Podcasts by On The Ball with Ric Bucher

Can Devin Booker Lead The Suns To A Title? from 2023-12-11T06:02:14

Ric discusses the potential of Phoenix Suns All-Star guard Devin Booker leading the franchise to its first championship, as well as why he believes Super teams constructed by the superstars them...

The Incredibly Shrinking NBA Competitive Spirit from 2023-12-01T07:43:41

Ric discusses what is fueling complaints about in-season tournament rules and examines the Houston Rockets' renaissance under head coach Ime Udoka.

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Recipe For Disaster: Making Your Star the GM from 2023-11-17T21:30:03

Ric examines the result of recent NBA teams who catered to the personnel demands of a star player in order to acquire or retain them.

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The DNA of the Dallas Mavericks' Transformation from 2023-11-09T21:43:08

Ric discusses the surprising start by the Dallas Mavericks this season.

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NBA Season Preview: Every Team's Win Total Predicted from 2023-10-24T21:05:05

Ric discusses the oddsmakers' win total line for all 30 NBA teams and whether to expect them to go over or under their respective lines.

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Zion Update + The Two Best NBA Win-Total Bets from 2023-10-18T21:53:47

Ric discusses the preseason performance of New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson and the win-total predictions for the San Antonio Spurs and Portland Blazers.

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First-Look Takeaways on Warriors and Lakers from 2023-10-11T00:15:31

Ric shares what he saw from the new and old editions of the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers in their first preseason game and where they stand among title-contending teams this seas...

Prime Time from 2023-10-06T08:09:18

Ric discusses the reaction to University of Colorado football coach Deion Sanders.

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Who Won The Lillard Trade And Why from 2023-09-29T06:20

Ric discusses the three-team trade that sent Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks to play with Giannis Antetokounmpo.

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What Team USA Told Us about the NBA from 2023-09-20T17:12:27

Ric discusses why Team USA finished fourth in the recent FIBA World Cup and the ongoing campaign to elevate LeBron James above Michael Jordan.

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The Player Team USA Needs Most from 2023-09-07T20:06:14

Ric discusses the vast difference between NBA and FIBA competition, the challenge directors Grant Hill and Sean Ford faced building the current US team competing in the 2023 FIBA World Cup and t...

Noah Lyles Was Right from 2023-09-01T00:09:16

Ric discusses the performance of Team USA in the FIBA World Cup and US sprinter Noah Lyles questioning the validity of NBA champions being referred to as world champions.

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James Harden Should Be Mad from 2023-08-22T19:20:38

Ric discusses why James Harden called Philadelphia 76ers president Daryl Morey a liar and has demanded a trade, as well as perspective on the San Francisco 49ers' quarterback situation.

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The Kumbaya of Draymond Green and Chris Paul from 2023-08-11T20:20:45

Ric explains why Draymond Green and Chris Paul will be successful as teammates for the Golden State Warriors, why he's not impressed with Aaron Rodgers as a New York Jet and the real reason behi...

Joel Embiid: Troll or Champion? from 2023-07-28T04:10:52

Ric discusses recent comments by reigning MVP Joel Embiid on where he hopes to win a championship and Tracy McGrady comparing himself to the late Kobe Bryant.

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Why the Warriors Chose Draymond Over Jordan from 2023-07-21T06:45:45

Draymond Green punched teammate Jordan Poole in a practice last October. The Golden State Warriors decided this summer to re-sign Green and trade Poole. Ric explains why.

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Wemby Comes To America from 2023-07-14T19:31:52

Ric discusses the NBA summer-league debut of No. 1 pick Victor Wembanyama.

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The Clock is Now Ticking for Giannis from 2023-07-10T06:12:04

Ric discusses the state of American basketball development and the implications of Giannis Antetokounmpo's offseason knee surgery.

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NBA Free Agency and Damian Lillard's Destination from 2023-07-01T22:57:48

Ric discusses NBA free agency and Damian Lillard's request to be traded.

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The Phoenix Suns and the Mythical Big Three Model from 2023-06-19T05:54:47

Ric discusses the acquisition of Bradley Beal by the Phoenix Suns to pair him with stars Devin Booker and Kevin Durant.

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Trade Market Buzz: Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal from 2023-06-16T05:42:32

Ric discusses teams possibly looking to acquire scoring stars Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal.

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NBA Finals: The Series -- not the Teams -- Are Even from 2023-06-07T06:18:58

Ric discusses the Miami Heat's Game 2 win over the Denver Nuggets in the NBA Finals and previews Game 3.

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NBA Finals Preview and a Kyrie Irving Trade Rumor from 2023-06-02T00:24:49

Ric previews the 2023 NBA Finals matchup between the Denver Nuggets and Miami Heat and explores a trade rumor involving Kyrie Irving.

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Why LeBron Did What He Did and Said What He Said from 2023-05-25T22:27:22

Ric discusses how LeBron James performed in Game 4 of the Western Conference finals and his comments afterward about his future.

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Nikola Jokic Is Stepping Up -- and Back from 2023-05-23T00:08:42

Ric discusses two-time MVP Nikola Jokic's performance in, and impact on, the Western Conference finals for the Denver Nuggets.

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The Officiating in the Lakers-Warriors Series from 2023-05-11T01:42:33

Ric discusses the controversy over how the playoff series between the Lakers and Warriors is being officiated.

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The Big Lie About Today's NBA from 2023-05-05T03:59:44

Ric discusses what the playoffs are telling us about the state of the NBA.

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Why Giannis Is Treated Differently from 2023-04-29T23:54:40

Ric discusses Giannis Antetokounmpo's comments after the No. 1 Milwaukee Bucks were upset by the No. 8 Miami Heat, along with other playoff observations.

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The Two All-NBA Selections I Regret from 2023-04-23T04:23:12

Ric discusses who he selected for this year's All-NBA teams and why.

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Choosing This Year's MVP from 2023-04-08T18:39:22

Ric discusses the challenge of filling out his NBA MVP ballot this year.

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Reviewing the Ja Morant Crisis Management from 2023-03-31T01:52:51

Ric discusses how the Memphis Grizzlies handled recent incidents that led to the NBA suspending star guard Ja Morant for eight games due to conduct detrimental to the league.

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Which Voters Actually Favored Nikola Jokic as MVP from 2023-03-09T07:52:03

Ric examines the recent question raised about whether or not racism exists in how NBA MVPs are selected.

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Fixing Load Management & The Larry Bird 3-pt Shooting Argument from 2023-02-25T08:33:09

Ric offers more insight on why load management hasn't been effective in preventing injuries and addresses a recent debate on Larry Bird's worthiness as an all-time great three-point shooter.

Impact of the Trade Deadline Moves by the Suns and Timberwolves from 2023-02-15T23:29:27

Ric discusses the impact of the Phoenix Suns' acquiring Kevin Durant vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves trading for point guard Mike Conley.

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What We Learned From LeBron's Historic Night from 2023-02-12T07:01:11

Ric discusses LeBron James breaking Kareem Abdul Jabbar's NBA all-time scoring record in a 133-130 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

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The Many Elements of an NBA Trade from 2023-02-07T05:20:22

Ric discusses the language used by GMs in trades, the people involved and what inspired the Dallas Mavericks to acquire the Brooklyn Nets' enigmatic guard, Kyrie Irving.

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Hakeem and Embiid: Taking a Compliment as an Insult from 2023-01-27T20:22:06

Ric discusses a recent exchange between Hall of Fame center Hakeem Olajuwon and Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid.

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Making NBA All-Star Voting Matter from 2023-01-22T07:50:09

Ric shares who he voted for as All-Star starters and how he would improve the voting process.

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Are the Atlanta Hawks Still Working off the Warriors' Blueprint? from 2023-01-14T05:40:12

Ric discusses recent front-office changes by the Atlanta Hawks and what inspired them.

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LeBron and the Lakers: Who is Underserving Whom? from 2023-01-09T22:10:02

Ric discusses the state of the Los Angeles Lakers and their relationship with star forward LeBron James.

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Why the Brooklyn Nets Should Scare Everyone -- Including Themselves from 2022-12-30T19:10:24

Ric discusses the Brooklyn Nets' surge in the Eastern Conference and the components that make them dangerous in more ways than one.

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The NBA -- What to Cheer, What to Fear from 2022-12-27T01:25:02

Ric takes stock of the NBA entering the New Year -- what is working, what isn't and how the league could make load management more palatable for fans.

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LeBron, Jerry Jones and The Photo from 2022-12-14T23:59:14

Ric discusses Lakers star LeBron James' reaction to the media not asking him about a photo that shows Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones as a 14-year-old boy in a crowd that prevented his school b...

Steph and Distorting Reality from 2022-12-06T22:24:49

Ric discusses the public reaction to a digitally edited video that shows the Golden State Warriors' Steph Curry making five consecutive full-court shots.

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Has the Warriors' Fence Been Mended? from 2022-12-02T23:29:44

Ric discusses recent events and inside information about the Golden State Warriors as they attempt to move past internal strife to defend their NBA title.

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Giannis, Montrezl and the Ladder from 2022-11-22T05:04

Ric discusses the incident involving Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, Philadelphia 76ers forward Montrezl Harrell and a work crew ladder.

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The Two Sides of Zion Williamson from 2022-11-16T20:24:08

Ric assesses the strengths and weaknesses of New Orleans Pelicans power forward Zion Williamson.

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Why You Should and Shouldn't Believe in the Clippers from 2022-11-11T19:34:33

Ric discusses the reasons to believe in, and question, the Los Angeles Clippers' championship hopes.

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Last Word on Kyrie -- After Watching the Movie from 2022-11-07T20:11:11

Ric discusses Kyrie Irving's suspension by both the Brooklyn Nets and Nike after watching the movie that prompted it, "Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up, Black America."

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Don't Put It All On Kyrie from 2022-11-05T21:24:01

Ric discusses the circumstances that led to the Brooklyn Nets suspending Kyrie Irving for a minimum of five games.

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Why the Lakers Are Where They Are from 2022-10-31T23:19:44

Ric discusses who and what are to blame for the Los Angeles Lakers' 1-5 start, as well as the latest controversy involving Brooklyn Nets' guard Kyrie Irving.

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What Prompted the Devin Booker-Klay Thompson Fracas from 2022-10-27T20:03:18

Ric examines the heated exchange between Phoenix Suns' shooting guard Devin Booker and the Golden State Warriors' Klay Thompson that resulted in Thompson being ejected for the first time in his ...

The Moments That Mattered Monday Night from 2022-10-25T23:39:35

Ric examines several moments from the Nets-Grizzlies, Blazers-Nuggets and Raptors-Heat games that spoke volumes about the players and teams involved.

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LeBron James and Tom Brady Diverge from 2022-10-22T15:50:10

Ric discusses how two all-time great athletes Tom Brady and LeBron James are pursuing their competitive goals at advanced ages and as their careers draw to a close.

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The Lakers' Many Conundrums from 2022-10-17T21:26:19

Ric discusses expectations for LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers as they begin the 2022-23 season by facing the defending champion Golden State Warriors.

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The Warriors' Draymond Green-Jordan Poole Dilemma from 2022-10-12T21:13:08

Ric examines the challenge facing the defending champion Warriors after video leaked of Draymond Green cold-cocking teammate Jordan Poole in practice.

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What Ime Udoka Did and Ben Simmons Said from 2022-09-27T01:29:53

Ric discusses the circumstances and reporting of head coach Ime Udoka's year-long suspension by the Boston Celtics and Ben Simmons' explanation of what did and didn't happen before and after he ...

What Inspired Sarver To Sell & Defending Seahawks Fans For Booing Wilson from 2022-09-22T18:22:26

Ric discusses why Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver announced he is selling the team, NBA win-total lines worth playing and explaining why Seahawks fans felt betrayed by former quarterback Russel...

Why You Should Be Betting on the Raptors & Against the Nets from 2022-09-15T17:58:46

Ric discusses the over-under win total lines set by oddsmakers going into this NBA season and why those for the Nets and Raptors are ripe to be exploited.

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Why the Lakers Need Russ Westbrook -- and he Needs Them from 2022-09-08T21:36:37

Ric discusses the relationship between the Los Angeles Lakers and point guard Russell Westbrook.

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Why Donovan Mitchell Wound Up In Cleveland from 2022-09-04T22:06:01

Ric discusses why the Utah Jazz traded star guard Donovan Mitchell to the Cleveland Cavaliers rather than the New York Knicks.

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How The Game (And I) Have Changed from 2022-08-16T22:33:23

Ric discusses the back story and reaction to recent information he shared about the Brooklyn Nets' Kyrie Irving and Ben Simmons.

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The KD Saga Continues from 2022-08-11T03:04:21

Ric discusses the latest events concerning Kevin Durant and the Brooklyn Nets and the prospects of KD having his trade request fulfilled by owner Joe Tsai.

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Cousy, The Logo, JJ, Draymond, Plumbers and Firemen from 2022-07-28T20:47:07

Ric discusses former NBA player JJ Redick disparaging legendary point guard Bob Cousy and Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green denigrating the 1998 Utah Jazz and Chicago Bulls.

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What To Expect From James Wiseman from 2022-07-25T18:01:05

Ric discusses his and NBA scouts' assessment of Golden State Warriors' center James Wiseman's performance at the Las Vegas Summer League.

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Why Rudy Gobert Got Traded, Why KD Hasn't from 2022-07-18T22:31:47

Ric discusses why former Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert was traded so quickly this summer to the Minnesota Timberwolves while the Brooklyn Nets are struggling to find a deal for disgruntled star K...

First Impressions of Chet Holmgren as a Pro from 2022-07-12T18:27:01

Ric shares his observations watching No. 2 pick Chet Holmgren live in the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas NBA summer leagues.

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Why Kevin Durant Wants Out from 2022-07-01T16:46:36

Ric discusses Kevin Durant's reported request that the Brooklyn Nets trade him.

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Thoughts on Banchero Going No. 1 and Rookies Going at LeBron from 2022-06-26T21:05:09

Ric discusses the Orlando Magic making Duke forward Paolo Banchero the No. 1 pick and two draft picks -- Jaden Ivey and Bennedict Mathurin -- challenging LeBron James.

