I Still Love This Game

Michael Jordan's Last Dance May 23, 2020

The last dance has concluded, and this episode not only recaps episode 9 and 10, but the entire series of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls championship runs

Michael Jordan vs The Media May 12, 2020

In the latest episodes of The Last Dance, we saw the very ugly side of the media and their true colors as they attacked Jordan after the passing of his father.

Last Dance Episodes 3 and 4 recap Apr 27, 2020

In episodes 3 and 4 of The Last Dance, we saw the evolution of the Bulls and how Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Phil Jackson overcame the Detroit Pistons. We also saw an insight as to how the Bulls managed Dennis Rodman.

Last Dance Recap Apr 20, 2020

After weeks of anticipation, The Last Dance premiered tonight, and did not disappoint. The first two episodes showed Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen's arrival to the Bulls, and how clashes with management were not something new to the team. In this episode, I'll be looking at those circumstances closely and how they built up to situations in 98.

What would have happened if Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant had played together? Feb 24, 2020

What would have happened if Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant had played together? This could have very easily taken place in 2000 or 2001

NBA All Star Weekend Mess Feb 18, 2020

In the aftermath of the slam dunk contest, the NBA all star weekend can't seem to escape from criticism. Are these claims fair? Also on the show:

Can a fair comparison of different eras take place?
Nick Young stealing from his fans
The Texas Rangers

The Impact of the 1996 NBA Draft Class Feb 07, 2020

What was the lasting impact and legacy of the 1996 NBA draft class? With Kobe, Iverson, Ray Allen, Steve Nash, and Ben Wallace, does it deserve the label of the best draft class the NBA has ever seen?

Is Patrick Mahomes the next Michael Jordan Feb 05, 2020

Even prior to the Kansas City Chiefs victory in the super bowl, comparisons between Patrick Mahomes and Michael Jordan began to emerge. Now, with a super bowl under his belt, is there any substance to the comparison with Jordan?

Kobe Bryant Legacy Jan 31, 2020

What is the legacy of Kobe Bryant? What was the foundation of his game and how did it evolve?

The Saddest Day in NBA History - Kobe Bryant Passes Away Jan 27, 2020

The Saddest Day in NBA History - Kobe Bryant Passes Away tragically

Kobe Bryant Dead, Age 41 Jan 26, 2020

Kobe Bryant has died, at age 41, tragically in a helicopter accident.

David Stern Passes Away Jan 02, 2020

David Stern passes away. We will never see another Larry Bird. We will never see another Magic, or Kobe, or Shaq, or Jordan. And we will never see another David Stern. And the icons of the game, these icons, they are not Gods. They are mortal. Don’t take them for granted, because how long will we have Bill Russell for? Or Allen Iverson? Or Jordan? Or Magic? These legends, and put Stern’s name in there with them, are the reason the NBA was held in such a high regard for such a long time. He has been missed greatly since he retired, and will be missed even more as a person now he has passed. Rest in peace, to the greatest commissioner of all time, David Stern.

NBA Players Shut Up and Dribble over China Oct 11, 2019

The NBA players relationship with social justice came to a crashing halt after the conflict with China over the Hong Kong protests, and with it, exposed the league for its hypocrisy. How damaging is this for the NBA?

Russell Westbrook Traded Jul 12, 2019

The final piece of the NBA off-season puzzle fell into place with Russell Westbrook being traded to the Houston Rockets to team back up with James Harden. On top of that, I also discuss the Kawhi Leonard and Paul George moves to the Clippers, Durant and Kyrie Irving to the Nets, Kemba Walker to the Celtics and Al Horford to the 76ers.

Anthony Davis Traded to the Lakers! Jun 16, 2019

Anthony Davis traded to the Lakers and the conclusion of the NBA finals, with the Raptors winning the championship

Raptors Choke and Warriors Rise! Jun 11, 2019

Game 5 of the NBA finals had everything you could of asked for from a storyline standpoint, and even though the execution wasn't great, this will be a game we will be talking about for years to come; whether it's the last possession, or Durant's injury, or Kawhi not playing well all game, or missed calls, this game had it all. And now, we get a game 6 to look forward to!

Raptors on the verge of the impossible! Jun 09, 2019

After 2 impressive victories in Oakland, the Toronto Raptors are on the verge of what many felt was impossible: an NBA championship!

NBA Finals Game 1 May 31, 2019

Game 1 of the NBA finals is in the books and the Raptors looked controlled and relaxed on basketball's biggest stage. The question now emerges as to if the Golden State can make the necessary adjustments moving forward to counter the Raptors momentum.

NBA Finals Preview May 26, 2019

The NBA Finals are among us, and we have a fascinating match-up of Golden State vs Toronto. Can the Raptors balance the wave of excitement and emotion with focus to stay competitive with the Warriors? Will the Warriors be able to neutralize Kawhi Leonard?

NBA Conference Finals Preview May 14, 2019

With the NBA conference finals about to begin, what better time to come out of a sabbatical than right now? In this episode, both conference finals are previewed, along with a review of the second round series, and what to expect in the off-season for the losing teams.

NBA Playoffs Preview Apr 12, 2019

The NBA playoffs are here! And in typical I Still Love this game fashion, I'm not just talking about the first round. In this playoffs preview, I'm going through every round, until we have a champion. Will Golden State be the first team in nearly 20 years to win a 3-peat? Can Houston avenge their heartbreaking loss last season? Will the Eastern conference finally prove that they are as competitive as the Western conference? All these questions, plus an epic rant on the hall of fame, are covered in this weeks show. Enjoy!

Final 4 Preview Apr 02, 2019

After an amazing sweet 16 and elite 8 rounds, the basketball world is eagerly awaiting the final 4 and national championship games. I break down these games, and also talk about Zion Williamson, am joined by Hayley Lewis to discuss the college game and how it is more appealing than the professional leagues, and also touch on the NBA as we near the end of the regular season.

