Best Pure Hoops Media Podcasts (2024)

1
Where do the Heat go Next, and Dwyane Wade is CRIMINALLY UNDERRATED | Featuring Wes Goldberg 48:34

1y ago48:34

48:34

Another Miami themed episode but before we start talking about the Heat, let’s take a look at some sleeper draft prospects that could make a big splash in the league. Keep an eye out for Jordan Hawkins and Cason Wallace as they could make an immediate impact wherever they go. We also have a special guest on today’s episode to talk everything Miami …

1
The Greatness of Nikola Jokic and can the Denver Nuggets Repeat as NBA Champions? | Featuring Ryan Blackburn 34:05

1y ago34:05

34:05

The Denver Nuggets are NBA Champions after making quick work of the Miami Heat in a five game series. To honor this historic season we are joined by Ryan Blackburn, lead Nuggets analyst for Mile High Sports. On this episode we talk about everything Nuggets basketball from this year’s championship to legends of the past. Who are some of the players …

1
USA's Basketball Roster, Paolo Banchero and Potential Landing Spots For Jaylen Brown | Featuring Max Van Auken 52:57

1y ago52:57

52:57

Welcome back to Hoop Ties! Why is everyone hating on the USA's FIBA World Cup Roster? No matter how talented other international teams might be, this USA team will have more than enough quality players to get the job done. On this episode, I am joined by Max Van Auken and we start this one off by talking about Paolo Banchero’s potential to be one o…

1
Can the Miami Heat Beat the Denver Nuggets? Featuring Jermaine “Chill Town Hoops" Womack! 24:37

1y ago24:37

24:37

Today we are joined by Jermaine “Chill Town Hoops" Womack! We start this off by talking about Miami’s historical run and what they need to do to beat the Denver Nuggets. We all know Nikola Jokic is a problem but is there a way the Heat can slow him down with their defensive schemes? Who are the x-factors on the Heat that will have to step up and ho…

1
Can Miami Get To The Finals? Brady Hawk Talks Jimmy Butler & Squad 43:26

1y ago43:26

43:26

I know Lebron James might be frustrated after getting swept and injuries may be starting to catch up to him but is he really considering retirement? At the end of the day he is still one of the top talents in the league even at the age of 38. On today's episode I am joined by Brady Hawk, a Miami Heat Writer for "5 Reasons Sports." We discuss this u…

1
Andre Drummond | How the Big Man Position has Changed, Victor Wembanyama and the NBA Playoffs 18:48

1y ago18:48

18:48

Today I am joined by 2x All-star and 4x rebounding champ, Andre Drummond! From growing up in Connecticut, to being a walk-on on at UCONN to becoming an NBA All-Star, Andre has had a crazy journey. We talk about his time at Detroit and how the big man position has changed over the past decade. We discuss the art of rebounding and some of the l guys …

1
Will the Kings’ Culture Translate to a Championship | Featuring Kings Insider James Ham 35:59

1y ago35:59

35:59

Let me start this off by giving my thoughts on who should be featured on the All-NBA teams. Today we are sitting down with James Ham, Sacramento Kings insider for ESPN 1320. We discuss how he first started covering the Kings and his thoughts on this winning culture they are building in Sacramento. Who deserves the most credit for the Kings’ success…

1
Is Stephen Curry a Top 5 NBA Player Ever? Featuring Warriors Writer C.J. Holmes 34:51

1y ago34:51

34:51

Let’s start this one off by giving the 2023 MVP, Joel Embiid his flowers. He is such a rare talent and to do what he does on the court as a 7-footer is flat out impressive. For this episode we are joined by C.J. Holmes, a writer for San Francisco Chronicle that covers the Golden State Warriors. We talk about how the Warriors have preformed in the p…

1
The New York Knicks and the Impact of Jalen Brunson | Featuring Shaun Geddes From The Knicks Wall 28:09

1y ago28:09

28:09

Today we are talking everything Knicks with Shaun Geddes. The Knicks are legit this year and they could be sleepers to make it to the NBA Finals. Is Jalen Brunson the best point guard in the Eastern Conference? Would you rather start a franchise with Trae Young, Darius Garland or Brunson? Finally, we talk about the players that have impressed us an…

