York. D'Antoni talks about his college years at Marshall University, the tragedy that football plan crashed that shaped him and the community and how close he came to accepting the school's coaching job and returning to his alma mater. D'Antoni talks about failing in the NBA as a player, his rebirth in Europe as coach and the impact of Jerry West as a kid growing up in West Virginia.
Jeff Van Gundy returns to The Vertical Podcast: 7/6/16
Jeff Van Gundy joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast to discuss the seismic Kevin Durant free agency move to the Golden State Warriors. Van Gundy and Woj talk about the impact on the Warriors, the NBA and the Thunder --- and what it says about Durant and the league. They compare Durant's move with LeBron James' to the Miami Heat, and the ramifications for the league to have a powerhouse that likely has no peer. They also talk about what OKC should do next --- consider trading Russell Westbrook or not - and what would be possible destinations and packages. They also talk about the influx of money in summer free agency, and how that'll impact teams and locker rooms next season.
Inside the Kevin Durant Free Agency: 6/29/16
The Vertical staff goes inside the Kevin Durant free agency process on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Adrian Wojnarowski visits with The Vertical's Michael Lee, Bobby Marks and Nick DePaula to explore the Oklahoma City superstar's free agency process. Michael and Woj discuss why the hometown Washington Wizards were never serious candidates to lure Durant, and how the Durant-Russell Westbrook relationship factors into Durant's decision. Bobby, the Vertical's front office insider, talks about his days in the Nets front office and helping to prepare presentations for stars such as LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, and how NBA teams go about preparing pitches for players like Durant. DePaula discusses the impact of Durant's Nike partnership on free agency, and how much of a difference playing in a bigger market would make his endorser. DePaula discusses the impact on Golden State MVP Steph Curry and his shoe brand if Durant were to join him with the Warriors.
Ryan McDonough joins The Vertical Podcast: 6/28/16
Phoenix Suns GM Ryan McDonough joins The Vertical Podcast with Adrian Wojnarowski. McDonough discusses the behind-the-scenes of the draft-day trade that brought Dragan Bender and Marquise Chriss to the Suns, how he can sell the Suns as a free agent destination with their burgeoning young core of talent and the frustration of dealing with inaccurate trade reports as a GM. For the first time, McDonough discusses his pursuit of Brad Stevens to coach the Suns prior to Stevens' leaving Butler for the Boston Celtics. He goes into great detail on growing up the son of legendary journalist Will McDonough, how his father's relationship with Bill Parcells has yielded him sage front office advice and how a young generation of NBA GM's keep a particularly close relationship.
BREAKING NEWS: Derrick Rose Traded to Knicks: 6/22/16
Adrian Wojnarowski and Shams Charania of the Vertical discuss the breaking news surrounding the Chicago Bulls trade of Derrick Rose the New York Knicks. Woj and Shams break down the impact of the Rose era in Chicago, and discuss whether the Knicks paid to steep of a price for Rose, who has had marginal value on the trade market. The two Vertical insiders discuss free agent possibilities to replace Robin Lopez at center in New York, including Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah. Nick DePaula, The Vertical's shoe insider, joins Woj in another segment to discuss the impact on Rose's shoe value and Adidas with the move from Chicago to New York.
Jonathan Givony joins The Vertical Podcast: 6/22/16
Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast to breakdown Thursday's NBA Draft. Givony and Woj discuss possible trade scenarios and draft picks as they could unfold Thursday night in Brooklyn - from the lottery through the late first-round. Woj gives insight into draft strategies of teams throughout the lottery - and possible player targets of teams looking to trade out picks for veteran stars. Givony and Woj discuss The Vertical's live draft show on Thursday night and how they'll be bringing the latest draft information to viewers in real time.
Kris Dunn joins The Vertical Podcast: 6/20/16
Providence guard Kris Dunn - one of the top picks in the 2016 NBA Draft - joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. Dunn and Woj discuss Dunn's harrowing journey from a young child conspiring with his brother to evade child services and live alone together while their mother was incarcerated. With great emotion and excruciating detail, Dunn lays out how he had to gamble on pick-up basketball games and play cards to earn money around his housing project - all until his father finally located his kids and brought them to live with him. From that horrific start in life, Dunn transformed himself into an All-American player, a college graduate and now the No. 1-rated point guard in the June 23 NBA Draft.
Sam Presti joins The Vertical Podcast: 6/15/16
Oklahoma City general manager Sam Presti joins Adrian Wojnarowski in studio for an illuminating visit on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. In perhaps the most in-depth interview of Presti's executive career, he discusses the Thunder's vision and hopes for re-signing superstar Kevin Durant, the construction of the franchise's culture and the significant franchise success in the Durant-Russell Westbrook era. Presti goes into great detail on his own journey to becoming the second youngest GM in NBA history, including his musical career at Emerson College, his chance meeting of Spurs GM R.C. Buford and details of his apprenticeship in San Antonio that spawned his career.
Daryl Morey joins The Vertical Podcast: 6/8/16
Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Morey discusses the hiring of Mike D'Antoni and the reason Jeff Van Gundy never received a formal interview for the coaching job, the future of the Dwight Howard-James Harden partnership, and the Sam Hinkie-era in Philadelphia. Morey discusses what promises to be a wild summer of free agency with the rising salary cap, and why he still believes the Rockets are a prime free agent destination.
