Podcasts by NBA A to Z with Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt

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Kyrie Irving's return and early MVP voting from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Kyrie Irving is back with Cleveland and the NBA A to Z guys discuss what that means. The guys also talk about the Rajon Rondo situation and why Rondo hasn't been more remorseful about what he said ...

Warriors streak ends, Celtics, Thunder on a roll from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Golden State Warriors long winning streak ends, but there is still plenty to talk about regarding this team. NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the streak and what's next for t...

Andrew Bogut on the Warriors winning streak from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports Sam Amick talks to Golden State Warriors center Andrew Bogut in a phone interview and they discuss the winning streak and what he's doing during off time on the road. Bogut talks a...

Big changes in Philly, Spurs rolling and LeBron's shoe deal from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As the Philadelphia 76ers continue to flounder, the fans, the team and the league have decided a change is needed. Longtime NBA executive and current director of Team USA basketball Jerry Colangelo...

Chronicling the Golden State Warriors from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With the Golden State Warriors off to a record-breaking 20–0 start, NBA A to Z guy Sam Amick chats with San Francisco Chronicle beat writer Rusty Simmons about covering the team. Will they remain u...

Kobe Bryant makes it official and what's up with Jahlil Okafor? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Kobe Bryant made official what we've known for a while that this will be his final season in the NBA. The A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss what Bryant means to the game and how this ...

Can the Warriors or Kristaps Porzingis be stopped? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Golden State Warriors keep piling up wins and the NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt weigh in with Kevin Spain on how good they are and how impressive Luke Walton has been as interim c...

Why the Houston Rockets fired coach Kevin McHale from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports NBA reporter Sam Amick joins Kevin Spain to discuss why the Houston Rockets fired coach Kevin McHale 11 games into the season. The team was in the Western Conference finals last se...

J.J. Redick on Clippers and his new tattoo from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Los Angeles Clippers guard J.J. Redick joins USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick by phone to talk about the team and the rivalry with the Golden State Warriors. They also discuss Redick's appreciation for ...

Coaches on the hot seat already from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The drama in Sacramento is only one of several teams who might have coaches on the hot seat. USA TODAY's Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break that down with NBA Editor Kevin Spain. Are George Karl, By...

Kevin Durant's free agency period is on? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As the Oklahoma City Thunder take on the Washington Wizards, it sparks the beginning of the Kevin Durant free agency period that will go through next summer. NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zill...

Early season overreactions from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA season is just getting started and yet, we know everything that's going to happen -- or, the early season overreactions. Stephen Curry will breeze to MVP, the Rockets and James Harden aren'...

Craig Sager interview; Warriors play at San Quentin from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports Sam Amick and Kevin Spain discuss the death of Flip Saunders and how that will affect the Minnesota Timberwolves this season. Amick sits down with TNT's Craig Sager, who is coming ...

NBA players and racial profiling from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY's Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the unfortunate Thabo Sefolosha and John Henson situations and how NBA players can face real racism. They talk about some interesting preseason perfo...

Who you should pick for your fantasy basketball team from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Josh Lloyd from RedRockBasketball.com joins USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain to cut through the noise and give you advice on who you should take in your fantasy basketball draft. They discuss who's un...

Lamar Odom clings to life in Nevada hospital from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

NBA reporter Sam Amick talks with USA TODAY Sports Martin Rogers, who is in Las Vegas covering the sad saga of Lamar Odom, who is fighting for his life after passing out in a Nevada brothel recently.

Surprise teams for this season; Alvin Gentry and David West interviews from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Thabo Sefolosha won his case against the New York City Police Department and that could lead to a civil suit, and USA TODAY Sports Jeff Zillgitt and Kevin Spain discuss. New Orleans Pelicans coach ...

Gordon Hayward, Metta World Peace and Serena Winters interviews from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports Sam Amick and Kevin Spain discuss the crazy situation with New York Knicks coach Derek Fisher and Memphis Grizzlies forward Matt Barnes. Amick interviews Utah Jazz Gordon Hayward a...

Kobe Bryant returns from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Kobe Bryant is coming off another rehab and is on the floor as the Los Angeles Lakers get things going in the preseason. USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick is at Lakers camp in Hawaii and he and Kevin Spa...

Paul George talks about his return to the Pacers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Training camps are opening and several key players who were injured last season are returning. USA TODAY Sports reporter Sam Amick talks to Paul George about returning from a horrible injury, his n...

Kevin Durant will be at camp, what does this do for OKC? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti announced that superstar Kevin Durant will be ready when the team opens training camp on Sept. 28. USA TODAY Sports NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Je...

Eastern Conference preview: Cavaliers poised to dominate from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In this episode of NBA A to Z, Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt of USA TODAY Sports look ahead to the Eastern Conference. Will it be the Cleveland Cavaliers' conference to lose? Can the Chicago Bulls, o...

Western Conference preview: Will Warriors repeat? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Will the Golden State Warriors win the Western Conference again this season? Will a new and improved San Antonio Spurs get back to the top? Can another team sneak in there? The NBA A to Z guys Jeff...

Draymond Green's summer; NBA changes playoffs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With the NBA season nearing, Golden State Warriors forward and resident NBA champion Draymond Green joined Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt on the NBA A to Z to discuss, among other things, his decision...