Jordan vs the Pistons Mar 21, 2019

We all know the storied rivalries in NBA history, ranging from the Celtics and Lakers (ranging from the 60s to the 80s to the late 00s), to the Celtics and 76ers, the Lakers and Spurs, and more recently the Warriors and Cavs. But there is a rivalry that was just as intense, and just as enthralling to hardcore NBA fans, and that was the Pistons and Bulls in the late 80s. You had Michael Jordan ascending to the top of the NBA, but the Pistons worked too hard to claim the king of the hill status to simply roll over. Throw in Isiah Thomas being from Chicago, and this match-up had everything.

Why Kobe Is Better Than LeBron Mar 08, 2019

With all this hype about Jordan vs LeBron, somehow it became necessary for Kobe to be forgotten in this debate. Fortunately for sports fans, the discussion over who is better is not reliant on shills in the media, and despite how much people might want to stomp their feet and scream, Kobe vs LeBron is very much a discussion.

LeBron Passes Jordan on the all-time scoring list Mar 07, 2019

LeBron Passes Jordan on the all-time scoring list, and whilst this was a great achievement, I couldn't help but wonder what will happen if LeBron passes Kobe on that list as a member of the Lakers. What will the reaction be?

Also in this episode:

Response to Adam Silver
Reaction to the Celtics and Warriors
Delight in the 4-OT game between the Hawks and Bulls

Ben Wallace Interview Mar 04, 2019

Ben Wallace was unquestionably the greatest defensive force we have seen in the NBA since Bill Russell, and in this interview he sat down to discuss with me:

His childhood growing up with 10 other siblings in Alabama
The impact Charles Oakley had on him
Draft night in 96
Catching on with Washington and the role veterans such as Chris Webber and Rod Strickland had on his confidence
Being traded to Orlando and winning the starting spot for the Magic
Being traded to Detroit and becoming the face of the franchise
How the Pistons were built around him, with Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince, Rasheed Hamilton, along with head coach Larry Brown, all being brought in to create a championship contender
The mental toughness of the Pistons to go into New Jersey, down 3 games to 2, and win an elimination game in the Meadowlands
The series against the Pistons, specifically the block by Tayshaun Prince on Reggie Miller
How the Pistons demolished the Lakers despite being the biggest underdogs in NBA history
The 7 game series against both the Heat and Spurs in Detroit's quest for back to back championships
The Pistons sending 4 players to the all-star game in 2006
Ben Wallace's block on Shaq in the 2006 conference finals
Leaving Detroit to sign with the Bulls, and once again destroying Shaq in the playoffs
What Ben's scouting report was on Shaq when he was given that assignment
Being traded to Cleveland, and matching up with Kevin Garnett in the conference semi-finals
Ben's final season in Cleveland before finding his way back home to finish out his career

We finished up by discussing what he has been doing since his retirement, especially his role as ambassador for RC racing cars. Then we turned it over to some fan questions. Ben Wallace's website for his racing can be found here:

Wallace Motorsports

And he can be followed on Instagram here:

Ben Wallace Instagram

So go check out his racing and Instagram pages. He's a really cool guy, and if he doesn't get in the HOF this year, boycott them with me until he does get in!

Dwyane Wade's Legacy Feb 28, 2019

After Dwyane Wade's dramatic game winner against Golden State, the question is asked whether he should retire? But what is his legacy? Also in today's show:

Updates on playoff races
Kyrie Irving and the issues facing the Celtics
Ryan Hollins is finally right on something
How to fix tanking
Should the NBA change the draft age?
Does Durant have a path to entering the greatest of all time?

Do The Rockets Have The Warriors Number? Feb 24, 2019

After their gutsy victory without the reigning (and likely repeating) MVP James Harden, the Rockets have now won their last 2 games in Oracle. Keep in mind that they were also up 3-2 on them in last year's conference finals before Chris Paul's injury, so is it fair to ask if the Rockets have their number?

The Greatest Knicks Rivalries in the 90s Feb 22, 2019

In the 90s, the Knicks had 3 memorable rivalries throughout the decade. In this episode, Luke Coffey from the Bleachers Creatures Podcast stops by to relive these classic match-up and moments. Be sure to check out his show which is available on Spotify, iTunes, and Youtube

1995 NBA Finals Game 1 Watch Along Feb 21, 2019

1995 NBA Finals Game 1 Watch Along. This is a feature that has been requested a few times in the past, but when friend of the podcast Matt Hanley suggested it, I decided to give it a go and we'll see how it is received. In the 1995 NBA Finals, we saw a fantastic match-up on paper with the underdogs and defending champions going head to head with the upstart and youthful Orlando Magic. Hakeem was in prime form, and Shaq was dominant. Penny was bursting onto the scene, but Drexler was hungry. In this series, we were expecting a lot, and even though the series was underwhelming, game 1 was a classic. So sit back and enjoy!

Adam Silver to the NFL? Feb 19, 2019

Episode 110 is a mailbag show, and I answer the following topics:

Adam Silver to the NFL
NBA All-Star weekend
Are the Lakers in trouble?
Colin Kaepernick settling with the NFL
Toni Kukoc
Hakeem Olajuwon

Top Centers in the 90s Feb 17, 2019

The top centers in the 90s is often a controversial one, because of the depth at that position. The top 5 is usually a consensus (Shaq, Hakeem, David Robinson, Ewing, Alonzo Morning), but the order is almost never a given. NBA author and historian, Mike Frye joins the show to offer his rankings, and we debate on our differences. We also then talk about Hakeem's greatness, and what his place should be in the top 5 centers all-time.

Why Vince Carter's Dunk Contest in 2000 was the greatest Feb 14, 2019

We've all seen the classic dunks from Carter; the reverse 540 windmill, the between the legs from the bounce, and the honey-dip. But what made this dunk contest so historic? On the 20th anniversary of Carter lighting up the basketball world, I spend 30 minutes talking about the context leading into it and the after-effects.

The Ascension of the Oklahoma City Thunder Feb 12, 2019

The Ascension of the Oklahoma City Thunder has everyone talking, but nobody should be surprised.

