Explore every episode of the podcast NBA History Conversations: Basketball Record
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 NBA Draft Recap: Remembering Reece Pedretti (Tribute Rerelease) | 06 Sep 2025 | 00:34:11 | |
This episode is dedicated to the memory of Reece Pedretti - one of the truest friends I've ever known. On February 22, 2025, Reece passed away peacefully at the age of 45, following a courageous, nearly two-year battle with a rare form of cancer. Throughout his illness, he faced major surgeries and numerous treatments with unwavering strength. We first met at work in 2000 and became fast friends, bonding over our shared sense of humour and a deep love for basketball - especially the NBA of the 1990s. Reece had a particular admiration for Shawn Kemp and Jalen Rose; so much so that replica jerseys of both players were displayed at the celebration of his life. Reece had many admirable qualities, but perhaps his greatest gift was his ability to make people feel at ease, regardless of the situation. He cherished his family deeply and had a love for music. A talented guitarist and singer, Reece regularly performed live, both solo and with various bands. My thoughts are with his cherished wife Sian; his sons Huw and Paddy; his stepsons Jasper and Jude; his parents Sherry and Des; and his brother Dallas. Their loss is immeasurable. In August 2013, Reece joined my podcast for a conversation that you're about to hear. I'm grateful to have this recording to remember him by. Knowing Reece for 25 years has made me a better person. I love you, mate, and I always will. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Mike Riordan: 1970 NBA Champion (Knicks) and Providence Hall of Famer | 21 Aug 2025 | 00:42:14 | |
Today’s guest is Mike Riordan. We dive into his incredible journey - from starring in college at Providence to playing a key role on the legendary 1970 New York Knicks championship team - delivering the franchise’s first title. Mike shared the floor with icons like Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, Bill Bradley, and a young Phil Jackson. We talk about how he carved out his role on such a stacked roster, the lessons he carried into his years with the Washington Bullets, and how the era he lived through - including the Vietnam years - shaped his outlook on life. Off the court, Mike built a successful business career, and his reflections are insightful. A special shout-out to my friend and former guest, Rich Rinaldi, for making this connection. Now, let’s drop the needle. My conversation with Mike Riordan. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Rich Rinaldi (part one): St. Peter's College Hall of Famer, NBA / ABA veteran and European star - AIR137 | 01 Sep 2024 | 00:47:58 | |
Welcome Rich Rinaldi to the show. Part one of our extended conversation about his life. We recorded this on Rich’s 75th birthday (an added treat). A wide-ranging discussion and perfect example of why I love creating my podcast. We talk baseball - Rich’s first sporting love - and what led to his switch to basketball at age 14. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Don Casey: High school, college and NBA coaching great - AIR076 | 21 Mar 2017 | 00:55:07 | |
High school, college and NBA coaching great, Don Casey. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's third NBA season - November 16 through 30, 1986 - NB87-3 | 25 Feb 2017 | 00:32:37 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's third season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: People mentioned include Moses Malone, John Paxson, Alvin Robertson, Marques Johnson, Charles Oakley, Ed Nealy, Dave Feitl, Ben McDonald, Robert Parish, Hot Rod Williams, Alex English, Sleepy Floyd & Darren Daye. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan wears jersey number 12 (Feb 14, 1990) - BTG-2 | 14 Feb 2017 | 00:06:36 | |
This episode covers: Behind the Game. Links discussed: Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Tom Chambers' dunk on Mark Jackson (Jan 27, 1989) - BTG-1 | 28 Jan 2017 | 00:06:11 | |
Tom Chambers’ iconic jam on Mark Jackson. This episode covers: Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's third NBA season - October 31 through November 15, 1986 - NB87-2 | 20 Jan 2017 | 00:44:55 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's third season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's third NBA season - pre-draft / 1986 Draft, 1986-87 Bulls training camp and preseason games - NB87-1 | 06 Jan 2017 | 01:06:44 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's third season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: This episode begins our coverage of the 1986-87 NBA season. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! For context, here's our 15-episode series, exploring Michael Jordan's sophomore campaign. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Space Jam's 20th anniversary - Guests: Nigel Miguel and Nate Bellamy Jr - AIR075 | 09 Dec 2016 | 00:57:04 | |
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the highest-grossing basketball movie of all-time, Nigel and Nate pull back the curtain and share inside stories on the iconic Space Jam. Nigel and Nate were vital contributors, both in-front of and behind the cameras. They also played a crucial role in the smooth running of the legendary Jordan Dome. Both gentlemen are close friends of Michael Jordan and recall some fantastic stories from on the set and discuss how the genre-bending movie came to be. Topics / links discussed (include):
People mentioned in this episode, include: Magic Johnson, Charles Barkley, Dennis Rodman, Marques Johnson, Larry Johnson, Isiah Thomas, Muggsy Bogues, Larry Bird, Patrick Ewing and Shawn Bradley. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - Guest: Mike Carey (1980s Celtics beat writer) - 1986 series finale - NB86-15 | 17 Nov 2016 | 00:48:38 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - Mike Carey - covering the Boston Celtics on a daily basis - Marvin Barnes' importance to the success of the 1986 Celtics - What is was like to travel with the Celtics throughout the season - How Mike and Danny Ainge first heard news of Len Bias' tragic death - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history The ultimate episode of #NB86. We finish our series with an in-depth interview, inviting award-winning (Boston Herald - 1980s) Celtics beat writer, Mike Carey, on the show. He discusses his experiences travelling with the mighty Boston Celtics. Tune in to hear this and plenty more, as we uncover some hidden gems from the NBA’s golden era. Links discussed: * 1985 NBA Finals. The Lakers defeat the Celtics on the famed parquet floor This episode concludes our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the series. If you enjoyed the content, please share it with your friends! Editor's note: sign-up for my monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future, high-profile guests to appear on the show. Show notes | I appreciate all feedback, FB Page 'Likes' and iTunes ratings / reviews. Follow: Facebook | Twitter | Google+ Subscribe: iTunes | Stitcher | Newsletter | RSS | Website Support Adam via Amazon: click-through Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - 1986 Playoffs through Finals - NB86-14 | 05 Nov 2016 | 01:24:56 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - Playoffs through 1986 NBA Finals (April 17 through June 8) - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history The penultimate episode of #NB86. We discuss numerous happenings from the 1985-86 NBA season. This time, the Playoffs through NBA Finals. Make sure you stay tuned for our final episode, when award-winning (1980s) Celtics beat writer, Mike Carey, joins the show. Notable milestones: * Larry Bird - won his third-consecutive Most Valuable Player Award Links discussed: * Dudley Bradley goes glass Tune in to hear this and plenty more, as we uncover some hidden gems from the NBA’s golden era. Others mentioned in this episode, include: Doug Collins, Jerry Sichting, Terry Teagle & Xavier McDaniel. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Editor's note: sign-up for my monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future, high-profile guests to appear on the show. Show notes | I appreciate all feedback, FB Page 'Likes' and iTunes ratings / reviews. Follow: Facebook | Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Kelly Tripucka (part two): Notre Dame star, two-time NBA All-Star and broadcaster - AIR074 | 21 Oct 2016 | 01:47:35 | |
