Episodes

  • ITL: Breaking Down CP3’s Legacy, The REAL Reason Behind the NBA Injury Spike, Sengun Top 10 Player?

    ITL: Breaking Down CP3’s Legacy, The REAL Reason Behind the NBA Injury Spike, Sengun Top 10 Player?
    Nov 23 2025
    Welcome back to another episode of In the Lab on the Hoopsology Podcast! In this extended NBA breakdown, Justin Goodrum, Matt Thomas, and Alan Muenzler dive DEEP into one of the biggest stories of the season—Chris Paul announcing that he will retire at the end of the year. We break down: 🎖️ Chris Paul’s legacy, his impact on multiple franchises, and whether he’s a top-5 point guard all time 🧠 How CP3 elevated organizations like the Hornets, Clippers, Rockets & Thunder 🏀 Why his Houston run remains one of the NBA’s biggest “what-ifs” But that’s not all! The league is facing a massive wave of injuries, so we unpack: 📈 The sharp rise in games missed this season 🦵 Calf strain trends explained through injury analyst Jeff Stotts 🔥 Steve Kerr’s comments on pace, spacing, and the 82-game grind 🤒 Whether training camps, year-round specialization, and youth basketball culture play a role 🎟️ How injuries impact attendance and the in-arena experience Then we pivot into team-by-team breakdowns: ⭐ Detroit Pistons (13–2 Start!) Why Cade Cunningham & Jalen Duren are becoming a legit superstar duo Whether Detroit should stay patient or trade for a star Why their trajectory mirrors Houston and OKC The truth behind the rumored “big move” pressure 🔁 Atlanta Hawks Without Trae Young Why the Hawks look better without their franchise player Whether Trae Young should be traded Why the roster feels stuck in NBA mediocrity Possible trade destinations and franchise-reset scenarios 🚀 Houston Rockets Surge Alperen Sengun’s breakout and MVP-ladder potential Reed Sheppard’s arrival and respect from opposing defenses Why the Rockets dominate despite low assist numbers KD’s leadership and vibes in Houston How Denver exposed the few weaknesses Sengun must overcome This is one of our most in-depth episodes ever—packed with thoughtful analysis, data insights, and honest debate. Podcast Person? Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2sIa6O4u4TnIBSygXu9qDm?si=acff6d3796a14c9a Or search “Hoopsology” anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Join the conversation! Twitter: https://twitter.com/hoopsologypod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hoopsologypod/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/hoopsologypod/ Email: Hoopsologypod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Allie Clifton on Luka Joining the Lakers, LeBron’s Future & Inside NBA Media (Full Interview)

    Allie Clifton on Luka Joining the Lakers, LeBron’s Future & Inside NBA Media (Full Interview)
    Nov 21 2025
    In this episode of the Hoopsology Podcast, we sit down with Allie Clifton — NBA sideline reporter for Amazon Prime, studio host for Spectrum SportsNet, and co-host of the hit show Road Trippin’. Allie delivers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the 2025 Los Angeles Lakers, the state of NBA media, and what fans don’t see when it comes to the lives and pressures of NBA players. Allie shares how she built her career from a small town in Ohio to covering LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and now Luka Dončić in Los Angeles. She discusses the evolution of NBA player-media relationships after 2020, how access has changed, and why understanding players as people first matters more than ever. We dive deep into: Luka Dončić joining the Lakers and the shock inside the building What makes Luka different from other superstars Allie has covered Austin Reaves’ rise and why he might be a future Laker cornerstone How JJ Redick has reshaped the Lakers’ identity in 2025 Misconceptions about Lakers fans and the culture of the franchise The growth of NBA broadcasting on Amazon, NBC, ESPN & streaming Why the league’s young stars and veteran greats make this one of the best eras ever Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins
  • Why the Timberwolves Are Closer to a Championship Than You Think with Zone Coverage Minnesota’s Charlie Walton

