Nba History [unofficial] | Michael Jordan-era And More (in All Airness)

Detlef Schrempf was a large part of the first wave of European-born players to make their mark in the NBA. He is a three-time NBA All-Star, back-to-back Sixth Man of the Year and two-time Olympian.We discuss his formative years in Germany and the foreign-exchange program that would change his life forever. We cover his standout tenure at the University of Washington, the ups-and-downs of his early-pro career with the Dallas Mavericks and the 1989 trade to the Indiana Pacers that ultimately allowed his game to shine.Detlef talks about his return to Washington state - where he played six seasons for the Seattle SuperSonics - before closing out his playing days with the Portland Trailblazers. Sign-up for Adam's FREE monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future guests to appear on the show.I appreciate all feedback and welcome ratings and reviews of my show via your podcast app of choice.Follow: Instagram | Twitter | FacebookSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Goog

Legendary sportswriter, Jack McCallum, discusses a wide range of hoops-related topics. We begin with his eight-part podcast series, The Dream Team Tapes. We cover its origin story and Jack's original audio recordings with superstars such as Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.Jack shares great insights from his books - Golden Days (the remarkable through line between Jerry West and the history of the NBA), Seven Seconds or Less (his season on the bench with the 2006 Phoenix Suns) and Unfinished Business (his inside look at the 1991 Boston Celtics).We also chat about (ESPN's) The Last Dance docuseries, Jack's omission from the list of interviewees and his Last Night on The Last Dance episode recaps for Sports Illustrated.Jack discusses his approach to book research and offers great advice for aspiring writers. We round out the conversation with an anecdote for the ages featuring 1980s NBA veteran, Darren Daye - made possible thanks to another fantastic author, Jeff Pearlman. Sign-up for

My guest is long-time Birmingham Barons Radio Broadcaster, Curt Bloom. This is a special episode as it’s the first devoted purely to Michael Jordan’s baseball career. This conversation was recorded after episode eight of the The Last Dance had aired.Curt talks about first hearing the news that MJ could be headed to Alabama, how Jordan adjusted to life as a Minor League player, his interactions – and later, a special one-on-one interview - with Michael and more.Plus, Curt gave me the thumbs-up to include audio snippets of some iconic calls he made of various MJ milestones as a Barons player; all unheard for over 25 years. Sign-up for Adam's FREE monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future guests to appear on the show.I appreciate all feedback and welcome ratings and reviews of my show via your podcast app of choice.Follow: Instagram | Twitter | FacebookSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | OvercastFeedback: e-mail (audio welcome)

My special guest is three-time NBA Champion of the Chicago Bulls, Bill Wennington. Bill was the first guest to appear on my podcast way back in 2012. A big thanks to another great friend of the show, Steve Kashul, for helping me reconnect with Bill.This conversation was recorded after episode four of the The Last Dance aired. We discuss numerous topics including the Bulls’ preseason trip to France in 1997, Bill’s relationship with (GM) Jerry Krause, some Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman memories, plus, just how much handycam footage does Bill have? Sign-up for Adam's FREE monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future guests to appear on the show.I appreciate all feedback and welcome ratings and reviews of my show via your podcast app of choice.Follow: Instagram | Twitter | FacebookSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | OvercastFeedback: e-mail (audio welcome)

Regular co-host, Aaron, joins me to recap episode three of The Last Dance docuseries.Sign-up for Adam's FREE monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future guests to appear on the show.I appreciate all feedback and welcome ratings and reviews of my show via your podcast app of choice.Follow: Instagram | Twitter | FacebookSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | OvercastFeedback: e-mail (audio welcome)

Marc Grossman - the Bulls' Head Statistician since 1977 - discusses the creative ways that Chicago's stats team maximized Michael Jordan’s playing time in 1986, when MJ had a (so-called) "seven-minute per half" restriction as he recovered from a broken foot.Steve Kashul - Anchor and Host of Bulls Basketball on SportsChannel and Fox Sports Net Chicago (1991-97) / Bulls Radio Host (1997-2019) - chats about his appearance in episode two of The Last Dance.More generally, Marc and Steve each share great memories of being so deeply ingrained with the Bulls franchise. Sign-up for Adam's FREE monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future guests to appear on the show.I appreciate all feedback and welcome ratings and reviews of my show via your podcast app of choice.Follow: Instagram | Twitter | FacebookSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | OvercastFeedback: e-mail (audio welcome)