The Best and Worst of the NBA Feb 11, 2019

Over the weekend, we had a couple of blockbuster games in terms of talent, and we saw the best and worst from a competitive standpoint. In the game between the Thunder and Rockets, we saw a great come from behind victory. In the game between Philly and the Lakers, we saw almost no intensity and a huge scoreline, but was a boring affair. In addition to those topics, we also cover:

The continuation of the Anthony Davis situation in New Orleans
The NBA getting crushed in the ratings to a new semi-pro football league
How good is Paul George right now? Is he the best 2-way player in the league?
And was Bill Russell worthy of winning finals MVP in 1969?

Lakers and Celtics Thriller, Trade Deadline Recap Feb 08, 2019

After a thrilling finish to the Lakers and Celtics game, episode 105 of the show covers that game along with all the trade deadline deals and the future buyout situations. In addition to that, we have a variety of things to talk about with LeBron James, so enjoy the show!

The Lakers Are Exceeding All Expectations! Feb 06, 2019

Before the season began, I said the Lakers would be a trainwreck, but I had no idea they would implode this quickly. So in that sense, they are exceeding all expectations so far. Is there any way back from this if you're the Lakers or Anthony Davis?

Super Bowl Reaction Feb 04, 2019

Most fans are going to complain about the lack of scoring, but I loved this defensive chess-match, and the ramifications of Brady winning his 6th cannot be understated. All that being said, this was Bill Belichick's finest coaching performance, and quite honestly, he should have been the MVP of the game.

Why Porzingis Was Traded Feb 01, 2019

Why Porzingis Was Traded from the Knicks is more of a story related to how much a genius Phil Jackson actually was, and how the New York Media and fans owe him an apology. Also in this episode is how the Bucks can beat anyone in the East, but might be one piece away from truly contending for the championship, along with thoughts from the Warriors and 76ers game.

Are the Patriots the best Dynasty in sports history? Jan 29, 2019

Are the Patriots the best Dynasty in sports history? It's one of those unanswerable questions, but with a tenure of 18 years with Brady, they certainly belong in the discussion. Also in this show, you'll hear how the NBA needs to start marketing the actual games instead of gossip and rumors.

Anthony Davis Requests Trade Jan 28, 2019

Anthony Davis has requested a trade from the Pelicans, but will he be gone prior to the trade deadline? Also in this episode:

LeBron wants Walton out
Celtics and Warriors recap
Blake Griffin as a backup plan for the Lakers?
And Harden's streak continues

Victor Oladipo Injury Fallout Jan 24, 2019

Episode 101 evaluates how significant the Victor Oladipo injury is to the NBA, along with the following topics:

James Harden's continued tear in the NBA
Kobe's 81 point performance against the Celtics
Jordan's 63 points vs the Celtics
Warriors and Celtics preview
Will Lebron return this season?

Epsiode 100 - A Tribute To Josh McDonald Jan 23, 2019

Episode 100 is here! And in this episode, I pay tribute to the guy that was the motivation behind starting the podcast: Josh McDonald

Tom Brady vs Michael Jordan: The Battle For The Standard of Greatness Jan 21, 2019

Tom Brady vs Michael Jordan: The Battle For The Standard of Greatness. Following an amazing performance on the road against the top-seeded Chiefs, the question of Brady vs Jordan will re-emerge. However, unlike Lebron vs Jordan, this comparison has complete merit.

DeMarcus Cousins Warriors Debut Jan 19, 2019

Episode 2 of garbage time covers the following topics:

DeMarcus Cousins return to the NBA and his Warriors debut
Should Zion Williamson sit out the rest of the NCAA season
How would I guard James Harden?
Picks and preview for the AFC and NFC championship games
Who was the best team in the 90s to not win a championship

Why is Kevin Durant STILL so hated? Jan 18, 2019

We all know it the story. We know the names. We know the burner accounts on twitter. We get it. But at the core, why is Durant still so hated by NBA fans? Was it truly because he went to Golden State? Or was it because he put up a roadblock in preventing Lebron from making a legitimate case for the greatest player of all time?

NBA Mid Season Report Jan 11, 2019

Episode 98 of the podcast features a recap of the epic Spurs and Thunder 2OT thriller, and mid-season awards are handed out. The awards are:

Top MVP candidates
Coach of the year
Surprises of the year
Disappointments of the year
And what to look for in the second half of the season

Was Scottie Pippen Jealous of Michael Jordan? Jan 04, 2019

We all know about the 6 championships that Jordan and Pippen won together, but what is not talked about is how Pippen became frustrated with not only Bulls management towards the end of their dynasty, but also the attention and praise that Jordan was receiving. It got so bad that Pippen almost forced a trade prior to the 97/98 season, and continued to push for a deal even once the season started. In more recent times, we've seen Pippen claim that LeBron is better than Jordan was, a clear sign Pippen is still harboring resentment towards Jordan. Also in this episode, we cover LeBron anointing himself as the greatest player of all-time, James Harden's brilliance, and Kawhi Leonard's return to San Antontio.

Should The Warriors Trade Durant? Dec 28, 2018

Episode 96 of the podcast is up and will be the last of the year. This episode covers whether the Warriors should trade Durant, James Harden's last 8 games, LeBron's injury, and if Derrick Rose should be considered for the the all-star game

How much have the Raptors improved? Dec 19, 2018

Episode 95 of the I Still Love This Game Podcast is a mailbag show, and answers the following questions:

LeBron getting dunked on
Are the raptors really better than a year ago, or they just in a better position because of Lebron leaving?
Kevin Durant and LeBron James conversation
The state of the NBA

Greatest NBA Playoff Runs Dec 14, 2018

The NBA has had plenty of outstanding moments in the playoffs, but what are the greatest NBA playoff runs in the history of the game? Author Mike Fry joins the show to discuss his top 5 as we compare and debate our lists.

The Larry Bird and Magic Johnson Rivalry Nov 29, 2018

Magic Johnson and Larry Bird are universally regarded as, at least, in the top 10 in NBA history, and by most respected NBA historians, in the top 5. But, do we know why these guys are so great? What made their rivalry so amazing? Was it simply timing, or were they just that damn good?