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Steph Curry: Overrated, Under-appreciated or ? from 2022-06-17T21:43:03

Ric discusses the perception of Steph Curry before and after his performance in the 2022 NBA Finals.

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The Boston Celtics' Missing Piece from 2022-06-15T23:36:46

Ric examines why the Boston Celtics find themselves on the brink of elimination from the NBA Finals.

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No Easy Answers for Steve Kerr and the Warriors from 2022-06-10T22:10:35

Ric discusses the criticism of Coach Steve Kerr's player rotations in the NBA Finals.

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The Warriors Need to get Honest with Themselves from 2022-06-04T18:40:24

Ric examines the Golden State Warriors' comments after their Game 1 loss in the NBA Finals to the Boston Celtics.

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Preview and Predictions for Game 1 of the NBA Finals from 2022-06-02T22:02:11

Ric shares his expectations for the NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics.

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Biggest Takeaways from Celtics-Heat Game 7 from 2022-05-30T19:38:58

Ric discusses all that transpired as the Boston Celtics beat the Miami Heat for the Eastern Conference Finals' title.

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Making Sense of the Celtics-Heat Series from 2022-05-27T22:30:31

Ric examines the dramatic swings in the first five games of the Eastern Conference Finals and what they portend for who will face the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals.

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The Mavericks Learned a Lesson from 2022-05-25T22:23:03

Ric examines how the Dallas Mavericks avoided a sweep in the Western Conference Finals with a Game 4 win and a troubling trend extended by the Golden State Warriors in the loss.

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Messages to Harden and Kyrie Are Far Different from 2022-05-23T06:23:30

Ric discusses the offseason contract decisions faced by the 76ers and Nets about James Harden and Kyrie Irving.

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Bucks and Suns: Why They Fell, Where They Go From Here from 2022-05-16T06:15:26

Ric discusses the Game 7 results that saw the Boston Celtics defeat the Milwaukee Bucks and the Dallas Mavericks upset the Phoenix Suns.

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What Happened to the NBA's Anti-Flopping Crusade? from 2022-05-11T20:04:44

Ric discusses how embellishing physical contact in the NBA, one something the league vowed to penalize, is now being rewarded.

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Draymond & Dillon: Cut from the Same Cloth from 2022-05-05T22:40:43

Ric examines the circumstances leading to the flagrant fouls and ejections of Draymond Green and Dillon Brooks in the first two games of the Warriors-Grizzlies second-round playoff series.

Doc Rivers: The Ultimate Survivor from 2022-05-02T22:38:47

Ric examines the career of Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers and his relationship with the media.

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Lessons Learned from the Nets' Early Exit from 2022-04-29T07:39:41

Ric examines the dynamics that led to the Brooklyn Nets being swept out of the playoffs by the Boston Celtics.

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MJ-Pippen vs. LeBron-Wade vs. KD-Kyrie from 2022-04-23T07:46:53

Ric reacts to recent remarks by Hall of Fame G-F Tracy McGrady about the most skilled pair of teammates in league history.

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One Last Look at You Know Who and the Scoring Title Race from 2022-04-19T20:05:18

Ric examines, for the last time, whether or not LeBron James made scoring a priority this season at the expense of being his overall best for the Lakers.

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The Memphis Grizzlies are in Uncharted Territory from 2022-04-18T06:38:11

Ric examines how and why the Minnesota Timberwolves upset the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 1 of their first-round series.

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The Russell Westbrook Destination That Makes Sense from 2022-04-14T08:21:10

Ric discusses trade rumors involving Lakers guard Russell Westbrook.

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The Difference Between Joel and Giannis from 2022-04-11T03:33:51

Ric discusses recent comments by two of the top MVP candidates, Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid and Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.

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Takeaways from last week's KD-Giannis Battle from 2022-04-02T21:06:49

Ric discusses what we learned from watching Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo battle in the Milwaukee Bucks' overtime win against the Brooklyn Nets.

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Ja Morant and the NBA MVP Race from 2022-04-01T21:22:41

Ric discusses whether or not Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant deserves consideration as the NBA's Most Valuable Player.

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Latest Overblown Outrage: All-NBA Selection Process from 2022-03-30T00:59:57

Ric discusses complaints that Nikola Jokic or Joel Embiid, both MVP candidates, could potentially miss out on first-team All-NBA honors.

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What Prompted the Miami Heat Squabble and What It Means from 2022-03-28T07:30:34

Ric discusses what caused the in-game shouting match between Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, star guard Jimmy Butler and veteran Udonis Haslem and the potential repercussions.

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Is LeBron James Still a Top 10 Player? from 2022-03-25T07:47:36

Ric examines where LeBron James stands currently among the NBA's best all-around players.

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Paralysis By Analysis from 2022-03-22T21:47:10

Ric examines commentary on the reason for Golden State Warriors' Steph Curry's injury involving Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart.

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Player-hatin' Players from 2022-03-16T22:52:49

Ric discusses recent disparaging comments by Los Angeles Lakers big man Anthony Davis about the Phoenix Suns and by former Boston Celtics forward Paul Pierce about Philadelphia 76ers guard James...

What We've Learned about the 76ers So Far from 2022-03-14T17:54:14

Ric examines the Philadelphia 76ers' eight games since acquiring star guard James Harden, including the root of their disappointing performance against Harden's former team, the Brooklyn Nets. Listen

Being Sensitive Is Completely Off-Brand for Russell Westbrook from 2022-03-10T20:34:36

Ric discusses complaints by Lakers point guard Russell Westbrook and his wife Nina that being taunted by fans and media for his struggles on the court are affecting their family off of it.

Can Ja Morant Be The Next Face of the NBA? from 2022-03-07T07:41:26

Ric discusses Memphis Grizzlies' star point guard Ja Morant's path to becoming the next face of the NBA.

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Why Steph Curry is Not the Face of the NBA (Which Is Too Bad) from 2022-03-01T23:19:35

Ric discusses who is and has been -- and maybe will be -- the face of the NBA.

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Zion is Latest Proof that Being a No. 1 Pick Requires More Than Talent from 2022-02-24T09:32:32

Ric examines the last decade of NBA drafts, the No. 1 picks in each and their readiness to handle all that comes with being taken first.

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The LeBron-Bronny Package Deal from 2022-02-21T07:47:29

Ric discusses LeBron James' announcement that he will sign with whichever NBA team acquires his son, Bronny.

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Deciphering the Harden and Simmons Press Conferences from 2022-02-18T20:23:43

Ric examines what James Harden and Ben Simmons said at their first press conferences since being traded for each other by the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets.

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The Difference Between Ben Simmons and James Harden from 2022-02-15T07:19:55

Ric discusses the events that led to the James Harden-Ben Simmons trade.

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Discovering the Joy and Sorrow of Being a Fan from 2022-02-14T08:40:37

Ric discusses what he discovered about being a fan rooting for his hometown Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI.

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A Better Time and Deal for the 76ers to get James Harden from 2022-02-11T19:57:29

Ric examines the blockbuster Ben Simmons-James Harden trade between the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets.

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The Lakers and Nets Have Killed The Big Three Myth from 2022-02-10T08:24:11

Ric examines the state of the Lakers and Nets with their trios of stars and why they don't compare to previous star-laden championship teams.

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Clippers and Blazers Headed In Opposite Directions from 2022-02-08T07:57:28

Ric examines the five-player trade between the Los Angeles Clippers and Portland Trail Blazers last week that not only reflects where they are this season but where they are as organizations. Listen

Making Sense of Trade Rumors and No Suns All-Star Starters from 2022-02-04T07:47:04

Ric sorts through the latest trade deadline rumors and complaints that the Phoenix Suns do not have a starter in the upcoming All-Star Game despite having the league's best record.

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The Otherness Of Giannis Antetokounmpo from 2022-02-02T07:31:43

Ric examines what makes Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo an atypical superstar and how that may be why fans and his peers don't appreciate him as much as they should.

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How Tom Brady's Retirement Decision Impacts LeBron James from 2022-01-31T08:15:40

Ric examines the longevity goals of quarterback Tom Brady and the NBA's LeBron James and how Brady's reported retirement exposes the dilemma James will soon face -- if he isn't facing it already...

Good Vs. Evil: The Grayson Allen-Alex Caruso Story from 2022-01-28T09:21:56

Ric examines Bucks guard Grayson Allen's flagrant foul on Bulls guard Alex Caruso and how their images and reputations informed the public and media reaction to it.

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LeBron and His Non-Pursuit of the All-Time Scoring Record from 2022-01-25T08:38:20

Ric discusses comments made by Steph Curry about his recent shooting struggles and LeBron James on his recent shooting excellence.

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A Tale of Two Coaches from 2022-01-24T08:44:04

Ric discusses back-to-back losses by the Lakers and Warriors to the Indiana Pacers and how their treatment points up the impossible position Lakers coach Frank Vogel finds himself.

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The Challenge -- and Solution -- to Ranking Kyrie Irving as a Point Guard from 2022-01-19T09:23:53

Ric discusses recent comments by several notable NBA players touting Kyrie Irving as one of the all-time great point guards in the history of the league.

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A Shortage of All Stars from 2022-01-18T08:14:37

Ric reveals his 10 All-Star starters and discusses the challenge facing NBA coaches in filling out the remaining 14 roster spots this season.

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Is There Reason To Worry About Steph Curry? from 2022-01-07T17:49:21

Ric discusses superstar guard Steph Curry's recent shooting slump and what it means for the Golden State Warriors.

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Kyrie Irving Returns from 2022-01-06T09:36:03

Ric discusses Kyrie Irving's first game this season and what it means for the Brooklyn Nets going forward.

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There's Something Special Going On In Chicago from 2022-01-04T04:31:46

Ric discusses the Chicago Bulls' rise to the top of the Eastern Conference.

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Stop Blaming Russell Westbrook For Being Russell Westbrook from 2021-12-31T04:05:19

Ric examines the performance by Russell Westbrook for the Los Angeles Lakers.

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Why Some NBA Vets Are Getting Signed And Others Aren't from 2021-12-28T20:51:52

Ric discusses why, with NBA teams scrambling to replace Covid-positive players, certain NBA vets are landing 10-day contracts and others are not getting a call.

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Why Lebron Wanted Russ Westbrook over Buddy Hield from 2021-12-24T02:09:29

Ric discusses the reason why the Los Angeles Lakers traded with the Washington Wizards for Russ Westbrook rather than with the Sacramento Kings for Buddy Hield to help LeBron James pursue anothe...

Why LeBron Wanted Russ Westbrook over DeMar DeRozan from 2021-12-22T09:17:14

Ric discusses what we learned from the Suns' latest dismantling of the Lakers, along with the beef between Mo Harkless and Buddy Hield in the Sacramento Kings' loss to the Golden State Warriors....

Feeling Dell Curry's Joy and Michael Jordan's Pain At The Same Time from 2021-12-17T09:33:18

Ric discusses simultaneously losing his dad -- and former coach -- while seeing his son flourish as an athlete and the deeper understanding all of it gave him on the many ways losing a parent ca...

Who Revolutionized the NBA Game -- MJ, Steph, or...? from 2021-12-14T06:12:26

Ric discusses the debate over who has had a bigger impact on how the NBA game is played, Michael Jordan or Steph Curry.

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Are the 76ers' Title Hopes with Joel Embiid Salvageable? from 2021-12-10T21:56:43

Ric discusses the Philadelphia 76ers' prospects of building a championship team with All-Star center Joel Embiid as the cornerstone.

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Fatherhood and Playing In The NBA from 2021-12-09T03:35:20

Ric discusses the effects of fatherhood on the Golden State Warriors' Draymond Green and the Los Angeles Lakers' LeBron James.

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How Aggressive Should The Warriors Be To Add Another Piece? from 2021-12-07T05:36:30

Ric discusses trade rumors involving the Golden State Warriors and breaks down which ones make sense.

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Time for the Portland Trail Blazers to Realize Who -- and Where -- They Are from 2021-12-03T08:29:58

Ric examines the current state of the Portland Trail Blazers with the ongoing investigation into basketball operations president Neil Olshey.

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What We Learned About the Knicks and Nets From Harden and Randle from 2021-12-02T08:30:01

Ric discusses comments made by the Brooklyn Nets' James Harden and the New York Knicks' Julius Randle before and after the Nets' 112-110 win.

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Which Western Team Can Crash The Suns-Warriors Party? from 2021-12-01T20:46:01

Ric shares thoughts from executives, coaches and scouts on which team in the Western Conference could rise up by season's end and upend the current expectation that the Golden State Warriors and...

Better Built For The Playoffs, Suns or Warriors? from 2021-11-30T09:41:41

Ric examines the two best teams in the NBA right now, the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns, and which one is more likely to come out on top in the playoffs.

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A Wild Lakers' Coaching Change Rumor from 2021-11-29T08:00:51

Ric discusses a text he received that a revolutionary replacement for Lakers coach Frank Vogel has been proposed to owner Jeanie Buss.

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Setting Straight The 'Who Fears LeBron' Debate from 2021-11-25T07:18:27

Ric discusses the recent debate over whether or not players in the NBA fear four-time champion LeBron James.

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In Praise Of Ricky Rubio from 2021-11-24T07:32:21

Ric discusses the half-dozen players, unhappy for one reason or another, who have chosen not to play this season and recognizes the one who has decided to play despite his circumstances -- Cleve...

Did We Just Witness A Lakers' Awakening? from 2021-11-22T09:59:50

Ric discusses the Lakers' 121-116 comeback win over the Detroit Pistons following a skirmish that resulted in LeBron James being ejected from a game for only the second time in his career.

What To Make Of The Milwaukee Bucks So Far from 2021-11-19T09:37:20

Ric examines the slow start by the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks and what it means for their chances of winning a second consecutive title.

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What To Make Of The Warriors So Far from 2021-11-18T09:58:13

Ric examines the Warriors' hot start, including their dominating win over the Brooklyn Nets and whether or not they have what it takes to return to title contention.