Notre Dame great, two-time NBA All-Star and broadcaster, Kelly Tripucka. Part two of an in-depth, wide-ranging conversation about Kelly's career. Topics / links discussed (include):
People mentioned in this episode, include: Bill Laimbeer, Julius Erving, Bernard King, Jerry West, Dave Bing, Kiki VanDeWeghe, Pete Maravich, Rex Chapman, Bill Hanzlik, Dell Curry, Adrian Dantley and Muggsy Bogues. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Australia's No Bull Tour [the truth]. Chicago Bulls' Luc Longley, Scottie Pippen and Horace Grant - AIR136 | 12 May 2024 | 00:20:23 | |
My recap of the final stop on the No Bull Tour (Sydney). Australian legend, Luc Longley, invited his former Chicago Bulls teammates, Scottie Pippen and Horace Grant, to our friendly shores. The show was even better than I could have imagined. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Kelly Tripucka (part one): Notre Dame star, two-time NBA All-Star and broadcaster - AIR073 | 26 Sep 2016 | 01:51:40 | |
Notre Dame great, two-time NBA All-Star and broadcaster, Kelly Tripucka. Part one of an in-depth, wide-ranging conversation about Kelly's career. Topics / links discussed (include):
People mentioned in this episode, include: Peyton Manning, Isiah Thomas, Bill Laimbeer, Julius Erving, Mark Aguirre, Dave Bing, Kiki VanDeWeghe, Pete Maravich, Danny Ainge, Bill Hanzlik, Albert King, Orlando Woolridge and Magic Johnson. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - March 24 through April 13, 1986 - NB86-13 | 30 Aug 2016 | 00:57:31 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - March 24 through April 13, 1986 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls finished the regular season with ten games in twenty days – six wins and four losses. Michael Jordan - who buoyed his Bulls' chances of returning to the playoffs - led Chicago in a tug of war against the Cleveland Cavaliers. As the regular season drew to a close, both teams were fighting for the right to contend in the postseason. Tune in to hear this and plenty more, as we uncover some hidden gems from the NBA’s golden era. Links discussed: Erving buries Boston This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Dominique Wilkins, Danny Ainge, Adrian Dantley, Mike Gminski, Larry Bird, Jerry Reynolds, Louis Orr, Charles Barkley, Herb Williams, Ken Bannister & Keith Lee. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 86-03-25 - New York Knicks @ Chicago Bulls 86-03-28 - Chicago Bulls @ New Jersey Nets 86-03-29 - Chicago Bulls @ New York Knicks 86-04-01 - Chicago Bulls @ Milwaukee Bucks 86-04-03 - Chicago Bulls @ Indiana Pacers 86-04-05 - Atlanta Hawks @ Chicago Bulls 86-04-07 - Milwaukee Bucks @ Chicago Bulls 86-04-08 - Chicago Bulls @ Atlanta Hawks 86-04-11 - Washington Bullets @ Chicago Bulls 86-04-13 - Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - March 9 through 23, 1986 - NB86-12 | 11 Aug 2016 | 00:59:59 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - March 9 through 23, 1986 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the next 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played eight games in this span – three wins and five losses. Michael Jordan returned to the court in an effort to drive the Bulls into the NBA Playoffs. Tune in to hear this and plenty more, as we uncover some hidden gems from the NBA’s golden era. Links discussed: The Mozart of Basketball: The Remarkable Life and Legacy of Drazen Petrovic | The Starters This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Charles Oakley, Larry Bird, Adrian Dantley, Herb Williams, Gene Banks, Karl Malone, George Gervin, Rod Higgins, James Bailey, Benoit Benjamin, Kevin Willis, Chris McNealy, Drazen Petrovic & Keith Smith. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 86-03-09 - New York Knicks @ Chicago Bulls 86-03-11 - New Jersey Nets @ Chicago Bulls 86-03-13 - Denver Nuggets @ Chicago Bulls 86-03-15 - Milwaukee @ Chicago Bulls 86-03-17 - Chicago Bulls @ Atlanta Hawks 86-03-19 - Chicago Bulls @ Philadelphia 76ers 86-03-21 - Chicago Bulls @ Boston Celtics 86-03-22 - Chicago Bulls @ Cleveland Cavaliers Editor's note: sign-up for my monthly Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Holton: NCAA championship finalist and NBA / CBA veteran - AIR072 | 27 Jul 2016 | 01:10:56 | |
NCAA Championship finalist, NBA / CBA veteran and broadcaster, Michael Holton. Michael was a starter as a freshman and was named the Bruins’ outstanding first-year player. He recalls his initial fear of perhaps not being good enough to succeed on the next level – that fear was quickly allayed. After winning only eight of the first 14 games, the Bruins caught fire at the perfect time; steamrolling through the 1980 NCAA Tournament, all the way to the Championship Game versus the Louisville Cardinals. For perspective, here’s the list of teams that UCLA defeated and some of the big-time players Michael encountered: Old Dominion (Mark West) / DePaul (Terry Cummings & Mark Aguirre) / Ohio State (Kelvin Ransey & Clark Kellogg) / Clemson (Larry Nance & Mitchell Wiggins) / Purdue (Joe Barry Carroll). In the 1980 Championship game, UCLA lost 59-54. The Cardinals were littered with future-NBA players: Darrell Griffith, Derek Smith, Rodney McCray & Jerry Eaves. Michael reflects on that amazing run to the final. Holton’s freshman season was the senior year for Kiki VanDeWeghe – who went on to star in the NBA, notching-up seven seasons of 20-plus points per game in the 1980s – Michael talks about the importance influence of the Bruins’ junior and senior players. As a sophomore in 1981 (outright) and junior in 1982 (tied with Ralph Jackson), Michael was named the Bruins’ Outstanding Team Player. UCLA made the second round of the 1981 NCAA Tournament, but missed the post-season in 1982. Former guests and friends of the show, Mark Eaton and Nigel Miguel, joined the Bruins around this time, too. Michael talks about the transition from (coaches) Larry Brown to Larry Farmer. As a senior, Michael was named captain and led the team in free-throw percentage. His college career ended (1983) with a second-round exit to the Utah Utes. After reaching the title game as a freshman, Michael contrasts his feelings about exiting the tournament early (as a senior). We discuss the 1983 Draft. Michael’s opportunity to play in the NBA would have to wait one season. After Golden State waived him (October, 1983), he signed with the Coquis; the Continental Basketball Association Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - February 22 through March 8, 1986 - NB86-11 | 11 Jul 2016 | 00:38:42 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - February 22 through March 8, 1986 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the next 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played seven games in this span – two wins and five losses. Chicago continued to fight for playoff position, as the on-court return of Michael Jordan finally seemed a real possibility. In his absence, the great play of Michael Holton - a recent CBA All-Star signee - helped the Bulls steady the ship in a season riddled with significant injuries. In other NBA news, the Boston Celtics became the first team to reach 50 wins for the season. That milestone also marked a seventh-consecutive season of 50-plus victories for the franchise. Charles Oakley's star continued to rise as he was named February's Rookie of the Month. His stellar play was putting pressure to perform on fellow teammate and Bulls veteran, Sidney Green. Tune in to hear this and plenty more, as we uncover some hidden gems from the NBA’s golden era. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Dominique Wilkins, Mark Aguirre, Moses Malone, Sidney Moncrief, Doc Rivers, Charles Barkley, Robert Parish, Micheal Ray Richardson, Rod Higgins, Tony Brown & Bryan Warrick. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 86-02-22 - Seattle SuperSonics @ Chicago Bulls 86-02-24 - Chicago Bulls @ Detroit Pistons 86-02-25 - Philadelphia 76ers @ Chicago Bulls 86-02-28 - Cleveland Cavaliers @ Chicago Bulls 86-03-04 - Boston Celtics @ Chicago Bulls 86-03-05 - Chicago Bulls @ Boston Celtics Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - February 7 through 21, 1986 - NB86-10 | 27 Jun 2016 | 00:40:41 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - February 7 through 21, 1986 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the next 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played six games in this span – two wins and four losses. Michael Jordan sought second (and third) opinions on his broken foot, before ultimately making the difficult decision to postpone his would-be (February) comeback plans. His Chicago Bulls were facing the distinct possibility of missing the 1986 NBA Playoffs, if the team's form continued to plummet. In other NBA news, Alvin Robertson entered rarefied air, becoming just the second player in history (joining Nate Thurmond) to record a quadruple-double, in the San Antonio Spurs' win versus the visiting Phoenix Suns. Larry Bird continued to star, as his league-leading Celtics became the first team to register forty regular-season wins. Tune in to hear this and plenty more, as we uncover some hidden gems from the NBA’s golden era. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Herb Williams, Moses Malone, Dominique Wilkins, Charles Barkley, Michael Holton, Kevin McKenna, Micheal Ray Richardson, Julius Erving, Kyle Macy, Mike Gminski & Jeff Lamp. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 86-02-12 - Chicago Bulls @ Philadelphia 76ers 86-02-14 - Indiana Pacers @ Chicago Bulls 86-02-16 - Dallas Mavericks @ Chicago Bulls 86-02-17 - Chicago Bulls @ Indiana Pacers 86-02-19 - Chicago Bulls @ New Jersey Nets 86-02-21 - Portland Trail Blazers @ Chicago Bulls Editor's note: sign-up for my monthly Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - January 23 through February 6, 1986 - NB86-9 | 13 Jun 2016 | 00:38:08 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - January 23 through February 6, 1986 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the next 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played eight games in this span – two wins and six losses. The Michael Jordan-less Chicago Bulls were struggling to keep its head above water. Could they weather the storm, prior to the on-court return of the franchise cornerstone? The Bulls had some great individual performers - the talented (rookie) Charles Oakley; the sporadic brilliance of (troubled) Quintin Dailey; and ageing star, George Gervin, to name a few - yet couldn't string together more than three-consecutive wins since Jordan injured himself in just the third game of the season. In other NBA news, the Los Angeles Clippers had their first win - since moving from San Diego - over the cross-town Los Angeles Lakers. On the topic of historical achievements, Manute Bol recorded an astonishing (equal career-high) 15 blocks, in his Washington Bullets' win versus the Atlanta Hawks. Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics continued to steamroll opponents, en route to a 13-game winning streak; remarkably, it wouldn't be the longest such streak the team enjoyed during this season. Tune in to hear this and plenty more, as we uncover some hidden gems from the NBA's golden era. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Kiki VanDeWeghe, Charles Oakley, Alex English, Kelly Tripucka, Patrick Ewing, David Thirdkill, Charles Barkley, Kyle Macy & Keith Lee. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 86-01-25 - Phoenix Suns @ Chicago Bulls 86-01-27 - Chicago Bulls @ Dallas Mavericks 86-01-28 - Chicago Bulls @ New York Knicks 86-01-30 - Boston Celtics @ Chicago Bulls 86-02-0 Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - January 8 through 22, 1986 - NB86-8 | 30 May 2016 | 00:36:01 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - January 8 through 22, 1986 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the next 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played six games in this span – one win and five losses. We chat about the Bulls' continued struggle to remain competitive, in the absence of (still injured) Michael Jordan. Conversely, the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers - led by superstars, Larry Bird and Magic Johnson - seemed headed for a would-be rematch of the previous season's NBA Finals. In other NBA news, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar became the first player to surpass 34,000 career points. Meanwhile, the rivalry between Jawann Oldham and Manute Bol, led to a frightening brawl at Chicago Stadium. That fracas offset another (video) tidbit that was highlighted on (NBA Entertainment's) Awesome Endings. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Darwin Cook, LaSalle Thompson, Calvin Natt, Marques Johnson, Purvis Short, Charles Oakley, Kyle Macy, Otis Birdsong & Herb Williams. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 86-01-11 - Los Angeles Clippers @ Chicago Bulls 86-01-14 - Washington Bullets @ Chicago Bulls 86-01-15 - Chicago Bulls @ Detroit Pistons 86-01-17 - Philadelphia 76ers @ Chicago Bulls 86-01-19 - Chicago Bulls @ Washington Bullets 86-01-20 - Los Angeles Lakers @ Chicago Bulls Editor's note: sign-up for my monthly Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Phoenix Rising - Suns: 1968-69 through 1993 NBA Finals - AIR071 | 19 May 2016 | 00:59:01 | |
Adam and Adam discuss the evolution of the Phoenix Suns. From the franchise's 1968-69 inception, through to the 1993 NBA Finals. We cover a wide range of topics. You'll soon learn why Adam is a true Phoenix Suns ‘Super Fan’. When he was a young boy, the Suns were Phoenix's only professional sports team. We chat about the 1976 season and the Suns' improbable first trip to the NBA Finals. That 1976 team was lovingly referred to as the 'Sunderella Suns'. Earlier this year, Tom Leander released a fantastic documentary - of the same name - devoted to the 40th anniversary of that iconic squad [Part I | Part II]. Our main topic of discussion, focuses on how the Suns franchise was rebuilt from the ground-up, throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s, culminating with their 1993 NBA Finals appearance. We cover some of the off-court issues that plagued the team during the 1980s, then discuss the tragic death of promising Suns center, Nick Vanos. Plus, Adam has a great story about the 1988 NBA Draft and the aftermath of the Suns selecting Dan Majerle. It wouldn't be a conversation about the Phoenix Suns, if we didn't chat about Tom Chambers' insane jam over Mark Jackson. In November, 1990, Adam sat next to photographers, near the basket support at Memorial Coliseum, to watch the visiting Chicago Bulls - who went on to win the 1991 NBA Finals - take on the Phoenix Suns. He talks about his unique view and memories of that game. The Suns continued to strengthen their roster and all the pieces fell into place, when they traded for Charles Barkley, not long after the 1992 NBA Finals. We talk about the 1993 post-season. Phoenix narrowly escaped a first-round humiliation to the eighth-seeded Los Angeles Lakers. Paul Westphal boldly predicted the Suns would win in five games, which they did. We then discuss the 1993 NBA Finals and how the Suns worked their way back into the series, after losing their first two (home) games at America West Arena. As per usual, the conversation is scattered with humor and plenty of insight. A must-listen, for die-hard NBA fans, regardless of the team you support. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Rolando Blackman: Kansas State legend and four-time NBA All-Star - AIR070 | 02 May 2016 | 01:16:30 | |