Will this really be Kobe Bryant's last season? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With the NBA season still a few weeks away, we ask the question, is this really the final season for Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant? NBA A to Z's Sam Amick talks to Bill Oram from the Orange ...

Who will be the starting five for Team USA? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With Team USA mini-camp over, Sam Amick of USA TODAY Sports discusses how things went in Las Vegas with Kevin Spain, USA TODAY NBA editor. With all the talent on this team, can any other country pu...

NBA schedule breakdown from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA schedule was released and Jeff Zillgitt of USA TODAY Sports and Kevin Spain, NBA Editor for USA TODAY take a look at how the league wanted to reduce the number of back to back games and how...

LeBron James going to Team USA camp and players, owners shouldn't opt out from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports NBA editor Kevin Spain talks to reporter Jeff Zillgitt about what it means that LeBron James says he'll work out with Team USA at the minicap in mid-August. The guys also discuss h...

Bucks will get new arena; Cavaliers load up in offseason from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Milwaukee Bucks will stay in Wisconsin after the state passed a bill approving a new arena. USA TODAY Sports NBA reporter Jeff Zillgitt and NBA editor Kevin Spain discuss what that means for th...

Becky Hammon interview and Summer League wrap up from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As NBA Summer League wraps up, USA TODAY Sports Sam Amick discusses some post league moves, including the Ty Lawson trade with Kevin Spain. Amick has an interview with San Antonio Spurs assistant c...

Summer League drama from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The best part of the NBA offseason is the drama that goes with it. USA TODAY Sports Sam Amick discusses how some of the rookies at the Las Vegas Summer League are not off to a great start with Kevi...

NBA free agency, the rich get richer from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As some of the big names in free agency agree to deals, it's apparent that some of the teams that were already among the best in the league, just got better. Kevin Spain and Sam Amick from USA TODA...

Free agency frenzy from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As free agency tips off, the NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt analyze what has happened so far with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain. The guys discuss the Kevin Love deal, Dwyane Wade and G...

Draft preview; DeMarcus Cousins discussion from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA draft is approaching the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk about some of their recent interviews of potential draftees with Kevin Spain of USA TODAY Sports. They discuss Phil Jac...

Finals wrapup and look ahead to next season from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Quick look back at the NBA Finals with Kevin Spain of USA TODAY Sports and the NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt. The guys discuss the MVP voting and ask could the Cavaliers and Warriors ...

Golden State takes back control of NBA Finals from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Kevin Spain of USA TODAY Sports discusses with NBA reporter Sam Amick how the Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr made a key adjustment in the NBA Finals, starting a smaller lineup that turned t...

Cavaliers flipping the script on NBA Finals from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports Kevin Spain talks to NBA reporter Jeff Zillgitt, while he's in the Denver Airport on his way from Oakland to Cleveland, about the amazing defensive performance by the Cleveland Cav...

Kyrie Irving's injury from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the devastating fractured kneecap injury suffered by Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain. They break do...

NBA Finals preview and Fred Hoiberg discussion from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As the NBA Finals approach the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss Klay Thompson's concussion, Kyrie Irving's injury and how the two coaches match up against each other with USA TODAY S...

Tom Thibodeau is fired; first looks at NBA Finals from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In a move that wasn't a surprise, but should be, the Chicago Bulls fired coach Tom Thibodeau after he won 65 percent of his games. The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss that with ...

Kobe Bryant; playoff performances; mock draft; D'Angelo Russell interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Los Angeles Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak said in a radio interview that this will be Kobe Bryant's last season with the Lakers. The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss that with USA TODA...

Draft talk, Justise Winslow interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain talks with Scott Gleeson about some of the top players at the upcoming NBA draft. Gleeson catches up with Duke's Justise Winslow, who talks about how his experience wi...

Conference finals preview; lookahead to the draft lottery from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the matchups in the conference finals with Kevin Spain from USA TODAY Sports. Spain and Zillgitt look ahead to the draft lottery, one of the ...

Buzzer beaters: Jimmy Butler interview; draft talk from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's the buzzer-beater playoffs in the conference semifinals and the NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss that with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain. Jeff Zillgitt caught up with Chicag...

Is home court advantage not sacred anymore? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Is home court advantage not sacred? Road teams have won in each of the conference semifinals of the NBA playoffs and the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss that with USA TODAY Sports' ...

Breaking down Billy Donovan to OKC; what's Kevin Love's future? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain the Oklahoma City Thunder's hiring of University of Florida coach Billy Donovan to replace Scott Brooks. T...

Kevin Love injury update and who goes to OKC? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss what the Kevin Love injury will mean to the Cleveland Cavaliers and to Love's future with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain. The guys also talk a...

Good playoff performances; Lou Williams interview; Adam Silver, Anthony Davis audio from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk about some great performances of the playoffs so far with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain. They also discuss the schedule reform and owners' discu...

NBA playoffs are here! from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The seedings are set and the NBA playoffs are about to begin. The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break it all down with Kevin Spain of USA TODAY Sports. They take a look at the first r...

It's awards time, who is the MVP, Rookie and Coach of the Year from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's awards time and NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss how they voted with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain. The guys discuss the most valuable player, rookie of the year, coach of t...