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Lonzo Is Ballin' On His Own Terms from 2021-11-16T09:18:49

Ric discusses the development of Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball after rough stops in LA and New Orleans on his NBA journey.

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How Ben Simmons Can Get His Wish from 2021-11-15T09:34:21

Ric discusses Ben Simmons' desire to be traded by the Philadelphia 76ers and what he can do to help make that happen.

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The Big Man Returneth? from 2021-11-12T09:44:18

Ric discusses a potential shift in the NBA small-ball revolution.

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Why The Nikola Jokic-Markieff Morris Altercation Happened from 2021-11-10T08:35:13

Ric breaks down the circumstances that led to Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic and Miami Heat forward Markieff Morris exchanging blows in the Nuggets' 113-96 win that resulted in Jokic receivi...

In Search Of The Brodie from 2021-11-08T09:07:54

Ric discusses the career and current state of the Lakers' struggling star point guard Russell Westbrook and the most shocking element missing from his game.

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The Challenge In Taking Down An NBA Owner from 2021-11-05T07:17:35

Ric discusses ESPN's investigative story accusing Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver of misogyny and racism, the possible rise in the mid-range game's value and the Lakers' latest loss to the Okla...

Ben Simmons, The 76ers and Mental Health from 2021-11-04T10:11:58

Ric discusses Ben Simmons' fractured relationship with the Philadelphia 76ers and reports that Simmons is being treated for mental health issues.

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What Marcus Smart Said and What He Meant from 2021-11-03T09:04:48

Ric discusses Marcus Smart's comments after the Boston Celtics' meltdown loss to the Chicago Bulls, specifically his comment that stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown "don't want to pass the ball...

Deciphering What Marcus Smart Said from 2021-11-03T08:40:47

Ric discusses Marcus Smart's comments after the Boston Celtics' meltdown in losing to the Chicago Bulls, specifically his assertion that team stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown "don't want to p...

The Referees Are Not The Ones Holding Back James Harden from 2021-11-02T08:28:03

Ric discusses the new rules interpretation by NBA referees this season that has resulted in some of the league's top scorers shooting fewer free throws and averaging fewer points -- while others...

Are The Warriors And Heat For Real? from 2021-11-01T08:14:31

Ric discusses the hot starts by both the Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat and which is better equipped to continue their early winning ways.

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Why Getting The No. 1 Pick Isn't All That It's Cracked Up To Be from 2021-10-31T08:05:24

Ric discusses the recent history of the NBA No. 1 pick and how the influences on who a team selects goes far beyond who the best player may be.

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The Lakers, Knicks and Bulls Just Showed Us Who They Are from 2021-10-29T08:43:41

Ric discusses what we learned from the Lakers' most recent performance, as well as the Eastern Conference battle between the Knicks and Bulls.

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Exactly The Kind Of Win The Lakers Needed from 2021-10-27T08:34:30

Ric examines the crisis averted and hope inspired by the Lakers' overtime win against the San Antonio Spurs without LeBron James.

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What To Make Of The Chicago Bulls' Hot Start from 2021-10-26T07:38:33

Ric examines the Chicago Bulls' first 4-0 start since the days of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen and what it means for the Bulls' prospects this season.

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Dwight Howard Has Every Reason To Be Salty from 2021-10-25T08:32:42

Ric discusses the source of the blow-up between Lakers' big men Dwight Howard and Anthony Davis, as well as the one potential flaw he sees in his choice of the Phoenix Suns repeating as Western ...

The Tragic Connection Between Kobe and Vince Carter's Documentary from 2021-10-22T09:45:24

Ric discusses with Burton Chawla, NBA "connector" and head of sports for Lineage Digital, the making of Vince Carter's documentary, "Legacy," as well as the Ben Simmons' predicament in Philadelp...

The Tragic Connection Between Kobe Bryant and the Vince Carter Documentary from 2021-10-22T07:43:17

Ric discusses the making of Vince Carter's documentary, "Legacy," with NBA connector and Lineage Digital executive Burton Chawla, along with who is to blame for the Ben Simmons' predicament in P...

New Pieces, Same Old Ways For The Knicks from 2021-10-21T08:36:19

Ric discusses the Knicks' season-opening double-overtime win against the Boston Celtics and what it revealed about how Coach Tom Thibodeau plans to use his upgraded roster.

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What We Learned On Opening Night from 2021-10-20T08:03:56

Ric examines the performances in the Milwaukee Bucks' decisive win over the Brooklyn Nets and the Golden State Warriors out-dueling the Los Angeles Lakers to open the 2021-22 NBA season.

S...

Best and Worst Bets For The 2022 NBA Awards from 2021-10-19T07:14:25

Ric examines the oddsmakers' picks for this season's individual NBA awards -- MVP, Most Improved, etc. -- and analyzes which ones make the most and least sense.

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The Two Teams That Will Meet In The 2022 NBA Finals from 2021-10-18T06:25:42

On the eve of the 2021-22 NBA regular season, Ric discusses who his favorites are to meet next June in the Finals.

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Nepotism In The NBA -- It's Everywhere But Is It Wrong? from 2021-10-15T06:32:28

Ric discusses Zaire Wade, son of former NBA star Dwyane Wade, signing with the Salt Lake City Stars, the G League affiliate for the Utah Jazz, a team in which his father has an ownership stake.<...

Deciphering The Latest Kyrie Irving Machinations from 2021-10-14T07:34:50

Ric discusses the reported moves by the Brooklyn Nets involving Kyrie Irving, as well as Irving's latest statements on social media about where he stands and why.

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On The Ball PSA from 2021-10-11T06:47:06

Ric explains why he's taking a brief hiatus and will resume recording in a couple of days.

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Why NBA Players Would Risk Jail For A Few Thousand In Insurance Money from 2021-10-08T08:25:31

Ric discusses the New York Times' report that 18 former NBA players have been charged with bilking the NBA's health and welfare program for $2.5 million in fictitious medical and dental expenses...

Being The Best Player On A Bad Team Has Been Good To Bradley Beal from 2021-10-07T08:03:50

Ric discusses the validity of Bradley Beal's ranking as the second-best shooting guard in the NBA entering the 2021-22 season.

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It's Past Time For The Nets To Move On from 2021-10-06T08:44:44

Ric discusses the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Kyrie Irving's availability for the Brooklyn Nets this season and how that impacts their championship aspirations.

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Things I Love About The NBA Right Now from 2021-10-05T07:05:41

Accused by a listener of being too negative, Ric offers a random, off-the-cuff list of things he loves about the NBA.

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Player Empowerment: Is It Making The NBA Better or Worse? from 2021-10-04T08:47:49

Ric discusses the seeming uselessness of NBA preseason games and Warriors forward Draymond Green's defense of teammate Andrew Wiggins' short-lived anti-vaccination stand.

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What the Embiid-Simmons Muddle Tells Us About The 76ers from 2021-10-02T09:26:17

Ric discusses the discovery by Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid that his fellow All-Star and teammate, Ben Simmons, no longer wants to play with him.

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The Lakers Are Painting The Most Perfect Picture from 2021-09-30T07:10

Ric discusses comments by Russell Westbrook, Anthony Davis, LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony about how they see their respective talents fitting together in their first season together as Los An...

The Truth Just Set Jonathan Isaac and Jason Kidd Free from 2021-09-29T09:51:25

Ric finds commonality in Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac's explanation as to why he has declined getting vaccinated and Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd's view of how Mavs star Luka Doncic...

NBA Media Day: Equal Parts Promising and Depressing from 2021-09-28T07:50:48

Ric breaks down what he took from comments made on the start of NBA training camp by a variety of stars, including Kawhi Leonard, Zion Williamson, Kyrie Irving, Andrew Wiggins and Bradley Beal.<...

What Do NBA Players Want And How Do They Plan To Get It? from 2021-09-27T09:30:37

Ric discusses the issue of unvaccinated NBA players on the eve of the 2021-22 season.

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How The NBA Plans To Eliminate Non-Basketball Moves from 2021-09-24T07:21:40

Ric discusses what he learned in a call and video session with Monty McCutcheon, the NBA head of referee development and training, about how the league hopes to curb offensive players from laun...

Diving Into The Minnesota Timberwolves' Mess & Fighting Revisionist History from 2021-09-23T08:42:12

Ric details the dysfunction laid bare by the the Minnesota Timberwolves firing team president Gersson Rosas and balks at revisionist history with both Warriors forward Draymond Green and Pelican...

Why Comparing Draymond Green to Ben Simmons Is An Insult from 2021-09-22T07:05:21

Ric discusses comments made by Warriors owner Joe Lacob about the team's interest in Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons, comparing him to his incumbent defensive star, Draymond Green.

Su...

A Dose Of Reality For Both Ted Lasso And The Warriors from 2021-09-21T08:12:07

Ric discusses his disappointment in Season 2 of the comedy series, "Ted Lasso," and the sobering announcement from the Warriors on the status of Klay Thompson and James Wiseman.

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Why Moving Ben Simmons May Take Longer Than Expected from 2021-09-20T09:19:37

Ric examines the dynamics facing the Philadelphia 76ers in moving disgruntled point guard Ben Simmons, along with the video clip of star Kawhi Leonard looking unhappy at the ground-breaking cere...

LeBron James Is Not Moving To Power Forward -- Nor Should He from 2021-09-17T07:01:22

Ric examines a variety of curious social media posts and reports by or about Kyrie Irving, Russ Westbrook, LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

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Why Dennis Schröder Might Still Find That Bag And Zion Could Be Packing His from 2021-09-16T07:44:27

Ric discusses Dennis Schröder's chance of landing a big-money deal next summer and the odds of Pelicans star Zion Williamson staying in New Orleans.

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Another Ben Simmons Trade That Makes Sense And The Vaccine Mandate Stand-off from 2021-09-15T07:22:35

Ric offers another sensible trade for disgruntled 76ers guard Ben Simmons and discusses the potential source and fallout of the players union's refusal to accept a league mandate that all player...

A Proposed Ben Simmons' Trade Sixers' Fans Will Hate -- But Makes Sense from 2021-09-14T07:58:58

With training camp less than two weeks away, Ric offers his assistance to the 76ers in moving their unhappy star point guard, Ben Simmons, for the aggressive offensive point guard they need.

Top 75 NBA All-Time Greats List Completed from 2021-09-13T06:27:43

Ric fills the final seven spots in his list of 75 all-time NBA greats in its first 75 seasons by selecting the last seven additions to the 2006-07 to 2020-21 era.

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Selecting the NBA's Greatest Players From 2006-07 to 20-21 from 2021-09-10T08:42:35

Ric nears completion of his list of the 75 all-time greatest players in NBA history, naming 8 of the 15 in the final era from the '06-07 to '20-21 seasons.

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Dissecting Why Players Discount LeBron's Accomplishments from 2021-09-09T08:35:53

Ric examines recent comments by former players Rasheed Wallace and Paul Pierce about current star LeBron James that suggest he is overrated, a criticism LeBron seems subject to from players more...

The Naismith Hall Of Fame: Where Basketball And Business Collide from 2021-09-08T05:59:17

Ric discusses the 2021 Class of Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame members and the struggle to produce an annual class of inductees while protecting the Hall's integrity at the same time.

Su...

The Kyrie Vs. Steph Debate, Examined In Full from 2021-09-07T08:46:35

Ric discusses the recent debate over which star point guard is more skilled, the Brooklyn Nets' Kyrie Irving or the Golden State Warriors' Steph Curry.

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How Much Better Are The Nets Now? from 2021-09-06T08:21:22

Ric examines the offseason moves the Brooklyn Nets have made and whether or not they make them the team to beat in the Eastern Conference.

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How Much Better Are The Nets Now Than A Year Ago? from 2021-09-06T08:12:26

Ric examines the offseason moves by the Brooklyn Nets and whether or not they make them the team to beat in the Eastern Conference.

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Why There Is No NBA Hard Knocks Show -- Anymore from 2021-09-03T08:39:14

Ric answers LeBron James' question about why the NBA does not have a show like the NFL's "Hard Knocks," by revealing both that it has and the dynamics between the two leagues that make going beh...

The 15 All-Time Great NBA Players From the 1991-92 to 2005-06 Era from 2021-09-02T09:11:31

Ric continues his selection of 15 all-time great NBA players from each of five 15-season eras by identifying the final six for the 1991-92 to 2005-06 era.

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Leaving The Top 50 Alone & Picking A Top 75 By Era from 2021-09-01T07:58:01

Ric offers an alternative to selecting a brand-new Top 75 All-time great players in conjunction with the league's 75th anniversary celebration -- distributing the top 50 among four 15-season era...

The Three New Names At The Head Of The Line For The Top 75 from 2021-08-31T07:48:34

Ric discusses the upcoming selection of the NBA's Top 75 players and offers the three new names that should be added first, along with one oversight from the first 50. He also provides a formula...

Breaking Down The Blazers-Bulls-Cavs Trade And Rajon Rondo's Return To The Lakers from 2021-08-30T06:55:22

Ric discusses what the Bulls, Cavs and Blazers gain from their recent three-way trade and whether or not Rajon Rondo can deliver for the Lakers what he could not for their crosstown rival, the C...

Why It Makes No Sense For Damian Lillard To Leave Portland -- At Least For Now from 2021-08-27T07:25:16

Ric examines the innuendo that Damian Lillard may want out of Portland and the belief by some that he should leave because he has been underserved by the Blazers' organization.

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The Value And Danger In Selecting An NBA Top 75 Team from 2021-08-26T08:48:30

Ric discusses the NBA's plan to select a list of the league's top 75 players as part of its 75th anniversary plans and why anniversary celebrations seem to come along at a convenient time in the...

The Oddsmakers Don't Believe In The Nets As Much As You Think from 2021-08-25T08:09:17

Ric breaks down the over-under lines set for every NBA team's win total next season and what they tell us about who is expected to rise, fall off and be in the playoff picture at season's end. Listen

Does LeBron See What Kobe Saw? from 2021-08-24T07:55:32

Ric discusses a shift he sees in LeBron James' approach to his rivals -- a shift that he also witnessed Kobe Bryant make toward the end of his career.

