Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss the infancy of the Milwaukee Bucks season, with the games getting under way Oct. 23. National pundits don't seem to believe Milwaukee is a title contender this year; are they wrong, or has the window closed? What's the status of the Dame/Giannis relationship, and what about Khris Middleton's health? How will the new veterans contribute, and which will truly rise to the forefront? Is Doc Rivers the right guy to lead this team forward? Who needs to truly rise up for the Bucks to take a lunge forward? National writers have seemingly lost faith in a Bucks title run; are they sleeping on what a healthy Milwaukee can do?

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks went young with their two draft picks, then stayed quiet in the first 48 hours of free agency. What does that say about where the Bucks are headed for 2024-25. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the draft selections of A.J. Johnson and Tyler Smith, plus the free-agent signing of Delon Wright. What's left on the table for the Bucks to accomplish? Does a trade remain a realistic option? Who are some players still available for veteran minimum contracts that fit Milwaukee?

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks made a big splash on Tuesday, firing first-year head coach Adrian Griffin and replacing him with long-tenured coach and Marquette University alumnus Doc Rivers. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to break down the maneuver. Why was now the time to make a change? What did the Bucks get wrong about Griffin in the hiring process? Will a gambit like this work, considering the Bucks had a 30-13 record under Griffin? Is Doc Rivers the right fit for this team?

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Bucks are up 2-1 and Hawks star Trae Young is fighting an ankle injury; it feels very, very good to be a Bucks fan right now. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe break it down. If Atlanta were to get back into it, how would they do it? Khris Middleton's signature performance. Bobby Portis winning the heart of Milwaukee. Pat Connaughton big off the bench. Giannis being otherworldly, per usual. The defense slowing Young down after a tough Game 1. Should we ... should we be thinking about making plans for the NBA Finals?

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel writer Jim Owczarksi and host JR Radcliffe take a look at the Eastern Conference finals matchup with the Atlanta Hawks. Do the Hawks have the horses to keep up with the Bucks? Could this be a Jrue Holiday bounce back? How does a team slow down Trae Young? Let's take one last look at the Bogdan Bogdanovic situation and how a preseason deal for the shooter might have fallen apart. 

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe look at a remarkable series win over the Nets, including all the elements of the overtime win in Game 7. The excellence of Durant and Giannis, the way a Bogdan Bogdanovic trade might have precluded bringing in P.J. Tucker, the struggles (but some redemption) of Jrue Holiday, the status of Mike Budenholzer's hot seat, the tightening of the rotation. Did we just get an answer about whether the Bucks can win a title with Giannis as the centerpiece? Is it unfair to say the Bucks got a little lucky? Can you believe this?

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

The Milwaukee Bucks have surged back to tie the series with the Nets at 2-2 following a win Sunday. If Kyrie Irving and James Harden remain sidelined by injuries, are the Bucks now the favorite to win? Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss big game PJ Tucker, Pat Connaughton, the adjustments from Game 3's rock fight, Jrue Holiday trying to break free from a slump and ... there's a security guard on the court?

Then, Owczarski is joined by former Bucks star Ray Allen and his wife, Shannon Walker Williams, looking back at the 2001 playoff run on its 20th anniversary and discussing the ways the couple has gone to bat in the fight against Type 1 diabetes.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

The Milwaukee Bucks were knocked around in the first two games of the Eastern Conference semifinals in Brooklyn; as they head back to Fiserv Forum, can we cling to any shreds of hope? Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe look at what went wrong, examine the most optimistic and pessimistic takes, and ponder the future of coach Mike Budenholzer if this keeps heading where it seems to be going.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Bucks radio voice Ted Davis and host JR Radcliffe look back at the 2001 Bucks playoff run 20 years later, just as this year's team looks to make a similar run. Ted talks about the lighthearted moment that played into a season turnaround, the forgotten thrills of the Hornets series, Glenn Robinson's Bucks legacy, the star turn of Ray Allen and, yes, the "conspiracy" that still lingers over the Eastern Conference finals outcome. 