The NBA Has A Problem With Drama Nov 21, 2018

The NBA, despite many strong performances on the offensive end, still can't escape its own shadow in terms of the drama and gossipy storylines that it has created. How big of a problem is this for the league moving forward?

Why The Cavs Are Struggling Without LeBron Nov 09, 2018

It goes without saying that the Cavs are off to a horrid start without LeBron, but is this an accurate way of evaluating how good James is? Are there other factors that need to be taken in to provide context?

How Kevin Durant Saved Golden State's Legacy Nov 06, 2018

There is a perception out there that Durant needed the Warriors in order to cement his legacy. But have we ever stopped to consider what would be the last impression of Golden State had Durant never left OKC for the Warriors? Would they be merely a transitional championship team? And how did Durant turn them from a team full of weaknesses into one of the greatest in NBA history?

Michael Jordan and Lebron James Exchange Shots Oct 29, 2018

After a promo for Sunday Night Football with Jordan trolling the idea of Jordan and Lebron squaring off on the basketball court, the basketball and sporting community has exploded in the aftermath.

Can Golden State Improve This Season? Oct 11, 2018

It sounds absurd for a team that has won back to back finals, and with the exception of the conference finals against the Rockets, hasn't been challenged at all throughout either post-season, but can the Warriors improve? We all know they added Cousins, but is it more of a question of focus and concentration regarding whether or not they are a better team? If they can improve on what they've accomplished in the past few seasons, what is their actual ceiling? Or are they susceptible to losing due to weaknesses in their roster? Youtube personality and former professional Madden gamer, LaMont Joyner, joins the podcast to discuss that and other topics leading into the new season.

What Is LeBron James Legacy? Oct 01, 2018

What is LeBron James' legacy in the NBA? There are so many legitimate ways to answer this question. Firstly, allow me to define legacy and how it is applied amongst sports fans. Definition is a “gift or bequest, that is handed down, endowed or conveyed from one person to another. It is descendible one comes into possession of that is transmitted, inherited, or received from a predecessor.” Now of course, that is the dictionary definition of the word. How sports fans apply this word, legacy, is simply how your career is defined when looking back. Bill Russell’s is winning. Wilt Chamberlain’s is stats and records. Kareem’s is longevity. Larry Bird’s is skill and intelligence. Magic Johnson’s is versatility. Jordan’s, is for lack of a better explanation, is the highest standard of everything. So what is LeBron’s? Is it his finals appearances? Is it his finals losses? Is it the way he’s embraced free agency? Is it the how poorly his teams perform once he does leave? Is it his statistical accomplishments which he is on track to annihilate? Is it his longevity?

How Important Are Championships? Sep 26, 2018

Rings are an integral part of every historical NBA debate, but how important are rings when judging players? We all know that the aim of the game is to win, that’s obvious, but are they the be-all and end-all? Clearly not, so where is the balance? How differently would we view Ewing had the Knicks had won in 1994 over Hakeem and the Rockets? How about Barkley; where would we rank him had he led the Suns to the title over Jordan in 93? Or Karl Malone had he claimed either (or both!) the 97 or 98 championship? Also in this podcast, we insert Kobe into the eye-test comparison with LeBron and Jordan.

2019 NBA Free Agency Preview Sep 21, 2018

When going through the emails and messages for next week's mailbag, I noticed a bunch regarding the free-agent class for next year and I thought to myself "why not do a bonus episode?", so here I am. Where will Durant end up? What about Kyrie Irving? You could almost select a team at random and they'd have a better chance than the Raptors do of having Kawhi Leonard next season.

Mark Cuban Has Disgraced The NBA Sep 20, 2018

Mark Cuban disgraced the NBA by setting a horrific precedent of denial in the face of enabling and empowering a culture of violence against women.

2018/19 NBA Season Preview Sep 17, 2018

We are one month out from opening night in the NBA, and we are joined by J.C. to discuss the following topics:

NBA Eastern conference predictions
NBA Western conference predictions
Was LeBron's second go-around in Cleveland a success?
Lebron vs MJ
NBA Conference finals and NBA finals predictions

J.C. is the host of the C.L.E. Pod, which is scheduled for release in before the end of the month. His podcast will cover everything that relates to the Cleveland sports scene, along with national topics too. Be sure to check it out.

Michael Jordan (AND Hakeem) Drafted By The Rockets! Sep 10, 2018

What if the Houston Rockets not only drafted Michael Jordan, but also kept Hakeem Olajuwon AND picked up Clyde Drexler as well? It sounds unbelievable, but Hakeem in his own book stated that on draft night, the Blazers offered Drexler and the number 2 pick in the 84 draft for Ralph Sampson, giving the opportunity for the Rockets to build the greatest trio in league history. How differently would this have move shaped the NBA? Episode 83 of the podcast goes right in!

Nike Exposes Itself In Woke Movement Sep 04, 2018

Yesterday marked the 30th anniversary of the "Just Do It" campaign for Nike, but even more importantly, they exposed themselves as the machine driving the polarization of sports in America.

The State Of The NBA Aug 31, 2018

Episode 81 of the podcast features guest Houston White to discuss the current state of the game, and if fans are being conditioned to accept an inferior product.

Larry Bird Drafted By Chicago Bulls Aug 27, 2018

What if the Boston Celtics were unable to use a loophole to draft Larry Bird earlier, and then the Bulls had drafted him when he finished playing at Indiana State? How differently would not only his career be, but also:

Magic Johnson's
The course of the entire Celtics franchise
Michael Jordan
Dr. J
Bernard King
Moses Malone
Charles Barkley
Dominique Wilkins

And more!