We're back. Aaron joins me to recap episode two of The Last Dance docuseries.Check out my podcast feed - I've now released the first in a series of The Last Dance bonus shows, with two great guests who can personally relate to series:Marc Grossman - Head Statistician of the Bulls since 1977 (still working for the franchise today).Steve Kashul – for most of the 1990s, Anchor and Host of Chicago Bulls Basketball on SportsChannel and Fox Sports Net Chicago. He then transitioned to the role of Chicago Bulls Radio Host for more than 20 years.Marc details the creative ways the Bulls’ stats team allowed Jordan every-possible second of court-time, during his so-called ‘seven-minute per half’ restrictions, upon returning from his broken foot in the 1986 season.Steve talks about his question to Jordan that airs near the end of (The Last Dance) episode two, where he asked MJ about Pippen’s “earth-shattering comments” from Nov, 1997 – Pip had requested a trade, whilst still on the Bulls’ injured list. Sign-up f

It's here. Aaron joins me to recap episode one of ESPN's 10-part documentary series, The Last Dance. Its focus is Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls’ 1998 season.After the recap, I'm joined by 1998 NBA Champion, Scott Burrell. In episode one, Scott features in a memorable exchange with teammates Ron Harper and Michael Jordan at the 1997 McDonald’s Open in France. We cover that, Scott’s memories of his championship season with the Bulls and more. Sign-up for Adam's FREE monthly newsletter - receive exclusive details on upcoming podcast episodes and future guests to appear on the show.I appreciate all feedback and welcome ratings and reviews of my show via your podcast app of choice.Follow: Instagram | Twitter | FacebookSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | OvercastFeedback: e-mail (audio welcome)

Let's welcome Nate Bellamy Jr. and Nigel Miguel back to the show. They joined me on episode 75 to discuss Space Jam’s 20th anniversary. Prior to that, Nigel was my guest for episode 68. I encourage you to check out those great episodes, too.Today, we’re chatting about ESPN's highly anticipated, 10-part documentary series, The Last Dance. Its focus is Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls’ 1998 season.For the context of this podcast chat, Nigel’s relationship with MJ goes way back to 1981 when they were both McDonald’s HS All-Americans. Nate met MJ on the set of the TV commercial, Hare Jordan, in September, 1991. Nate and Nigel share great insight and reflect on their experiences with Jordan; ones that can only come from knowing him for so many years.Thanks to those of you on Twitter who offered up questions or comments about the series that I could pose to Nate and Nigel. They respond to three listener submissions: @andgar923, @Steve_Koura and @OOffenseman. Editor's note: sign-up for my monthly

Pueblo High School legend, Arizona State University Hall of Famer and two-time NBA All-Star, Lafayette 'Fat' Lever.Fat discusses his storied career and offers plenty of great insight into his fantastic on-court exploits.Near the end of the conversation, I mention Chicago, as it pertains to 2020 NBA All-Star Weekend (Feb 15-16). There’s a strong possibility that I’ll have an opportunity to meet with Fat - and other retired players - as my wife (Lisa) and I will be holidaying in the USA at the same time. Fingers crossed, I’ll have more specifics to share about this next month, upon our return home to Australia.For context, this conversation was recorded on January 24. Full show notes will be online over the coming days. 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.I appreciate all feedback, FB Page 'Likes' and Apple Podcasts ratings / reviews.Follow: Instagram | Twitter | F

Syracuse University great and 18-year NBA veteran, Danny Schayes.The longest-tenured Syracuse University player in NBA history, Danny Schayes, reminisces about his unique life in basketball. Why makes it unique? His father, Dolph Schayes (RIP), was one of the NBA's pioneering stars. Dolph, a 12-time All-Star and 1955 NBA Champion (Syracuse Nationals), was the NBA's all-time leading scorer (19,249 points) when he retired in 1964. Dolph was the first coach of the (1971) Buffalo Braves (now known as the L.A. Clippers). A pre-teen Danny, was a Braves ball-boy. He talks fondly of that year and his interactions with greats of the game. Dolph was enshrined into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1973.In 1975, Danny Schayes led his high school, the Jamesville-DeWitt Red Rams, to the Seneca Division crown and OHSL Northern Conference title (scoring 29 points in the final). Countless universities would covet Danny's signature. We talk about the recruiting process and why he ultimately chose to play for the S