1
Playoff Basketball With Ekam Nagra the Founder of Ball Don’t Stop 49:40

1y ago49:40

49:40

Had to start this one off by talking about the state of the NBA and how the game has changed in recent years from the influence of analytics. Let’s breakdown some of these teams and these first round matchups. The playoffs have been unpredictable so Ekam gives us his thoughts on who he thinks will be in the NBA finals. How has “ring culture” effect…

1
The NBA Playoff Picture Featuring Memphis Grizzlies Beat Writer Drew Hill 41:06

1+ y ago41:06

41:06

Both the 76ers and the Kings had phenomenal years but do they have what it takes to make a deep playoff run? The West is wide open so watch out for the Lakers and in the East keep on eye on the Cavaliers because they could surprise some people. On this episode I am joined by Drew Hill, a Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Daily Memphian. We talk…

1
Is Kyrie Irving Going to Re-sign With the Dallas Mavericks? Featuring Jay Appaji. 35:05

1+ y ago35:05

35:05

It is going to be hard to give the MVP award to someone other than Joel Embiid. Is he the most skilled big man this game has ever seen? Jay Appaji from the MavsFilmRoom joins the podcast today. Let’s talk about Dirk Nowitzki’s impact on the Maverick’s franchise. What if Dirk and Steve Nash had more years together? The Kyrie Irving trade shook the b…

1
Is Nikola Jokić the MVP? Swipa Cam Joins the Hoop Ties Podcast! 45:17

1+ y ago45:17

45:17

The 2023 Hall-of Fame class has been announced. So let’s start this off by highlighting a couple of these basketball legends. On this episode I am joined by Denver Sports Analyst, Swipa. We talk about Jokić’s playmaking ability and the key pieces around him. What do the Nuggets need to do to live up to their expectations? Who do they need to step u…

1
Gerald Bourguet | Suns Writer for PHNX Sports 35:36

1+ y ago35:36

35:36

Welcome to episode 1 of Hoop Ties! Today we are joined by Suns writer Gerald Bourguet. We all know this Suns team is dangerous. Let’s talk about Kevin Durant and his impact on the team. Is there anyone else that needs to step up to make the Suns true contenders? Are the Suns lacking depth? Who is the most valuable trade asset on this team? Finally,…

1
Is Anthony Davis a Top 3 Player in the NBA? 23:51

1+ y ago23:51

23:51

We hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! Kemba Walker is back in the league! How will he fit into the Mavericks roster and will he be productive? Welcome back Anthony Davis! He has been balling and maybe a little adversity is what he needed to get back to playing like a star. Is he a top 3 player in the league? Maybe a top-10 player? Who ranks abo…

1
Will Kyle Kuzma be an All-Star in the Next Two Years? 27:19

1+ y ago27:19

27:19

Today we are joined by Chase Hughes from NBC Sports Washington. What should be the Wizard’s goal for next few years? Bradley Beal is doing his thing but who else is stepping up for this team. What is Bradley Beal’s overall impact on the community? Has Kyle Kuzma found his NBA home? Will Washington be able to keep him? Can Kuzma make an All-Star tea…

1
Is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a Top 5 Player in the League? 27:55

1+ y ago27:55

27:55

We are joined by Oklahoma City Thunder beat writer, Brandon Rahbar! Discussion begins with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He’s a three way scorer and nobody can stop him in the paint. What does the future look like with Shai and Chet leading this team? How does SGA compare to a player like Ja Morant? How would their teams preform if they were to switch p…

1
Is Joel Embiid the Best Big in the League? 23:25

1+ y ago23:25

23:25

The conversation starts with the big man who is making a serious statement, Joel Embiid. 100 points over 2 games is a little crazy. Have we seen a 3-level big that is such a pure scorer? Who in the NBA do we think could drop 70 points in a game? Curry? Giannis? We then transition to the Golden State to talk about their struggles. Do they have a gua…

1
Can Paolo Banchero be the Rookie of the Year? 45:48

1+ y ago45:48

45:48

We are joined by Orlando Magic beat writer Khobi Price! The Magic are a young team on the rise! Listen to us break down the roster and hear our thoughts. The conversation starts with Paolo Banchero. Looking like a definite Rookie of the year candidate but can he be the guy for the future? Is he maybe a Lebron James disciple? Also, Franz Wagner is k…