The West is brutal; Andrew Bogut interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The teams in the Western Conference who are in the playoffs are fighting for position as we move into the final week of the season and A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss that with USA ...

Great guard play and a look at the draft from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

A current and a former teammate of LeBron James are playing their best basketball in the final weeks of the season and A to Z guy Jeff Zillgitt discusses that with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain. Ja...

The Cavaliers are rolling; Steve Nash retires from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers being the team we thought they would be with USA TODAY Sports' Kevin Spain. LeBron James has a couple comments on how...

Should the NBA change it's playoff format? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Should the NBA change the playoffs format to put the top 16 teams in regardless of conference? The A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss with Kevin Spain from USA TODAY Sports. The always...

Battle for the Playoffs; Vlade Divac interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports reporters Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick discuss the battle for the bottom seeds in each conference with USAT's Kevin Spain. Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel and Charlotte Hornets coa...

Who is the MVP?; Kobe interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY Sports NBA reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt pick their favorites for this year's most valuable player with USAT's Kevin Spain. Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard weighs in o...

NBA A to Z podcast: Steve Clifford interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In the NBA A to Z debut podcast, USA TODAY Sports writers Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk to Charlotte Bobcats coach Steve Clifford about his where he learned his coaching philosophy, his new team...

NBA Finals Game 1 recap - JR Smith's historical brain cramp from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, we unpack the wild Game 1 of the Finals and what it means for the Warriors and Cavs going forward with USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick, Michael Singer and A.J. Neuharth-K...

Inside the Conference Finals and a look at the 2018 draft from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick discuss the Western finals between the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets and Eastern Conference final between the Cle...

Conference Finals Breakdown from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick discuss the Eastern Conference finals between the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers and Western Conference finals betwee...

Inside the NBA video room from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick talk with Mo Dakhil, a former video coordinator for the Los Angeles Clippers and San Antonio Spurs. Mo goes behind the scenes...

Learning how NBA teams roster moves work with Larry Coon, The Sports Business Classroom from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with Larry Coon, the league's preeminent expert on the collective bargaining agreement, a longtime NBA writer and the founder of The Sport...

Ian Thomsen, basketball writer from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk to veteran basketball writer Ian Thomsen whose new book ‘The Soul of Basketball: The Epic Showdown Between LeBron, Kobe,...

NBA First Round Playoff Breakdown from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the early part of the playoffs, from the mysterious Kawhi Leonard situation in San Antonio and what that might mea...

C.J. McCollum, Portland Trail Blazers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk with Portland Trail Blazers star and new podcast host, C.J. McCollum. The 26-year-old whose team is on th...

Breaking down the playoff races; Jon Krawczynski, The Athletic from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick discusses the Wild West playoff race with Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic. They discuss the Minnesota Timberwolves' attempt to en...

Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz; Top stories from around the NBA from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with Utah Jazz stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert about their surprise season and their respective candidacies for the Rookie of the Y...

NBA writer Sam Smith from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports Insider Jeff Zillgitt talks with veteran NBA writer Sam Smith, who covered Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls, about Sam’s new book titled Hard Labor...

Alvin Gentry, head coach Pelicans; Rajon Rondo Pelicans PG; Luke Walton, Lakers head coach from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick shares observations from his trip to LA over the weekend to cover LeBron James' one-and-only visit to Laker Land this season. He caught up with ...

The NBA A to Z Playoff Breakdown from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the wild playoff races in the East and the West and discuss all the possible ramifications of these final five weeks.

NBA on NCAA with Jalen Rose and Michele Roberts from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, Sam Amick shares his Sloan Conference conversations in Boston with Michele Roberts (National Basketball Players Association executive director) and Jalen Rose (ESPN a...

Around the NBA with JZ and Mike Singer from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY basketball insiders Jeff Zillgitt and Mike Singer take a look back at All-Star Weekend, address the workplace turmoil inside the Dallas Maverick...

All Star Weekend News and Notes! from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt are joined by fellow USA TODAY Sports colleagues Michael Singer and AJ Neuharth-Keusch to talk about their forthcoming ...

Trade Deadline Fireworks, Lakers beat writer Bill Oram, Paul George interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the trade deal that sent Isaiah Thomas from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Los Angeles Lakers. The ...

Blake Griffin Trade, John Wall's knee, and a discussion with NBA officials about the rising tension with players from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt debate what the Blake Griffin trade means for the Los Angeles Clippers and the Detroit Pistons and discuss the...

Jason Kidd firing, All Star reserves, the trade deadline, plus an interview with Tom Thibodeau. from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the firing of Milwaukee Bucks coach Jason Kidd, the All-Star reserves and how they see them, and th...

Lou Williams, L.A. Clippers; Gary Payton NBA Hall of Famer from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick talks with Los Angeles Clippers guard Lou Williams about his career year that's coming in Season No. 13, the possibility that he might...

Kara Lawson, Former WNBA player and Current Washington Wizards TV Analyst from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Jeff and Sam sit down with Kara Lawson, the color commentator for the Washington Wizards. They talk about her career in the WNBA and at the University of Tennessee, the play of the Wizards, and wha...

Kobe's Retirement, New Arenas, and the Christmas Day Games from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the retirement of Kobe Bryant's Los Angeles Lakers jerseys and how the Lakers wish they could concentrate on the futu...