Jordan vs Lebron Conversation with NBA Author Mike Fry Aug 10, 2018

Yes, the Jordan vs LeBron debate has been done to death, but it's been done poorly. Fans have been subjected to attempts to "win" the conversation for their side, without legitimate points being exchanged. This all changed when Mike Fry wrote his book, "G.O.A.T. Envy", in an attempt to bring facts and remove the myths. Has LeBron surpassed Jordan? Is he really a more complete player? How important are championships in this topic? All of these questions, and so many more, are covered in this weeks episode. Enjoy! Mike's book can be purchased via his website: www.goatenvybook.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goat_envy/

Kobe Drafted By The Knicks Aug 03, 2018

What would have happened if the Hornets were not interested in Vlade in the 96 draft, and wanted to keep their pick? They had never worked out Bryant prior to selecting him, so simply saying he'd go to the Hornets doesn't work either. It's entirely possible that Kobe slips all the way to the Knicks as future all-stars in Peja, Steve Nash and Jermaine O'Neal were taken after Bryant. In this episode, I take a closer look into what the league would have looked like with Kobe in New York, and if he would have won a championship in the Mecca of basketball, and how dramatically NBA history is changed.

Timeline and Fallout of the Kawhi Leonard Trade Jul 18, 2018

Kawhi Leonard was traded to the Raptors earlier today, and with it, ended one of the strangest sagas in NBA history. In episode 77 of the I Still Love This Game podcast, I take a look back at the timeline of what happened following the Zaza Pachulia injury until today, along with the fallout for all parties involved.

What If Kevin Durant Was Drafted By The Blazers? Jul 13, 2018

It's one of the greatest "what ifs" in NBA history, and whenever it comes up, the conversation is usually centered around the direction of the Sonics or the Blazers, but how significantly does the NBA change if the Blazers had drafted Kevin Durant? Does LeBron win earlier? Does the big 3 in Boston still happen? How does this all effect Kobe? Does OKC still get Russell Westbrook and James Harden? All these scenarios are explored in episode 77 of the podcast!

Lebron James To The Lakers Will Be A Disaster! Jul 02, 2018

Lebron James To The Lakers Will Be A Disaster! As you've heard by now, Lebron has moved to Los Angeles, and despite the lure of a huge market, this could have been the biggest mistake of his career.

What if Carmelo Anthony Was Drafted By The Detroit Pistons? Jun 22, 2018

With the basketball world focused on the hype of the draft, now is a good time to look back at the greatest "what ifs" in NBA draft history. Number 5 on the countdown is "what if the Detroit Pistons drafted Carmelo in 2003". This episode goes far beyond the impact on the Pistons and Anthony, as it also takes a look at how it impacts the change of the entire NBA. Kobe, LeBron, Wade, Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Phil Jackson's legacies are all changed with one different draft spot!

Aftermath Of The NBA Finals Jun 10, 2018

With the NBA Finals mercifully over, what are the last results? Obviously, the Warriors won their 3rd title in 4 years, so what is their place in history? As for LeBron, he now has lost twice as many times in the finals as he has won. If the Warriors legacy is that of winners, is LeBron's now that of a celebrated loser? It sounds harsh, but if we're consistent, we have to at least discuss that.

Warriors Survive 51 Point From LeBron James Jun 01, 2018

Heading into this series, a lot of people were critical of the fact that we have another Cavs and Warriors finals, but after game 1, those criticisms were silenced. We saw one of the great performances by LeBron, along with a solid showing by the splash brothers, and when you combine that with an almost inexcusable screw-up by J.R. Smith, we were treated to a classic.

Also covered in this episode are the following topics:

What are the first 3 things you think of that make Magic Johnson so great?
Who is the most athletically gifted player in NBA history?
What player, past or present, could carry a team as bad as the Cavs to the finals?
If the Warriors win again, what is Steph Curry's legacy?

Warriors Cavs Preview! May 30, 2018

Despite it being the 4th straight season resulting in a Cavs and Warriors showdown in the finals, this doesn't feel like a stale match-up. With the emergence of Houston and the struggles of the Cavs this season, there wasn't an expectation of both these teams meeting in the finals, but now that we're here, who comes out on top? Also in this episode is a recap of game 7 between the Rockets and Warriors, and the following questions answered:

Are there similarities between the Cavs run this season and the Lakers in 2010?
Is Golden State's dominance a result of good luck?
Looking back, was it still a bad trade to swap Wiggins for Kevin Love?
Why couldn't Lebron win with Shaq?
What will it take for LeBron to surpass Jordan?
Does Lebron truly dominate Jordan in terms of being a complete basketball players?

LeBron's Legacy Following Game 7 May 28, 2018

After following LeBron's remarkable performance in game 7 against the Celtics, much will be said about it's relevance historically in the coming days. A lot of it will be appropriate, but we've already started seeing some of the hyperbole coming through. In this episode, we talk about the impact of the role players, and how his run stacks up with other great individual playoff runs in the past

Rockets Warriors Game 7 Preview, Cavs and Celtics ready to square off May 27, 2018

For the first time in decades, both conference finals will be settled by game 7s. The Warriors did more than just stay alive in the conference finals, they swung the momentum back in their favor, and with the health concerns of Chris Paul, will that be enough for them to take the series with a victory on the road. The Cavs find themselves in a similar situation, having to go on the road and get a victory to get back to the finals, but without Kevin Love, the importance of Cleveland's role players can't be understated. In addition to these game 7s, the following questions were answered:

What would happen if Jordan in his prime was matched up against LeBron in his prime?
Do ex-players have more credibility than non-players?
What was the truth behind the Jordan gambling accusations?

Chris Paul and The Rockets Push Golden State To The Brink! May 25, 2018

Despite one of James Harden's worst games statistically of his career, the Rockets are just one game away of eliminating the Warriors and getting to the finals. Can Golden State respond, or will they crumble under the defensive pressure? Also in this episode we look at the following:

Chris Paul's health
Lebron's fatigue
LeBron vs Jordan
The importance of a finals MVP
Who the top 5 point guards are of all time
A closer look at the all-defensive and all-NBA selections
Who Kobe Bryant has made better in his career
Whether Jordan beat any great teams in their prime
And if it is fair to put an asterisk next to Kobe's first 3 titles

Rockets take back homecourt in dramatic fashion May 23, 2018

With their backs against the wall and staring at a 3-1 deficit, The Houston Rockets stunned the Golden State Warriors in game 4 to tie the series. It was not the fact that the Rockets won game 4 that was surprising, but the manner that they accomplished it. The Rockets were embarrassed in game 3, and game 4 started in similar fashion. Houston responded and took a lead into half-time, but the Warriors exploded in the 3rd quarter. The Rockets responded to two huge runs by the Warriors and found a way to get a critical victory in Oakland. This was one of the gutsiest wins I've seen in a long, long time.