    Why the Timberwolves Are Closer to a Championship Than You Think with Zone Coverage Minnesota’s Charlie Walton
    Nov 20 2025
    In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Walton, Timberwolves reporter for Zone Coverage Minnesota, to break down every major storyline around the most fascinating team in the NBA this season. We dive into: 🏀 Why the Timberwolves’ identity has flipped — from a defense-first team to a top-tier offensive squad. 🏀 Anthony Edwards’ evolution as a primary playmaker and whether he can realistically enter the MVP race. 🏀 What’s driving Minnesota’s defensive inconsistencies, including the impact of losing Nickeil Alexander-Walker and the emergence of Jaylen Clark. 🏀 How Jaden McDaniels has transformed into one of the league’s most efficient and improved players. 🏀 The point guard question: Mike Conley’s changing role, Rob Dillingham’s development, and how the Wolves mitigate ball-handling challenges. 🏀 Minnesota’s record against winning and losing teams — what it really means. 🏀 NBA-wide issues, including rising calf injuries, faster pace of play, and league-wide scheduling. 🏀 NBA expansion talk: What Seattle and Las Vegas entering the league could mean for Minnesota—including a potential move to the Eastern Conference. 🏀 Denver, OKC, Houston & the West — how the Wolves match up with the conference’s top threats. 🏀 Prince jerseys, Minnesota sports culture, and why a Wolves championship would be a historic moment for the state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 mins
  • The TRUTH About the Utah Jazz Rebuild-Are the Utah Jazz Building the NEXT OKC? With Utah Jazz Reporter Eric Spyropoulos

    The TRUTH About the Utah Jazz Rebuild-Are the Utah Jazz Building the NEXT OKC? With Utah Jazz Reporter Eric Spyropoulos
    Nov 18 2025
    Join us for a deep dive into one of the NBA’s most intriguing franchises — the Utah Jazz — as Allan and Matt welcome Eric Spyropoulos, digital writer for the Jazz, to break down the state of the team, the rebuild, the young core, Lauri Markkanen’s resurgence, Ace Bailey’s development, and how Utah compares to other rebuild success stories like OKC, Houston, and Detroit. We explore whether the Jazz are ahead of schedule, how Will Hardy’s system elevates young talent, and what Utah’s long-term vision looks like as they build through the draft. Eric also shares an insider perspective on: The growth of Keyonte George The expectations for Ace Bailey How Walker Kessler’s injury impacts the season Which young players Jazz fans should keep their eyes on Whether the Jazz could be active at the trade deadline How Utah is building a sustainable culture similar to the Celtics & Thunder Podcast Person? Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2sIa6O4u4TnIBSygXu9qDm?si=acff6d3796a14c9a Or search “Hoopsology” anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Join the conversation! Twitter: https://twitter.com/hoopsologypod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hoopsologypod/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/hoopsologypod/ Email: Hoopsologypod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    31 mins
  • Why Kevin Durant Believes in Houston? Are the Rockets Contenders Now? With Houston Chronicle’s Rockets beat writer Danielle Lerner

    Why Kevin Durant Believes in Houston? Are the Rockets Contenders Now? With Houston Chronicle’s Rockets beat writer Danielle Lerner
    Nov 14 2025
    In this episode of Hoopsology Podcast, Matt and Allan welcome back Danielle Lerner, Houston Chronicle’s Rockets beat writer, to break down the state of Houston basketball and the Rockets’ resurgence. We cover everything from: The buzz around Kevin Durant’s arrival in Houston How Ime Udoka’s leadership has reshaped the team culture Alperen Sengun’s development and his evolving role as a leader The impact of Fred VanVleet’s injury and the point guard situation How the Rockets stack up in the Western Conference The future of Houston’s fanbase and sports identity Danielle gives an insider’s perspective on the Rockets’ rebuild, their locker room chemistry, and why Houston might finally be on the verge of something special. Whether you’re a Rockets fan or just an NBA junkie, this episode offers sharp analysis, locker room insights, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the league’s most interesting teams. 📺 Watch more Hoopsology interviews with top NBA journalists, analysts, and insiders every week. 👉 Subscribe for in-depth NBA and WNBA interviews: @HoopsologyPodcast #HoustonRockets #KevinDurant #ImeUdoka #DanielleLerner #HoopsologyPodcast Podcast Person? Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2sIa6O4u4TnIBSygXu9qDm?si=acff6d3796a14c9a Or search “Hoopsology” anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Join the conversation! Twitter: https://twitter.com/hoopsologypod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hoopsologypod/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/hoopsologypod/ Email: Hoopsologypod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 mins
  • Shea Serrano on Why Basketball Is About Feelings, Not Stats