Kareem Abdul Jabbar, NBA Hall of Famer from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk to the great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar about everything from basketball to social issues to his new book, "Becoming Kareem," a...

Jamal Crawford, Minnesota Timberwolves from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with three-time Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford of the Minnesota Timberwolves on the eve of his reunion game against t...

Who are the biggest threats to the Golden State Warriors? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z, USA TODAY Sports' Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the would-be threats to the Golden State Warriors' throne. Can the Houston Rockets, with Chris Paul back...

Isaiah Thomas, Cleveland Cavaliers; Carmelo Anthony, OKC Thunder from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with the Cleveland Cavaliers' Isaiah Thomas about his comeback, the trade that brought his time in Boston to a stunning end and the docu-s...

Hall of Famer Bernard King on his new book from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Jeff and Sam break down the Boston Celtics, Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, the three best teams in the NBA so far and much more. Then Jeff sits down with NBA Hall of Fame legend Bernar...

Power Rankings; Chris Paul and G League president Malcolm Turner interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z, insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt are joined by our power rankings guru, AJ Neuharth-Keusch, to break down the wild start to this season and why teams are ranked so hi...

NBA early season struggles around the league, plus the inside scoop on the Bucks and Lakers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the early season struggles of the Cavs and Warriors, Sam talks all things Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo with Milwaukee J...

Week 1 of the NBA Season, The Rookie Update, and Jeff Stotts from instreetclothes.com from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY’s Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the start of the NBA season, including Golden State’s uneven start, Cleveland’s rotation issues and a deep rookie ...

Gordon Hayward's injury, Houston's victory, and opening night from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY's Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk season-openers between Boston-Cleveland, Houston-Golden State and Gordon Hayward's horrific injury to his left ankle ...

Steph Curry on the Warriors trip to China from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's pod, Sam checks in after returning from covering the NBA pre-season action in China and breaks down all your hoops news with Jeff. Then we listen in to an interview Sam did with Steph Cu...

NBA Season at a glance; Jason Lloyd, The Athletic from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Sam and Jeff talk national anthem and potential issues for the NBA, Russell Westbrook’s long-term deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Dwyane Wade’s decision to j...

NBA A to Z is Back! Paul George, Oklahoma City Thunder from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Sam sits down with the Oklahoma City Thunder's Paul George to talk about his Pacers past, the Thunder present and his free agency future. Jeff and Sam preview thi...

NBA Free Agency Breakdown from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the free agency period that was highlighted by Gordon Hayward's exit from Utah to Boston, the blockbuster trades o...

Lawrence Frank, LA Clippers Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this special edition NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports Insider Sam Amick breaks down the Chris Paul trade with Clippers executive vice president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank. How d...

Mike D'Antoni, Houston Rockets Head Coach from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with Houston Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni about the Chris Paul trade that shook the NBA. The former Clippers star will be joining forces wi...

Jamal Crawford, LA Clippers guard; NBA Draft discussion from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick talks with Clippers guard and three-time Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford about the draft (he's close friends with prospective No. 1 p...

NBA Finals Preview; Brandon Payne, Steph Curry trainer from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the three-match in the Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Sam talk...

Enes Kanter, Oklahoma City Thunder; Dan Bailey, 'Father John Misty' drummer and NBA Fan from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, we help pass the pre-Finals time with two very different interviews. NBA Insider Sam Amick talks to Oklahoma City Thunder forward Enes Kanter about his harrowing ...

Jalen Rose on undercutting players from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the East and West Conference Finals, discuss what the Wizards do going forward after falling to Boston, and d...

Is this the best LeBron James has ever played? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt take a break from their playoff travels to break down the postseason to this point. Is this this the best LeBron James has ever ...

NBA Playoffs Round 2 Update; Ron Adams, Golden State Warriors from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff ZIllgitt break down the second round of the playoffs. Sam also talks to Golden State Warriors assistant coach Ron Adams, whose team wi...

David Stern, former NBA Comissioner; Playoff Update with Sam and Jeff from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zilgitt talk playoffs with former NBA Commissioner David Stern. He weighs in on the early postseason action, discusses why he doesn't ...

Take that for data ... NBA playoffs off to good start from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's show, NBA Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the early stages of the playoffs with TNT analyst and two-time champion Brent Barry. From the Cavaliers' defensive struggles...

"Western Conference playoff podcast" from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this special playoff edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Sam Amick has in-depth conversations with Clippers coach and president of basketball operations Doc Rivers, Houston Rockets coach Mike D'A...

Oscar Robertson says he loves watching Russell Westbrook play from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, USA TODAY Sports reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss their looming votes on regular season awards. Sam chats with the great Oscar Robertson about Russell We...

Billy Donovan, Oklahoma City Thunder coach; MVP Debate Pod from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Sam talks to Oklahoma City Thunder coach Billy Donovan about Russell Westbrook's special season and the question of how he sizes up against the Hou...

Draymond Green discusses NBA defensive player of the year from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In this week's A to Z, Sam sits down with the Warriors' Draymond Green to debate the Defensive Player of the Year award and discuss his well-known prowess on that end of the floor. How would he jud...

A Deep Dive into the NBA Playoff Picture from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's episode of A to Z, Sam and Jeff dive deep on the playoff races in the East and the West as the regular season nears an end. Which teams have the toughest schedules? What are the MVP ...