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Making Sense Of The Nonsensical Opening Odds On The Next NBA MVP from 2021-08-23T06:49:27

Ric discusses Dallas Mavericks' star Luka Doncic once again being the preseason favorite to win MVP -- and breaks down why there are a host of players who make more sense.

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College or the G League -- Which Is Better Prep For The NBA? from 2021-08-20T08:00:17

Ric explains why his view has changed on what better prepares a high school player for the NBA -- going to college or directly to the G League -- and reviews what playing in the G League did and...

What Really Inspired the KD-Draymond Beef from 2021-08-19T07:45:58

Ric examines the recent conversation between Draymond Green and former teammate Kevin Durant, their infamous in-game beef and what they did and didn't address.

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Can Joel Embiid Lead The 76ers To A Title? from 2021-08-18T07:55:31

Ric examines the 76ers betting their future on center Joel Embiid by extending his contract through the 2026-27 season, reviews the Christmas Day schedule and shares which core he'd rather have ...

Setting Realistic Expectations For The Warriors This Season from 2021-08-17T08:02:18

Ric examines the history of the Warriors, the part that good fortune has played in their success, and measures the chances of the current squad regaining the form that resulted in five trips to ...

The Clippers' Latest Trade Makes Sense -- And Might Even Work from 2021-08-16T08:20:40

Ric examines the reported trade sending Patrick Beverley, Rajon Rondo and Daniel Oturu to the Memphis Grizzlies for Eric Bledsoe and why the Los Angeles Clippers had to make it.

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The Nets Are Going All-In On Winning An Analytics-Driven Title from 2021-08-13T09:07:07

Ric examines the offseason moves by the Brooklyn Nets, which suggest big men are not essential for winning a championship.

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Cade Vs. Jalen: Did The Pistons Make The Right Choice? from 2021-08-12T08:24:23

Ric examines the first Summer League battle between No. 1 pick Cade Cunningham vs. No. 2 pick Jalen Green and whether or not Cade justified his No. 1 selection. Also: an assessment of Brad Steve...

How High Can The Bulls Fly? from 2021-08-11T08:46:52

Ric examines the offseason moves by the Chicago Bulls and what it means for their place in the Eastern Conference next season. Also: questioning the urgency to anoint Luka Doncic the face of the...

The Knicks Might Need To Take A Step Back, But Will Tom Thibodeau Let Them? from 2021-08-10T09:07:53

Ric discusses how the Knicks have upgraded their roster, putting the onus on coach Tom Thibodeau to manage minutes and play a deeper rotation -- something he has long avoided. Also: Kendrick Per...

Has The Window Already Closed On The World Overtaking Team USA? from 2021-08-09T07:16:29

Ric looks at the dynamics that closed the gap between Team USA and other national teams and why the pendulum may be swinging back the other way. Also: why coach Gregg Popovich had reason to feel...

What Does Kyrie Irving Want? from 2021-08-06T06:01:27

Ric has a conversation with award-winning magazine writer Matt Sullivan, author of "Can't Knock The Hustle: Inside the Season of Protest, Pandemic, and Progress with the Brooklyn Nets' Superstar...

Jrue To The Rescue Again from 2021-08-05T07:21:34

Ric breaks down who and what was most responsible for Team USA's slow start against Team Australia, as well as their eventual decisive win, to advance to the gold medal game at the Tokyo Olympic...

Why The Lakers Are Sure To Be A Soap Opera -- And Why Steph Curry Isn't from 2021-08-04T06:42:29

Ric examines the what the Lakers have assembled around LeBron James and Anthony Davis and why Steph Curry didn't think twice about staying with the Golden State Warriors.

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NBA Free Agency: Not Every Deal Was As Good As It Sounded from 2021-08-03T08:24:24

Ric reviews the deals made on the opening day of NBA free agency and separates the teams that won the headlines from those who may have made the shrewdest deals. Also discussed: how contracts an...

What Team USA Is Up Against, What It Has Overcome from 2021-08-02T07:40:52

Ric discusses the dimensions of international play, from the size of the ball to the court and how it impacts NBA players, as well as Team USA's decisive win over the Czech Republic to reach the...

Where The Westbrook Trade Impacts The Lakers Most from 2021-07-30T08:22:14

Ric examines the impact of the Lakers acquiring Russell Westbrook from the Washington Wizards and landing spots for Lakers free agent point guard Dennis Schröder.

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Are The Bucks Really NOT A Super Team? from 2021-07-29T08:19:23

Ric looks at how the champion Milwaukee Bucks were formed, how much owners Marc Lasry and Wes Edens have spent on the roster and lays out why they are indeed a small-market team but not operatin...

The Truth Serum That Is International Basketball from 2021-07-28T08:16:26

Ric looks at Team USA's confidence-restoring win over Iran and how international play separates the NBA players capable of functioning anywhere with anyone and those who are specifically suited ...

Making Sense Of The Point Guard Carousel from 2021-07-27T07:16:11

Ric shares what he's heard about possible destinations for the Philadelpia 76ers' disenfranchised star, Ben Simmons, and Raptors free agent Kyle Lowry, and the possibility of them trading places...

France Just Took Team USA Back To The 90s from 2021-07-26T07:23:12

Ric examines the dynamics that led to France beating Team USA in its first Tokyo Olympics game and the prospects for Team USA still winning a fourth consecutive gold medal.

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The Suns Lived By The Mid-Range -- And Died By It from 2021-07-23T08:27:57

Respect for the value of mid-range shots surged in the Finals, but Ric details how the Bucks turned the series in their favor by forcing the Suns to get the bulk of their offense off them. Also:...

Are Chris Paul or Russ Westbrook The Upgrade The Lakers Need? from 2021-07-22T08:27:11

Ric examines rumors of the Lakers moving on from free agent point guard Dennis Schröder and going after Chris Paul or Russ Westbrook and the pros and cons of either acquisition. Also: a look at ...

Giannis Is Exactly The Kind Of Champion We Need Right Now from 2021-07-21T08:59:52

Ric discusses the Bucks clinching the 2021 NBA title with their Game 6 win over the Suns and what Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo taught us with his performance.

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The Commotion Surrounding the Blazers and the US National Team from 2021-07-20T09:15:17

Ric examines the state of the Portland Trail Blazers since its star Damian Lillard expressed his frustration with the roster. Also: a look at why the US National Team is having problems fielding...

The Curious Campaign For Khris Middleton As Finals MVP from 2021-07-19T07:03:02

Ric examines the push that already has begun by current and former NBA players for the Bucks' Khris Middleton as Finals MVP and the false reality that some Phoenix Suns players may be entertaini...

The Clippers With (And Without) Kawhi from 2021-07-16T08:39:10

Ric examines the prospects of Kawhi Leonard returning to the Clippers, their prospects now that he's had knee surgery and speculative answers as to why it took so long to identify his injury. Pl...

How And How Not To Take Ownership Of A Loss from 2021-07-15T07:56:30

Ric discusses the Bucks 109-103 win over the Suns to tie their NBA Finals' series at 2 games apiece and the disparate responses by Phoenix stars Chris Paul and Devin Booker on the reasons for th...

Ben Simmons' Trade Rumors, Argentina Okeydoke, Golf Claps For Giannis from 2021-07-14T07:29:21

Ric breaks down the places that do and don't make sense for the 76ers' Ben Simmons to land, Team USA's convincing win over Argentina and the tepid appreciation from other NBA players for what Gi...

A Deep Dive Into Stephen A., Interpreters And Devin Booker from 2021-07-13T07:03:57

Ric discusses comments by ESPN's Stephen A. Smith about MLB star Shohei Ohtani and the Nigerian basketball team and assesses Suns' guard Devin Booker's overall game.

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The Bucks and Team Nigeria Both Won -- And They Weren't Flukes from 2021-07-12T08:15:40

Ric examines both the dominant Game 3 win by the Milwaukee Bucks over the Phoenix Suns in the NBA Finals and Nigeria's exhibition upset of Team USA and explains why neither win should be viewed ...

Giannis Raises His Bar, Bucks Drop Their Guard from 2021-07-09T09:04:38

Ric examines what Giannis Antetokounmpo's virtuoso performance in Game 2 means for his overall growth and pinpoints why it wasn't enough to prevent the Suns from taking a 2-0 series lead in the ...

It's Too Late For Chris Paul To Crack The Top Five All-Time Point Guard List from 2021-07-08T07:12:23

Ric dives into the debate over where Chris Paul stands among all-time point guards now that he's reached his first NBA Finals and has a chance at his first title.

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Four Moves The Bucks Have To Make For Game 2 from 2021-07-07T07:24

Ric examines how the Bucks lost Game 1 of the NBA Finals to the Phoenix Suns despite the return of Giannis Antetokounmpo and the adjustments needed to avoid the same result in Game 2.

Sup...

Why The Bucks Are Better Off Without Giannis -- For Now from 2021-07-06T08:25:37

Ric examines how the Milwaukee Bucks could be better off starting the NBA Finals against the Phoenix Suns without two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo but why they need him to win the series.

Headlines Gone Wrong And Trae Young's Decision To Play from 2021-07-05T08:04:17

Ric discusses the unsung hero of the Bucks' Game 6 win over the Atlanta Hawks to advance to the NBA Finals and examines whether or not the Hawks would've been better served if star guard Trae Yo...

There's A Simple Solution To Flopping -- If The NBA Wants One from 2021-07-02T08:24:03

Ric examines the Bucks' controversy-free win over the Hawks in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals and speculates why the NBA hasn't tried harder to eliminate flopping.

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The Clippers Dared CP3 To Beat Them -- And He Took That Personally from 2021-07-01T08:37:49

Ric examines how the Phoenix Suns closed out the Los Angeles Clippers to win the Western Conference title and advance to the NBA Finals.

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Making Legends Out of One-Night Wonders from 2021-06-30T08:12:11

Ric discusses the recent propensity to elevate stars to legendary status too quickly -- the Bucks' Khris Middleton being the latest example -- and how it overshadows how these playoffs have unfo...

Polarizing P Strikes Again from 2021-06-29T07:27:05

Ric discusses the performance of the Clippers' Paul George in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals, how it was a microcosm of his uneven postseason track record and what might be behind his e...

Ty Lue Pulls All The Right Strings Once Again from 2021-06-25T08:36:40

Ric examines the lineup changes and strategic twists Clippers coach Ty Lue utilized to win Game 3 against the Phoenix Suns despite the return of All-Star point guard Chris Paul. Also: an update ...

It Took A Team Effort For The Bucks To Lose This One from 2021-06-24T08:17:14

Ric examines the Atlanta Hawks' win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals and explores the reasons why the Bucks' performance bothered him.

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Chris Paul's Return Could Be Just What The Clippers Need from 2021-06-23T08:29:40

Ric discusses the impact of Cameron Payne starting in place of quarantined Chris Paul in the Games 1 and 2 of the Western Conference Finals against the Phoenix Suns, and how Paul's pending retur...

Thoughts On John Stockton from 2021-06-22T07:02:48

Ric shares his experience covering John Stockton during his legendary run with the Utah Jazz and the harsh reaction to Stockton's participation in a documentary questioning the response to the C...

The One Ingredient That The Hawks, Bucks, Clippers and Suns Have In Common from 2021-06-21T08:03:48

Ric looks at the four teams that have reached the conference finals and the key ingredient that has allowed them to advance. Also discussed: the hard reality Ben Simmons has to face if he has an...

The Nets Take Reggie Miller's Suggestion And Giannis Comes To His Senses from 2021-06-18T08:52:15

Ric examines the elements that led to the Bucks' decisive Game 6 win over the Brooklyn Nets, what to look for in Game 7 and provides some insight on Rick Carlisle's decision to leave the Dallas ...

Chalk Up Huge Victories for the Hawks, Clippers And Team Basketball from 2021-06-17T08:39:26

Ric discusses the monumental collapse by the 76ers and the gutsy performance by the Clippers without Kawhi Leonard. Also addressed: Derrick Rose and his place among free-agent point guards.

KD Was Right: No One Should Compare Him To Giannis from 2021-06-16T08:03:28

Ric provides insight into the relationship between young star Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks, as well as a breakdown of what Kevin Durant did in Game 5 against the Milwaukee Bucks and, con...

Ben The Invisible, Batum The Resourceful from 2021-06-15T07:59:43

Ric takes exception to the 76ers' loss in Game 4 to the Atlanta Hawks being blamed on center Joel Embiid and examines Philadelphia's absence of a floor leadership despite having Ben Simmons on a...

Did Nikola Jokic Deserve To Be Ejected And Is Giannis Antetokounmpo Next? from 2021-06-14T08:17:48

Ric examines the circumstances that led to MVP Nikola Jokic being ejected from Game 4 of the Suns-Nuggets series and calls for Giannis Antetokounmpo to be punished for Kyrie Irving landing on hi...

Is Giannis Exercising His Superstar License? from 2021-06-11T08:21:01

Ric discusses the shot selection and offensive decisions Giannis Antetokounmpo made in the Milwaukee Bucks' 86-83 over the Brooklyn Nets and questions if they are congruent with Coach Mike Buden...

The Troubling Reality Reflected By This Year's NBA MVP Race from 2021-06-10T08:18:13

Ric takes a look at the entire list of players who appeared on one of the 101 MVP ballots and makes a disturbing discovery: only one is American-born and developed and under 30.

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Salty Subjects: Giannis Free Throws, Lemon Pepper Lou and Jazz Owner Dwyane Wade from 2021-06-09T08:33:14

Ric discusses an array of topics that are bothering him among the sights and scenes in the NBA Playoffs so far. Also broached: the series where the three-point shot could be the biggest factor.<...

Kristaps' Complaint Should Not Be A Surprise from 2021-06-08T07:24:53

Ric discusses Mavericks' forward Kristaps Porzingis' complaint that he's not getting star treatment in Dallas and looks at the Bucks facing the same dilemma the Clippers did in the first round -...