1
Are the Utah Jazz Playoff Contenders? 22:24

1+ y ago22:24

22:24

Are the Utah Jazz serious playoff contenders? They are playing hard and they are a fun team to watch! Did anyone think they were going to be this good? How many games does it take in a before we know what we can expect from teams. We then transition to talk the greatest trades of all-time. Is it the Garnett trade to the Celtics, Gasol to the Lakers…

1
Who is the Best Player on the Knicks? 33:38

1+ y ago33:38

33:38

Who is the best player on the New York Knicks? Is there a clear-cut answer to this question? Hear our thoughts on Jalen Brunson and the leaders of this franchise. Underrated and underappreciated…What players fit into this category around the league? Are Fred VanVleet, Jrue Holiday, Khris Middleton and maybe even De’Aaron Fox in that discussion? We …

1
Have the Lakers Turned the Chapter? 22:22

1+ y ago22:22

22:22

It took six games but the Lakers are finally in the win column! Russ makes a move to the bench. Hear our thoughts on what this means for the Lakers. How will Russ adapt to his new role? Also, if Russ isn’t going to be traded, will the Lakers still make some moves? The discussion then shifts to the LA Clippers. They haven’t wowed us quite yet but th…

1
Is John Wall a First Ballot Hall of Famer 29:59

1+ y ago29:59

29:59

The discussion starts with the Cavs and Donovan Mitchell. Can they be one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference? How far could they go come playoff time? Can they defend the top wing players in the NBA and what are their greatest weaknesses? Also, what positions do guys like Pascal Siakam and Kyle Kuzma actually play? There are a lot of teams …

1
Can Damian Lillard Lead the League in Scoring? 26:24

1+ y ago26:24

26:24

Damian Lillard is off to a hot start. Will he lead the league in scoring this year? The Trail Blazers are going to be relying on him more than ever. Hear our thoughts on some of the best young players in the league. Will there be a new MVP this year? Are Ja Morant, Jayson Tatum and Luka Doncic in the mix to take home that award? There are so many t…

1
Will Tyrese Haliburton Win the Most Improved Player Award? 28:13

1+ y ago28:13

28:13

The NBA season has begun and we are joined by Pacers beat writer Scott Agness! A young team on the rise, the Pacers are definitely an interesting talking point. Listen to us break down their roster and talk about their outlook for the season. What will we see from Tyrese Haliburton and be ready to hear our opinions on that blockbuster trade that br…

1
NBA BOLD PREDICTIONS FOR 2023 33:45

1+ y ago33:45

33:45

Will Nikola Jokic join elite company as a 3x NBA MVP? We get active with our predictions for the 2022/23 NBA season. Is there a world where Pat Bev wins DPOY, and do we see a first-time All-Star in Jamal Murray? Plus our comeback player of the year! Ahmad Smith on Instagram Theus McBee on InstagramBy Tidal League | SLAM Media Inc.

1
Who’s The Greatest Raptor Ever? 37:08

2y ago37:08

37:08

Hello to our listeners up North! Today we have a Raptor’s special! We are joined by Toronto Raptors NBA beat writer/reporter, Josh Lewenberg! Discussion starts with a focus on Scottie Barnes and the level of growth we should see from him this year. How will the Raptors finish in a stacked Eastern Conference and who will be the players that leads th…

1
What Should The Warriors Do With Draymond Green? 22:56

2y ago22:56

22:56

Did Draymond Green go too far? If you were Jordan Poole, could you stay on the team after the events of the last week? Also, we talk about how Victor Wembanyama stacks up against the previous number-one overall picks. Ahmad Smith on Instagram Theus McBee on InstagramBy Tidal League | SLAM Media Inc.

1
The Redeem Team! 26:44

2y ago26:44

26:44

There are only a few teams that can be considered for the title of G.O.A.T. Was it the ‘92 Dream Team? Or, the ’08 Redeem Team? The Redeem Team wrote one of the greatest comeback stories of all time, with Kobe, Lebron, D Wade and Melo all playing during the peak of their careers. Now, you can hear this story right from the athlete’s themselves in N…

1
Do We Really Care About Preseason Basketball? 30:57

2y ago30:57

30:57

Do we really care about preseason basketball? The Suns took an L to an NBL team… but do we put any stock in it. PSA - The top 250 players in the league are elite, the last 200 may be a situation or because of relationships. Theus is sick of the Laker conversation about Russ, Pat Bev, Buddy Hield and all these different pieces. Anthony Davis should …