Around the NBA with Sam and Jeff from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In this episode, the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss who will emerge in this hotly-contested MVP race. They'll break down the top candidates and give their assessment on why each gu...

Tim Bontemps; NBA writer from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

This week on NBA A to Z, Sam Amick sits down with NBA writer Tim Bontemps of the Washington Post to talk about the Warriors' life without Kevin Durant and what it means, the MVP race, whether or no...

David Thorpe; ESPN analyst, coach, and author from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Sam and Jeff go around the league with David Thorpe, an ESPN analyst, longtime coach to NBA players and author of the new book, "Basketball is Jazz: Stories and l...

Lakers blow it up, and DeMarcus Cousins trade talk from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The tables are turned on USA TODAY’s Sam Amick. On this episode, he is the one aswering the questions instead of asking. USA TODAY’s NBA Editor Kevin Spain comes in to talk to Sam about the Los Ang...

Isaiah Thomas on life on and off the court from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sam Amick chats with Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas. They talk about Isaiah’s work with the Boy’s and Girl’s Club in Tacoma, Wash. He donated a basketball court and talked to kids about his sto...

Will Carmelo really be on the move? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down some of the moves that could happen as we approach the NBA trade deadline. They talk about the possibility of Carmelo Anthony being traded and what it might t...

Kevin McHale goes around the league with Sam Amick from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Before he calls the Detroit Pistons at Boston Celtics game, TNT analyst Kevin McHale joins Sam Amick to talk about the hot topics around the league. They talk about the internal strife with the Chi...

The great best players debate from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk about who should be on the Eastern and Western Conference All-Star rosters. The guys start out with who should’ve been starting, but didn’t get the nod. They then b...

Warriors get revenge on Cavaliers; Steph Curry talks President Obama from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Live from Oakland, Cal., Sam Amick is joined by Washington Post reporter Tim Bontemps to break down the Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers game. They talk about how great Stephen Curry w...

Klay Thompson talks success, future, "childish" Cavs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson sits down with USA TODAY’s Sam Amick to go behind the scenes with him and the team. They begin with how he’s not as quiet as some might think and how his f...

George Karl on his book and criticism from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Former NBA coach George Karl, whose book “Furious George” is out, joins Sam and Jeff to talk about the reaction to excerpts that have been released in the past few weeks. The guys ask him to talk a...

James Harden on his historic season from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Houston Rockets guard James Harden sits down with USA TODAY’s Sam Amick to discuss his amazing season and the success of the team. They talk about how Harden knew something good might be coming up ...

MVP and Rookie of the Year races shaping up from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt go around the league, hitting on some of the big performances. They start off talking about the Rookie of the Year race and the surprising entry that is Malcolm Brogdon ...

Chris Wallace, Memphis Grizzlies GM: Going from Casino worker to NBA executive from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Memphis Grizzlies general manager Chris Wallace joins Sam Amick to discuss his unorthodox rise to NBA executive. They talk about how the Grizzlies have dealt with injuries and have still made the p...

Rise of the Warriors and perspective on Griffin, Cousins, Sager from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On this episode, Sam Amick talks with Golden State Warriors beat reporter Marcus Thompson about how the team rose from being one of worst teams in the league to the current dynasty. They talk about...

Breaking down the season at the quarter mark from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sam and Jeff break down the league at the quarter point in the season. They talk about how great Russell Westbrook has been so far and the amazing numbers he has been putting up. They discuss the N...

Mike D'Antoni, Houston Rockets Coach; Dr. David Bearman, Expert Clinical Cannabis from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sam Sits down with Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni to discuss James Harden and the state of the team, while Jeff has a lengthy discussion with Dr. David Bearman, one of the most clinically knowledgeabl...

Ranking the NBA teams so far from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sam and Jeff take an inside look at the power rankings procedure and bring in an expert to break it all down. What goes into the weekly rankings and who votes. USA TODAY's AJ Neuhart-Keusch joins ...

Blake Griffin; PF, LA Clippers and DeMar DeRozan; SG, Toronto Raptors from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Not only is Los Angeles Clippers star Blake Griffin a great basketball player, but he is also a stand up comedian. USA TODAY's Sam Amick sat down with Griffin to talk about his comedy and the Clipp...

Taking the early pulse of the NBA season from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt chat about the bogus rumor that Klay Thompson was going to be traded by the Golden State Warriors to the Boston Celtics. They talk about how important Th...

Luke Walton joins to talk about the exciting young Lakers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

One of the surprise teams early on in the NBA season is the Los Angeles Lakers. USA TODAY's Sam Amick caught up with first-year coach Luke Walton about the good start and the outlook. Walton talks ...

Early season observations: Are Spurs the real super team? Westbrook on fire from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt give their analysis of the early days of the NBA season. Are the Golden State Warriors overrated? Are the San Antonio Spurs underrated? What to make abou...

Tom Thibodeau on building the T'Wolves and his time off from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Minnesota Timberwolves coach Tom Thibodeau joins Sam Amick to talk about his new team. They discuss how talented the young T'Wolves are, led by Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins and the outlook...

Mike Conley on being the highest paid player and virtual reality comes to the NBA from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley joins USA TODAY's Sam Amick at a recent workout to talk about being the highest paid player in the NBA. They also talk about how strong the Western Conference ha...