Ty Lue's Guts Got The Clippers To The Second Round from 2021-06-07T08:34:13

Ric examines the dramatic changes Clippers coach Ty Lue made to his starting lineup and playing rotation through the course of the team's successful seven-game series against the Dallas Maverick...

Is There A Connection Between Inefficiency and Injuries In The NBA? from 2021-06-04T08:25:50

Ric examines the elements that led to the defending champion Lakers being eliminated by the Phoenix Suns in the first round, a possible connection between injuries and inefficient play and takes...

A Coaching Carousel Reverie And Assessing How The Clippers Lost Game 5 from 2021-06-03T07:47:02

Ric discusses a potential name for the Boston Celtics' opening that is not on the oddsmaker's list and breaks down why he disagrees with the Warriors' Draymond Green that the Mavericks won Game ...

The Secret To LeBron's Longevity On Full Display from 2021-06-02T08:35:20

Ric examines how Lebron James approached Game 5 vs. the Phoenix Suns without fellow All-Star Anthony Davis to still produce a respectable stat line despite losing 115-85. Also discussed: the one...

The Torture Of Being A Post-Process 76ers Fan from 2021-06-01T08:32:55

Ric examines the uneasy place the 76ers find themselves with Joel Embiid suffering yet another knee injury and a look at what The Process did and didn't accomplish. Also: Kyrie Irving and his co...

It's No Mystery Why The Knicks Are Struggling from 2021-05-31T07:49:45

Ric examines the play of the Knicks' Julius Randle and RJ Barrett in their series against the Atlanta Hawks, why it's been so hard for them to replicate their regular-season performances and whe...

The Lakers Are Teaching Devin Booker Some Harsh Lessons from 2021-05-28T08:17:04

Ric revises his view of Devin Booker after his series-opening performance against the Lakers as a legit playoff performer and breaks down the parts of his game still missing. Also discussed: Ant...

A Bay Area Championship Team Moving On From A Favorite Son Is Not Without Precedent from 2021-05-27T08:19:56

Ric examines the similarities between the Warriors keeping Steph Curry in the fold with the decision the 49ers once upon a time had to make on Joe Montana. Also discussed: the divergent paths of...

AD Goes All Draymond, LeBron Goes All Vince Lombardi And The Clippers Go All Indifferent from 2021-05-26T08:25:39

Ric applauds the Nets making a statement, examines the subplots contained in the Lakers tying their series with the Suns and vents about the Clippers casually slipping into a 2-0 hole against th...

Playoff Physicality Once Again Looks To Be A Thing from 2021-05-25T08:16:29

Ric examines the Game 2s between the Heat-Bucks and Blazers-Nuggets and which teams are better built for the allowance of more physical play in the postseason. Also examined: how serious to take...

A Thoroughly Unsurprising First Weekend of the NBA Playoffs from 2021-05-24T07:58:38

Ric looks at the results of Game 1s played over the weekend in each of the eight playoff series and what we should and shouldn't take away from the results, including upsets by the Grizzlies, Bl...

Physics Finally Caught Up With Steph Curry from 2021-05-22T10:09:16

Ric discusses the Memphis Grizzlies' overtime play-in win that ended the Golden State Warriors and star guard Steph Curry's season and why Ja Morant is set up for success far better than New Orl...

Pour One Out For Today's NBA Beat Writers from 2021-05-21T09:13:58

Ric examines the obstacles today's men and women face covering the league and how the Wizards turned the tables on the Indiana Pacers in their play-in game to advance to face the top-seeded Phil...

LeBron James, Up To The Same Ol' Tricks from 2021-05-20T08:07:48

Ric takes a close look at the theatrics and desultory performances by the superstars in the Lakers' 103-100 win over the Warriors in their play-in game and what it means for the two teams' playo...

Michael Jordan's New Competitive Arena And The Wizards' $40 Million Energy Guy from 2021-05-19T09:01:58

Ric looks at the results of the first play-in games and explains how the ultra-competitive Hornets owner Michael Jordan views his franchise, as well as how ultra-energy guy Russell Westbrook's f...

The Impossible Task of Making A Case For Steph Curry as MVP from 2021-05-18T06:35:54

Ric discusses Tim Duncan's Hall of Fame induction speech and examines the clamor for Warriors guard Steph Curry as this year's MVP.

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The Process On Steroids In Oklahoma City from 2021-05-15T07:40:09

Ric examines the Oklahoma City Thunder's complete and unapologetic commitment to losing for the last two months and why the league has not said a word about one of the most overt tanking jobs in...

The Secret World of Voter Swag And Why NBA Voting This Year Is A Challenge from 2021-05-14T08:20:22

Ric examines how the pandemic could affect the way selected media cast their votes for the NBA's regular season awards and the various methods teams have tried to influence his vote.

Suppo...

The Warriors' True DNA Is On Full Display from 2021-05-13T08:31:37

Ric discusses why the current Golden State Warriors' stars, Steph Curry and Draymond Green, are uniquely suited to lead the band of unknown and unsung players around them.

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Tom Thibodeau and Russell Westbrook: Stubbornness Can Be A Blessing And A Curse from 2021-05-12T08:26:53

Ric offers a few takeaways from the Lakers' overtime win against the Knicks and explains why Russell Westbrook surpassing Oscar Robertson's career record for triple-doubles hasn't garnered him m...

Load Management Isn't What You Think It Is from 2021-05-11T07:11:56

Ric fills in the details behind his recent social media post about a high school star sitting out a game and discusses the response, along with a look at what load management actually involves a...

The Profound Weakness That Doomed the New Orleans Pelicans from 2021-05-08T07:41:26

Ric examines why the Pelicans, despite two All-Star talents in Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, are headed to the lottery once again -- and the statistical category that has loomed large dete...

How Much Is Covid Playing a Role in the Lakers Being Disconnected? from 2021-05-07T08:08:47

With Lakers guard Dennis Schröder under Covid-19 restrictions, and his earlier suggestion that he and LeBron James had not been vaccinated, Ric examines if differing opinions on the vaccine migh...

Why Giannis Antetokounmpo Is More MVP-Worthy Than Ever from 2021-05-06T00:27:10

Ric discusses why he believes the two-time defending MVP, Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, is not receiving much attention for this year's award and why he should be.

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Where Does The New York Knicks' Julius Randle Rank Among NBA Stars? from 2021-04-29T09:15:27

Ric examines the arguments made for Knicks power forward Julius Randle being one of the NBA's top 20 players. Also: how Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer touched on a baseball issue that also is a pr...

Steph Curry is a One-Man Scoring Machine -- but not a One-Man Team from 2021-04-22T08:24:22

Ric examines the recent torrid scoring streak by Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry, his MVP worthiness because of it and why it hasn't produced more wins for the team overall.

Suppor...

Let's Not Rewrite KD's History from 2021-04-15T09:20:30

Ric explains how Kevin Durant provided the Golden State Warriors a vital element in the two championships they won together -- and how he'll have to provide that same element if the Brooklyn Net...

Why Lists Are A Sugar Rush And The Lakers Aren't The Same from 2021-04-08T07:18:05

Ric outlines why there's no reason to take sports lists or rankings seriously, including the recent one by ESPN naming the top 25 NBA players under the age of 25. Also: how the current circumsta...

The Buyout Market Mess, A Foot On The Clippers' Bandwagon & Giannis' Free Throw Fandango from 2021-03-31T08:16:20

Ric examines if player empowerment has gone too far, discusses how he believes the Clippers are different from last year's disappointing version and the entertaining sight of the league's best p...

Why Does Magic Keep Messing With Lonzo & Why Giannis Might Finally Be An MVP from 2021-03-25T08:03:55

Ric examines the many failures surrounding Magic Johnson's claim that no point guard has a higher basketball IQ than the New Orleans Pelicans' Lonzo Ball and why Milwaukee Bucks' star Giannis An...

What the Brooklyn Nets Still Don't Have and The Move The Clippers Have To Make from 2021-03-18T07:49:37

Ric examines why he still isn't sold on the Brooklyn Nets as the best team in the Eastern Conference, the difference between Damian Lillard and Kyrie Irving and the player the Clippers have to m...

Will This Be The Year The Three Decides The Title? from 2021-03-10T08:51:01

Ric examines how three-point shooting has defined which teams have both surprised and disappointed so far this season, the dramatic shift in the number of 3s being shot over the last 10 years, a...

How Draymond Green Lost More Than A Game To The Charlotte Hornets from 2021-02-25T07:36:49

Ric examines Draymond Green's attempts to infuse the Warriors' championship habits and mentality in their new roster and how costing them a game they were in position to win against the Hornets ...

The Clippers' Luke Kennard, Quite Possibly The Most Uniquely Gifted Athlete You'll Ever Meet from 2021-02-16T07:17:46

Ric discusses with Kennard his unusual talent as a left-handed shooter, right-handed quarterback, left-footed punter, right-handed golfer and left-handed batter. Kennard also shares what he has ...

The Portland TrailBlazers' Rodney Hood on Dealing With Pressure and Charles Barkley's 100K bet from 2021-02-09T09:12:09

Ric talks with Rodney about overcoming his early struggles in the playoffs, tearing his Achilles tendon as a pending free agent, being critiqued by his wife and the Blazers' chances of making Ch...

Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse from 2021-02-02T05:18:51

Ric discusses with Nurse his response to those who discount the Raptors' 2019 title because of the Warriors' injuries, how to motivate a team after its championship window closes, Pascal Siakam'...

Antonio Brown drama & NFL Preseason takeaways from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric and Will discuss the continuing Antonio Brown drama  and NFL preseason takeaways for the Browns, Steelers, Ravens and more. Plus, Will's son's modelling career.

Thanks for listening!<...

10-year NBA Vet Jason Maxiell on the changing NBA game, his draft night experience, & The Big 3 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

10-year NBA Vet Jason Maxiell joins Ric to discuss the changing NBA game, his draft night experience, & the upcoming season of The Big 3

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoy the show...

Sixers take a 2-1 lead over Toronto; Is Houston's title window closing? & Is GSW a contender next year if KD leaves? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric and Ryan are back to break down the 76ers - Raptors series and Toronto's chances of coming back from down 2 games to 1. Also, are the Warriors still a title contender next year if Kevin Dura...

A Hard Day Made Harder: Exploiting Kobe and Covid-19 Taking Sekou Smith from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric examines the volume of stories produced in conjunction with the one-year anniversary of NBA legend Kobe Bryant's death and disheartening reactions to longtime NBA analyst Sekou Smith succumbing...

Why The Current Favorites to Win The 2020-21 NBA MVP Award are a Bad Bet from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric discusses the curious emergence of Luka Doncic as an MVP favorite and the candidates down the board who are far more likely to win and offer a better payout. Also discussed: the latest on the J...

NBA 2020-21 Preview: The Teams That Will Make The Playoffs and The One Great Team That Won't from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric previews the 2020-21 NBA season, predicts the 16 teams that will make the playoffs, two that will get close and one title contender that won't be in the mix. Also discussed: Which teams will me...

Are politics a factor in James Harden and Russell Westbrook wanting out of Houston? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric discusses the renewed appreciation for, and interest in, point guard Rajon Rondo, the reason LaMelo Ball is the prohibitive favorite as the No. 1 pick and what the Milwaukee Bucks acquired in J...

Are We Going to Have NBA Games on Christmas? Should We? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric examines the brewing battle between NBA players and team owners on when the next NBA season will start, how long it will last and whether or not the players will have say in the matter.
<...

Reggie Miller's Calls, Kyrie's Curious Handout and the Lakers' Achilles Heels from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In the wake of the NBA's re-opening night, Ric discusses why TNT broadcaster Reggie Miller catches so much grief from viewers, making sense of Kyrie Irving subsidizing WNBA players and why the Clip...

A conversation with Cavs coach JB Bickerstaff about being black in America from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

JB, part of the only black father-son duo to both coach in a major professional U.S. sport, talks with Ric about what he learned from his father Bernie, what he is teaching his kids, and what we al...

Takeaways from Ep. 1&2 of The Last Dance: why Jordan's legend has stood the test of time and how today's stars have been robbed from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric identifies the aspects of Jordan's character that have led to his timelessness, along with the disservice done to today's stars that diminishes their chances of ever eclipsing Jordan's accompli...

Lamar Jackson and Bill O'Brien share the same flaw, who new Browns coach Kevin Stefanski must be from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric and Will examine the NFL Divisional Playoff games and unveil the element that sabotaged both Ravens QB Lamar Jackson and Texans coach Bill O'Brien in their respective losses, along with who and...

Kent Bazemore on hangin' with look-alike Chance the Rapper, Rookie Pranks & Luring Steph to from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ric is joined by Portland Trail Blazers swingman Kent Bazemore to talk about why the Warriors vets filled his car with popcorn, the prank he decided not to pull on Trae Young, getting to know his d...

What We Learned from the NFL's Week 12 & Will Taking on Millennials on Twitter from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Will and Ric discuss Will's generational take on UofMiami bench dancing down 13-0 and the subsequent backlash. Also: Pats' struggling to beat Cowboys at home proves what? Ditto, Jets punking the...

Will Shares Convo With Roger Goodell About Colin Kaepernick, from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's podcast, Will and Ric discuss Will's recent conversation with Roger Goodell regarding Colin Kaepernick's workout, what they expect to happen to Myles Garrett and Marcus Pouncey over t...

UK vs USA Football Fans, Week 7 NFL Analysis, from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Will joins Ric for another round of in-depth discussion about the NFL. Today, the fellas offer their top picks and analysis of football players and teams as of Week 7, football fans in the UK vs...

Takeaways from MLK Day Prime Time Matchups from 2021-01-20T10:03:34

Ric examines what we learned from Bulls-Rockets, Nets-Bucks and Warriors-Lakers, including Exhibit A on the superstar characteristic Steph Curry has over LeBron James.