Bob Myers joins The Vertical Podcast: 6/1/16
Golden State Warriors general manager Bob Myers joins Adrian Wojnarowski on the the Vertical Podcast with Woj. In the aftermath of the Warriors historic comeback in the Western Conference Finals. Myers discusses the inner-workings of the franchise's dramatic series victory over Oklahoma City, including a lengthy conversation on the uniqueness of Stephen Curry as a franchise player and the behind-the-scenes detail on how he leads the organization. Myers talks about the forging of his bond with coach Steve Kerr, and how they navigated Kerr's back injury that caused him to miss a significant portion of the regular season. Myers talks about his reaction to owner Joe Lacob's comments that the Warriors are "light-years" ahead of the rest of the NBA, how his front-office peers league-wide reacted to it. Myers discusses the impact of the Warriors record-breaking 73 victory regular season, and the pressure it put onto the team in the playoffs.
Chris Herren joins The Vertical Podcast: 5/25/16
Chris Herren joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. In a moving and compelling interview, Herren details how basketball stardom - including three years in the NBA - spiraled into a drug addiction that thrust him and his family close to homelessness. Herren lays out horrific details of a junkies life in and out of basketball, and how sobriety has turned him into one of America's most compelling speakers on addiction.
Kenny Atkinson joins The Vertical Podcast: 5/18/16
Brooklyn Nets coach Kenny Atkinson joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast. Atkinson details the challenge of taking over the rebuilding Nets and the emotion of retuning to his New York roots for his first head coaching opportunity in the NBA. Atkinson and Woj discuss Atkinson's long-winding road from Long Island to the University of Richmond to the old Continental Basketball Association to a decade and a half of playing in far-flung European cities and towns until becoming a coach. Atkinson discusses his career crossroads, leaving the New York Knicks bench to go to the Atlanta Hawks where his head coaching candidacy started to take shape. Atkinson grew up one of eight boys in a competitive sports family, sharpening his survival instincts and teaching him the value of relentlessness and tenacity. Atkinson goes into detail on learning about coaching through time spent with Yao Ming, Carmelo Anthony and Al Horford in the NBA.
Kenyon Martin joins The Vertical Podcast: 5/11/16
Kenyon Martin - 15 year NBA pro and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2001 NBA Draft - joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj for a brutally honest and wildly entertaining hour. Martin holds back nothing on his career in the NBA - including famous scrapes, feuds and rivalries. Martin speaks in great detail and candor on growing up with a stuttering problem and how that influenced the confrontational nature of his personality and NBA career. From Tim Thomas to Bruce Ratner to David Stern, Martin speaks openly about a career of never-backing down and never playing it safe. From catastrophic injuries as a college and NBA star, to two NBA Finals appearances to the most improbable draft workout a No. 1 pick ever had, Martin holds back nothing with Woj.
Austin Rivers joins The Vertical Podcast: 5/6/16
An emotional and candid Austin Rivers of the Los Angeles Clippers joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Rivers details his dramatic performance with an swollen and bloody eye in Game 6 of the Western Conference quarterfinal against Portland, including the sudden reversal of how the public and league perceives him. Rivers goes into great detail on the process of joining his father, Doc, with the Clippers, and the stress and complications that put on him and his family. He talks about the process of separating family and business, and how the years apart from his father while Doc coached in Boston impacted their relationship. Austin Rivers goes into detail about his frustrations as a lottery pick in New Orleans who failed to live up to expectations and was essentially given away for nothing. He talks about family tragedy as a young man living in San Antonio, when the Rivers' home was burned down by arsonists and how that impacted them moving forward. Rivers talks about finding a sense of belonging with his Clippers teammates and his future in summer free agency.
Jeff Bower joins The Vertical Podcast: 5/4/16
Detroit general manager Jeff Bower joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Bower discusses the Pistons resurgence and return to the playoffs, executing the vision of coach and president Stan Van Gundy and the franchise's determination to correct the free throw shooting issues of young star Andre Drummond. Bower lays out the details on the implementation of one of the NBA's most elaborate scouting departments in Detroit, and how it dramatically differs from the Mom and Pop operation that he ran in New Orleans. Bower also discusses in detail his time as New Orleans GM, when Hurricane Katrina forced the franchise to spend two seasons in Oklahoma City before returning to New Orleans. Bower talks about his own personal journey, from a rural Pennsylvania kid who wanted to be a high school coach and history teacher to an NBA coach, GM and college head coach."
Harvey Araton joins The Vertical Podcast: 4/27/16
Best-selling author and New York Times writer Harvey Araton joins Adrian Wojnarowski on The Vertical Podcast with Woj. Araton discusses the his long-standing relationship and perspective on Knicks president Phil Jackson and his evolution into the role of running the Knicks. Araton talks about his history covering several incarnations of the Knicks franchise, including Riley-Ewing Knicks, and his best-selling book, 'When the Garden was Eden," on the 1970 and '73 NBA championship teams and how those groups famously integrated themselves into the fabric and community of New York City. Araton is illuminating on the evolution of covering the NBA, including his 1990's book, "The Selling of The Green," on the components of race and the Boston Celtics. From Gregg Popovich and the Spurs as legitimate heirs in the tradition of Knicks legendary coach Red Holzman.
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