Who will win the NBA's individual awards? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down who they think will win the individual awards. Names like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard are out there for most ...

Who should you take in your fantasy basketball draft? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You've done your homework, studied all the analytics and are ready for your fantasy basketball draft. But all things being equal, who should you take No. 1? Josh Lloyd from Basketball Monster and t...

Who goes to the NBA Finals? Picking conference, division winners from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down each conference, looking at what teams win the divisions and who emerges to make it to the Finals. The guys then pick who they think will ...

Are the Warriors unbeatable? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt look ahead to some of the issues that could define the 2016-17 season, starting off with the dominance of the Golden State Warriors in a preseason game a...

Stephen Curry hasn't gotten over Game 7 loss from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry sits down with USA TODAY’s Sam Amick to discuss how that Game 7 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals will drive him this season. He recalls wh...

What's next for DeMarcus Cousins, Carmelo Anthony? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Now that the Olympics are over, where do guys who have been successful in international play but not in the NBA go from here? USA TODAY's Sam Amick, who covered the games, discusses what's next for...

USA Basketball got game they needed; Kevin Durant, DeMar DeRozan conversation from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With the Olympics underway, USA TODAY NBA reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt take a look at USA Basketball and how they were pushed to the limit by Australia. The guys discuss how that game will...

Grant Hill on being an owner and Hawks trying something new in offseason from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Grant Hill and Melissa Proctor of the Atlanta Hawks join AJ Neuharth-Keusch of USA TODAY to talk about a project the team is doing to better connect with the community. Hill chats about what he has...

What Klay Thompson thinks of KD affecting his game from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As much as any of the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson could feel the effect of Kevin Durant joining the team. USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick and Kevin Spain discuss how those two players' games c...

Jerry Colangelo on Olympics and NBA players from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Jerry Colangelo, director of USA Basketball joins A to Z guys Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick in Las Vegas to talk about the U.S. team as we get closer to the Rio Olympics. Colangelo breaks down the te...

Anthony Davis on Pelicans, Team USA and NBA players' influence from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Nancy Armour, USA TODAY columnist, guest hosts and sits down with New Orleans Pelicans player Anthony Davis. They're at a Red Bull tournament and dunk contest event and Davis talks about how NBA pl...

What's next for Russell Wesbrook and the Thunder without Kevin Durant? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Now that Kevin Durant has left Oklahoma City and joined the Golden State Warriors, where does that leave his former running mate Russell Westbrook? USA TODAY Sports Sam Amick breaks it all down wit...

Why Kevin Durant is going to the Warriors from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

How did the Golden State Warriors land Kevin Durant in free agency? Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt, USA TODAY NBA reporters walk you through the behind the scenes and discuss the meetings that were ha...

Jamal Crawford breaks down this year's free agency class from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Los Angeles Clippers' Jamal Crawford joins NBA A to Z guy Sam Amick to break down free agency. As a player, Crawford has a unique perspective on where guys might go and what the market is for other...

What will Kevin Durant do and other free agency talk from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Kevin Durant sweepstakes is on. Where will this summer's top free agent going to sign? The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt take a deep dive into what the Oklahoma City Thunder star’...

Rachel Nichols, Paul Flannery on Cavs incredible run from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA A to Z guys wrap up the NBA season in the wee hours following Game 7 of the Finals. They break down how the Cleveland Cavaliers won an improbable title, coming from a 3-1 series deficit to ...

There'll be a Game 7 in the NBA Finals from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In the late hours following Game 6, NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down what happened in the Cavaliers’ big win. The guys assess the problems the Warriors ran into and what they’...

Kyrie Irving, LeBron James were amazing as Cavs force Game 6 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

From the parking lot of Oracle Arena, NBA A to Z's Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt breakdown the 41 point performances from Kyrie Irving and LeBron James. It was the first time teammates scored more th...

Welcome back Splash Brothers as Warriors ready to eliminate LeBron and Cavs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Remember Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson? Yeah, we do too. Especially after they broke out of their slump to lead the Golden State Warriors to an NBA Finals Game 4 win against the Cleveland Cavalie...

Cavaliers make it a series as LeBron goes off from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

So where did this Cleveland Cavaliers team come from? After looking overmatched in the first two games of the NBA Finals, the Cavs come alive and blow out the Golden State Warriors. A to Z guys Jef...

Mychal Thompson says Warriors would beat Showtime Lakers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Mychal Thompson, member of the Los Angeles Lakers in the Showtime era and father of Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors, agrees with his son that this Warriors team would beat his. Mychal Th...

Is this series over? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Now that the Golden State Warriors are up 2-0 in the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt ask if the series is over. They discuss how poorly the C...

Warriors dominate Cavaliers in Game 1 of NBA Finals from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Game 1 of the NBA Finals goes to the Golden State Warriors in convincing fashion and the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break it down with USA TODAY's Kevin Spain. While the guys are talki...

Cavaliers get rematch with Warriors in NBA Finals from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Cleveland Cavaliers get another shot at the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals and the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break it down. The guys look at the how the two teams got the...

Draft talk, breaking down the frontcourt guys from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

USA TODAY’s Michael Singer and draft guru Derek Bodner break down why the Philadelphia 76ers could very well take LSU’s Ben Simmons with the top pick in the upcoming NBA draft. They also break down...