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Why We All Hate What James Harden Did and Why He Won't Be The Last To Do It from 2021-01-15T00:46:55

Ric examines why everyone universally dislikes when players do what James Harden did to force his way to Brooklyn and yet we historically forgive and forget -- thereby tacitly condoning the beha...

Early MVPs and How Conspiracy Theories Get Started from 2021-01-12T09:37:11

Ric discusses the danger posed by flawed rankings, whether they be for MVPs or draft prospects, and who his top 10 NBA MVP candidates are -- and why -- at this point in the season.

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Can We Stop Making Too Much of Too Little? from 2021-01-05T08:28

In another coronavirus episode, Ric gives the result of his recent Covid test and examines why we can't resist anointing athletes as great before they've actually proved it. Also asked and answe...

Why Giannis Was Never Going to Leave Milwaukee and Kyrie Irving's Search for Enlightenment from 2020-12-16T08:55:54

Ric explains why it would've defied NBA history if two-time MVP Giannis Antekounmpo had not signed his five-year, $228 million extension with the Milwaukee Bucks. Also: the flaw in LeBron James'...

How Betting, Covid-19 & a Generation That Doesn't Watch TV Has Changed Sports Broadcasts from 2020-12-08T07:35:02

Ric talks with long-time ESPN live-event producer Mandy Cohen about how TV broadcasts have changed with the introduction of gambling, announcers calling games remotely due to the pandemic and Ge...

True Leaders in the NBA are Hard to Find from 2020-12-02T07:02:57

Ric shares insight from an NBA GM on how few players actually check all the leadership boxes and who the ones are that do. Also discussed: Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray's five favorite all-t...

The Truth about Klay Thompson's injury and the Trade Rumor that now makes sense from 2020-11-19T21:37:59

Ric discusses what he was hearing about Warriors guard Klay Thompson leading up to the draft before his heartbreaking injury, the harsh reality the Warriors and their fans need to accept, along ...

How Covid Could Impact Promises to Draft Picks and Positive Cases During the NBA season from 2020-11-10T09:36:32

Ric discusses what agents and NBA executives have told him about the practice of pre-determining where a player will be selected in the draft under the restraints of Covid-19 protocol. Also disc...

The Man Hated and Spurned for Paving the Way for Every Early Entry NBA Star: A Conversation with Spencer Haywood from 2020-10-26T06:38:49

Ric talks with Hall of Fame big man Spencer Haywood, the Forrest Gump of basketball for having been part of so many historic moments and crossed paths with so many historic figures -- from being...

How and Why Signature Shoes for NBA Stars May Soon Be a Thing of the Past from 2020-10-18T03:14:21

Ric is joined by Brian Berger, host of the award-winning Sports Business Radio podcast based in Portland, Oregon, with plenty of insider knowledge on the shoe business in general and Nike in par...

Who Gains The Most From the Lakers' Championship and exploring why LeBron wasn't Must-See TV from 2020-10-12T07:26:27

Ric examines how the Miami Heat fell short to the Los Angeles Lakers, the biggest beneficiaries of the Lakers winning the 2020 and a possible reason why LeBron James rewriting the NBA record boo...

Switching Ships, Resurfaced Hips and Players Stealing Quips from 2020-10-06T07:57:10

In a Bucher, Friendless episode, Ric talks about what it feels like to watch the NBA Finals from afar for the first time in 20-plus years, Doc Rivers' smooth move to Philly, his firsthand experi...

NBA Finals Preview -- who is going to win, why (and possibly why not) from 2020-09-30T08:10:16

Ric explains what will decide the battle between LeBron James' and the Lakers and Pat Riley's Miami Heat. Also discussed: whether or not the bubble was as mentally tough as advertised LeBron's i...

Is LeBron a Hot Topic Among High School Athletes and Are the Lakers an Outlier In the Bubble? from 2020-09-21T22:03:31

Ric explores who high school athletes today are most interested in with his 16-year-old son, Mat, examine why young teams and stars have fared so well in the NBA's Orlando Bubble and Mat explain...

Guests former NFL WR TJ Houshmanzadeh & comedian/actor Gary Owen talk NFL Preview & Performing with No Fans from 2020-09-13T07:14:04

Ric is joined by former NFL WR and FS1 analyst TJ Houshmanzadeh and comedian/actor Gary Owen to discuss TJ's former team and Gary's hometown favorite, the Cincinnati Bengals, the AFC North, Supe...

LeBron James, Russell Westbrook and the gift/curse of being über athletic from 2020-09-09T08:11:54

Ric discusses how, why and when LeBron and Russell's careers diverged, the shift in the game that has helped both (but LeBron more and longer) and how the perception of players is being skewed i...

The power of Athletes and Social Media -- How Much Influence Do They Really Have? from 2020-08-30T22:08:57

Ric examines what impact, if any, the NBA players' social activism has had, why they're pressuring NBA team owners to join their cause, and why we have a misconception of social media's influenc...

Getting to know breakout Bubble star T.J. Warren from 2020-08-18T04:08:05

Ric explains why he refers to the Indiana Pacers' new star forward T.J. Warren as a "scorer with a conscience" and shares the conversation they had that contributed to Ric's piece on Warren for ...

Why LeBron is First On My MVP Ballot from 2020-07-23T05:50:34

Ric discusses the many flaws in drawing a conclusion from a player making 3s or free throws in practice, the problem with the arguments he's heard about why Giannis deserves to be MVP over LeBro...

Name Changes Don't Signify Change from 2020-07-05T22:55:34

In an episode of Bucher, Friendless, Ric examines why changing the racially insensitive name of an NFL or MLB franchise might make us feel like a move toward equality but is more gesture than ac...

Tale of Two Realities from 2020-06-10T20:50:41

Ric and Will discuss the current social unrest sparked by the death of George Floyd and quarterback Drew Brees' part in the controversy. Will also recounts his experiences with police starting a...

Remembering Roger B., Marty Mac & Jerry Sloan from 2020-05-27T20:26:42

Ric reflects on the impact made by Ft. Worth-Dallas sports figure Roger B. Brown, Sacramento Kings beat writer Marty McNeal and Utah Jazz coach Jerry Sloan. Also: who and what to blame when your...

Was Michael Jordan a Bully, Will More Players Be Like Mike & Who To Blame for The Last Dance from 2020-05-18T21:17:45

Ric questions the accuracy of describing Michael Jordan as a bully, the possibility of a player today operating the same way, two numbers never considered when comparing MJ and LeBron. Ric also ...

Last Dance Controversies That Missed the Mark (Including Isiah Thomas Not Being On The Dream Team) from 2020-05-15T08:33:29

Ric examines several controversial topics in the ESPN documentary "The Last Dance," including what the 1992 Dream Team really represented and why Isiah Thomas was excluded from it.

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Dissecting the Charles Barkley-Draymond Green beef -- what inspired it, why it won't go away from 2020-05-05T06:53:29

Ric knows the two combatants as well as anyone and pinpoints why Charles has taken shots at Draymond for years and why the general criticism of Draymond's contract, conduct and accomplishments a...

Last Dance Ep. 3&4 Reviewed, Why Some NFL Teams Consistently Draft Better Than Others from 2020-04-28T06:32:40

Ric & Will discuss how Michael Jordan has changed since his playing days, why the Baltimore Ravens consistently draft well, the secret ingredient every college DB needs to make it in the NFL...

Colin Cowherd on the five greatest inventions in his lifetime, the best magician he's ever seen and the one athlete he wished he could interview from 2020-04-24T07:16:21

Ric gets to turn the tables on Fox Sports TV/Radio star Colin Cowherd and ask the questions. Colin explains why his ideal golf foursome would not include an athlete, the one athlete he hasn't in...

Why We Talk So Much About LeBron (and why I talk about LeBron the way I do) from 2020-04-15T07:26:11

Ric examines why LeBron James is an unrelenting and polarizing subject of conversation by fans and media alike.

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Alaa Abdelnaby on the legend of Drazen Petrovic, his road dog the late Reggie Lewis and pulling pranks with Danny Ainge from 2020-04-08T09:30:23

Ric and Alaa swap stories about a variety of NBA legends, including those gone far too soon, preserving a love for the game when it becomes a business and one of the all-time great pranks pulled...

Danny Ainge's Black Ops ways, Bobby Hurley throwing dice, Moses Malone as a Buck & the greatness of Drazen Petrovic with Alaa Abdelnaby from 2020-04-06T00:15:36

Ric catches up with Alaa, whose five-year NBA career with five teams afforded him a chance to play with an array of legendary players and experience everything the league has to offer, from star...

Todd Ramasar, Pascal Siakam's agent, on how and when NBA playoffs/draft could return this summer from 2020-04-01T18:42:39

Ric and Todd Ramasar, CEO & founder of Life Sports Media & Entertainment, discuss the growing buzz that the NBA will find a way to hold playoffs this summer, re-schedule the draft and po...

Why NBA Draft Prospects don't seem to care about playing and the Biggest Difference between Jordan and LeBron from 2020-03-30T05:48:51

Ric reminisces about discovering the difference between Michael Jordan and his champion predecessors, Magic and Bird. Also examined: how LeBron James showed NBA players to fully utilize their in...

Why Most Pro Athletes Won't Work Out By Themselves and Who Will Miss Who More, Brady or Belichick from 2020-03-25T08:39:53

Ric and Will discuss why a home gym won't keep a pro athlete in shape, what they don't have when they can't train in a performance center and who stands to be more successful without the other, ...

My Brushes With Covid-19 and why the NBA should go to any length to finish the season from 2020-03-23T09:03:40

Ric looks back at who he interacted with and how at the Nets-Lakers game and then discovering who tested positive for the novel coronavirus, as well as how the NBA could return to action and why...

Former NBA center Lance Allred on his new book, "The New Alpha Male" and how Kobe Bryant tapped into both his masculine and feminine sides from 2020-03-15T22:25:35

Ric talks with Lance Allred, the first legally deaf player ever to play in the NBA, about the inspiration for his new book, "The New Alpha Male," the super power being deaf developed, his unlike...

Giannis, Luka and the Race Among Foreign-Born NBA Stars for a Ring from 2020-03-10T07:10:36

Ric discusses the challenge for foreign-born NBA stars to lead a championship team and why Luka Doncic may be a different breed; why it would be a mistake to permanently close locker rooms to th...

A solution for the NBA dunk contest, five things we learned from the NBA All-Star Game and how Colin Cowherd cheats in arguments from 2020-02-18T09:42:08

In an episode of the ever popular Bucher, Friendless, Ric channels his inner Chris Paul and provides a new format to solve the NBA dunk contest's issues, outlines all that we learned in that epi...

All-Star Weekend Live with Zach LaVine from 2020-02-14T04:48:57

Ric and Chicago Bulls' star Zach LaVine sit down in front of a live audience to discuss Kobe Bryant's impact, Zach's evolution from dunk champion to team leader and go-to scorer, questions about...

The Perkins-Hollins Twitter Beef Goes Live from 2020-02-11T02:49:10

Former NBA centers Ryan Hollins and Kendrick Perkins join Ric to hash out their argument on Twitter about who the best players in the game today are, as well as what it was like to personally pl...

NBA Trade Deadline Review, Rockets' First Microball Win and Jimmy Butler Revision from 2020-02-07T09:28:50

Ric reviews all his trade deadline predictions, including what led him to believe Marcus Morris was headed to the Lakers. Also discussed: seeing in person the center-less Rockets befuddle those ...

Who Really Deserved MVP of SB 54, What It's Like to Win a Super Bowl, Who Is Living Up To Kobe's Legacy from 2020-02-03T07:08:18

Ric and Will discuss where the 49ers fell short in Super Bowl 54, which Kansas City Chief deserved to be MVP, the meaning behind Tom Brady's Super Bowl commercial and the emotional effect Kobe B...

DJ Augustin on surviving Hurricane Katrina, the trade deadline and NBA competition for his spot from 2020-01-30T07:33:30

Orlando Magic DJ Augustin, listed at 5'11" and 183 pounds, is in his 12th NBA season. DJ and Ric discuss how being displaced by Hurricane Katrina shaped DJ's perspective on life at an early age,...

Remembering Kobe from 2020-01-27T09:53:55

In a special podcast with Ric and his rotating co-hosts Will and Ryan, the threesome discuss the shock of Kobe Bryant's death and his legacy. Ric and Ryan also share their personal interactions ...

Midseason Do-Overs (or Double-Downs) on 2019 draft, East Team to Beat, Etc. from 2020-01-23T04:06:34

On the eve of Zion Williamson's debut, Ric and Ryan list the unlikely events that would have to transpire for the No. 1 pick to win ROY over Ja Morant. Also, halfway through the NBA season, Ric ...

The Preposterous Claim After The McGregor-Cerrone Fight. What Packers and Titans Could Have Done Different from 2020-01-20T09:36:54

Ric and Will discuss the allegedly novel strategy Conor McGregor used to defeat Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone in their recent UFC showdown, the NFL championships, their personal ties to retiring Carol...

Former Knick/Wizard and TV Fishing Show host Jared Jeffries talks MJ, Kwame, Hibachi from 2020-01-17T22:00:10

Former NBA C Jared Jeffries shares stories about playing with Michael Jordan, why Kwame Brown never liked him, the kaleidoscope that is Gilbert Arenas, the pain every player experiences in an 82...

Five Most Deserving All-Star Starters in Each Conference and Ja Morant or Trae Young -- who are you taking? from 2020-01-15T09:06:11

Ric and Ryan give their top five players in each conference going into the All-Star break and disagree on who they'd take to start their franchise between Ja Morant and Trae Young. Guest starrin...

All That AD Must Weigh Before Re-Upping With the Lakers from 2020-01-08T08:38:04

Ric and Ryan discuss what it will take for Anthony Davis to remain a Laker, how to fix All-Star voting, how to load manage without missing games and how some NBA coaches talk about players when ...

The three QBs who could keep the Patriots' dynasty alive from 2020-01-06T18:37:02

Will and Ric assess the fallout from the first weekend of NFL playoff action, how and if the New England Patriots can keep their dynasty alive, three QBs who could replace Tom Brady, what Brady ...