1
Top 5 Centers Heading Into The 2022/23 Season 30:09

2y ago30:09

30:09

Who should be ranked #1, Nikola Jokic or Joel Embiid? Can we really talk about greatness without Championship hardware…regular season vs post season matters. Do you have Christian Wood on your radar, now that he’s playing with Luka don’t be surprised if he’s in the running for Most Improved! Does Deandre Ayton make the cut? Ahmad Smith on Instagram…

1
Top 5 Power Forwards Heading Into The 2022/23 Season 21:49

2y ago21:49

21:49

#1 is easy, its Giannis. AD when healthy is scary and there's not many in the league who are better when he’s locked in. The first three picks are unanimous, especially with Zion #3. Where does Ben Simmons fall? Pascal Siakam is an NBA Champion and can't be looked over. Do we have Karl-Anthony Towns in the category or is he a center? Does Draymond …

1
Top 5 Small Forwards Heading Into The 2022/23 Season 31:02

2y ago31:02

31:02

Is Giannis a small forward? We get into the most anticipated position starting with Kevin Durant! Kawhi is a lock for the top-5 irrespective of him missing a year. Is Tatum in your top-5? Ahmad Smith on Instagram Theus McBee on InstagramBy Tidal League | SLAM Media Inc.

1
Top 5 Shooting Guards Heading Into The 2022/23 Season 34:34

2y ago34:34

34:34

Let's get it! Top 5 Shooting Guards heading into the season. Let's clarify who fits the bill. Devin Booker is leading the charge and has shown it in his development, all he's missing is a Chip. Where does Anthony Edwards land? Is James Harden going to have a redemption year? Ahmad Smith on Instagram Theus McBee on Instagram…

1
Top 5 Point Guards Heading Into The 2022/23 Season 31:55

2y ago31:55

31:55

Before we start…Nikola Jokic is a DOG! The Denver Nuggets are in the mix this season. Let’s jump into our top-5 point guards ranked in order for this upcoming season. Are Luka and James Harden point guards? Starting with the unanimous #1 in Steph Curry through to the guys who are on the fringe. The East is tough! Ahmad Smith on Instagram Theus McBe…

1
Is Manu Ginobili a Top 25 International Player Of All Time? 18:18

2y ago18:18

18:18

Where does Manu stand? Are there players he should be ahead of in the NBA Top-75? The international Top-25 is heavy with the likes of Luka, Giannis, Embiid, etc. James Harden and Manu Ginobili comparisons need to stop. Manu is stamped but he wasn't leading a championship team as the #1 option. Congrats on the Hall of Fame. Ahmad Smith on Instagram …

1
Who Is The Most DOMINANT Player In The World? 44:29

2y ago44:29

44:29

Quality tank jobs don't happen often, outside of Philly what other teams come to mind. It’s September, and we get to thank international basketball for some great entertainment. What's the difference between the best player vs most dominant player? Shaq was the best and most dominant player in the league during the Laker's 3-peat, is Giannis? Is th…

1
Can Donovan Mitchell Be The #1 Option On a Championship Team? 27:48

2y ago27:48

27:48

Who are we congratulating the Cleveland Cavaliers or Donovan Mitchell? Does anyone in the East really scare you outside of Milwaukee? Spida has proved that he can be the #1 option but now he has help that will allow him to thrive. Will he be the #1 option on this Cavs team? How deep are these Cavs and do they have what it takes to challenge in the …

1
Is James Harden the best offensive player of all-time 39:02

2y ago39:02

39:02

Shout out to James Harden who just turned 33! Where does he rank all-time offensively? Does he deserve to be in the conversation with the likes of Jordan, Kobe and even Curry? Also, Ahmad and Theus cover what truly makes Giannis so special and what players can turn it on come playoff time. Come check out the NPF pod to hear the best basketball bant…

1
PATRICK BEVERLEY TO THE LAKERS 42:08

2y ago42:08

42:08

We're back! Patrick Beverley is LA-bound; what does that mean for Russ? Is this Ben Simmons' best team fit so far in his career? Are the New Orleans Pelicans taking the next step? Ahmad Smith on Instagram Theus McBee on InstagramBy Tidal League | SLAM Media Inc.