The other Curry, Seth, on his breakout season and his future from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The NBA game is evolving into a spread the floor and going outside in. Guys like Stephen Curry have helped revolutionize the game. His brother Seth Curry took a step forward in his development as a...

Going inside the Golden State Warriors from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ever wonder what it’s like to be on the inside of a championship team? USA TODAY’s Sam Amick talks to Golden State Warriors assistant general manager Travis Schlenk. They discuss everything from ho...

Breaking down Cavaliers vs. Raptors in Eastern Conference Finals from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Toronto Raptors have gone farther in the playoffs than ever in franchise history by moving to the Eastern Conference finals. NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down Toronto's mat...

Stopping the champs: a West Finals preview with OKC's Billy Donovan from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As his team moves on to the Western Conference finals, Oklahoma City Thunder coach Billy Donovan has matched wits with veteran coaches Rick Carlisle in Dallas and Gregg Popovich in San Antonio, and...

Stephen Curry talks about the MVP award and the season from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In the minutes after giving his speech for winning the NBA’s most valuable player award, Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry joined USA TODAY’s Sam Amick on the phone. The two discuss his awa...

Grant Hill on why Steph Curry is so good and the NBA playoffs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Former NBA player and TNT personality Grant Hill and USA TODAY's Sam Amick have a phone conversation to talk about the top current stories in the NBA. They discuss Golden State Warriors Stephen Cur...

What to make of the coaching moves from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What to make of the coaching changes that have happened in the NBA? Breaking it down is Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick, USA TODAY NBA reporters and A to Z guys. They take a look at the latest moves in...

Billy Donovan joins to talk about his rookie year from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Not many coaches have made the leap from college to the NBA and been successful right off the bat. Jeff Zillgitt, USA TODAY NBA reporter, sat down with one of those guys, Billy Donovan of the Oklah...

Injuries hitting key players in playoffs: talking Warriors/Clippers crises from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Injuries are starting to again be the story of the NBA playoffs. Chris Paul, Stephen Curry, Blake Griffin … key players missing time. What has this done to the playoffs? NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick a...

Jamal Crawford on Sixth Man award, Clippers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Los Angeles Clippers Jamal Crawford was voted Sixth Man of the Year, the third time he's won the award, and nobody in the history of the NBA has done that. A to Z man Sam Amick caught up with Crawf...

Breaking down NBA awards, part 2 and Kawhi Leonard interview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With NBA awards season underway, NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt look at their picks in the second part of the two-part episode. The Defensive Player of the Year award was given out, wo...

Stephen Curry on how he has changed basketball from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Steph Curry talks to USA TODAY’s Sam Amick about his incredible three-point shooting and how he has changed the game. They discuss how other teams are trying to space the floor and open up shooters...

The Kobe Files from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With Kobe Bryant's retirement looming, USA TODAY put together a project called "The Kobe Files". The six-part series takes a look at the Lakers star from his days at Lower Merion High School, his o...

Chronicling Kobe, legendary Lakers photographer Andy Bernstein and beat writer Mark Medina from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As Kobe Bryant's career winds down, Getty News Services photographer Andy Bernstein joins Sam Amick to discuss shooting photos of the Lakers star for the past 20 years. They also discuss other phot...

Breaking down NBA post season awards, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As the NBA season winds down, the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt take a look at postseason awards, starting with Sixth Man of the Year and Rookie of the Year. Sam is joined by Enes Kanter ...

Why 76ers' Sam Hinkie resigned and he's still polarizing from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

When Philadelphia 76ers general manager Sam Hinkie resigned recently, he wrote a 13-page letter to the owners of the team. That letter was leaked to the public and it had quotes attributed to peopl...

Covering Stan Van Gundy and the Pistons: Free Press reporter Vince Ellis from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Can the Detroit Pistons end the longest playoff drought in the Eastern Conference and make the playoffs? NBA A to Z guy Jeff Zillgitt welcomes Vince Ellis of the Detroit Free Press to talk about ho...

The Warriors and the push for 73 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With the Golden State Warriors closing in on the NBA's best regular season record, USA TODAY NBA reporter Sam Amick caught up with assistant coach Ron Adams and head coach Steve Kerr. Adams, a note...

D'Angelo Russell's antics takes away from Kobe's farewell tour from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The crazy story of Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell taping teammate Nick Young talking about some personal issues and the tape getting out has been the big story in the NBA the past couple of days. It...

Why New York Times' Scott Cacciola prefers covering Warriors than Knicks from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Scott Cacciola of the New York Times joins the NBA A to Z podcast to discuss covering the Golden State Warriors with Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt. They talk about how Stephen Curry is even better th...

Why is Ben Simmons No. 1 in mock draft boards? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The first USA TODAY NBA mock draft is out and the man who put it together, Derek Bodner, joins Kevin Spain to discuss. They talk about possible top pick Ben Simmons from LSU and how his game fits ...

Dwight Howard says Houston can win a title, talks James Harden, free agency from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

There are few NBA players who evoke reaction from the public than Dwight Howard. The Houston Rockets big man sat down with USA TODAY NBA reporter Sam Amick to discuss the season, the Rockets' style...

Luol Deng on the Heat's chances to knock off Cleveland and free agency from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Miami Heat forward Luol Deng joins the NBA A to Z podcast to discuss the chances of his team knocking off the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference with USA TODAY reporters Sam Amick and Je...