Top 10 Most Meaningful Events in the NBA in 2019 from 2020-01-01T10:26:30

Ric Bucher provides a countdown from 10 to 1 of the most meaningful events that occurred in the NBA for the 2019 calendar year. 

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Did Kyle Kuzma's trainer lob a grenade into the Lakers' locker room? from 2019-12-28T10:34:01

Ric and Ryan discuss social media posts by Kyle Kuzma and his reported trainer that appeared to throw shade at his Lakers' teammate, LeBron James, as well as a review of what mattered (and didn'...

Why what Isaiah Thomas did was right and why the NBA did him and the fans wrong from 2019-12-24T07:31:17

NFL vet Will Blackmon and Ric Bucher discuss player-fan interaction and whether Isaiah Thomas or the fans he confronted were treated fairly. Also: Will assesses what first-year coach Matt LeFleu...

What gettable player could move the needle for one of the NBA title contenders? from 2019-12-19T07:50:49

Ric Bucher and Ryan Hollins discuss which team now holding a playoff seed is likeliest to lose it by season's end and which team will take its place in both conferences, along with the gettable ...

How the NFL and NBA today make it painfully clear all-time selections are inherently flawed from 2019-12-17T11:53:33

Bucher examines why it's time to stop thinking of Brady, Rodgers and Brees as great quarterbacks, why picking all-time teams is not much more than a marketing ruse and how the No. 1 prerequisite...

Are Kyrie Irving and Antonio Brown Dealing With The Same issues? from 2019-12-13T06:47:56

Will and Ric, after discussing what Will losing his "football weight" signifies and his potential as a model, debate whether Antonio Brown deserves sympathy and indications Kyrie Irving is deali...

State of the Knicks, Why All Is Not Lost and Where They Go From Here from 2019-12-11T09:55:45

NBA vet Ryan Hollins spent his career dealing with midseason coaching changes and shares what the Knicks players are going through. NBA analyst Ric Bucher and Hollins discuss why David Fizdale d...

Bucher, Friendless, on why the NBA game (and its ratings) are down from 2019-12-07T08:29:18

Bucher dives into why James Harden's style is simply the most extreme version of a style taking over the NBA, how referees are in on fool-the-ref tactics, why so many games this season have been...

Will Blackmon's pick for his alma mater's next FB Coach (Boston College) from 2019-12-04T07:53:37

Will has a prime candidate to succeed Steve Addazio at his alma mater, Boston College, while Ric disputes Will's contention that Kirk Cousins was on the brink of entering the MVP race. Also: the...

Portland is so Melo from 2019-12-02T10:41:16

Ric and Ryan examine the reasons Portland -- and nowhere else -- is the perfect fit for Carmelo Anthony; what made OKC hard and Houston impossible, according to Melo; and how the 76ers may still...

What Kyrie Irving Got Right -- And Wrong -- in his Instagram Post from 2019-11-28T09:48:12

An edition of Bucher, Friendless, examines Kyrie Irving's complaint about the trappings of success and celebrity after Celtics' fans made their dislike for him clear; an early reason to expect t...

What Does the LeBron-Kobe dap signify + Is load management hurting the NBA's TV ratings from 2019-11-22T20:41:15

Today, Ric and Ryan explore what the dap-up between LeBron and Kobe signifies, is load management a real concern for the Clippers and is it negatively affecting the NBA's TV ratings, and more. Listen

Exposing An Unknown Clippers Weakness, A Change of Heart Post Kaepernick Workout from 2019-11-20T01:02:11

On today's episode of Bucher Friendless, Ric puts himself on the psychiatrist's couch and works through concerns over the Clippers possibly having a weakness he didn't anticipate, and how and wh...

Hotel Hopping 101, NBA Load Management, and Should Steph Play from 2019-11-13T19:45:14

Today, Ric and Ryan discuss everything from the finer points of hotel hopping to the load management and injuries issues currently plaguing some of the NBA's top teams and players.

Thanks...

SPECIAL GUEST: Detroit Pistons PG - Derrick Rose from 2019-11-09T20:00

Ric sits down with 3x NBA All-Star and NBA MVP point guard for the Detroit Pistons, Derrick Rose, for a candid discussion about his career, why he never responded to his critics, and more.

Debating The Next Patriots vs Ravens Matchup + Analyzing Struggling NFL coaches from 2019-11-04T22:19:34

In this episode, Will and Ric debate whether the Patriots will fare any better the next time they face the Ravens. The fellas also play Survives-Thrives-Dives with a half-dozen struggling NFL he...

Embiid-KAT Fight Was A Good-Natured Brawl + The Fall-out From Steph's Injury from 2019-11-02T03:41:55

On this episode, Ric and Ryan discuss the fall-out from Steph Curry's hand injury, and how the Embiid-KAT tussle was a good-natured brawl vs old school NBA fights.

Thanks for listening!

...

Warriors & Lakers Problems, Revised List of Players To Watch, The New Klay Thompson from 2019-10-29T20:30:23

On today's episode, Ric shares why he believes the Warriors and Lakers have the same problem - and which of the two teams has the worst problem. Also, Bucher considers whether we need to revise ...

Kawhi vs LeBron in LA, Zion Needs To Change, Brooklyn Kyrie vs Boston Kyrie from 2019-10-25T00:59:52

Today, Ric and Ryan discuss why Kawhi looked so much better than LeBron in the Lakers-Clippers season opener -- Ryan has a good explanation that should offer hope for Lakers' fans. Also today, c...

The 2 NBA Teams Not Worth Your Attention & Reasons To Watch The Other 28 Squads from 2019-10-18T02:33:04

Today, Ric Bucher shares why there's a reason to watch 28 of the 30 NBA teams, and which two do not deserve your attention. Also, Ric reveals the 5 teams you should watch early because they may ...

Why The NBA Is Treading Lightly Over China + Zion Williamson from 2019-10-13T20:50:09

On this episode, Ric and Ryan focus in on China and what our hosts have both learned from their experiences overseas that makes it no surprise the NBA -- and its teams, particularly while they'r...

What To Make of the Lakers-Warriors Preseason Game, and NBA-China Drama Over Daryl Morey's Comments from 2019-10-08T22:27:23

Today, Ric Bucher gives his take on the Warriors and Lakers after their first preseason games, the NBA-China drama over Rockets former GM Daryl Morey, Jimmy Butler working out at 3:30am, and mor...

LeBron Says Lakers Offense Must Run Through Anthony Davis from 2019-10-06T02:05:21

On this episode, Ric and Ryan discuss the LeBron saying the Lakers offense has to run through Anthony Davis, the Warriors' new arena facility in San Francisco, crazy preseason trips Ryan made as...

The Verdict On James Harden's New Shot from 2019-10-02T18:25:48

Today, Ric Bucher discusses what a nothing burger James Harden's new shot is, and why 'Best of' lists are the bane of everyone's existence.

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoy the s...

Are The Warriors A Playoff Team + Can Zion Carry NOLA from 2019-09-30T01:30:22

In their usual way, Ric and Ryan analyze the good, bad, and ugly of the upcoming 2019-20 NBA season and ask a number of thought-provoking questions, like: will the Warriors be a title contender,...

Evaluating Young QB's and Their Future In The NFL from 2019-09-27T00:00

Today, Ric and Will evaluate young NFL QBs like Baker Mayfield and their future in the league, the limits placed on defensive players in relation to QB's, and more.

Thanks for listening!<...

Over & Underrated NBA Teams and The Players Who Lead Them from 2019-09-24T02:15:09

Today, Ric Bucher shares his thoughts on over/underrated NBA teams, the players who will either help or hinder them throughout the upcoming 2019-20 NBA season, and more. 

Thanks for liste...

Our Problem With Lavar Attacking Lonzo Publicly & NBA Anti-Tampering Rules from 2019-09-21T13:56:55

In another amazing episode, Ric and Ryan share why they take issue with Lavar Ball calling Lonzo "damaged goods". The guys also discuss NBA anti-tampering rules, whether or not LaMelo Ball's soc...

Giants Benching Eli Manning + The Moment Will Knew Jalen Ramsey Was NFL Bound from 2019-09-19T14:50:04

Broadcasting from London, Will joins Ric for an in-depth discussion about NY Giants benching Eli Manning, the time a 16 year old Jalen Ramsey handed Will his business card, and more.

Than...

The Value of Troubled NBA & NFL Players from 2019-09-17T19:00

Ric Bucher discusses troubled professional athletes in the NBA and NFL and their value - or lack thereof - to the teams who sign them. Ric focuses on two players in particular, DeMarcus Cousins ...

Team USA Losing Games and LeBron Rejected By USPTO from 2019-09-14T15:49:13

Today, Ric and Ryan discuss Team USA playing for 5th place, the risk vs reward of top NBA players being on that team, Jerry Colangelo's plans for the future of the squad, LeBron's Taco Tuesday r...

NFL In London, Antonio Brown and the Patriots, & NFL Week 1 from 2019-09-13T01:42:08

This episode, Will is broadcasting from London to join Ric for an in-depth discussion about the Antonio Brown - Patriots signing, football in London, the Broncos-Raiders game, and more.

T...

Urban Meyer, Elite Talent vs Mental Discipline, The Patriots Sign Antonio Brown from 2019-09-10T22:09:38

From Chicago, Ric discusses Urban Meyer's football prowess vs. his character.  Bucher also offers his assessment of elite physical talent vs. mental toughness and discipline, Antonio Brown, and ...

LeBron's Taco Tuesday Trademark and the latest Antonio Brown drama from 2019-09-06T15:44:24

Today on Bucher and Hollins, the fellas discuss everything from LeBron's "Taco Tuesday" trademark filing and his use of stereotypical Latinx sounds/accents, to Antonio Brown's latest drama; and ...

Bill O'Brien vs. Greats Like Greg Popovich & Bill Belichick from 2019-09-03T19:00

Kicking off this week, Ric offers his assessment of the Texans' Bill O'Brien versus greats like Greg Popovich and Bill Belichick. 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoy the show, plea...

Ryan's Rugless Return, Carmel Anthony, and Iso Joe's Big 3 Performance from 2019-08-30T22:00

Ryan tells Ric about his seasick trip to Istanbul, while Ric asks Ryan what to give his opinion of this year's Team USA squad. Also discussed this week - Ryan's experience playing in The Big 3, ...

Andrew Luck's Retirement & Antonio Brown's Helmet Issues from 2019-08-28T19:00

Ric and Will discuss Doug Gottlieb's comments on Andrew Luck's decision to retire, and Antonio Brown's helmet drama. Will also shares why he believes he's not playing in the NFL.

Thanks f...

Assessing Team USA Basketball and Dwight Howard's Value from 2019-08-27T19:00

On today's show Ric shares his assessment of Team USA men's basketball team in light of their recent loss to Australia, why Mason Plumlee is important to the team, and assessing Dwight Howard's ...

De'Aaron Fox leaves Team USA; DeMarcus Cousins' ACL injury & impact on the Lakers from 2019-08-21T21:41:33

Ric gives updates on Team USA and his opinion on De'Aaron Fox's reason for leaving. Also, another devastating injury for DeMarcus Cousins and its impact on the Lakers upcoming season.

Tha...

Steve Kerr's politics; USA Basketball in Vegas; & Myles Turner on playing for Team USA from 2019-08-14T19:51:07

Ric has been in Las Vegas covering Team USA and catching up with the likes of Gregg Popovich and Steve Kerr. On today's show Ric discusses Kerr's gun control advocacy, as well as why prominent p...

Stories from covering the Warriors Part 4: Nelly's return, We Believe, and the ousting of Mark Jackson from 2019-08-07T23:19:57

This is part 4 of Ric's stories from Oracle Arena and covering the Warriors. This time Ric covers Chris Mullin's tenture as the GM, the return of Don Nelson as head coach, the "We Believe" Warri...

Baker Mayfield; Carmelo Anthony; NFL position group rankings; & HOF inductions from 2019-08-05T07:01

Ric and Will tackle topics ranging from Baker Mayfield to Carmelo Anthony to the Pro football HOF induction ceremony, and debate NFL position group rankings.

Thanks for listening!

...

David Griffin's LeBron comments; and LeBron's behavior at his son's AAU games from 2019-08-02T18:50:32

Ric and Ryan react to the recent SI story with David Griffin's LeBron comments, and give thoughts on LeBron's behavior at his son's AAU games and the ensuing backlash.

Thanks for listenin...

Stories from the early days Part 3: Barkley & C Webb, Run TMC, PJ & Sprewell from 2019-08-01T21:06:11

This is part 3 of Ric's stories from the early days of covering the Warriors, including stories about Charles Barkley and Chris Webber, Run TMC, and PJ Caresimo and Latrell Sprewell.

Than...

Start of NFL Training camps from 2019-07-30T17:36

Ric and Will dive into the start of NFL training camps and much more on today's show.

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, and ...

Kawhi Leonard press conference; Media coverage; & Sam Presti urges patience from 2019-07-29T00:40:09

Ric and Ryan break down some of the latest NBA intrigue including Kawhi Leonard's introduction in LA and the open letter Sam Presti penned to OKC fans

Thanks for listening!

If you ...

Part 2 of stories from Oracle Arena: the Don Nelson / Chris Webber saga from 2019-07-26T18:03:23

This is part 2 of Ric's stories from the early days of covering the Warriors, focusing on the infamous relationship between Don Nelson and Chris Webber.

Thanks for listening!

If yo...

Stories from Oracle Arena and the early days of covering the Golden State Warriors from 2019-07-22T17:44:13

With the Warriors moving to San Francisco and leaving Oracle Arena behind, Ric takes a nostalgic moment to reminisce on the Warriors now former home and the early days of covering the team for t...

How many NBA players are truly worth max contracts?; And why players aren't all about the money from 2019-07-19T22:23:58

Ric discusses his latest Bleacher Report piece "Maxed Out," about how many NBA players are truly worth a maximum contact. But first, Ric explains why NBA players are no longer all about trying t...