Kansas State legend and four-time NBA All-Star, Rolando Blackman. As a young boy, Rolando moved from Panama to New York. We discuss his successful transition to a new country and how he managed to learn - then master - a second language, all from just the age of eight. To this point, Rolando's sporting love was football (soccer). After two years of struggling to find others who shared his love of the game, he began to take an interest in basketball, courtesy of his soon-to-be mentor, Ted Gustus. What followed was a transformation from "a kid who couldn't play...a kid who was throwing the ball away", to being named one of the city's top high-school players. Perseverance, passion and focus was paramount. Three times (seventh, eighth and ninth grade) Blackman was cut from his high-school team, before making his breakthrough and fast becoming one of the state's finest players. We chat about Rolando's decision to attend Kansas State University. He had upwards of 200 offers from schools across the country. For three of his four college seasons, Rolando was teammates with friend of the show, Ed Nealy. As a junior, the Wildcats made it to the NCAA Tournament, before bowing out (second round) with a two-point loss to eventual champions, the Louisville Cardinals. Individually, Blackman had a fantastic season, being named Big 8 (now Big 12) Player of the Year and 3rd-Team All-American. Following his junior season, Rolando was invited to the Olympic trials (May, 1980) in Kentucky. Upwards of 50 nations - USA included - boycotted the (July) Games, protesting the Soviet's invasion of Afghanistan. Whilst researching for my conversation with Rolando, I discovered that (his) Team USA participated in exhibition games - dubbed the 'Gold Medal Series' - against teams of NBA stars, culminating in a match-up against the 1976, gold medal-winning U.S. Olympians. Rolando reflects on the trials, the exhibitions that followed and the moment he realized he was one of the nation's elite players. As a senior at Kansas State, Rolando's buzzer-beating, second-round heroics, helped advance his Wildcats, deep into the NCAA Tournament - ultimately making a trip to the 1981 Elite Eight. It's widely agreed that his game-winner versus Oregon State - along with U.S. Reed and John Smith's same-day buzzer beaters - solidified the term, 'March Madness'. We discuss the 1981 Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Tom Chambers - NBA All-Star MVP, 16-year veteran and Basketball Hall of Fame candidate - AIR135 | 07 Feb 2024 | 01:37:26 | |
Let's welcome the legendary Tom Chambers to the show. A massive thanks to our mutual friend, Jeff Wells. Jeff was my guest on episode 128. We detailed his campaign for Tom to enter the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. We also spoke at length about Jeff’s awesome YouTube channel, TC24, devoted to the life of Tommy C. Without Jeff, today’s episode would simply not be possible. I strongly encourage you to subscribe to TC24 – it features a wealth of excellent clips and features on Mr. Chambers. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Great NBA Games: Indiana Pacers vs Chicago Bulls (May 31, 1998) - AIR069 | 18 Apr 2016 | 01:07:35 | |
Adam andJeffdiscuss Chicago's must-win Game 7, to clinch the Eastern Conference andmake a sixth trip to the NBA Finals - May 31st, 1998 - the Bullstake on the visiting Pacers, at the United Center. We cover all the key aspects of thegame. We discuss the NBC broadcast and its commentary team of BobCostas, Doug Collins, Isiah Thomas, Ahmad Rashad and Jim Gray. Wechat about Indiana's rookie coach, the iconic Larry Bird, and hisdrive to give the Pacers their first-ever trip to the NBA Finals.Conversely, Phil Jackson dubbed this 1998 season, The Last Dance.Something had to give. We talk about each team’s roster and ourmemories and opinions on this do-or-die match-up. As per usual, the conversation isscattered with humor and plenty of insight. A must-listen, fordie-hard NBA fans, regardless of the team you support. The most prominent playersmentioned in this episode, include: Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen,Reggie Miller, Luc Longley, Mark Jackson, Toni Kukoc, Rik Smits,Steve Kerr, Dennis Rodman, Ron Harper, Travis Best, Chris Mullin,Jud Buechler and Jalen Rose. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - December 24, 1985, through January 7, 1986 - NB86-7 | 04 Apr 2016 | 00:42:59 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - December 24, 1985, through January 7, 1986 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the next 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played six games in this span – three wins and three losses. Legendary Philadelphia 76ers Public Address Announcer, Dave Zinkoff, passed away on Christmas Day. Julius Erving remained in Philadelphia to attend the funeral. We discuss his touching eulogy that honored his great friend. We chat about Michael Jordan's plaster cast - it was removed, just after Christmas, allowing him to increase his rehabilitation efforts. Newspapers suggested his on-court return would likely be February 1, 1986. However, Jordan's first game back wouldn't be until March 15. In other NBA news, future Hall of Famer, Jamaal Wilkes, announced his retirement. George Gervin, praising the skills of opponent, Darryl Dawkins, quoted a line from a Memorex advertisement, popular in its day. This led to some interesting podcast follow-up, surrounding the history of the famous ad. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Alvin Robertson, Hakeem Olajuwon, Purvis Short, Dominique Wilkins, Tony Campbell, Sleepy Floyd, Herb Williams, Bob Thornton, Mike Smrek & John Havlicek. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 85-12-26 - New York Knicks @ Chicago Bulls 85-12-28 - Indiana Pacers @ Chicago Bulls 85-12-30 - Chicago Bulls @ Cleveland Cavaliers 86-01-02 - Detroit Pistons @ Chicago Bulls 86-01-04 - Atlanta Hawks @ Chicago Bulls Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Nigel Miguel: High School All-American, NIT Champion, film producer & actor - AIR068 | 21 Mar 2016 | 01:02:47 | |
High School All-American, NIT Champion, Film Producer & Actor, Nigel Miguel. As a child, Nigel moved from Central America to California. We talk about his role models as a youngster, before transitioning into his high-school career, where, as a senior, he led his team to a 19-5 record, en route to winning the Del Rey League Championship. He was named a 1981 McDonald’s All-American, in the famous class that included Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing and Chris Mullin. He discusses the tremendous opportunities that afforded him, including a crucial role in the USA’s gold-medal win at the 1981 Albert Schweitzer Tournament (often referred to as the Mini-Basketball World Cup, or Junior Olympics). Nigel played four seasons at UCLA. As a freshman, he was teammates with future Utah Jazz great – and friend of the show – Mark Eaton. In his sophomore season, Nigel’s Bruins made it the NCAA Tournament. He talks about the joy of making it to the tournament, coupled with the disappointment of a first-game exit. In his junior and senior years, Nigel paired with all-time great, Reggie Miller. Prior to his last season with the team, Walt Hazzard – a player on John Wooden’s first NCAA Championship team – took the helm as UCLA coach. We discuss his lasting impact on Nigel and the team.. Miguel ended his Bruins career in style, scoring an equal game-high, 18 points, as UCLA won the 1985 NIT Championship, at the famed Madison Square Garden. We talk about the lead-up to the 1985 NBA Draft, including team interviews that Nigel undertook, and, his one-on-one workout with the legendary Jerry West, on the court at the Great Western Forum. After being the last player cut from the New Jersey Nets’ training camp, Nigel signed with Wisconsin’s new CBA franchise, the La Crosse Catbirds. He talks about his fondness for that season, where he was named to the league’s All-Rookie team, averaging more than 17 points per game. Miguel was runner-up to future NBA All-Star, Michael Adams, for Rookie of the Year. The Catbirds made it to the 1986 CBA Championship series, before losing out to (former podcast guest) Ed Nealy and his Tampa Bay Thrillers. Continued interest from the New Jersey Nets (and L.A. Lakers), led to Nigel’s return to (Nets) training camp, in anticipation of a roster spot for the 1986-87 NBA season. He talks about the seemingly-innocuous ‘tweak’ of his ankle, during a lead-up game. That quickly led to an inner-monologue: “My foot is