High school star, Kansas University standout and 12-year NBA veteran, Paul Mokeski.Milwaukee Bucks’ cult hero, Paul Mokeski, discusses his life in basketball. As a youngster – whilst not always comfortable in his surroundings – Paul found his calling in basketball. A burgeoning star at Encino’s Crespi Carmelite High School, he was recruited by countless colleges – some went to extremes to land his signature. However, Paul’s family (his father played college basketball) offered strong guidance and he ultimately decided to attend Kansas University. There, he challenged himself and began to thrive; on-and-off the court. He made new friends and would also meet his future wife.Mokeski was selected by the Houston Rockets in the 1979 NBA Draft. As a rookie, he was a back-up to MVP-era Moses Malone. Paul discusses the impact that Moses had on his career and shares some fantastic stories about Malone along the way.In October, 1980, the Rockets traded Paul to Detroit. Whilst the Pistons struggled, Paul enjoyed a good s

High school great, University of Texas at San Antonio star, NBA player and European standout, Derrick Gervin.Derrick Gervin is a Detroit native. He starred at Martin Luther King High School in his home state of Michigan. Twice, he was named to Detroit's All-Public School League first team. Following high school, Gervin moved cross country to play at a college where his jersey is one of just two to have ever been retired to the rafters - the University of Texas at San Antonio.Coincidentally, as Derrick continued to hone his skills at college, his older brother - future Hall of Famer, George Gervin (The Iceman) - was lighting up the NBA with the San Antonio Spurs.Leaving college after his junior season, Derrick was selected in the 1985 NBA Draft, before eventually travelling overseas to star in Europe. He would return to the USA and achieve his dream of playing in the NBA. We cover this and much more in a wide-ranging conversation.Derrick is a great story teller and shares some fantastic memories from his

Remembering Michael Jordan's iconic 1989 moment. This episode covers:- Jordan's heroics in Round 1 of the 1989 NBA PlayoffsBehind the Game. The inside story - from MJ's defender, Craig Ehlo - on the moments that culminated with Michael Jordan's amazing, series-clinching jump shot to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers. People mentioned in this episode, include: Larry Nance, Brad Daugherty, Ron Harper, Lenny Wilkens, Bernie Lincicome, Sam Smith, Mark Price, Bill Cartwright, Sam Vincent, Cheryl Raye-Stout & Peter Gee. 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.I appreciate all feedback, FB Page 'Likes' and iTunes ratings / reviews.Follow: Facebook | Instagram | TwitterSubscribe: iTunes | Android | Spotify | Stitcher | NewsletterFeedback: e-mail (audio welcome) | Voicemail

Adam and Aaron dissect Michael Jordan’s comeback game at Indiana - March 19th, 1995 - the Pacers hosted the visiting Bulls, at Market Square Arena.We discuss the circumstances behind Jordan's return, uncover great tidbits that preceded this much-hyped match-up and of course, offer an in-depth recap of the game itself. We chat about Michael's post-game presser, too.In the podcast archives, you’ll find numerous guest episodes that add even deeper context to this conversation. Bill Wennington, Luc Longley and Corie Blount played for the Chicago Bulls in this game. Legendary reporter, Peter Vecsey, and the great Mr. Stats, Elliott Kalb, were part of the NBA on NBC broadcast. Chicago broadcasting veteran, Cheryl Raye-Stout – who first broke the news of Jordan’s 1995 comeback - is also a previous guest. Last but not least, MaryKay Hruskocy, who worked in Media Relations for the Pacers, also recently appeared on the show and shared her memories of the 24 hours of hysteria that led up to the tip-off in Indi