Kawhi Leonard's power moves & the NBA's age of player empowerment; Plus, should Will play in the XFL? from 2019-07-16T17:39:34

Ric and Will are back to give their thoughts on a lot that's gone down in the NBA over the last week plus. Thoughts on Kawhi's power moves and Paul George's decision to join him, and the NBA in ...

Does Westbrook move the needle for the Rockets? And who has the better roster, Lakers or Clippers? from 2019-07-14T23:04:05

Ric and Ryan are back to break down some takeaways from NBA Summer League including a Zion Williamson hype update. The guys also discuss whether the Westbrook addition really makes a difference ...

Westbrook-CP3 trade breakdown; NBA Summer League takeaways; & NBA media coverage from 2019-07-12T23:57:17

Ric is back after his trip to Las Vegas for the NBA Summer League. He breaks down the blockbuster Westbrook-CP3 trade (14:32) and gives his biggest takeaways from Summer League (29:45), as well ...

Bucher and Bucher from NBA Summer League in Las Vegas from 2019-07-08T22:30:30

Ric is in Las Vegas for the NBA Summer League and he's joined by his son Mat to discuss their takeaways from games they've watched so far and more.

Thanks for listening!

If you enj...

Happy 4th of July! Kawhi Watch continues; Magic Johnson impact; & Are Lakers favorites even w/o Kawhi? from 2019-07-04T19:12:27

Happy 4th of July! @RicBucher & @TheRyanHollins have you covered as #KawhiWatch continues; plus, what is Magic Johnson's impact on the process?; & are the Lakers favorites even without Kawhi? Listen

14-year NBA Vet Jim Jackson on NBA medical staffs, Iguodala's comments, why KD left GSW & more from 2019-07-03T18:58:10

14 year NBA vet and Fox Sports 1 NBA analyst Jim Jackson joins Ric to discuss a number of NBA topics, including what type of player Jackson would be in today's game, the differences among NBA me...

Warriors "retiring" KD's #35; Kawhi to Lakers getting closer? & Potential impact on Leonard & LeBron legacies from 2019-07-02T17:45:53

Ric and Will discuss the Warriors announcement that they're "retiring" KD's #35. Isaiah Thomas signs with the Wiz. Plus, Kawhi Leonard to the Lakers is getting closer. Will Kawhi get the same ba...

A WILD Day 1 of NBA Free Agency; KD & Kyrie to BKN; Warriors surprise re-tool; Why Ric's NOT killing the Knicks & more from 2019-07-01T17:37:52

A WILD Day 1 of NBA Free agency is over and Ric & Will broke it all down. KD & Kyrie to Brooklyn, and why Ric is not killing the Knicks. Why the Celtics fell apart, the Warriors surpris...

Final NBA Free Agency Primer; Nets & D'Angelo Russell; The allure of NYK & MSG; KD, Kawhi, & more from 2019-06-29T20:14:58

Ric is flying solo for a final NBA free agency primer before the FA period officially begins Sunday. The Nets & D'Angelo Russell, the allure of the Knicks & MSG, KD being pissed at the Warriors,...

NBA Free Agency starts Sunday; KD struggling w/ decision; Kawhi's landing spot?; & Kemba to BOS? from 2019-06-28T20:24:37

NBA Free Agency starts Sunday; KD is struggling w/ his decision; What's Kawhi's likely landing spot?; Celtics are new favorites for Kemba, and much more with @RicBucher & @TheRyanHollins

Ric & Ryan getting heat; Andre Iguodala's comments; Kevin Durant update from 2019-06-26T19:36:05

Will has to point out that he's now stuck in the middle of two guys (Ric and Ryan) who are getting a ton of heat lately on social media. The guys also discuss some of the comments Andre Iguodala...

Parents at the NBA Draft; Will's draft experience; & life as a rookie in pro sports from 2019-06-24T20:45:59

Ric & Will discuss the NBA Draft and the uptick in the parental presence at the draft. Will also shares his NFL draft experience and what it was like to come into the league as a rookie. The guy...

NBA Draft takeaways; LaVar Ball banned from ESPN; Kyrie Irving risk/reward from 2019-06-22T20:15:12

Ric and Ryan are back for a (belated) NBA Draft recap pod. The biggest takeaways from draft night, plus the guys discuss LaVar Ball getting himself banned from ESPN, and the risk/reward of signi...

Tonight's NBA Draft; How veteran NBA players view the draft; & Ryan's D-League experience from 2019-06-20T07:01

Ric and Ryan discuss tonight's NBA Draft. Ryan shares how veteran NBA players view the draft and the incoming rookies. Ryan also has a great story about the time he was sent down to the D-League...

Anthony Davis trade; Will the Lakers add a 3rd star? & upcoming NBA draft from 2019-06-18T19:16:20

Ric and Will discuss the Anthony Davis trade to the Lakers, and what the Lakers will try to do next to supplement AD & LeBron. Plus the upcoming NBA draft and more.

Thanks for listening!<...

Rajon Rondo Part 2: On playing with LeBron, "Playoff Rondo" nickname, & what he wants for his next chapter from 2019-06-17T22:18:34

Part 2 of Ric's sit-down conversation with Rajon Rondo. Rondo discusses playing with LeBron James, what he thinks of the "Playoff Rondo" nickname, whether he'll be back in LA, what he wants for ...

The Raptors are NBA Champions; Finals Game 6 recap; Klay's injury; & future of the NBA is wide open from 2019-06-14T22:20:40

Ric and Ryan have a ton to discuss after last night's wild NBA Finals Game 6 that saw the Raptors de-throne the Warriors. Klay Thompson tore his ACL and the Warriors' future is completely up in ...

NBA Champion Rajon Rondo on the 2018-19 Lakers season, the Baxter Holmes story, veteran leadership & much more from 2019-06-12T22:21:42

Ric had lunch with Rajon Rondo for a story you can read on Bleacher Report, and we also decided to play the raw audio for you here. Rondo candidly discusses a ton of topics surround the 2018-19 ...

Epic NBA Finals Game 5 w/ historic implications; KD's injury & should he have been playing? from 2019-06-11T17:18:44

Ric and Will discuss last night's epic Game 5 with a gutsy Warriors victory that also came with the huge loss of Kevin Durant to an achilles injury. Should Durant have been allowed to play?

NBA Finals Game 5: Will KD play? Plus the debut of Ask Will Blackmon from 2019-06-10T17:02:54

Ric and Will each answer the question of will Kevin Durant play in tonight's Game 5? And if he does play will it change the outcome? What is KD risking if he does play? Plus some answers from "A...

Klay returns for Finals Game 4; Mark Stevens controversy; & Nets clearing cap space... from 2019-06-07T17:18:07

Ric and Ryan cover all the latest news from around the NBA including the Beyhive coming after Joe Lacob's wife, the Mark Stevens controversy, the Brooklyn Nets trade to clear cap space for 2 max...

NBA Finals Game 3 Recap: Biggest takeaways from the Raptors victory over the shorthanded Warriors from 2019-06-06T20:55

Ric and Ryan recap the Raptors Game 3 win over the shorthanded Warriors, and preview the likely scenarios for Game 4

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoy the show, please rate and re...

Matt Barnes on the NBA Finals, Warriors mounting injuries, and cannabis in the NBA from 2019-06-05T18:30:02

14-year NBA veteran and Fox Sports 1 colleague Matt Barnes joins Ric for an in-depth discussion of the Warriors several injuries, the impact of GSW role players, and cannabis use in the NBA

Big Warriors injury updates; Smartest player in the NBA right now; Jordy Nelson retires; Belated GOT takes from 2019-06-04T18:27:35

For all of you who were behind on Game of Thrones, Ric and Will start out the pod with their belated takes on the Game of Thrones series finale. Will gives us some stories about covering Jordy N...

NBA Finals Game 2 Recap; DeMarcus Cousins' big game; Warriors injury situations; & Anthony Joshua stunned from 2019-06-03T17:44:26

Ric and Will recap the Warriors gutsy Game 2 victory in Toronto and DeMarcus Cousins' big performance. Plus the several injuries suffered by the Warriors and how they impact the series going for...

NBA Finals Game 1 Recap: Pascal Siakam goes off; Drake's antics too much? & Game 2 preview from 2019-05-31T18:24:40

Ric and Ryan have their thorough recap of everything that happened in Game 1 of the Finals. Can the Raptors replicate their performance? Where do the Warriors need to improve? Will we see KD in ...

Kawhi Leonard-Michael Jordan comparisons; What's next for Giannis' game? And NBA Finals predictions from 2019-05-30T16:48:49

Ric and Ryan want to talk about the Kawhi Leonard-Michael Jordan comparisons that are being thrown around. Can Kawhi do the same Superman performance in the Finals that he did against Milwaukee?...

Giannis and the Bucks come up short; Updates on KD & Boogie; NBA Finals preview from 2019-05-28T18:04:38

Ric and Will are back to talk a ton of NBA. First, Will would like to discuss some pickup hoops etiquette. Then the guys get into Giannis' post game podium walk-off, and the Bucks inability to c...

Toronto exposes Milwaukee; Raptors - Warriors NBA Finals; & All NBA teams from 2019-05-27T17:48:57

Ric is back to break down a ton of NBA news from over the weekend. The Raptors beat the Bucks in 4 straight to set a Finals date with the Warriors. We might not see KD again in a Warriors unifor...

Blake Griffin Part 2: On his "pivotal year," taking pride in helping turn around the Clippers, & the changing perception of his game from 2019-05-23T22:09:04

Today's episode is Part 2 of Ric's interview with Pistons forward Blake Griffin. Hear Blake discuss how he took pride in his accomplishments with the Clippers, how the perception and criticisms ...

Detroit Pistons forward Blake Griffin on the day he was traded, the evolution of his game, and more (Part 1) from 2019-05-22T19:55:30

Today's episode is Part 1 of an interview Ric did with Pistons forward Blake Griffin for a Bleacher Report story that came out a couple weeks ago. Blake talked candidly about the day he was trad...

Clarifying Magic Johnson emails story; KD's clapbacks; & Game of Thrones takes from 2019-05-22T03:17:13

Ric & Will touch on Kevin Durant's continued ways of clapping back at media members and Twitter trolls, before giving their takes on Game of Thrones (don't worry, no series finale spoilers). The...

Raptors showing signs of life; Warriors w/ the ultimate chip on their shoulder; & Magic Johnson speaks from 2019-05-20T21:54:29

Ric & Will break down the Raptors Game 3 victory over the Bucks and the implications for that series going forward. Plus, the Warriors have been playing with a huge chip on their shoulder-- coul...

What's wrong with Damian Lillard; The Raps can give the Bucks problems; & Lamar Odom burns $25K. Literally. from 2019-05-17T20:16:29

Ric & Ryan break down last night's Game 2 between the Warriors and Blazers, with the Blazers wasting a golden opportunity to tie the series at 1-1. Also, Ric believes the Raptors have match-ups ...

NBA Conference Finals: Game 1 Recaps & Game 2 previews; Plus Lakers & Klutch Sports drama update from 2019-05-16T20:30:40

Ric & Ryan are back to break down the Warriors Game 1 rout of the Blazers. Can the Blazers make this a series? And Ric is coming around on the Warriors path to a three-peat. Also, the problems t...

NBA Draft Lottery fallout + Zion hype train; & Coming around on the Warriors three-peat from 2019-05-15T23:31:11

Ric is flying solo to break down all the fallout from the NBA Draft Lottery and the crazy hype surrounding Zion Williamson. Plus, thanks to some surprising performances by the Warriors bench, Ri...

NBA Conference Finals predictions; Most clutch players remaining; & Why KD will go to NYC from 2019-05-14T17:18:56

Will is back and he and Ric give their NBA conference finals predictions and discuss who are the most clutch players remaining in the NBA playoffs. Ric also explains why Kevin Durant will go to ...

Warriors advance, Sixers go home, and "nerd basketball" is taking a beating; Plus Kawhi's shot & new Lakers coaches from 2019-05-13T21:52:06

Ric Bucher goes solo today to break down a ton that happened in the NBA over the weekend. He started out with his thoughts on the Lakers hiring Jason Kidd and the grief Ric got for discussing Ki...

Two Game 7s; Rockets-Warriors Game 6 w/o KD; & Kyrie done in Boston? from 2019-05-10T22:12:33

Ric & Ryan preview a huge weekend in the NBA playoffs, with Game 7s between Por-Den & Phi-Tor, and a big Game 6 in Houston without Kevin Durant. Plus, who is to blame for Boston's disappointing ...

Kevin Durant's injury; Curry still the Warriors MVP; & Bucks dispatch the Celtics from 2019-05-09T23:00:44

Ric & Ryan dissect a wild night in the NBA playoffs that saw the Bucks take care of business against the Celtics, and a thrilling Game 5 between Houston & Golden State. The guys discuss Steph's ...

Nat'l college basketball writer Adam Zagoria on the NCAA corruption trial from 2019-05-08T17:53:55

Ric is joined by Adam Zagoria who writes for Forbes magazine and the New York Times, and is currently in NY covering the NCAA corruption trial. The guys discuss whether big time college coaches ...

Fmr NFL QB & ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky on the extreme challenges young quarterbacks face in the NFL from 2019-05-07T17:27:53

Ric and Will are joined by former NFL QB turned ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky, who shares tremendous insight on what it's like to be a young QB in the NFL. Dan explains with thoughtful analogies how...

Blazers-Nuggets exhausting 4OT thriller; Steph's blunder & embarrassing sports moments from 2019-05-06T17:34:33

Ric & Will discuss the Blazers-Nuggets 4OT thriller and the impact of exhaustion on performance. The guys also talked about Steph Curry's  missed dunk and their embarrassing sports moments, and ...

Best NBA Playoffs Round 2 matchups ever on paper? & Will lack of depth ultimately take down GSW? from 2019-05-02T22:07:45

Ric and Ryan discuss what Ryan call's the best NBA Playoffs Round 2 matchups ever. Plus, will lack of depth keep the Warriors from the 3-peat? Also, Ryan shares why the Clippers were his favorit...