1
Will LeBron Win Another Championship Before He Retires? 32:50

2y ago32:50

32:50

LeBron James is staying in LA, congrats on the extension and we look forward to seeing him play with Bronny! With LeBron signing this extension what does this do for LA…are they going to be a contender? What can we expect from Russell Westbrook, do we see the ball in his hands or tucked away in the corner? Anthony Davis is an immediate first-ballot…

1
Is Kawhi Leonard A Top 5 Player In The League? 29:54

2y ago29:54

29:54

Shoutout to Tim Duncan who will present Manu Ginobili at the Hall of Fame ceremony. When looking at free agency and who’s still on the market, you have to look past talent and understand teams look for fit. Where will Collin Sexton play this coming season? If Anthony Davis “plays” he can be the best big in basketball! Kawhi Leonard will be back in …

1
Which NBA Players Have The Most To Prove This Season? 46:13

2y ago46:13

46:13

Kyle Kuzma just dropped Wilt Chamberlain numbers in a pro-am and Gelo snapped in the Drew League, all of this shows how good you have to be in the NBA. Redemption season is on the way for Anthony Davis, time for him to remind the world why he is great, we’re tired of seeing him injured. James Harden has lots to prove, just a few years removed from …

1
Dejounte Murray vs. Paolo Banchero; Who’s Your Favorite Hooper From Seattle? 30:35

2y ago30:35

30:35

Paolo Banchero and Dejounte Murray got into it at a summer pro-am. We love to see the competitiveness but keep it on the court. Seattle has always had a strong hoop culture, ranking our favorite hoopers from the likes of, Jamal Crawford, Brandon Roy, Nate Robinson and Zach LaVine. Nets owner Joe Tsai has a decision to make, Steve Nash/Sean Marks or…

1
Who Will Be A First Time All-Star Next Year? 39:41

2y ago39:41

39:41

All-Star is in Utah this year...This is the year where Anthony Edwards breaks out and separates himself, is ANT the best player on the Timberwolves? Tyler Herro is on the right team to win ball games and make his case for becoming a first-time All-Star. Are we accounting for injury replacements? Does SGA have a chance even if he averages 26+ PPG? N…

1
Sleeper Teams For This Upcoming Season 30:56

2y ago30:56

30:56

We are in August…we talking about pro-am basketball and sleeper teams this upcoming season. Atlanta, we have high expectations for you this season, top-4 seed or disappointment. The New Orleans Pelicans secured Zion and now its time to deliver on the hardwood. Can we even compare the Memphis Grizzlies to the Utah Jazz or are the Grizzlies in a diff…

1
Should the Warriors give Draymond Green a Max Contract? 29:33

2y ago29:33

29:33

Is Draymond Green worthy of a 4-year max extension? Should he be rewarded for winning 4 titles with the Warriors, or should his success be credited to Steph Curry? Is he a First-Ballot HOF-er? Plus, is Dame Lillard taking the easy way out by not asking for a trade? Ahmad Smith on Instagram Theus McBee on Instagram…

1
Should the Celtics Trade for Kevin Durant? 27:58

2y ago27:58

27:58

Do the Celtics need Kevin Durant…they were just in the NBA Finals and only two games away from winning. Is Jaylen Brown a top-3 SG in the NBA? The Celtics are in win-now mode but if you make a trade for KD you’re going to give up so much more than Jaylen Brown. Plus Giannis and the Bucks ain’t going anywhere either. Is Jayson Tatum on the same leve…

1
Larry Hughes 34:42

2y ago34:42

34:42

Welcome St. Louis native Larry Hughes! Larry had the unique opportunity to play with both Michael Jordan and LeBron James, he shares the greatness that both of them possess. Making the NBA is incredible but staying in the NBA is special, Larry talks about longevity and why sustained success is the true “greatness” factor. Jayson Tatum is destined f…

1
Is Nikola Jokic The League’s Best Player Heading Into Next Season 29:13

2y ago29:13

29:13

Nikola Jokic may mess around and win an MVP for the third straight year… but that doesn’t mean he’s the best player in the world. Theus and Ahmad weigh in if they’d pick Jokic over Kawhi Leonard, LeBron James, Jimmy Butler and other stars in the association. Ahmad debates if people overvalue the regular season compared to a player that can lead tea…

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