Michael Jordan isn't immune to hi-jinks. This episode covers:- Jordan's role in a few (1980s) April Fools' Day pranksBehind the Game. Learn of three instances where Michael Jordan was involved in April Fools' Day stunts. We begin with Laney High School (1981), then move to the University of North Carolina (1982) and conclude with the Chicago Bulls (1987) of the NBA. People mentioned in this episode, include: James Worthy, Ralph Sampson & Pat Benkowski. 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.I appreciate all feedback, FB Page 'Likes' and iTunes ratings / reviews.Follow: Facebook | Instagram | TwitterSubscribe: iTunes | Android | Spotify | Stitcher | NewsletterFeedback: e-mail (audio welcome) | Voicemail

NBA Creative Director (former), Gameplan Creative CEO and Sports Design Trendsetter, Tom O'Grady.Tom was born and raised in Chicago and graduated with a degree in Design, Marketing and Visual Communications from Columbia College Chicago in 1981. We talk about his childhood memories and the large influence that sport had on him and his family.During the 1980s, Tom worked as an ad agency art director on the McDonald’s business. Simultaneously, McDonald’s began to devote resources to sports marketing. This was the perfect opportunity for Tom – he combined his love of sports with his passion for design. He met and worked with Michael Jordan on the memorable Large fries for “Small Fries” ad campaign and also contributed design work to the inaugural McDonald’s Open later that same year (1987).Judy Shoemaker was the agency account director that Tom worked with on the McDonald’s Open project. In 1988, she accepted the role of Vice President, Marketing, with NBA Properties. Two years later, Judy began to recruit

Adam & Aaron celebrate the 30th anniversary of Michael Jordan's fourth season in the National Basketball Association. This episode covers:- December 5 through December 18, 1987- Insightful minutiae, all but lost to the annals of basketball history Notable:Kareem Abdul-Jabbar‘s streak of 787 straight double-figure scoring games endsLarry Jordan (Michael’s brother) drafted by the IBA’s Chicago ExpressRalph Sampson traded from Houston to Golden State for Joe Barry Carroll Links discussed:* Chicago versus Houston - Rockets trade Sampson after this game* Michael Jordan's heroics force overtime versus Detroit This episode continues our coverage of the 1987-88 NBA season. If you enjoy the content, please share it with your friends! For context, here’s our 13-episode series (#NB87), exploring Michael Jordan’s third season in the NBA.Tune in to hear this and plenty more, as we uncover some hidden gems from the NBA’s golden era.People mentioned include: Doug Collins, Kevin Johnson, Muggsy Bogues, Bob Cous

Brothers, Sean and Brad Malone, are co-directors and producers of Wild About ’88 – The Rise of Arizona Basketball.In 1988, Sean and Brad caught basketball fever (often contagious – I contracted it the following year). As fate would have it, the Arizona Wildcats were firing on all cylinders, advancing to the Final Four of the 1988 NCAA Tournament. Tucson loved their Wildcats and the city relished in its team’s dominant 35-3 season. Arizona’s roster featured six players who would make the NBA – Sean Elliott, Steve Kerr, Jud Buechler, Tom Tolbert, the late Sean Rooks (redshirt) and Anthony Cook.We discuss the brothers’ respective love for the Wildcats and how they went from being super fans of the Cats, to producing a film that documents a season for the ages.Sean and Brad talk to the brilliance of the program’s “unlikely and fantastic rise under former head coach, Lute Olson”. They detail the importance of Steve Kerr’s captaincy of the 1988 Wildcats, plus, the unique circumstances behind Kerr still being a memb

NCAA great, 12-year NBA veteran and 1988 All-Star, Xavier McDaniel.The X-Man joins the show for a wide-ranging discussion about his life in basketball. Few players in NBA history were as physical as McDaniel. However, there's much more to Xavier's bow than simply being an enforcer. He was the first-ever player (1985) to lead the NCAA [Division I] in scoring and rebounding in the same season. His name is littered throughout the record books at Wichita State, where he played four seasons with the Shockers. As a senior, he was named First-team All-American.The Seattle SuperSonics drafted Xavier with the fourth pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. He played all 82 games as a rookie and was second to (future teammate and great friend) Patrick Ewing in Rookie of the Year voting.Xavier talks about his six seasons in Seattle. He discusses the impact that Maurice Lucas had on his game, speaks candidly about his role in the 1988 NBA All-Star Game and talks fondly of (would-be) future stars, Shawn Kemp and Gary Payton.