Steph Curry and The Warriors Demolish The Rockets May 21, 2018

It's rare that a pivotal game, outside of a game 7 of course, can feel so decisive, but that's what we got in game 3 of the Western Conference Finals. The question now is how can Houston respond with Steph Curry showing signs that his jumper is back. Can they slow down a duo of Curry and Durant? Or should we prepare ourselves for this series to be over much quicker than we first thought? Also in this episode is a recap of game 3 between the Celtics and Cavs, along with the following questions answered:

Who has the worst playoff career so far: Chris Paul or James Harden?
Who is on my Mt. Rushmore of NBA defenders?
What were the defining games for Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan?
Could this Warriors team or the Duncan Spurs teams have won in the 90s?
If Jordan was 0-6 or 3-3 in the finals, would he still be considered the G.O.A.T?

Cavs vs Celtics and Rockets vs Warriors game 3 previews May 19, 2018

It feels like it's been an eternity, but the NBA conference finals resumes with the Cavs hosting the Celtics today. Can they hold serve and turn this into a series against Boston? Also in this episode we take a look at the series between the Rockets and Warriors which is beginning to heat up big time. Can the Rockets take advantage of a slumping Steph Curry? Or will the Warriors respond like champions?

How can Houston turn this series around? May 15, 2018

Despite it only being one game, the reality of losing the home-court to Golden State even with a dominant performance from James Harden brings serious questions as to whether the Rockets can compete with the Warriors. What adjustments can they make if their isolation plays are not effective? Also in this episode is a recap of game 1 between the Celtics and Cavs, and we go into the mailbag and respond to some questions.

Cavs Celtics Preview May 12, 2018

Technically this a rematch of last years Eastern Conference Finals, but both teams have gone through such dramatic overhauls that it's virtually an afterthought. What isn't an afterthought is chess game that is destined to unfold between Brad Stevens and LeBron James. Also in this episode we dissect how significant Ben Simmons jumpshot is as a weakness, an odd week for Dwayne Casey, and I answer so many questions that I start to lose my voice. Enjoy the show!

Warriors Rockets Preview May 09, 2018

Most people are calling this the true NBA Finals, and they're not wrong. These are the two best teams left in the playoffs, and it's a showdown we all want to see. But the question remains about if the Warriors can actually play at the Rockets pace? This is the first time since the Splash Brothers emerged in the NBA that we've asked if they can keep up with another team. It's going to be a very interesting series!

Why Aren't The Warriors Using Anthony Davis On Kevin Durant? May 08, 2018

Following the game 4 blowout for the Warriors over the Pelicans, the obvious question is why isn't New Orleans placing Davis on Durant in an attempt to slow him down? Also in this episode is a recap of the Celtics and 76ers game 4, the Jazz and Rockets game 4, the Cavs beatdown of the Raptors, and multiple questions answered.

LeBron crushes Toronto again; Celtics go up 3-0 May 06, 2018

The look of disbelief was reminiscent of what Jordan used to do to Cleveland, but now Cavs fans can understand how sweet it is to be on the other side of greatness. Also in this episode is a recap of game 3 of the Celtics and Raptors, along with more questions being answered.

Pelicans stomp all over Warriors May 05, 2018

New Orleans, led by Anthony Davis in the second half, convincingly took care of the defending champs at home. The question is can the Pelicans keep this kind of play up throughout the series, or will the Warriors respond in game 4? Also covered in this podcast is the Rockets dominant win over the Jazz, and a variety of questions answered.

LeBron and The Cavs crush The Raptors; Celtics overcome huge deficit May 04, 2018

In a franchise-defining situation for the Raptors, they allowed 130 points on their home-court and only forced 3 turnovers as they were embarrassed into submission by the Cavs. This series is over, but is there any chance this team can move forward next year? Also, the Celtics came from 22 points down to claim a 2-0 lead on Philly. Are the 76ers done?

Utah drops Houston, takes home-court advantage May 03, 2018

For the first time in this year's playoffs, the Rockets have surrendered home-court advantage. Now, just like the Raptors, they find themselves in a situation where they have to not only overcome their opposition, but past playoff demons. How will they respond to the challenge? Also in this episode, I take a closer look at LeBron's playoff run, as well as how effective "the process" was for Philadelphia, and whether the Bucks and Wizards should rebuild their franchises.

Did The Cavs Deliver a Knock-Out Blow to Toronto in Game 1? May 02, 2018

After blowing a double-digit lead at home, the question is can the Raptors recover against the Cavs? What is not a question, however, is the importance of game 2 for them; it's an absolute must-win. Also in this episode, we look at game 2 of the Warriors/ Pelicans series, whether the comparison between Dennis Rodman and Draymond Green are legitimate, and recap game 1 of the Celtics/ 76ers series.

Is Paul George Bolting from OKC a certainty? Apr 30, 2018

If Paul George does in fact bolt from OKC, will it be time for the Thunder to rebuild their entire franchise? Is there a way they can talk Carmelo Anthony into retirement? What if they could potentially trade Paul George for another disgruntled superstar small forward, such as a certain Kawhi Leonard? These topics are all answered, along with several other questions (such as LeBron vs MJ, again..., the potential for Donovan Mitchell and Ben Simmons, comparisons between the Toronto Raptors and a NBA championship team, and if DeMarcus Cousins value to the Pelicans). Check it out on episode 55 of the podcast!

LeBron and the Cavs survive against the Pacers, advance to play the Raptors Apr 29, 2018

Episode 54 features a recap of the Cavs and Pacers game 7, a preview of the Cavs and Raptors series as well as a preview of the 76ers and Celtics, and a recap of the Jazz/ Rockets game 1.

Celtics dominate game 7, advance to play Philly! Apr 29, 2018

It wasn't the most drama-filled game 7 in NBA history, but given their injury woes, it was one of the most impressive in recent memory. Boston now will take on the 76ers, and that should be interesting for a variety of reasons. We also take a look at the upcoming Rockets/Jazz series.

OKC Eliminated In 6 Games; Cavs pushed to the limit Apr 28, 2018

One of the most controversial non-calls in NBA history has helped end the Thunder's underachieving season in the first round. Is it right to blame the officials for the result? Should we be frustrated as fans, or merely accept it and move on? Also, we saw a change in strategy from Indiana lead to a dominant victory for the Pacers, and Toronto take care of the Wizards.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and The Bucks Force Game 7! Apr 27, 2018

Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks survived an elimination game against the Boston Celtics at home. Can they take out the Celtics in Boston? Also in this podcast we take a look at the upcoming Pelicans/ Warriors matchup, and I answer some user questions.

Historic Performances by LeBron and Westbrook Apr 26, 2018

Day 12 of the playoffs saw 2 historic performances by 2 of the marquee players in the NBA under immense pressure. Lebron delivered 44 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists along with a buzzer-beating 3 to get the Cavs over the line against the Pacers. Westbrook had 34 points in the second half to lead the charge back from 25 points down to keep the Thunder alive in their series against the Jazz. What does all this mean in the long run though? Can the Thunder walk into Utah and force a game 7? Can LeBron lead his team to a big win on the road to avoid a game 7 back in Cleveland?

Have Dwyane Wade and Manu Ginobili played their final NBA game? Apr 25, 2018

Day 11 of the NBA playoffs saw two teams eliminated, and with that, perhaps ending two storied careers of Dwyane Wade and Manu Ginobili. If those were their last games, what is their legacy, and how do their franchises look moving forward? Also in this episode is a recap of game 5 between the Bucks and Celtics, along with potential areas of concern for the 76ers as they advance, and a preview of game 5 between the Jazz and Thunder.

Is Russell Westbrook's Legacy In Danger? Apr 24, 2018

After another shockingly bad display against the Utah Jazz, is Russell Westbrook's legacy in danger of taking a hit similar to LeBron's after the 2011 NBA finals? The parallels are there to begin asking the question: he won the MVP the year prior with a subpar supporting cast and then gets some talented teammates, only to be outplayed by a rookie and a guy from the scrap heap in the previous off-season. Also you have his inability to score in the 4th quarter playing a big role in his team losing, so it isn't just the fact that he's team is losing, but he might be the biggest reason they are losing. Can he recover and lead a historic comeback, or are they toast?

NBA Playoffs Day 9 Recap Apr 23, 2018

Day 9 of the NBA playoffs had 4 games, and the team trailing in the series all winning to create 3 2-2 series already. Out of those games, we saw the Cavs battle in Indiana, The Wizards fight back against the Raptors, and the Bucks hold on for *ahem* dear (couldn't resist) life against the Celtics.

NBA Playoffs day 8 Recap Apr 22, 2018

Day 8 of the NBA playoffs saw Ricky Rubio dominate, the Pelicans get out the brooms, Philly go on the verge of advancing, and Minnesota show signs of life. I was also able to answer a couple of questions quickly regarding who Portland should look to bring in to help Lillard and what it would take for the Knicks to move Porzingis.

NBA Playoffs - Lebron James and The Cavs Crash and Burn Apr 21, 2018

Day 7 of the NBA playoffs saw LeBron James and The Cavs crash and burn in game 3 against the Indiana Pacers. What caused this meltdown despite such a good start, and are they in serious trouble now to get out of the first round?

NBA Playoffs Day 6 Recap Apr 20, 2018

Day 6 of the playoffs saw a blockbuster develop between Philly and Miami, New Orleans put the sword into Portland's hopes for a comeback, and an emotional effort by the Spurs falling short.

NBA Playoffs Day 5 Recap Apr 19, 2018

Day 5 of the NBA playoffs saw the re-emergence of Eastern Conference Playoff LeBron, some great coaching strategy changes by Utah, and Houston showing that they're not a one-trick pony or a one-man team.

NBA Playoffs: Day 3 and 4 Recap Apr 18, 2018

Days 3 and 4 of the NBA Playoffs featured a legendary performance by one of the greatest guards in NBA history, the emergence of one of the most complete players in the NBA, a new playoff leader in Boston, and Toronto continued to answer their critics with a resounding win. All of these topics are discussed in episode 42 of the podcast.

Ray Allen Book Review Apr 17, 2018

Episode 41 is a review of Ray Allen's recently released book, From The Outside. In this episode, I take a closer look at Ray Allen's perspective of his upbringing, and how that influenced decisions he made throughout his career ranging from where he went to college to relationships with teammates to his dedication to preparation.

NBA Playoffs Day 2 Recap Apr 16, 2018

Day 2 saw a transcendent performance from the leading MVP candidate, and a pathetic performance from his top competition. In addition to that, we were privileged enough to see two other great contests; one being an overtime thriller and another seeing a 3-point barrage. And the great thing about it all? We're only 2 games into all this madness!

Day 1 NBA Playoffs Apr 15, 2018

Day 1 of the NBA Playoffs saw a career game for a genuine superstar of the game, a team seemingly exercise some playoff demons in front of our eyes, and a young team exceed all expectations we had for them. The beauty of it all? It's only the first day of the playoffs. Check out episode 39 for a full breakdown of each game and what it means going forward.

2018 NBA Playoffs Preview Apr 12, 2018

2018 NBA Playoffs Preview. Every team, every round, all the way to the championship.

Final Day NBA Regular Season Apr 11, 2018

In episode 37 I take a closer look at the play-in game between Minnesota and Denver along with all the seeding possibilities and I also do the unthinkable: change my vote for Rookie of the Year from last episode. Enjoy the episode and the games today!

NBA Playoff Seeding Madness Apr 09, 2018

It's the final week of the regular season and every team outside of the top 2 seed in both conferences have the ability to move up or down. In this episode I'll be pointing out which seeding races will have the most significance as well as which will be most exciting. Also in this episode I'll be nominating who I think should win regular season awards along with answering some emails.

NBA Greatest Teams Apr 06, 2018

YouTube personality, LeMont Joyner joins the podcast to challenge why Golden State was ranked so unfavorably in previous episodes of the show. He also sticks around to discuss LeBron's place in history, and who to watch out for in the playoffs in both conferences.

Top 10 Players In NBA History Mar 31, 2018

It's one of the more common questions and debates in NBA circles; who is your top 10 of all-time? With the insertion of Kobe, Shaq, Duncan, and LeBron over the past decade, the list has become very crowded and controversial. With that in mind, here are my top 10 players of all-time, ranked from 1 to 10. Enjoy!

How Concerned Should We Be For Golden State? Mar 26, 2018

Topics covered in today's show:

Impact of Steph Curry's injury
How big is Kyrie Irving's injury
San Antonio Spurs Drama
More potential flaws with the playoffs
Should we throw in the towel on OKC's championship aspirations?
What would winning a championship do for the legacy's of James Harden, Chris Paul, and Mike D'Antoni?
How far can Philly go in the playoffs?

LeBron James Steroids Accusations Mar 20, 2018

Is LeBron James on steroids? There have been murmurs of this for a while, but now the story is beginning to gain traction. What are some of the ramifications not only for Lebron, but the history of the game should these be true? Also, why have I underrated the 2017 Golden State Warriors in comparison to the greatest teams of all time?

How Good Was Dr J? Mar 12, 2018

Despite revolutionising the game of basketball with his style and flair, along with collecting 3 world championships, 4 regular season MVP awards, being selected to 16 all-star games and amassing over 30k points, 10k rebounds, 5k assists, 2k steals, and nearly 2k blocks, Dr J still finds himself being vastly underrated by NBA fans. Let's try to figure out why and figure out his place in history.

What is Golden State's Place in NBA History? Mar 09, 2018

We all know how talented the Warriors are on the offensive end, but how would they fare against the greatest teams in NBA history? In episode 30, we line up Golden State against the 90s Bulls, 2001 and 80s Lakers, the Celtics from the 60s, 80s, and 2008 to see what their place in NBA history truly is.

SLAM Top 100 NBA Players Of All Time Is A Joke Mar 01, 2018

Episode 29 features a breakdown of SLAM's top 100 players; Zaza Pachulia avoiding suspension; could we see a change in the NBA logo; has the gap between conferences re-emerged; and thoughts on LeBron reaching 30k points, 8k rebounds, and 8k assists.

Russell Westbrook and LeBron James Comparison Feb 17, 2018

Russell Westbrook often receives criticism for his style of play on the offensive end of the floor, but is it warranted? In this episode, we take a closer look at comments from Colin Cowherd and see if he has a legitimate point.

Cavs Celtics Fallout Feb 12, 2018

Episode 27 features reaction to the Cavs and Celtics Game, along with how the Knicks are going with their rebuild, a discussion around Shawn Kemp (including a comparison of him to Blake Griffin), what if the Suns built around Jason Kidd, how good would Arvydas Sabonis have been on the Blazers in his prime, and is Paul George worth a max contract?

Who Can Beat The Warriors? Feb 10, 2018

After years of dominating the NBA, is it a forgone conclusion that Golden State will defend their championship? Who poses the biggest threat to dethrone them? We go through the top 7 teams capable of knocking them off and discuss how concerned Dub Nation should be.

NBA Trade Deadline Feb 09, 2018

Are the Cavs suddenly back in contention after their deals at the NBA Trade Deadline? Is Tom Brady still in contention for the G.O.A.T. with Jordan despite his loss at the Superbowl? How does the struggles for the Cavs affect LeBron's legacy? And how petty is the John Wall vs Beal and Gortat situation in Washington?

Blake Griffin Traded Jan 30, 2018

After the surprising trade of Blake Griffin, I'm joined by Matt Hanley to discuss what the motivations were by the Clippers and Pistons of the deal plus how this trade could affect the rest of the league.

Michael Jordan vs Tom Brady: Who is the GOAT? Jan 27, 2018

There has been a lot of talk recently about whether Tom Brady's career stacks up with Michael Jordan's. Is this purely hype, or can a legitimate argument be made for Brady over His Airness?

Should Dan Gilbert Sell The Cavs? Jan 25, 2018

Is the time right for Dan Gilbert to sell the Cavs? How big of a role does all the drama surrounding LeBron play in the owner wanting to move on? Or is this simply a good time for him to cash out?

Allen Iverson's Legacy Jan 23, 2018

Allen Iverson remains one of the most underrated and misunderstood players in NBA history. In this episode, we break down his impact on the game, as well as his crowning achievements in order to judge his career fairly. Later on in the episode, we take a look at the train wreck that is the Cavs and if there is anything they can do to avoid a disaster in the playoffs.

Jordan vs Lebron: Nick Wright Debunked Jan 21, 2018

Nick Wright’s points in the Jordan vs LeBron debates are often inconsistent and questionable, and in this weeks episode, I decided to break each point down and either or agree or refute them, and the result is Nick Wright debunked emphatically.

Joe Smith Interview Jan 18, 2018

Episode 12 of the I Still Love This Game podcast features 15 year NBA veteran and former number 1 overall pick, Joe Smith. With such a lengthy career, there were a lot of topics to discuss, including:

His rise to becoming the top college player in 1995
His decision to enter the NBA draft early
His NBA debut up against Hakeem Olajuwon and the Rockets during their championship ceremony
Being a part of Magic Johnson’s return game to the NBA in 1996
What caused the Sprewell/ Carlisimo incident early into the 97/98 season
Being unexpectedly traded to Philly
Playing under Larry Brown and alongside Iverson
His decision to sign with the Timberwolves
Transitioning from a future star of the league to a trusted veteran
Thoughts on coaching and other endeavors now that he is retired

If you’re interested in Joe’s basketball academy, check out his webpage at: http://www.joesmithbasketballacademyforboysandgirls.org/

Stay in touch with Joe on his various social media accounts: Twitter: @Joebeast95

Instagram: @Joebeast95

Soundcloud: NovaUnit (Joe Beast)

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