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

The Milwaukee Bucks crushed defending Eastern Conference champion Miami in a four-game sweep, so does that mean we should start thinking of them differently in their upcoming (potential) matchup with Brookyln? Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe look back at the key differences between this battle and what happened in the dreaded bubble, the significance of losing starter Donte DiVincenzo for the rest of the postseason, the resurgence of Brook Lopez and Bryn Forbes and whether or not Mike Budenholzer's job has been secured for 2021-22.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe look at Milwaukee's fast start in the Miami series; is it as promising as it looks, or does danger remain around the corner? After all, we remember what happened when the Bucks got a 2-0 lead on Toronto two years ago. How in the world did the Bucks go from missing everything in Game 1 to making everything in Game 2? Why have Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo been so limited? Does anything we've seen change the perceived matchup if Milwaukee winds up facing the Nets? Also, some more Khris Middleton appreciation after his cold-blooded game winner in overtime of Game 1.

Then, Jim chats with former Bucks star Bobby Dandridge, who discusses his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame; after 30 years of waiting, he learned of his induction and kept the news from his own wife for days! 

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarzski and host JR Radcliffe preview the Milwaukee Bucks' playoff series against the Heat. Why would this year be different given that the Heat have the same players (and talents) as the team that beat Milwaukee last year? Will Milwaukee regret the decision to play all-out against the Heat in the penultimate game of the season? The guys talk about their picks to win the various NBA regular-season awards and ponder the greatness of Giannis. Can he be the best Bucks player ever without a title? And it might surprise you where new Hall of Famer Bob Dandridge belongs in the conversation.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Host JR Radcliffe and special guest Eric Nehm of The Athletic chat about the potential first-round playoff opponents and which one represents the scariest. I mean, it's gotta be the Heat, right? Or is it? What pitfalls to the Knicks or Hawks present? Also, what's up with Milwaukee allowing big point totals to lesser teams? Then, Journal Sentinel beat reporter Jim Owczarski stops by briefly to talk about the home stretch and coach Mike Budenholzer -- just how hot is that hot seat if Milwaukee doesn't break through in the postseason? 

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporters Lori Nickel and Jim Owczarski join host JR Radcliffe to discuss the slumping Milwaukee Bucks, who have lost 4 of 5 to start the 2024 half of the season and still haven't fully clicked despite a great record. What has to happen for the Bucks to get back on a championship path? What's the latest evaluation on head coach Adrian Griffin? Is it as simple as Damian Lillard getting back on track? Or Jae Crowder returning? Or getting Bobby Portis in a groove?

Sure, the Milwaukee Bucks have beaten the Nets and 76ers in recent days, but what about that brutal loss to Houston? And how nervous should we be about Giannis Antetokounmpo's shaky ankle? Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe take a look at the Bucks with eight games left to play, including a flashy rematch against Brooklyn as a potential playoff preview. Might the Bucks see the Hawks (and Bogdan!) in the first round or the 'boogeyman' Miami Heat? The guys also discuss the play-in system (LeBron doesn't like it, but we do!) and Jim explains that HOW Giannis scored 49 points against the Nets is more important than the total itself. 

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

The former voice of the Milwaukee Bucks, Eddie Doucette, joins host JR Radcliffe to look back at the 1971 Milwaukee Bucks. The man who coined 'skyhook' and 'Bango' had a front-row seat to the franchise's first and only championship. How did the Bucks go from expansion draft to NBA title in three years? What was it like playing many home games, including playoff battles, in Madison? Did someone really have to rescue Kareem on a snowmobile to get him to Madison in time for tip-off? How did Milwaukee embrace this team?

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Milwaukee Bucks' one and only championship in 1971, travel back in time with Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Lori Nickel to learn what Milwaukee was like in the late 60s, when a new pro basketball team came to town and quickly took over the NBA.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe look at where the Bucks stand after five straight home losses, including an overtime loss against the Suns hampered by a controversial late call. Once again, they ask if this team has shown it can win seven-game series in the playoffs, even with injuries frequently keeping the team from full strength. We hear what Jon Horst had to say on coach Mike Budenholzer, and is Giannis still in the MVP equation?

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporters Jim Owczarski and JR Radcliffe discuss the lingering injury to Giannis Antetokounmpo, talk about the team's strategy of resting everyone at once and check in on a player having a pretty good season: Pat Connaughton. Is it possible the Bucks don't particularly care if they get the No. 1 seed in the playoffs? Then, Jim chats with former Bucks power forward Scott Williams, who was famously suspended for Game 7 of the 2001 Eastern Conference Finals, leading to cries of foul from Bucks players and fans alike. "It was our year, but I think a lot of the NBA brass wasn't ready for it to be our year. Let me just put it that way."