on the ground…but I don’t feel anything”. He’d fracture Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - December 9 through 23, 1985 - NB86-6 | 14 Mar 2016 | 00:49:15 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - December 9 through 23, 1985 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the next 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played seven games in this span – three wins and four losses. Around the league, the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers continued their fantastic starts to the season. We chat about a (possible) 'cast-breaking ceremony', to check whether Michael Jordan's broken foot had healed. However, this news only plays the role of 'supporting cast', in an episode where Manute Bol stands tall...very tall. In the absence of Jeff Ruland (broken ankle), Bol's first-career start resulted in 18 points, 12 blocks and nine rebounds. We also talk about the reasoning behind Jordan's decision to (mostly) not travel with his team. The Chicago Tribune reported that teammates were voicing their disappointment in MJ's 'lack of moral support' - he even declined the request (to attend games) of Bulls' GM, Jerry Krause. The Dallas Mavericks' Mark Aguirre, was suspended by his team, after refusing Coach Dick Motta's request to re-enter a game, in Atlanta. Motta took exception to Mark helping his friend, Dominique Wilkins, to his feet, after the pair collided, earlier in the game. Further, we discuss some milestones. It was a great span for the San Antonio Spurs. Alvin Robertson was named the NBA's Player of the Week, notching a career-high 41 points against the Denver Nuggets. In that same game, Artis Gilmore eclipsed 23,000 career points (ABA and NBA). This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Sidney Green, Melvin Turpin, Hot Rod Hundley, Jawann Oldham, Mark Eaton, Fat Lever, Rolando Blackman & Doug Moe. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 85-12-10 - San Antonio Spurs @ Chicago Bulls 85-12-12 - Philadelphia 76ers @ Chicago Bulls Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - November 24 through December 8, 1985 - NB86-5 | 29 Feb 2016 | 00:35:08 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - November 24 through December 8, 1985 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the next 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played nine games (all on the road) in this span – two wins and seven losses. 18 of the Bulls' first 24 games, were away from home. We chat about the increased productivity of Chicago's Quintin Dailey. His scoring ability was needed more than ever, with Michael Jordan still on the sidelines. Never short of a post-game quote, Dailey had choice words about the Washington Bullets' Darren Daye, after an incident with the Bulls' John Paxson. We also talk about the Boston Celtics' tremendous early-season form. The team's nine-game win streak was broken by the visiting Portland Trail Blazers - it would be the Celtics' sole regular-season loss at home. Stan Albeck (Chicago coach) extraordinarily asked permission from his regular starters, to have his four former-Spurs players, in the starting lineup, for the Bulls' game at San Antonio. It worked beautifully, with each of the ex-Spurs having good performances. Further, we discuss some scoring milestones. The Denver Nuggets' Alex English racked up 15,000 career points, whilst the Cleveland Cavaliers' World B. Free, surpassed 16,000 for his career. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: George Gervin, Fat Lever, Terence Stansbury, Adrian Dantley, Mel Turpin, Jawann Oldham, Herb Williams, Maurice Lucas & Jeff Ruland. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 85-11-24 - Chicago Bulls @ Washington Bullets 85-11-26 - Chicago Bulls @ Denver Nuggets 85-11-27 - Chicago Bulls @ Utah Jazz 85-11-29 - Chicago Bulls @ Portland Trail Blazers Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Adam on holidays - episodes return late February, 2016 | 31 Jan 2016 | 00:01:37 | |
Hey, it’s Adam here. A quick note to advise you that I’ll be away on holidays for the next three-plus weeks. As I type this, it’s late at night - here in Australia - January 31st, 2016. My podcast will return to its relatively-normal release schedule, in late February, 2016. My goal is for fortnightly episodes at worst, weekly, at best. Most likely – reading this - you already subscribe to my show. Thanks so much for continuing to listen and supporting my passion. I have plenty of great guests lined up as the year progresses. Numerous topic-based episodes, too. Further, we’ll continue our special #NB86 series. In the event that you are not yet subscribed to the show, you can do so, in a number of ways. Subscribe: iTunes | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | Player FM | Tune In | RSS | As a podcast subscriber, you’ll automatically receive new episodes as they are released. I welcome your interaction – feel free to e-mail me: inallairness@gmail.com. I’m always happy to discuss our mutual love of NBA history. Have a great 2016 and I look forward to releasing plenty of new and exciting content for you, as the year goes on. All the best and thanks once more for being a listener of the show. I appreciate all feedback, FB Page 'Likes' and iTunes ratings / reviews. Follow: Facebook | Twitter | Google+ Editor's note: sign-up for the monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future, high-profile guests to appear on the show. Support Adam via Amazon: click-through and purchase any item (store-wide – within 24 hours) - it helps support the podcast – importantly, at no additional cost to you. Thanks. Feedback: e-mail (audio welcome) | Voicemail Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Mitchell Butler: High School All-American & eight-year NBA veteran - AIR067 | 23 Jan 2016 | 00:41:48 | |
High School All-American and eight-year NBA veteran, Mitchell Butler. Mitchell reflects on his outstanding high school career. From 1987 to 1989, he was named the Southern Section Small Schools Division, Player of the Year. In 1988, he led Oakwood to the (Liberty League) Division Championship, notching an astonishing 47 points, 19 rebounds, 4 steals and 2 blocks, in his team's 61-60 victory. We talk about his 1988 quarterfinal game, where he tallied a staggering 50, of his team’s 55 points, in an eight-point win (55-47). In November of 1988 – in the early-signing period ahead of his senior year at high school - Mitchell signed a letter of intent with the UCLA Bruins. He discusses how heavily he was recruited and what led him to ultimately choose the Bruins. At the time of recording our conversation, Mitchell ranked sixth all-time, in total games played (130) for the UCLA Bruins. Whilst researching for our chat, I discovered that in the last warm-up game (November, 1989) prior to his freshman season, Butler's Bruins played against my fellow countrymen, the Australian Boomers. UCLA defeated the Aussies, 80-68, at Pauley Pavilion. Mitchell played in the NCAA Tournament in each of his four seasons. We chat about his freshman campaign, where he made it to the Sweet Sixteen, against Duke - the eventual National Finalists (who lost to UNLV). As a sophomore, Butler started almost every game, before the Bruins were upset by Penn State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. We discuss how close Mitchell came to transferring from UCLA after that second season. UCLA made it to the Elite Eight, in 1992, before losing out to Calbert Cheaney and his Indiana Hoosiers. Though it was a disappointing end to the season, Mitchell won his team's Player Improvement Award, due to his all-around play and positive mental attitude. As a senior, he was named team captain and also enjoyed (arguably) his best season as a Bruin, with 9.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. We cover UCLA's near-upset of Michigan's Fab Five, in a classic, second-round overtime game, in the 1993 NCAA Tournament. We talk about the circumstances behind Mitchell being overlooked on (1993) draft day, and how he made his way into the league, in the months that followed. Individually, Mitchell's best NBA seasons were his first two years in the league, averaging almost eight points and three rebounds, in just 19 minutes per game. We cover his first stint with Washington and also, his links to A Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Peter Capolino: Founder, Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Company | 14 Jan 2016 | 00:44:02 | |