Jared Dudley on free agency, today's players and best food cities in the NBA from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Jared Dudley of the Washington Wizards joins NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt to talk about the evolution of the game and how his position of stretch four has changed. They also discuss ...

Kevin Durant talks Thunder, free agency; Talking Warriors-OKC-Cavs-LeBron and more from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Kevin Durant talks to NBA A to Z guy Sam Amick to discuss the Oklahoma City Thunder’s recent struggles, not only on the floor but off. And, of course, Durant discusses his forthcoming free agency t...

Is Steph Curry unstoppable? Can Raps catch Cavs? Is Terry Stotts coach of the year? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Since there's not much discussion of Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors, the NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk about his season with USA TODAY's Kevin Spain. The guys also d...

Jeanie Buss on state of the Lakers, Phil Jackson & jersey ads from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Los Angeles Lakers president Jeanie Buss joins NBA A to Z to discuss Kobe Bryant's future with NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt. She also talks about her stance on ads on jerseys and wha...

Karl-Anthony Towns on greatness, Rookie of the Year race & Kristaps Porzingis from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves rookie center, joins NBA A to Z guy Sam Amick for a quick conversation after practice. Towns is the leading candidate for NBA rookie of the year, an award...

Breaking down the trades at NBA trade deadline from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the trades made at NBA trade deadline. There's more to the story of Jeff Green being shipped out of Memphis. What to make of Lance Stephenson ...

The dunking dynamo in jeans from All-Star weekend speaks, & a convo with DeMar DeRozan from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

NBA A to Z guy Sam Amick talks to Jordan Kilganon, who is a professional dunker from Canada. Kilganon was the guy who came out of the stands in jeans at the NBA All-Star Game and performed a no-loo...

Goodbye Canada as we look ahead to second half from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Now that the NBA All-Star weekend is over, NBA A to Z guy Jeff Zillgitt breaks down the best of the festivities -- which seemed to be all about Kobe Bryant and the great Slam Dunk contest -- with U...

Kobe Bryant's big weekend and James Hinchcliffe's All-Star adventure from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Just like the regular season, the NBA All-Star weekend is a farewell tour for Kobe Bryant. The 20-year Lakers veteran has been praised by everyone in Toronto and flanked by hordes of media members ...

Al Horford's future in Atlanta and why Chris Bosh pulled out of All-Star game from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In an All-Star edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Sam Amick discusses with Kevin Spain Al Horford's future in Atlanta and talks to Horford after Eastern Conference practice. Amick then talks to Chr...

Draymond Green talks Warriors, style, and Kevin Durant from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

New York Knicks rookie Kristaps Porzingis has a good relationship with new coach Kurt Rambis and has adjusted well to the changes, NBA A to Z guy Sam Amick reports from Toronto. Sam also talks to G...

Adam Silver on possible work stoppage, Hack-A-Shaq and his booming business from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver joins the NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt to discuss how players are now moving to markets for opportunity and how there is starting to be more parity. They...

Jeff Van Gundy cries foul on Hack-A-Shaq from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the practice of intentionally fouling players who are poor free throw shooters and NBA commissioner Adam Silver saying a rule is going to be chan...

Why isn't Kevin Love an All-Star? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With the Cleveland Cavaliers being the best team in the Eastern Conference, why didn't they get more than one player on the All-Star team? USA TODAY's Jeff Zillgitt breaks down why Kevin Love didn'...

Jalen Rose on his book, the NBA and Michigan hoops from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

NBA analyst Jalen Rose joins NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt to talk about his book "Got to Give the People What They Want" and what inspired him to take on the project. The guys discus...

Why Brett Brown is upbeat about the Philadelphia 76ers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Philadelphia 76ers coach Brett Brown, who endured the ultimate culture shock after leaving the San Antonio Spurs to take on a monumental challenge of leading the Sixers, calls in to chat with the N...

Where do Warriors, Cavaliers go now? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Does the Cleveland Cavaliers blowout loss to the Golden State Warriors mean they're in trouble come playoff time? Does it mean the Warriors are unstoppable? The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Z...

Damian Lillard discusses his hip-hop video, Blazers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard joins the NBA A to Z podcast to discuss his video and song called "Bigger Than Us" that is available on iTunes at www.itunes.com/damedolla. Lillard talks...

Mikhail Prokhorov and the Nets; Cavs, Spurs, Warriors pulling away from pack from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Brooklyn Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov fired his coach, Lionel Hollins and reassigned his general manager, Billy King, after the team got off to a poor start. NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zill...

Alvin Gentry interview; DrayMagic and the Spurs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Alvin Gentry discusses what has gone right and wrong with the New Orleans Pelicans this season and his outlook for the second half with USA TODAY's Sam Amick. He talks about what kind of player he ...

Curry hurting game? What's up with the Suns? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What's up with Mark Jackson saying that Stephen Curry is hurting the NBA? The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss that with USA TODAY's Kevin Spain. The guys talk about the Warriors...

NBA A to Z podcast: Steve Clifford interview from 2013-10-28T16:59:35

In the NBA A to Z debut podcast, USA TODAY Sports writers Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk to Charlotte Bobcats coach Steve Clifford about his where he learned his coaching philosophy, his new team...