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Bucks writer Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss where the concern-o-meter should be with Giannis Antetokounmpo's balky knee and Jrue Holiday's massive week. He's on an elite level right now; is the extension he just signed with the Bucks a risk down the road? Also, Khris Middleton has been a bit of a lightning rod, but is it warranted?

Then, Jim chats with former Bucks coach George Karl (34:15), who looks back at the 2001 season on its 20th anniversary and reveals the one thing he wish he'd done differently in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals. 

The guys finally ponder why 2001 endures as it does in the collective memory of Bucks fans. 

 Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. 

The Milwaukee Bucks added a guard to the roster with the addition of Jeff Teague and split a couple games in Los Angeles. Milwaukee Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski offers his impressions of a team looking to dig out of a mini-slump and how the situation shapes up in the Eastern Conference playoff chase. Plus, The Thanasis Game and a check-in on the MVP discussion.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the trade deadline; did the Bucks' biggest competitors in the Eastern Conference get better? Milwaukee stood pat, but recent new acquisition P.J. Tucker has looked great. Milwaukee held off a furious Celtics comeback for a win to run its winning streak to eight games, and does it feel like the Bucks are playing at the peak of their powers now? Plus, Brook Lopez has been on a tear. 

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

After the Bucks' thrilling win in Philadelphia, Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the tension between the two teams in light of some Giannis celebration, the weird final seconds of regulation, the value of the big win and the significant pregame trade that brought PJ Tucker to Milwaukee. How will Jim describe the Torrey Craig era in Milwaukee? Plus, plenty of MVP conversation -- have we reached the point where Giannis is undeniably a candidate for a third straight?

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe re-visit a big all-star weekend for Giannis Antetokounmpo and discuss what about the performance might be a great sign for Milwaukee. Plus, discussing Jim's midseason awards, looking ahead to the second half and wondering about Marques Johnson's Hall of Fame chances.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

A wild scene unfolded at Fiserv Forum on Dec. 13, when Giannis Antetokounmpo set a Bucks single-game record with 64 points but then got into a heated exchange with the Indiana Pacers over possession of the game ball. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski discusses what he saw in the Bucks win, what in the world happened and whether or not it ties into the frustration of early-season struggles (albeit struggles that have still come with a good win-loss record). Jim and host JR Radcliffe look back at the reporting around Bobby Portis' challenge of head coach Adrian Griffin following the loss in Las Vegas, and it's another chance to get a progress report on how the Bucks have developed. 

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the return of Jrue Holiday, the continued inspired play of Giannis Antetokounmpo, a fun win over the Clippers, a tough loss to the Nuggets and the recent play of Brook Lopez. Oh, and yes, lots of Mamadi Diakite. Then, Jim and JR discuss if any Bucks player is likely to see their jersey retired before Giannis. Big Dog? Ray Allen? Jack Sikma? Someone else? What if there's a better format altogether? Somehow the podcast conversation then steers toward avocados. 

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the Bucks as they continue to wait for Jrue Holiday's return. Why is the team struggling so badly without its No. 3 player, and what should we expect now that he can sign an extension? Some thoughts on the All-Star Game (including Khris Middleton's absence from the East) and what's fueling the Giannis turnaround?

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the recent up-and-down stretch of Milwaukee Bucks basketball as a lengthy homestand dawns. Jim offers three reasons why Bucks fans should still feel confident that the Bucks can hit another gear and three reasons to be concerned.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarksi and host JR Radcliffe discuss an interesting stretch for the Milwaukee Bucks, with two disheartening losses followed by two superb blowout wins. Which components of those games are sustainable, and which are legitimate concerns? When is it no longer "early" for the Bucks? If the bench scoring is such a key to Bucks wins, will they be vulnerable in the postseason? Has Giannis found a groove? Are we sleeping on the greatness of Khris Middleton? Will Bobby Portis take Brook Lopez's place in the starting lineup?

 Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. 

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe take a look at the recent Bucks showings; how close are they to the Lakers and to elite status? What did we learn from the close losses to Brooklyn and L.A.? Is Giannis no longer the clear go-to threat for clutch offense or defense? Is Torrey Craig going to finally get some minutes? 

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski.

The rebranded Point Forward Podcast, featuring Milwaukee Journal Sentinel writer Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe, takes a look at how the Eastern Conference picture changes with James Harden joining the Nets. Is Giannis Antetokounmpo on his game so far? Has coach Mike Budenholzer evolved in his approach? Does Jim think the NBA could see a stoppage at some point because of COVID?