Founder of Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Company, Peter Capolino. We talk about Peter's family and its relationship to sports. Peter's father, Sisto - later renamed James, by original founders, Frank Mitchell and Charles Ness - began work with Mitchell & Ness (1917), at just 13 years of age. In the early 1950s, Sisto purchased the business, bringing Peter into the fold. Peter describes the meticulous research conducted, allowing Mitchell & Ness to produce such high quality, throwback uniforms. Countless hours were spent, combing through archival newspapers, visiting libraries, museums and numerous sporting halls of fame. We discuss the advances in technology and its impact on how the business manufactured apparel. In 1998, Peter was asked to recreate the history of the NBA (Hardwood Classics), as he had done with MLB's Cooperstown Collection. Peter discusses how he obtained licences for each professional league (including the NFL and NHL), allowing him to produce historically-accurate uniforms. Just before the turn of the millennium, Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Company's profile exploded, thanks is large part to links with hip-hop and rap artists. Peter shares some stories about Big Boi and André 3000 (Outkast), plus the classic background behind the improbable link between one of his favorite footballers, Sammy Baugh, and Jay Z. Peter also elaborates on the deal he struck with Michael Jordan, getting the licence and exclusive rights to reproduce MJ's Chicago Bulls jerseys. Sports Illustrated has published three-prominent features - Baseball Flannels are Hot (1987), Throwback Hip-Hop Style Points (2002) and Rockin' the Retros (2003) - on Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Company. Peter sold Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Company to Adidas, in 2008 - continuing to work for them, a further four years - and still consults with the company today. This conversation is a must-listen for fans of any major-league sport. People mentioned in this episode, include: Tom Gola, Connie Simmons, Bill Russell, Rick Barry, Bill Walton, Richie Ashburn, Dale Murphy, Nolan Ryan, Allen Iverson, Wilt Chamberlain, Mickey Mantle, Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - November 9 through 23, 1985 - NB86-4 | 07 Jan 2016 | 00:38:22 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - November 9 through 23, 1985 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the second 15-day block of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played eight games in this span – three wins and five losses. We chat about the Bulls' transition from its heavy reliance on (recently injured) Michael Jordan. Chicago was trying to adapt to not having MJ on the floor - this allowed star, Orlando Woolridge, to mesh with lesser-known talents like Sidney Green, Dave Corzine, Jawann Oldham and Kyle Macy; assuming more responsibility for the team's fortunes. We also talk about the role that Michael Jordan played, helping the North Carolina Tar Heels, secure the signature of Scott Williams (future three-time NBA Champion). Further, we discuss the Lakers' best start to a season since the franchise moved to Los Angeles in 1960, Quintin Dailey's return to playing duty, Alex English's 54-point explosion versus Houston, Xavier McDaniel's cameo in (1992 movie) Singles and much more. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: George Gervin, Steve Stipanovich, Ken Bannister, Bill Walton, Terry Cummings, Mychal Thompson & Derrick Gervin. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 85-11-09 - Box Score: Chicago Bulls @ New York Knicks 85-11-12 - Box Score: Milwaukee Bucks @ Chicago Bulls 85-11-13 - Box Score: Chicago Bulls @ Philadelphia 76ers 85-11-15 - Box Score: Chicago Bulls @ Milwaukee Bucks 85-11-16 - Box Score: Cleveland Cavaliers @ Chicago Bulls 85-11-19 - Box Score: Indiana Pac Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - October 25 through November 8, 1985 - NB86-3 | 19 Dec 2015 | 00:32:39 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - NBA regular season - October 25 through November 8, 1985 - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history In this episode, we discuss numerous happenings from the first 15 days of the 1985-86 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls played seven games in this span – three wins and four losses. Without doubt, the biggest news of the young season, was Michael Jordan's fractured left foot - initially reported to be a 'jammed ankle' - suffered in the team's third game. He'd miss 64 regular-season games. We chat about Larry Bird's near quadruple-double that opened the Celtics' season. That same game was also Bill Walton's debut with Boston. We also talk about the great play of the L.A. Clippers' Derek Smith, who lit up the newly-relocated Sacramento Kings, for 36 points. Patrick Ewing made his NBA debut, however, suffered more losses in his first two weeks as a pro (seven), than he did in his entire senior season at Georgetown (three). Further, we discuss John Paxson signing with the Bulls and Manute Bol's first NBA points. Also, we mention 40-plus point performances from Mark Aguirre, Alex English and Akeem Olajuwon, chat about Chris Mullin's heroics in his first regular-season game and much more. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Michael Jordan, Buck Williams, Isiah Thomas, Terence Stansbury, Charles Oakley, Wes Matthews, Tom Chambers, Georgi Glouchkov & Orlando Woolridge. Chicago Bulls games discussed: 85-10-25 - Box Score: Cleveland Cavailiers @ Chicago Bulls 85-10-26 - Box Score: Detroit Pistons @ Chicago Bulls 85-10-29 - Box Score: Chicago Bulls @ Golden State Warriors 85-10-31 - Box Score: Chicago Bulls @ L.A. Clippers 85-11-02 - Box Score: Chicago Bulls Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Walter Davis - The life and times of North Carolina legend and six-time NBA All-Star (retrospective) - AIR134 | 22 Nov 2023 | 00:40:20 | |
On November 2nd, 2023, six-time NBA All-Star Walter Davis died of natural causes while visiting family in Charlotte. Today, I welcome back Adam Beechen - a great friend of the show. We discuss Walter’s life on-and-off the basketball court. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Eddie Nealy: Kansas State standout & 10-year NBA veteran - AIR065 | 12 Dec 2015 | 00:43:53 | |
Kansas State Wildcats standout and 10-year NBA veteran, Eddie Nealy. Nealy was a two-time Academic All-American, largely recruited by two schools - Yale and Kansas State. He talks about the reasoning behind his decision to play for the Wildcats. We also chat about a major role that he played in a fantastic game, in his freshman season. He hit crucial free throws to seal victory in the closing seconds. Eddie's Wildcats made it to the NCAA Tournament, in three of his four college seasons. In 1981, they advanced to the Elite Eight. I ask Eddie to talk about some key memories from his time at Kansas State, which also included an oversea tour to Japan, prior to senior season. Nealy left college with averages of 10.6 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. For three of those seasons, he was teammates with the great Rolando Blackman. We cover his recollections of teaming with the future, four-time NBA All-Star. We talk about Eddie's (1982) NBA Draft-day whereabouts and how he first heard the news that he was selected by the Kansas City Kings. He also reflects on what it meant to be selected by his home-state team. Along with (former podcast guest) Eddie Johnson, Nealy played all 82 regular-season games in his rookie season. He recalls some memories from his first year in the league. The following year - his first trip to the post-season - Eddie's Kings lost to eventual NBA Finalists, the L.A. Lakers. Nealy talks about his experiences playing the might of the L.A. Lakers. After missing most of the Kings' (1984-85) training