    Shea Serrano on Why Basketball Is About Feelings, Not Stats
    Nov 12 2025
    In this episode of Hoopsology, we welcome New York Times bestselling author Shea Serrano, who joins us to discuss his latest book, Expensive Basketball — a unique and heartfelt exploration of why fans truly love the game. Shea breaks down the emotion behind basketball — why we remember Michael Jordan’s flu game or Kobe Bryant’s mentality more than any stat line. He explains how feelings, heartbreak, and connection define the game for fans around the world, from the NBA to the WNBA. We also dive deep into: The inspiration behind Expensive Basketball Why stats can’t capture the soul of the sport The evolution of how we connect with players in the social media era The growing respect and excitement around the WNBA How heartbreak and joy coexist in every fan’s journey Why Tim Duncan, MJ, and LeBron remain timeless icons Whether you’re an NBA diehard, a fan of great writing, or just love basketball culture, this is one of our most thoughtful and inspiring conversations yet. 📘 Buy Shea Serrano’s book “Expensive Basketball” everywhere books are sold 🎧 Subscribe to Hoopsology for more interviews with authors, players, and creators who shape basketball culture. 👉 Follow Hoopsology Podcast: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Ballislife Podcast Network #HoopsologyPodcast #SheaSerrano #ExpensiveBasketball #NBA #BasketballBooks #BasketballCulture #MichaelJordan #LeBronJames #TimDuncan #KobeBryant #WNBA #AjaWilson #BasketballStories #SportsWriting #NBAHistory Podcast Person? Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2sIa6O4u4TnIBSygXu9qDm?si=acff6d3796a14c9a Or search “Hoopsology” anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Join the conversation! Twitter: https://twitter.com/hoopsologypod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hoopsologypod/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/hoopsologypod/ Email: Hoopsologypod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 mins
  • What It’s Like Working for Ice Cube’s BIG3 League (ft. Jim Bachman)

    What It’s Like Working for Ice Cube’s BIG3 League (ft. Jim Bachman)
    Nov 10 2025
    In this episode of Hoopsology, we sit down with Jim Bachman, the voice of Villanova basketball and the BIG3, to pull back the curtain on one of basketball’s most fascinating careers. From calling games for Jay Wright’s championship Wildcats to announcing for Ice Cube’s revolutionary BIG3 league, Jim shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories about basketball’s past, present, and future. You’ll hear how he got his start as a student announcer at Villanova, how a chance opportunity led him to become the voice of Ice Cube’s Big3, and why the NBA might not be too happy with the BIG3’s success. Jim also talks about the challenges of calling games with tough player names, the difference between announcing college and pro players, and why the Big3’s streetball roots make it one of the most authentic basketball experiences today. 🔹 Key Topics: The story of how Ice Cube handpicked the Big3’s announcer What it’s like working courtside with legends like Dr. J, Dwight Howard, and Joe Johnson The behind-the-scenes tension between the NBA and BIG3 Jim’s philosophy on balancing energy, emotion, and professionalism The evolution of basketball entertainment—from Villanova to the Intuit Dome How AI could change sports announcing (and why it shouldn’t) Whether you’re a fan of the NBA, college hoops, or the BIG3, this episode dives deep into how basketball continues to evolve—and how the voices behind the game keep its soul alive. Podcast Person? Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2sIa6O4u4TnIBSygXu9qDm?si=acff6d3796a14c9a Or search “Hoopsology” anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Join the conversation! Twitter: https://twitter.com/hoopsologypod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hoopsologypod/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/hoopsologypod/ Email: Hoopsologypod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    32 mins
  • Eric Smith and Andrew Bricker Reveal the Hidden Side of 30 Years of Raptors History

    Eric Smith and Andrew Bricker Reveal the Hidden Side of 30 Years of Raptors History
    Nov 8 2025
    In this episode of Hoopsology, hosts dive deep into the incredible 30-year journey of the Toronto Raptors with Eric Smith, longtime Raptors broadcaster, and Andrew Bricker, co-authors of We the Raptors. 🏀 About the Episode: Eric and Andrew share the untold stories behind the Raptors’ rise — from the early days of Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady to the 2019 championship run and the team’s enduring impact across Canada. This isn’t just a sports book — it’s a love letter to the players, fans, and city that built a basketball powerhouse. 🔥 In This Conversation: How We the Raptors came together and what inspired the project Behind-the-scenes tales from 30 years of Raptors basketball Why role players like Patrick Patterson and Bismack Biyombo shaped the team’s culture The human side of NBA players — vulnerability, family, and life after the spotlight Eric Smith on calling 20+ years of Raptors games How basketball has taken over Canada — and could the NBA return to Vancouver? The future of Canadian basketball and the Raptors’ playoff outlook Whether you’re a lifelong Raptors fan or just love behind-the-scenes basketball stories, this episode is packed with insight, nostalgia, and inspiration. 📘 Buy “We the Raptors: Thirty Players, Thirty Stories, Thirty Years – Available now wherever books are sold. Podcast Person? Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2sIa6O4u4TnIBSygXu9qDm?si=acff6d3796a14c9a Or search “Hoopsology” anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Join the conversation! Twitter: https://twitter.com/hoopsologypod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hoopsologypod/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/hoopsologypod/ Email: Hoopsologypod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    41 mins