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarksi and host JR Radcliffe discuss the Bucks' offensive breakout, the disappearing role of DJ Wilson and the fire of Bobby Portis and Thanasis Antetkounmpo. Plus, the guys take a look at Milwaukee's act of protest in the aftermath of the DA's decision to not file charges against the police officers involved in the shooting of Jacob Blake. They speculate: Could a bigger act of protest be in the future, one that creates a bigger shockwave through the NBA? Plus, potential branding changes afoot on the podcast.

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss the Milwaukee Bucks' ugly start to the year. We said it might be tought sledding early! Is it fair to say Giannis is struggling? Is there anybody to take the reins if Jrue Holiday struggles? Khris Middleton is en fuego. Should we already be nervous about the Pat Connaughton contract? Wait, did the Bucks really lose by 20 to the Knicks? Whither Torrey Craig?

Just like that, the 2020-21 Milwaukee Bucks season is upon us. Bucks beat reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to look at what's ahead. Which newcomer aside from Jrue Holiday will have the biggest impact? Is Mike Budenholzer really on the hot seat? Can Giannis somehow win a third straight MVP? Will Donte DiVincenzo take a lunge forward? Over/under 55 wins? Who wins the East?

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

Giannis Antetokounmpo signed a five-year "supermax" extension to stay in Milwaukee on Tuesday, which was music to the ears of Bucks fans. Journal Sentinel Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to talk about the deal. Plus: some early impressions after two preseason games with the regular season a week away, and get to know Owczarski as the new man on the Bucks beat.

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe are back to give an early-season progress report on the Bucks. After a shaky start, have they turned a corner? Specifically, has head coach Adrian Griffin rapidly evolved after some early struggles? How has the Damian Lillard-Giannis Antetokounmpo dynamic played out? How much thought and worry should we put into the Khris Middleton return-to-full-strength timetable, and how bad of a loss is Jae Crowder? Plus: Malik Beasley, Andre Jackson, Giannis still taking long-distance shots and the upcoming litmus test with Boston and Jrue Holiday.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

We're officially on Giannis Watch as he returns to Milwaukee with the Supermax Extension looming over everything. It's our final podcast with Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez, who's relocating to Indianapolis. He offers some fearless predictions for what's ahead in Milwaukee.

Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez and host JR Radcliffe discuss the many eccentricities of the reported Bogdan Bogdanovic deal that fell through. Will there be consequences for the Bucks? Is the league making too harsh an example of Milwaukee? Why would anyone leak that information anyway? Eventually, the guys do discuss the changes the Bucks actually did make to their roster, including the reported weirdness around the re-signing of Pat Connaughton. Oh, and there's plenty of Giannis/Supermax conversation.

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

The Bucks made some huge splashes late Monday, reportedly trading for Jrue Holiday and Bogdan Bogdanovic to create a stellar starting five. Does it mean Giannis is destined to sign his Supermax extension, perhaps as soon as Nov. 22? How big of a risk was surrendering as many as five first-round draft picks in the exchange for Holiday? Who's gonna fill out the rest of the roster now that so many old faces are gone? Do the Bucks have the best starting five in the league now? Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez and host JR Radcliffe break it all down.
Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

How does a Bucks team up against the salary cap improve, especially as it seeks to convince star Giannis Antetokounmpo to sign an extension? Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez looks at the Bucks' offseason options, potential trade assets and areas the Bucks might be willing to take a step back so they can take a step forward elsewhere. Does Matt expect Eric Bledsoe back at the point next year? Quite simply, what does a successful offseason look like? Is there any chance the Bucks use their draft pick Nov. 18? Is there a chance the club could find a fit in free agency?

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez and host JR Radcliffe provide a post-mortem on the 2019-20 Bucks season, one ended in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Was there something different about Giannis' comments after the loss that reassure he's staying long-term in Milwaukee (3:30)? Was the criticism of Mike Budenholzer warranted, and would the Bucks actually be willing to move on at head coach (8:15)? Khris Middleton may still have his doubters, but he showed up in the series (23:15). Is the Eric Bledsoe/Malcolm Brogdon comparison fair, and does this series change the framing of that discussion ... and will Bledsoe be back (29:30)? What is the Bucks ultimate path forward to getting better (38:00)? Is there ANY point at which the Bucks decide to trade Giannis (44:15)? Is there still a chance the Bucks will be seen as the team to beat in the East in 2021 (48:00)? Was this the Bucks destiny, or did the collapse happen because of the disruption of the bubble (51:30)?

The Bucks took care of the Orlando Magic with a convincing Game 5 win, but the real story was the team sitting out its scheduled game Wednesday, a maneuver that ignited a wave of mini strikes for social justice around the sports world. Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez and host JR Radcliffe look back at the Orlando series (Marvin Williams!) and again preview what's to come with Miami (14:00). Then, Matt ruminates on how history will remember Milwaukee's decision to sit out Game 5 (26:45), and discusses, among other aspects, LeBron James' reported reaction (35:30). Oh yeah, and Giannis won Defensive Player of the Year...by a lot (48:15).

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

Milwaukee Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez and host JR Radcliffe discuss Milwaukee's swift turnaround from a Game 1 loss to three straight wins in the Eastern Conference opening round. They take a look at Khris Middleton's Game 4 resurrection, explore a potential next opponent in the Miami Heat and briefly ponder whether Indiana or Philadelphia can return to the fray next season (plus, look back at the Malcolm Brogdon decision). Also, George Hill and others thoughtfully address bigger-picture issues.

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

The Milwaukee Bucks struggled mightily in their first playoff game a 122-110 upset at the hands of the eighth-seeded Orlando Magic. Is it as bad as it seems? Was it actually a question of effort? How grave is the overall concern, and what tweaks must Milwaukee make to turn away the upset over the course of the series? Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss the unusual situation surrounding the Bucks. 

Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss the potential fallout after Giannis Antetokounmpo's headbutt of Mo Wagner in Tuesday's game against the Wizards. Where's Matt's concern level with the way the Bucks have played so far? What do we know about the Orlando Magic, the team that will be Milwaukee's first-round playoff foe? Is Brook Lopez really better when he's near his beloved Disney World? Plus, a comparison between Giannis and the Kool-Aid Man, oh yeah! 

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

The Milwaukee Bucks started with two losses in three games in the Orlando bubble, but of course, that required some explanation. Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss the team, three games into the resumption of the NBA season. How seriously should we consider red flags raised by allowing 73 points in a half to Brooklyn? What's up with the turnovers and shaky defense? Are the Celtics a greater concern in the East than they may have been before? With Jonathan Isaac's injury, should the Bucks be hoping to face the Magic or the Nets in the first round? Matt also explains why James Harden actually can be fun to watch, and the petty horn returns in all its glory.

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the new extension for Giannis Antetokounmpo, one that caught everyone by surprise Monday night. Including the guys who already had a podcast ready to go ... oops. After discussing the elements that led Giannis to stay on in Milwaukee, they look at the season preview as a whole, including the massive acquisition of Damian Lillard. What will Milwaukee's defense look like this year? What questions remain about first-year head coach Adrian Griffin, especially after assistant coach Terry Stotts resigned? What do we make of newcomers Cameron Payne, Malik Beasley and even Robin Lopez? Who's the favorite in the East? The guys make some predictions and get you set for the season opener Thursday.

Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez and host JR Radcliffe look back at the Milwaukee Bucks' three scrimmages in the Orlando bubble and preview what's to come, starting Friday with Boston. Matt also discusses his postseason awards votes, plus conversation about Eric Bledsoe, Pat Connaughton and Magic Wings.

Bucks beat reporter Matt Velazquez and host JR Radcliffe discuss the implications of no Eric Bledsoe or Pat Connaughton, at least in the short term, as the Bucks prepare for Thursday's scrimmage and a July 31 restart. With the window for NBA awards voting now cemented to everything before the shutdown, is a second MVP for Giannis Antetokounmpo secure? How do the refashioned rosters impact a potential first-round playoff foe for Milwaukee? Is Khris Middleton on the cusp of taking his game to another level?

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.

The Milwaukee Bucks are in Orlando and ready to return to basketball. Beat reporter Matt Velazquez joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss what we need to know. How concerning is the closure of the Bucks practice facility after a positive COVID-19 test? What are the odds this season gets to completion? What basketball-specific story lines remain intriguing? How will the eight-game 'season' impact the Bucks ... if at all ... or the postseason awards voting?

Music intro: "Wide Eyes" by Chad Crouch, available at freemusicarchive.org and soundofpicture.com.