camp, Eddie was released, signing on with the Continental Basketball Association's (CBA) Sarasota Stingers - for part of the 1984-85 season - before signing as a free agent and returning to the Kansas City Kings, in late February, 1985. Following the Kings' off-season relocation to Sacramento, Nealy was released by the team. He returned to the CBA and was a member of the 1986 CBA Champion, Tampa Bay Thrillers, led by Bill Musselman. Eddie fondly recalls his experiences playing in the CBA. In mid-July, 1986, Nealy signed as a free agent with the San Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - Cavaliers (Oct 25), Pistons (Oct 26) at Bulls - 1985 - NB86-2 | 13 Nov 2015 | 00:41:27 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - Cleveland at Chicago - October 25, 1985 - Detroit at Chicago - October 26, 1985 In this episode, we discuss the first two games of MJ's second season. We were fortunate to have access to the game DVDs, giving us plenty of topics and moments to talk about. In our first game for review, Chicago needed an overtime session to determine their fate, against the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers. Next, we chat about a remarkable contest between the Bulls and Pistons, featuring unique moments on and off the court. Aside from a focus on Jordan's burgeoning career, we cover numerous sub-plots, individual milestones, amusing moments and minutiae from both games. This episode continues our coverage of the 1985-86 NBA season. We encourage your interaction. Feel free to suggest specific games, moments and events from within the season, for us to cover in future episodes of the series. Thanks for taking the time to listen to the show. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! Others mentioned in this episode, include: Orlando Woolridge, Charles Oakley, Dave Corzine, Jawann Oldham, Kyle Macy, George Gervin, World B. Free, Billy McKinney, John Bagley, Isiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, Roy Hinson, Bill Laimbeer & Rick Mahorn. Editor's note: sign-up for my monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future, high-profile guests to appear on the show. Show notes | I appreciate all feedback, FB Page 'Likes' and iTunes ratings / reviews. Follow: Facebook | Twitter | Google+ Subscribe: iTunes | Stitcher | Newsletter | RSS | Website Support Adam via Amazon: click-through and purchase any item (store-wide – within 24 hours) - it helps support the podcast – importantly, at no additional cost to you. Thanks. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's second NBA season - pre-draft / 1985 Draft, 1985-86 Bulls training camp and preseason games - NB86-1 | 06 Nov 2015 | 00:48:22 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's second season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: - Off-season news, notes and quotes - 1985 NBA Draft - Chicago Bulls 1985-86 training camp and preseason games - Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history We're back with a new series. Starting mid-June, 1985, we discuss a wide array of interesting topics and happenings, from the NBA's off-season. We chat about the Chicago Bulls' moves to sign a new head coach, in the wake of Kevin Loughery's firing. We cover the 1985 NBA Draft and the multitude of deals that Chicago made, to secure Charles Oakley's arrival and the team's future. You'll learn about the 'Schlitz Malt Liquor Summer Basketball League', hosted at Chicago State University, in late June and early July, 1985. Professional players who took part, included Michael Jordan, Isiah Thomas, Reggie Theus, Terry Cummings, Orlando Woolridge & Maurice Cheeks. We also talk about the burgeoning career of (Washington Bullets draftee) Manute Bol. The Chicago Tribune ran a great feature on Bol, covering his then-stint with the United States Basketball League, where he was averaging an astonishing 12 blocks per game. In late July, 1985, the University of Illinois at Chicago, hosted an NBA Rookie Summer League, featuring the Bulls, Hawks, Cavaliers, Pistons, Pacers & Bucks. The teams played a series of exhibitions, open to the public. Players involved - referred to as rookies, free agents and fringe pros - included Spud Webb, Joe Dumars, Kevin Willis, Tony Campbell, Ron Anderson, Antoine Carr, Terence Stansbury & Randy Breuer. To encourage camaraderie and team unity, the Bulls held their (1985-86) preseason training camp at Beloit College, Wisconsin. Aside from basketball, Michael Jordan served as an honorary official (coin toss) at the Beloit-Cornell football game. We detail the Bulls' interest in (free agent) Kyle Macy and the formerly-retired Billy McKinney. Plus, Spencer Haywood made a comeback attempt - attending training camp with the Pistons - two seasons removed from his last NBA game. We recap Chicago's 1985-86 preseason games. They were the only team without a win. We detail the Bulls' interest in (free agent) Kyle Macy and the formerly-retired Billy McKinney. Plus, Spencer Haywood made a comeback attempt - attending training camp with the Pistons - two seasons removed from his last NBA game. To round out the episode, we talk about t Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Bill Hazen: Broadcast veteran / play-by-play man during Michael Jordan's rookie NBA season (1984-85) - AIR064 | 28 Oct 2015 | 01:15:32 | |
Veteran broadcaster of more than 50 Michael Jordan rookie games (1984-85), Bill Hazen. Hazen previously appeared on the finale of our #NB85 series. However, that was an edited-down version, relating solely to the 1985 Chicago Bulls. This is the entire conversation, covering Bill's whole career, to date. Hazen was born and raised in Chicago. We briefly discuss the city's history of professional basketball; leading to the expansion Bulls' entry, in the NBA's 1966-67 season. Bill discusses his career in broadcasting. His journey began in Columbus, Indiana - working as a disc-jockey and producing commercials - before he landed "the break of a lifetime" and moved to Milwaukee, becoming Sports Director for WISN Radio. This also gave Bill the opportunity to call play-by-play for the Marquette Golden Eagles, surrounded by luminaries Al McGuire, Hank Raymonds and Rick Majerus. Later, Bill took a job as a sports broadcaster and talk-show host, at Houston's KTRH. As circumstance would have it, when the talk show was not on the air, the station broadcast Houston Rockets games. Bill then worked play-by-play on TV games, for the Rockets' late-1970s teams, calling names like Moses Malone, John Lucas and Rudy Tomjanovich, to name a few. You'll hear some amazing accounts of Michael Jordan's first season in the NBA. Hazen was in attendance at Angel Guardian Gym - the Bulls' practice facility for Jordan's rookie season - he watched Michael shake hands with new coach, Kevin Loughery, before training camp had even commenced. We reminisce about some of the great moments during Jordan's first season as a pro, including this remarkable piece of commentary that Bill exclaimed, in November, 1984. Another stellar piece of Bill's commentary, was later used in the iconic advertising campaign, 'America's Game / NBA Action: It's FANtastic'. We also discuss Bill's early use of computer technology to prepare for games and the dismantling of numerous personnel - coaches, executives and broadcasters - following the Bulls' 1985 season. In the mid-1990s, Bill worked for ESPN International, recording live audio to accompany 'Game of the Week' packages, distributed overseas. Also at this time, Bill called games for the NFL and produced live audio for the 1995 MLB World Series. We conclude our wide-ranging conversation, chatting about Bill's production company. The most prominent people mentioned in this episode, include: Michael Jordan, Ke Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's rookie NBA season - Guest: Bill Hazen (broadcaster) - 1985 series finale - NB85-30 | 23 Oct 2015 | 00:58:42 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's (1984) arrival in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's rookie NBA season - 1985 NBA Finals - NB85-29 | 16 Oct 2015 | 00:23:34 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's (1984) arrival in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Clay Johnson: NBA Champion, two-time Junior College All-American and Missouri star - AIR063 | 13 Oct 2015 | 01:15:40 | |
Two-time Junior College All-American, Missouri star and NBA Champion, Clay Johnson. Johnson was recruited to the University of Missouri, by Coach Norm Stewart. As a junior, Clay scored a career-high 39 points, in a game against Colorado. In his senior season, he was a team captain, hitting a game-winning jump shot, to advance Mizzou to the second round of the Big Eight Postseason Tournament. Remarkably, with a losing record (14-15), the team (also featuring Larry Drew) qualified for the 1978 NCAA Tournament. In his final game as a Tiger, Clay torched Utah for 30 points. We talk about the 1978 NBA Draft, where Clay was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers in the fifth round. Clay recalls his experiences playing in the Summer Pro League and some NBA preseason games. He was waived by Portland, before the regular season commenced. Clay took his considerable skills to the Western Basketball Association and Continental Basketball Association, where he displayed his talents for a few seasons - primarily with the Billings Volcanos - determined to make his way back into the NBA. In August of 1981, Clay signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Lakers. He had to wait until April of 1982, to make his NBA debut - as fate would have it - against Portland, the team that first drafted him, back in 1978. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's rookie NBA season - 1985 Conference Finals - NB85-28 | 29 Sep 2015 | 00:25:02 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's (1984) arrival in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Mike Brown: George Washington University star and 11-year NBA veteran - AIR062 | 13 Sep 2015 | 00:51:05 | |
Atlantic 10 Legend (George Washington) and 11-year NBA veteran, Mike Brown. Mike discusses his multi-sport childhood and his decision to focus on basketball. His path to the NBA began at Clifford J. Scott High School. We chat about his tremendous tenure at George Washington University, where he starred academically (Criminal Justice) and athletically. Mike led the Colonials in scoring and rebounding, in each of his four seasons with the team. Between his junior and senior seasons, he participated in the 1984 US Olympic Trials at Indiana University. He shares his memories of those famous trials. We also talk about Mike's relationship with Patrick Ewing, who played for the Georgetown Hoyas, just miles away from the George Washington campus. We talk about the 1985 NBA Draft, one of the most talent-laden in the history of the game. The Chicago Bulls selected Mike in the third round (69th-pick overall). Following a season overseas (Italy), Brown returned to the Bulls, and played the 1987 and 1988 seasons with the team, alongside Michael Jordan and (a young) Scottie Pippen. I also asked Mike about his memories of this famous move - he didn't disappoint. In June of 1988, the expansion Charlotte Hornets, selected Mike in the Expansion Draft, trading him to the Utah Jazz, for Kelly Tripucka. The next five years of Mike's career (1989-1993), were spent in Utah. The Jazz advanced to the Western Conference Finals in 1992, and we talk about the opportunities that opened for Mike, both on and off the court. He talks fondly about his time with the franchise and being teammates with John Stockton and Karl Malone. We also discuss the 1992 Olympic Games, where Mike traveled to Barcelona to watch four of his teammates (Jordan, Pippen, Stockton & Malone) win the gold medal for Team USA. After the 1993 season, Mike was traded to Minnesota, in exchange for Felton Spencer. He talks about the adjustment of leaving a winning culture in Utah, to a franchise that was still searching for its identity. The last few seasons of Mike's career, were with the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns. He also returned overseas for a second stint in Europe. Mike also reflects on some of the great coaches he played for, including Doug Collins, Frank Layden and Jerry Sloan, to name a few. Since his playing career ended, Mike has been involved in coaching at various levels, and is currently working for the NBA, in a player-development role. We round out the conversation, talking about Mike's (Las Vegas) Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Great NBA Games: Chicago Bulls vs Boston Celtics (March 31, 1991) - AIR061 | 01 Sep 2015 | 00:51:14 | |
Adam, Aaron and Todd discuss a classic double-overtime game featuring Michael Jordan and Larry Bird - March 31st, 1991 - the Celtics take on the visiting Bulls, at Boston Garden. We discuss all the key aspects of the game. We talk about the NBC broadcast and its commentary team of Marv Albert, Mike Fratello and Ahmad Rashad. We chat about the great regular season that each team was enjoying, as the Playoffs approached. We talk about each team’s roster and our memories and opinions on this exciting match-up. As per usual, the conversation is scattered with humor and plenty of insight. A must-listen, for die-hard NBA fans, regardless of the team you support. The most prominent players mentioned in this episode, include: Scottie Pippen, Horace Grant, John Paxson, Reggie Lewis, Robert Parish, Kevin McHale, Brian Shaw, Kevin Gamble, Dee Brown, Ed Pinckney, Stojko Vrankovic & Cliff Levingston. Statistics mentioned, are often courtesy of Basketball-Reference. Watch the Google Hangout - recorded live on August 20, 2015 - or, should you prefer the audio-only version (via your podcast app of choice), you'll hear an edited version of the conversation. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Reggie Lewis' tragic death (1993) and impact on the Boston Celtics [expanded re-release] - AIR133 | 06 Aug 2023 | 00:30:39 | |
Reggie Lewis tragically passed away 30 years ago (1993) at the age of just 27. This is an updated re-release of episode 27 with my great mate, Todd Spehr. We recorded our chat ten years ago to mark the 20th anniversary of Lewis' sudden passing. Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's rookie NBA season - 1985 Playoffs (Round 2) - NB85-27 | 18 Aug 2015 | 00:34:03 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's (1984) arrival in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Memorable NBA Games: Dominique Wilkins returns to Atlanta (Mar 25, 1994) - Clippers at Hawks - AIR060 | 06 Aug 2015 | 00:33:05 | |
Adam and Aaron discuss Dominique Wilkins' first-game back in Atlanta, as an opposition player. Nique dropped 36 points on his former team, as the L.A. Clippers defeated the Atlanta Hawks by three points. This game took place just four weeks after the Hawks' blockbuster trade, that sent Dominique to the Clippers, in exchange for two-time NBA All-Star, Danny Manning. We discuss all the key aspects of the game. We talk about the SportSouth broadcast and its commentary team of Tim Brando and Mike Glenn. Bob Weiss is overlooked in this story-line. He was now coaching the Clippers, however, had just spent the previous three seasons, with the Hawks. We chat about the commentary team's mention of an alleged rivalry between former teammates, Kevin Willis (1992 NBA All-Star) and The Human Highlight Film. We talk about each team's roster and our memories and opinions on this memorable match-up - arguably a forgotten gem of the 1994 NBA season. As per usual, the conversation is scattered with humor and plenty of insight. A must-listen, for die-hard NBA fans, regardless of the team you support. The most prominent players mentioned in this episode, include: Ron Harper, Mark Jackson, Mookie Blaylock, Stacey Augmon, Bo Outlaw, Harold Ellis, Duane Ferrell, Jon Koncak, John Williams and Elmore Spencer. Thanks to Paul Vido of the Downtown team, for the Danny Manning photo (see show notes). Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||
| Michael Jordan's rookie NBA season - 1985 Playoffs (Round 1) - NB85-26 | 25 Jul 2015 | 00:37:46 | |
Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's (1984) arrival in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers: Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal | |||