Welcome in to the New Orleans Pelicans Podcast, the official podcast of your New Orleans Pelicans, a podcast dedicated to everything you need to know about the squad here from players, coaches, broadcasters, and those who cover the NBA on a daily basis. It's time to flock up. The New Orleans Pelicans Podcast starts right now.

Welcome in to the New Orleans Pelicans Podcast, the official podcast of your New Orleans Pelicans, a podcast dedicated to everything you need to know about the squad here from players, coaches, broadcasters, and those who cover the NBA on a daily basis. It's time to flock up. The New Orleans Pelicans Podcast starts right now.

Hello everyone, and welcome to another edition of your New Orleans Pelicans Podcast, official podcast of your New Orleans Pelicans. It's a victory to start off the preseason, Pelicans getting you two point win one oh six one o four over the Magic Back on Monday to start the preseason schedule. And basically, if you're head coach Willie Green, you got what you wanted. Lots of boxes that you could have checked off the checklist. First and foremost, you get the Zion Williamson sixteen points in nineteen minutes, Daniel Tice, one of the newest members on the team, thirteen points in twenty one minutes. Guys like Jordan Hawkins who looked really good in Nashville. How about eighteen points in twenty one minutes. A couple of threes there. Getting to the line. We'll talk a little bit more about him specifically doing that as well, the team putting up forty three point attempts.

Hello everyone, and welcome to another edition of your New Orleans Pelicans Podcast, official podcast of your New Orleans Pelicans. It's a victory to start off the preseason, Pelicans getting you two point win one oh six one o four over the Magic Back on Monday to start the preseason schedule. And basically, if you're head coach Willie Green, you got what you wanted. Lots of boxes that you could have checked off the checklist. First and foremost, you get the Zion Williamson sixteen points in nineteen minutes, Daniel Tice, one of the newest members on the team, thirteen points in twenty one minutes. Guys like Jordan Hawkins who looked really good in Nashville. How about eighteen points in twenty one minutes. A couple of threes there. Getting to the line. We'll talk a little bit more about him specifically doing that as well, the team putting up forty three point attempts.

That's the target number they want.

That's the target number they want.

You know what, I'm just telling you what that coach Willy Green could in his own words.

You know what, I'm just telling you what that coach Willy Green could in his own words.

It was a fun game.

It was a fun game.

I love the fact that all the concepts that we've been working on in training camp you can see a lot of carryover, and you know, that's refreshing. That's refreshing to know that these guys are taking that information and they're applying it. And that's what preseason is for ist is to get your group together, get them on the floor, make sure that we're fundamentally sound. And I like a lot a lot of the things that we did tonight, and there's a ton of good that we will take away from this film, and.

I love the fact that all the concepts that we've been working on in training camp you can see a lot of carryover, and you know, that's refreshing. That's refreshing to know that these guys are taking that information and they're applying it. And that's what preseason is for ist is to get your group together, get them on the floor, make sure that we're fundamentally sound. And I like a lot a lot of the things that we did tonight, and there's a ton of good that we will take away from this film, and.

Start with Zion as to some of the ops of after a game that really stood out. You really see that level of dominance continuing that we saw towards the end of last season. And there's something that the Pedal is gonna be doing this year. It's something called five out did. It's something he says that's really gonna not only help him, but it's really going to add to the whole notion of pick your poison.

Start with Zion as to some of the ops of after a game that really stood out. You really see that level of dominance continuing that we saw towards the end of last season. And there's something that the Pedal is gonna be doing this year. It's something called five out did. It's something he says that's really gonna not only help him, but it's really going to add to the whole notion of pick your poison.

I think it's gonna help me a lot in the sense of, you know, there're just there's an option everywhere. H You know, last year we had options, but and it's how we ran our offense. We didn't have as many options. I feel like we have more options now, and you know, that's just gonna open up my game where if I tacked the basket because we're playing a five out, you have a lot more drive and kick opportunities. So I think another thing in the grand scheme of things is gonna be a positive for us now.

I think it's gonna help me a lot in the sense of, you know, there're just there's an option everywhere. H You know, last year we had options, but and it's how we ran our offense. We didn't have as many options. I feel like we have more options now, and you know, that's just gonna open up my game where if I tacked the basket because we're playing a five out, you have a lot more drive and kick opportunities. So I think another thing in the grand scheme of things is gonna be a positive for us now.

One of those players that could really help pick your poison Jordan Hawkins. I mentioned he led the Pelicans in scoring. Head coach Willie Green on what he thought.

One of those players that could really help pick your poison Jordan Hawkins. I mentioned he led the Pelicans in scoring. Head coach Willie Green on what he thought.

He's He's special man.

He's He's special man.

He's the forcing speed that he comes off of plays with his gravity, you know, causes a domino effect, and we want to continue to incorporate him in our offense. And sometimes they're playing through him, especially with not having trade to start green light.

He's the forcing speed that he comes off of plays with his gravity, you know, causes a domino effect, and we want to continue to incorporate him in our offense. And sometimes they're playing through him, especially with not having trade to start green light.

It is Jodan Hawkins on having that green light.

It is Jodan Hawkins on having that green light.

I feel like I had that last year as well when I was playing. I think they were comfortable with me taking any any shot. Me any three point shot, I feel like it was a good shot for me. So this year is coming with the same mentality, uh, becoming more like a three level score, keep the defense guessing.

I feel like I had that last year as well when I was playing. I think they were comfortable with me taking any any shot. Me any three point shot, I feel like it was a good shot for me. So this year is coming with the same mentality, uh, becoming more like a three level score, keep the defense guessing.

So the second.

So the second.

Year player also understanding though, he's got to add some things from your one, some of those being.

Year player also understanding though, he's got to add some things from your one, some of those being.

He definitely got to learn it's playing against like professional basketball players now, so he definitely got to learn that it's got a scheme different, try to get to my spots different. I just think that just comes with the game as you as you improve and just get to the next level.

He definitely got to learn it's playing against like professional basketball players now, so he definitely got to learn that it's got a scheme different, try to get to my spots different. I just think that just comes with the game as you as you improve and just get to the next level.

So it was definitely things.

So it was definitely things.

I had to I had to screw, like you switch up, switch up some screws. Like one thing I'll say, like just change the pace. Change a pace for me is really big and kyles. I think I was like Mark one speed just going fast all the time in the league.

I had to I had to screw, like you switch up, switch up some screws. Like one thing I'll say, like just change the pace. Change a pace for me is really big and kyles. I think I was like Mark one speed just going fast all the time in the league.

That doesn't really work.

That doesn't really work.

These guys are so good in athletic I can't I can't really just so strong. I can't really just go full speed every time.

These guys are so good in athletic I can't I can't really just so strong. I can't really just go full speed every time.

So let's not forget.

So let's not forget.

Defense is still going to be a calling card for this team, and it's something that had coach Willie Green says he is not going to let them forget.

Defense is still going to be a calling card for this team, and it's something that had coach Willie Green says he is not going to let them forget.

We're a team that we pride ourselves on our ability to guard, to get stops, to get deflection and steals. We want to add charges verticality and then finish those possessions with rebounding the ball at a high level. I thought we did that. It was solid. We'll continue to grow in those areas.

We're a team that we pride ourselves on our ability to guard, to get stops, to get deflection and steals. We want to add charges verticality and then finish those possessions with rebounding the ball at a high level. I thought we did that. It was solid. We'll continue to grow in those areas.

Thirteen steels ten coming in that first half, and Purp Jones had two steels, Zion had two, Daniel Tice had two, Dejonte Murray had one. Zion Williamson. Love the way the defense was playing, especially the Conte.

Thirteen steels ten coming in that first half, and Purp Jones had two steels, Zion had two, Daniel Tice had two, Dejonte Murray had one. Zion Williamson. Love the way the defense was playing, especially the Conte.

I'll laugh out there sometimes, even though I'm out there on defense, I'll laugh. I'll be like, damn, did anybody else see that? You see her just right there denying. Then they'll pass it and you got a new five right there with Johnte just active. And I gotta said, when you got guys just playing defense like that, I don't see how it just wouldn't motivate you to step your defense up as well.

I'll laugh out there sometimes, even though I'm out there on defense, I'll laugh. I'll be like, damn, did anybody else see that? You see her just right there denying. Then they'll pass it and you got a new five right there with Johnte just active. And I gotta said, when you got guys just playing defense like that, I don't see how it just wouldn't motivate you to step your defense up as well.

All right, So we're bringing Jim iken Offer from New Orleans Pelicans dot Com. Look, I just went through a list gym of different things that really stood out. You heard from some players here as well. Zion Hawk coach Green stood out to you in the two point win back on Monday.

All right, So we're bringing Jim iken Offer from New Orleans Pelicans dot Com. Look, I just went through a list gym of different things that really stood out. You heard from some players here as well. Zion Hawk coach Green stood out to you in the two point win back on Monday.

I think team wise and lineup wise, the starters were really good. They were positive and the plus minus across the board. Didn't really notice this right after the game, but now looking more in depth at the box score, they had seven steals among the starting lineup, and that's pretty good even if they're playing a normal allotment of minutes. But obviously they essentially played a half of basketball, and so I thought that they were pretty disruptive. Orlando had twenty three turnovers, which isn't out of the ordinary preseasons. Sometimes things are looking a little rough when you're just getting on the court in a game against another NBA team for the first time. But the defense looked good for the Pelicans, guys getting in passing wanes, getting steals. The starters looked really good. Zion had an outstanding half of basketball, sixteen points in nineteen minutes, and then obviously Jordan Hawkins with his eighteen points in only twenty one minutes, carried over how good he looked in trading camp in Nashville into the first preseason game. So those were some of the things that stood out to me the most. There was a there are a few other guys I thought that had some good moments as well, but overall a pretty good start to the preseason.

I think team wise and lineup wise, the starters were really good. They were positive and the plus minus across the board. Didn't really notice this right after the game, but now looking more in depth at the box score, they had seven steals among the starting lineup, and that's pretty good even if they're playing a normal allotment of minutes. But obviously they essentially played a half of basketball, and so I thought that they were pretty disruptive. Orlando had twenty three turnovers, which isn't out of the ordinary preseasons. Sometimes things are looking a little rough when you're just getting on the court in a game against another NBA team for the first time. But the defense looked good for the Pelicans, guys getting in passing wanes, getting steals. The starters looked really good. Zion had an outstanding half of basketball, sixteen points in nineteen minutes, and then obviously Jordan Hawkins with his eighteen points in only twenty one minutes, carried over how good he looked in trading camp in Nashville into the first preseason game. So those were some of the things that stood out to me the most. There was a there are a few other guys I thought that had some good moments as well, but overall a pretty good start to the preseason.

Yeah, no doubt, Dan, Look, I think that's one of the things that you want to use the preseason four right to be able to work on certain things. There was a late game situation the Magic made a run. You were able to close out some guys that are looking for minutes were able to do that. So all in all, it was fantastic, Super excited to be also here on this podcast coming in one of our newest members, Wesley Johnson. He's gonna be on the television side of things for the brand new Gulf Coast Sports and Entertainment Network, You're home for Pelicans basketball. On the television side, we're gonna be chatting a little bit about him, plus also Jim. We'll wrap up the podcast on there's a GM survey that goes out it's anonymous, of course, and eight touch on players like who's gonna you know the sixth Man of the Year MVP, who do GMS sort of think, and then they talk about coaching's who would you like to coach or play for and things that nature, and then some miscellaneous stuff like who's the best in game entertainment. We're gonna do that over the next three podcast as well. It kind of get you ready for the regular season opener against the Chicago Bulls.

Yeah, no doubt, Dan, Look, I think that's one of the things that you want to use the preseason four right to be able to work on certain things. There was a late game situation the Magic made a run. You were able to close out some guys that are looking for minutes were able to do that. So all in all, it was fantastic, Super excited to be also here on this podcast coming in one of our newest members, Wesley Johnson. He's gonna be on the television side of things for the brand new Gulf Coast Sports and Entertainment Network, You're home for Pelicans basketball. On the television side, we're gonna be chatting a little bit about him, plus also Jim. We'll wrap up the podcast on there's a GM survey that goes out it's anonymous, of course, and eight touch on players like who's gonna you know the sixth Man of the Year MVP, who do GMS sort of think, and then they talk about coaching's who would you like to coach or play for and things that nature, and then some miscellaneous stuff like who's the best in game entertainment. We're gonna do that over the next three podcast as well. It kind of get you ready for the regular season opener against the Chicago Bulls.

But without further ado, we'd.

But without further ado, we'd.

Like to introduce you and to have you meet the newest member of the Pelicans broadcast team, Wesley Johnson. All right ton, now to bring in our very special guests. Mister Wesley Johnson. If the name sounds familiar, and we probably should spend some time here play a little basketball. But he's also the brand new television studio analysts for the Golf Coast Sports.

Like to introduce you and to have you meet the newest member of the Pelicans broadcast team, Wesley Johnson. All right ton, now to bring in our very special guests. Mister Wesley Johnson. If the name sounds familiar, and we probably should spend some time here play a little basketball. But he's also the brand new television studio analysts for the Golf Coast Sports.

And Entertainment Network. Jimike and offer, I get that right, You got it, You nailed it.

And Entertainment Network. Jimike and offer, I get that right, You got it, You nailed it.

Gus Well Johnson, You're going to have to say that several times. I was that part of the interviewing process.

Gus Well Johnson, You're going to have to say that several times. I was that part of the interviewing process.

Could you say the entire network letters?

Could you say the entire network letters?

No, I cannot.

No, I cannot.

First off, man, congratulations, appreciate it, and man, it's a pleasure, you know, getting to meet you here and welcome aboard man being a part of the Pelicans organization.

First off, man, congratulations, appreciate it, and man, it's a pleasure, you know, getting to meet you here and welcome aboard man being a part of the Pelicans organization.

Thank you for having me. I'm excited and I'm looking forward to it. It's something brand new for me, but something I will say I've been practicing and been I think transition into to my whole career. I mean from college to the interviews and post games and scouting and everything.

Thank you for having me. I'm excited and I'm looking forward to it. It's something brand new for me, but something I will say I've been practicing and been I think transition into to my whole career. I mean from college to the interviews and post games and scouting and everything.

So just talking hopes is something I was bred to do.

So just talking hopes is something I was bred to do.

Yeah, how did this all come together in terms of this specific role for the Pelicans? If you could go through you know how it came to be that you got this role.

Yeah, how did this all come together in terms of this specific role for the Pelicans? If you could go through you know how it came to be that you got this role.

Griff brought me in and gave me basically an overview of something that was trans positioning, something that was opening up. Asked me, was I interested in it? I just told him, yeah, this whatever you need from me. So he brought this to me. So I was excited about it because I think it's going to show me in a different light than it has in my previous years because I just played and everything was physical and you get to show your IQ and get to talk, get to show your personality, get to like so behind the scenes, but you still get to be seen.

Griff brought me in and gave me basically an overview of something that was trans positioning, something that was opening up. Asked me, was I interested in it? I just told him, yeah, this whatever you need from me. So he brought this to me. So I was excited about it because I think it's going to show me in a different light than it has in my previous years because I just played and everything was physical and you get to show your IQ and get to talk, get to show your personality, get to like so behind the scenes, but you still get to be seen.

Is broadcasting something that you thought about even when you were a player, or is it something that came more into your mind like later in your career or post career. How did that go?

Is broadcasting something that you thought about even when you were a player, or is it something that came more into your mind like later in your career or post career. How did that go?

I mean, I think it was mentioned. I think this is going through the course of the course of their career. I think it was something that was actually talked about through this players family actually what I do with agents asked what I do it. They were like, you might have a field in that, you might have a career in that. So I thought about it, but never really was like, you know what this is going to be my I just think I'm a jack all trades, get the coaching side, training side, and just try to learn everything I can about the sport. So I think this is one of the things I can see if I'm I enjoy.

I mean, I think it was mentioned. I think this is going through the course of the course of their career. I think it was something that was actually talked about through this players family actually what I do with agents asked what I do it. They were like, you might have a field in that, you might have a career in that. So I thought about it, but never really was like, you know what this is going to be my I just think I'm a jack all trades, get the coaching side, training side, and just try to learn everything I can about the sport. So I think this is one of the things I can see if I'm I enjoy.

I think that's something that it's gonna definitely translate in terms of if I'm a fan that I love to hear, right, like why is that play being run? Or you know, the ups and downs of a season and how it affects players travel things that nature to be able to do that. I think when I look back and I think of some of the analysts that I enjoy watching and listening, I think for me personally, it's that blend.

I think that's something that it's gonna definitely translate in terms of if I'm a fan that I love to hear, right, like why is that play being run? Or you know, the ups and downs of a season and how it affects players travel things that nature to be able to do that. I think when I look back and I think of some of the analysts that I enjoy watching and listening, I think for me personally, it's that blend.

Of entertaining right, but at the same time.

Of entertaining right, but at the same time.

Almost that pulling back of the curtain a bit like this is what it's sort of like, hey, look, you know eight seconds on the clock here. You want to try to, you know, do certain things or aspects of it, space to for whatever, and.

Almost that pulling back of the curtain a bit like this is what it's sort of like, hey, look, you know eight seconds on the clock here. You want to try to, you know, do certain things or aspects of it, space to for whatever, and.

A love that.

A love that.

So the fact that you play it obviously helps coaching is an interesting I guess perspective too. How is it different for you as you were learning to coach and go into that look at it from that other side on the bench to being a player and setting that up.

So the fact that you play it obviously helps coaching is an interesting I guess perspective too. How is it different for you as you were learning to coach and go into that look at it from that other side on the bench to being a player and setting that up.

How did that.

How did that.

Help helped a lot?

Help helped a lot?

You know, going into the I guess the game, you have the game plan, you know the schemes, you know what you want to do as a player. So on the other side of it, you get the break down the film, you get to work look at the tendencies, look at the player of personnel as far as like how are they going to be effective in the offense. So with me being an ex player and seeing the sides of being a player, then actually breaking it down like for in a coaching standpoint, and then trying to give it to the player in a way that it's going to be effective for him to go out there and do it. It was like, Okay, I see why so many man hours go into watch on all the film what you watch him as a player, but in the coaching side, you watch every little thing when the rotations come in, how they run a transition, well, how the play is going to be broken down when players come in, who they're running the offense through, how the defense is shifting. How so it's every little thing, and then you want to relay that to the offense, to the office like, okay, this is where you can cut, this is where.

You know, going into the I guess the game, you have the game plan, you know the schemes, you know what you want to do as a player. So on the other side of it, you get the break down the film, you get to work look at the tendencies, look at the player of personnel as far as like how are they going to be effective in the offense. So with me being an ex player and seeing the sides of being a player, then actually breaking it down like for in a coaching standpoint, and then trying to give it to the player in a way that it's going to be effective for him to go out there and do it. It was like, Okay, I see why so many man hours go into watch on all the film what you watch him as a player, but in the coaching side, you watch every little thing when the rotations come in, how they run a transition, well, how the play is going to be broken down when players come in, who they're running the offense through, how the defense is shifting. How so it's every little thing, and then you want to relay that to the offense, to the office like, okay, this is where you can cut, this is where.

You can be in effective.

You can be in effective.

So every little thing matters when you're watching a film and nothing is unseen.

So every little thing matters when you're watching a film and nothing is unseen.

Along those lines.

Along those lines.

Jim will absolutely agree with me on this. If you want to be part of the Pelicans organization fan base, that is at least they're never right to the calls right there, referees like when.

Jim will absolutely agree with me on this. If you want to be part of the Pelicans organization fan base, that is at least they're never right to the calls right there, referees like when.

You look back at the head, believe that's how it works out.

You look back at the head, believe that's how it works out.

It never gets calls, including this past one day where's the fall is something you want to hear a lot from the fan basis. But that is interesting and Jim, because I think so much of that is you know, you're a player, you see the game a certain way, and then when you're.

It never gets calls, including this past one day where's the fall is something you want to hear a lot from the fan basis. But that is interesting and Jim, because I think so much of that is you know, you're a player, you see the game a certain way, and then when you're.

A coach are different And again not on the same level.

A coach are different And again not on the same level.

But when I went from playing to coaching my son's little league or things, I'm like, throw the ball, How do you not.

But when I went from playing to coaching my son's little league or things, I'm like, throw the ball, How do you not.

Know to move your feet? You know?

Know to move your feet? You know?

It is sort of like translating that, you know.

It is sort of like translating that, you know.

And that's something that I think is going to be an interesting perspective, see because you've seen it from both sides.

And that's something that I think is going to be an interesting perspective, see because you've seen it from both sides.

Yeah, yeah, I mean, obviously you have the perspective of playing in the NBA for quite a while too. Wanted to ask you a little bit about some of the stuff that you remember from your career. You actually played in the twenty eighteen nineteen season in New Orleans for about half of that season. You played twenty six games, made thirteen starts that year as well. I mean, what are some of the things that you remember the most from your as a Pelicans player? Unfortunately, that was a very I don't know how to put it, multuous and it was. And from a team standpoint, it was a very tumultuous season as well, because you had the Anthony Davis trade demand in January, which was I think a few weeks before you were traded. But what do you remember most from being a player here as far as maybe the experience of the fan base and that kind of thing.

Yeah, yeah, I mean, obviously you have the perspective of playing in the NBA for quite a while too. Wanted to ask you a little bit about some of the stuff that you remember from your career. You actually played in the twenty eighteen nineteen season in New Orleans for about half of that season. You played twenty six games, made thirteen starts that year as well. I mean, what are some of the things that you remember the most from your as a Pelicans player? Unfortunately, that was a very I don't know how to put it, multuous and it was. And from a team standpoint, it was a very tumultuous season as well, because you had the Anthony Davis trade demand in January, which was I think a few weeks before you were traded. But what do you remember most from being a player here as far as maybe the experience of the fan base and that kind of thing.

That was interesting for me as a player, especially at that time of my career. Being traded here, it was a bittersweet. I knew what they're expecting. They were trying to transition the whole thing when I was out West, and for me coming here, I went from being basically one of the youngest on the team to the oldest on the team, like within them like a week, which was different because I see the Vet side of it, all the guys that were going through the ups and downs of the season and why am I not playing? What can I do? This upset about the game? And it was like, Okay, I have to be a voice. I can't just fall into the fray of being the same like I'm upset and no, it's like I have to help them through this. So that twenty six game stint and all the practices and the travel, it was more so of me helping. And I think that was a big transition for me to see myself as just more than just being a player and more so just being like a vet and a mentor to people and the players. It's something I didn't have early on in my career, so I want to get that back.

That was interesting for me as a player, especially at that time of my career. Being traded here, it was a bittersweet. I knew what they're expecting. They were trying to transition the whole thing when I was out West, and for me coming here, I went from being basically one of the youngest on the team to the oldest on the team, like within them like a week, which was different because I see the Vet side of it, all the guys that were going through the ups and downs of the season and why am I not playing? What can I do? This upset about the game? And it was like, Okay, I have to be a voice. I can't just fall into the fray of being the same like I'm upset and no, it's like I have to help them through this. So that twenty six game stint and all the practices and the travel, it was more so of me helping. And I think that was a big transition for me to see myself as just more than just being a player and more so just being like a vet and a mentor to people and the players. It's something I didn't have early on in my career, so I want to get that back.

Is that kind of maybe one of the seeds that maybe started to grow your thought process of maybe I want to go into coaching, Maybe I want to go into something of that nature.

Is that kind of maybe one of the seeds that maybe started to grow your thought process of maybe I want to go into coaching, Maybe I want to go into something of that nature.

Man want to go into scouting. Maybe I want to help these.

Man want to go into scouting. Maybe I want to help these.

Players for sure, because when I first came into the NBA, it was we didn't have any vests on the team. All of us were like peers, like I think k Love was the oldest player on the team, and Darko was from Minnesota.

Players for sure, because when I first came into the NBA, it was we didn't have any vests on the team. All of us were like peers, like I think k Love was the oldest player on the team, and Darko was from Minnesota.

Yeah, yeah, all.

Yeah, yeah, all.

Those guys were they were formed, which they were all all of us close, but with nobody we had like a real true vet. So those early years I had, I just wanted to I remembered that. So when I came here, it's just like one of those things like you said that planning to see in me. I think that was like a one of those Eureka moments, like huh, maybe this is what I was meant to do, more so than panting out the career of what I had and how you can say you played nine years and you had a sccessful career, but you always beat yourself up throughout those courts of those years year by year. I want to do more. I want to do more, but I feel like this is my more that I needed to do.

Those guys were they were formed, which they were all all of us close, but with nobody we had like a real true vet. So those early years I had, I just wanted to I remembered that. So when I came here, it's just like one of those things like you said that planning to see in me. I think that was like a one of those Eureka moments, like huh, maybe this is what I was meant to do, more so than panting out the career of what I had and how you can say you played nine years and you had a sccessful career, but you always beat yourself up throughout those courts of those years year by year. I want to do more. I want to do more, but I feel like this is my more that I needed to do.

You well, do.

You well, do.

You remember when I mean we were a player. Did you Did you enjoy the media aspect of it? Did you enjoy doing interviews?

You remember when I mean we were a player. Did you Did you enjoy the media aspect of it? Did you enjoy doing interviews?

Yeah?

Yeah?

It was fun.

It was fun.

I know a lot of guys don't look look forward to it, but I did. I just want to see the question that was going to be an ass time and then just the response and the tennis play going back and forth is really here?

I know a lot of guys don't look look forward to it, but I did. I just want to see the question that was going to be an ass time and then just the response and the tennis play going back and forth is really here?

But I thought so now I look forward to it.

But I thought so now I look forward to it.

Speaking with new television analysts for the Gulf Coast Sports and Entertainment Network Uster Johnson.

Speaking with new television analysts for the Gulf Coast Sports and Entertainment Network Uster Johnson.

See that's that's That's a little hint for you as a broadcaster.

See that's that's That's a little hint for you as a broadcaster.

Now pause, take your time, and then you won't stumble, even though I will.

Now pause, take your time, and then you won't stumble, even though I will.

I progress and it's gonna happen.

I progress and it's gonna happen.

But one of the things I say, I kind of want to touch on too because it is interesting, because I think it's one of the reasons that I think there's a certain level of excitement and Jim's talking about this podcast too and how national media looks at this upcoming season for the Pelicans is the fact that you have, as Willie Green, said back on Monday, you have a core group of guys that have been together, a locker room, stability, leadership, veterans, things that nature. So I kind of want to just go back to that real quickly. How important because we read about it, we may sense it when we cover the locker room, right, we see it being talked about on the different national shows, like you know, screaming A's doing this thing and all that, But kind of take us single lot. How important is a locker room and the dynamics in there to having a successful season.

But one of the things I say, I kind of want to touch on too because it is interesting, because I think it's one of the reasons that I think there's a certain level of excitement and Jim's talking about this podcast too and how national media looks at this upcoming season for the Pelicans is the fact that you have, as Willie Green, said back on Monday, you have a core group of guys that have been together, a locker room, stability, leadership, veterans, things that nature. So I kind of want to just go back to that real quickly. How important because we read about it, we may sense it when we cover the locker room, right, we see it being talked about on the different national shows, like you know, screaming A's doing this thing and all that, But kind of take us single lot. How important is a locker room and the dynamics in there to having a successful season.

Yeah, you know you're gonna go through the up and ups and downs, especially eighty two game season, but a team that's been together multiple years, they've seen it. As you get older year by year, you know what to expect, you know what's going to happen. And that being said, a team that's been together, they know each other. So the chemistry is going to be there regardless if players leave and move. But the core guys that have been there, they're going to help the people that come in. But that locker room is like your sanctuary brotherhood, being able to voice and express opinions and rotations and just talk about this every little thing. I think that helps translate to the gameplay. So it's one of those things that throughout the whole season, you're there more than you see your family. So it's one of those things that brotherhood, that foundation that you need to have in the locker room helps translate over.

Yeah, you know you're gonna go through the up and ups and downs, especially eighty two game season, but a team that's been together multiple years, they've seen it. As you get older year by year, you know what to expect, you know what's going to happen. And that being said, a team that's been together, they know each other. So the chemistry is going to be there regardless if players leave and move. But the core guys that have been there, they're going to help the people that come in. But that locker room is like your sanctuary brotherhood, being able to voice and express opinions and rotations and just talk about this every little thing. I think that helps translate to the gameplay. So it's one of those things that throughout the whole season, you're there more than you see your family. So it's one of those things that brotherhood, that foundation that you need to have in the locker room helps translate over.

You mentioned the Minnesota teams, teams that you were on. Obviously you were a high lottery pick and maybe that team didn't have, you know, like you said, a ton of veteran presence. I mean, did you feel like over your the course of your NBA career you experienced pretty much everything and you can kind of carry that into your analyst's role in terms of you saw what was effective with teams, like why teams didn't perform well, why they struggled. I mean, did you feel like you kind of experienced the whole range of everything during your career.

You mentioned the Minnesota teams, teams that you were on. Obviously you were a high lottery pick and maybe that team didn't have, you know, like you said, a ton of veteran presence. I mean, did you feel like over your the course of your NBA career you experienced pretty much everything and you can kind of carry that into your analyst's role in terms of you saw what was effective with teams, like why teams didn't perform well, why they struggled. I mean, did you feel like you kind of experienced the whole range of everything during your career.

Yeah, yes, so early on, no, you know, we sucked good, which was fine. I mean that was a learning experience. And then every year I had a different coach. People like, wow, how did that work out? It didn't work out good, But if you look back at it, I had different coaches, had different schemes, different thought process and for a defensive, same thing.

Yeah, yes, so early on, no, you know, we sucked good, which was fine. I mean that was a learning experience. And then every year I had a different coach. People like, wow, how did that work out? It didn't work out good, But if you look back at it, I had different coaches, had different schemes, different thought process and for a defensive, same thing.

Certain things were the same, but.

Certain things were the same, but.

It kind of when I look back at it, it's one of those things that the game changed throughout the whole my whole career. Every year was getting faster. Defensive was spreading out, Offensive was spreading out. Wasn't a traditional big, it was going to floor spacing. So I seen it from two bigs in the post throughout two in to one post to no posts. So it's like a transition throughout my whole career. So those early on years not really winning until getting like as of late in my career, actually went and going to the playoffs. It's one of those things like you value and trust that locker room, You value and trust those vets that around you and the core group that are core guys that have been there. They've seen it, they've been through it. So it's one of those things that holding everybody accountable, like having thick skin and just really just buying into and trusting the process.

It kind of when I look back at it, it's one of those things that the game changed throughout the whole my whole career. Every year was getting faster. Defensive was spreading out, Offensive was spreading out. Wasn't a traditional big, it was going to floor spacing. So I seen it from two bigs in the post throughout two in to one post to no posts. So it's like a transition throughout my whole career. So those early on years not really winning until getting like as of late in my career, actually went and going to the playoffs. It's one of those things like you value and trust that locker room, You value and trust those vets that around you and the core group that are core guys that have been there. They've seen it, they've been through it. So it's one of those things that holding everybody accountable, like having thick skin and just really just buying into and trusting the process.

It's crazy, le Wessa, because obviously, I mean there was technology.

It's crazy, le Wessa, because obviously, I mean there was technology.

It's not like you haven't played that long ago, right, every five six years since you have been here, But I.

It's not like you haven't played that long ago, right, every five six years since you have been here, But I.

Do feel like every year it's just more and more. I mean you can't.

Do feel like every year it's just more and more. I mean you can't.

You could say you try to hide from social media what's being said. It's it's almost impossible.

You could say you try to hide from social media what's being said. It's it's almost impossible.

I know the IWA's like, I don't have an account on that. Kd's got Civil Burder account.

I know the IWA's like, I don't have an account on that. Kd's got Civil Burder account.

And all that, But I guess I'm interested just in that perspective, from first coming into the league to now too as well. How much is that impact not only in the locker room but coverage coaches. I mean, I'm sure they hear it. You know, everybody has an out of time outplay that's better than what was run right right, depending on how it goes, and the gym's tweeting out there, what do you do one does when I'm getting that right?

And all that, But I guess I'm interested just in that perspective, from first coming into the league to now too as well. How much is that impact not only in the locker room but coverage coaches. I mean, I'm sure they hear it. You know, everybody has an out of time outplay that's better than what was run right right, depending on how it goes, and the gym's tweeting out there, what do you do one does when I'm getting that right?

Like, how does that impact?

Like, how does that impact?

I mean, see you hear it?

I mean, see you hear it?

You try not to, but in a day we was si human, I mean regardless if we're not, we're not trying to hear it, but if you see it, it's still you absorb it and everything. So you just don't want those things to affect you and your gameplay, which, like I said, we're human, it does happen. But having that camaraderie with a peer or a teammate to have you get through things like that, if you're down, you hope that they can pull you out of it, but try not to pay attention to it.

You try not to, but in a day we was si human, I mean regardless if we're not, we're not trying to hear it, but if you see it, it's still you absorb it and everything. So you just don't want those things to affect you and your gameplay, which, like I said, we're human, it does happen. But having that camaraderie with a peer or a teammate to have you get through things like that, if you're down, you hope that they can pull you out of it, but try not to pay attention to it.

Let's go do you We'll do a job and go hoop.

Let's go do you We'll do a job and go hoop.

You know a lot of people who some people who listen to the show know that I'm from Syracuse, and I promise everyone I'm not going to spend the next twenty minutes talking about.

You know a lot of people who some people who listen to the show know that I'm from Syracuse, and I promise everyone I'm not going to spend the next twenty minutes talking about.

Syracuse Orange basketball.

Syracuse Orange basketball.

But this guy, Gus was phenomenal. He played the twenty nine ten season Syracuse was He was the best player on the team. They were. I think you guys were nationally ranked number one probably at times during that season, and they were a one seed in the NCAA tournament as well. So I had a couple of questions for you about about Syracuse and really specifically the fact that there's so many broadcasters from Syracuse.

But this guy, Gus was phenomenal. He played the twenty nine ten season Syracuse was He was the best player on the team. They were. I think you guys were nationally ranked number one probably at times during that season, and they were a one seed in the NCAA tournament as well. So I had a couple of questions for you about about Syracuse and really specifically the fact that there's so many broadcasters from Syracuse.

I know that you're new to this, Yeah, but.

I know that you're new to this, Yeah, but.

Is there any pressure to perform with all of the all time great Syracuse broadcasters like Marv Albert and Bob Costas, Mike Rico forever.

Is there any pressure to perform with all of the all time great Syracuse broadcasters like Marv Albert and Bob Costas, Mike Rico forever.

It's a lot, it's a lot of pressure. It's a lot of pressure.

It's a lot, it's a lot of pressure. It's a lot of pressure.

But I don't want to put pressure on myself and say, like I want to be this phenomenal broadcaster, right, I just want to be myself. I mean, especially like you plan, you want to be the best player or anything that you do. You want to be the best anything that you do. But I just want to say that I want to learn. And hear like you're saying, take your time and falls and think about it. But yeah, I mean, yeah, it's a ton of pressure, you can say, with all those guys that came from that broadcasting school and came from Syracuse. But yeah, I'm just want to get my feet wet and see how I go.

But I don't want to put pressure on myself and say, like I want to be this phenomenal broadcaster, right, I just want to be myself. I mean, especially like you plan, you want to be the best player or anything that you do. You want to be the best anything that you do. But I just want to say that I want to learn. And hear like you're saying, take your time and falls and think about it. But yeah, I mean, yeah, it's a ton of pressure, you can say, with all those guys that came from that broadcasting school and came from Syracuse. But yeah, I'm just want to get my feet wet and see how I go.

You know, this is all brand new. I mean not just that you're starting in broadcasting, but even announcement that you are going to be a broadcaster for the Pelicans is only like what a week old or something like that. So, but are you expecting maybe some people from Syracuse to reach out to you, some broadcasters that maybe we'll say like, oh, this is awesome, you're in the field. Now, here's here's some tips and here's.

You know, this is all brand new. I mean not just that you're starting in broadcasting, but even announcement that you are going to be a broadcaster for the Pelicans is only like what a week old or something like that. So, but are you expecting maybe some people from Syracuse to reach out to you, some broadcasters that maybe we'll say like, oh, this is awesome, you're in the field. Now, here's here's some tips and here's.

Some device that'll be cool. Yeah, I'm expecting it. But when it happens, it happens. But I'm definitely excited for that if it does happen. But I know that when they get win that I'm actually doing this. I think it's going to be like, oh wow, you're actually doing this, because before when I started.

Some device that'll be cool. Yeah, I'm expecting it. But when it happens, it happens. But I'm definitely excited for that if it does happen. But I know that when they get win that I'm actually doing this. I think it's going to be like, oh wow, you're actually doing this, because before when I started.

Coaching, like oh wow, you're coaching. I'm looking forward to.

Coaching, like oh wow, you're coaching. I'm looking forward to.

Who are some of the I guess analysts or guys that you watch games. I'm assuming you obviously watch games and things that age like for me, I want Kevin Harlan to call everything.

Who are some of the I guess analysts or guys that you watch games. I'm assuming you obviously watch games and things that age like for me, I want Kevin Harlan to call everything.

You know, I just love everything about it.

You know, I just love everything about it.

And you have so many good analysts there as well that that cover league.

And you have so many good analysts there as well that that cover league.

And I always feel like like.

And I always feel like like.

For me, whether it's a studio analyst or you know, a game analyst, like I said.

For me, whether it's a studio analyst or you know, a game analyst, like I said.

It's it's somehow bringing that little in the game stories.

It's it's somehow bringing that little in the game stories.

Hey, this reminds me of when my time in the locker room this happened to be of things that nature.

Hey, this reminds me of when my time in the locker room this happened to be of things that nature.

Is there anybody that stands out to you?

Is there anybody that stands out to you?

I missed a lot of different people, Scott vin Fleet, I mean, Kevin Harlan, of course, Mike Brand, like Mark Jackson hearing them do the games. Miss you can just keep going. Mike Turrico. Of course it's you had to pay how much to this? It's accuse, but you know it's it's a lot of people, a lot of people. List can go on, you can just start rounding off names, but just trying to find my path and see who I connect with. It's just some one of the things that I'm going to continue to let that happen.

I missed a lot of different people, Scott vin Fleet, I mean, Kevin Harlan, of course, Mike Brand, like Mark Jackson hearing them do the games. Miss you can just keep going. Mike Turrico. Of course it's you had to pay how much to this? It's accuse, but you know it's it's a lot of people, a lot of people. List can go on, you can just start rounding off names, but just trying to find my path and see who I connect with. It's just some one of the things that I'm going to continue to let that happen.

Find your own voice, man, you know, you're a lot of fun with it. It'll it'll come naturally, Yeah, I promise you. Because the hardest thing is actually, do you know the knowledge? You know a lot of other stuff, I mean, the craft and all that.

Find your own voice, man, you know, you're a lot of fun with it. It'll it'll come naturally, Yeah, I promise you. Because the hardest thing is actually, do you know the knowledge? You know a lot of other stuff, I mean, the craft and all that.

You'll the more you do. It's just like anything else.

You'll the more you do. It's just like anything else.

Right, first time you went out and started more comfortable that second start, that third start, the first game you coach, you're like, oh, you know, and then you'll get comfortable doing that. So let's let's dive into some of that knowledge a little bit because you talked about how the game has changed a little bit. One of the things that stood out to me, Jim, and we're going to talk about in the podcast on Monday when it comes to You might have heard of them. Zion Williamson, one of the key players on this team. Five out ye that this team is going to be playing away where it gets them away from the basket, perhaps creating some space and doing those things you mentioned just a few minutes ago.

Right, first time you went out and started more comfortable that second start, that third start, the first game you coach, you're like, oh, you know, and then you'll get comfortable doing that. So let's let's dive into some of that knowledge a little bit because you talked about how the game has changed a little bit. One of the things that stood out to me, Jim, and we're going to talk about in the podcast on Monday when it comes to You might have heard of them. Zion Williamson, one of the key players on this team. Five out ye that this team is going to be playing away where it gets them away from the basket, perhaps creating some space and doing those things you mentioned just a few minutes ago.

You went from two bigs to three biggs to what is five out?

You went from two bigs to three biggs to what is five out?

Man?

Man?

What does that mean? And how is that going to help him? Allowing him to get some space.

What does that mean? And how is that going to help him? Allowing him to get some space.

It's going to be scary for a lot of teams.

It's going to be scary for a lot of teams.

Because one, you're having Zion on the wing, So okay, if you have a big or player that you think that can match up with him, Okay, if you have shooting around him. One is his strengths is driving and so you're playing right into his hands. So that five out scenario is going to be created on one of the one of the most dominant players in the NBA, and when he's there, so when he's on the floor and he's able to create for everybody else, it's going to play into the pail's hands. So I'm looking forward to seeing that five altum with guys like CJ. Dejon Te, Trey Herb and be out on the floor, spread out and then he's kicking and then you're trying to close out to one of those guys. Good luck, because now you're going to close out some of the best ISO players and best curators in the league. So it's gonna be one of the things that it's going to be our strength.

Because one, you're having Zion on the wing, So okay, if you have a big or player that you think that can match up with him, Okay, if you have shooting around him. One is his strengths is driving and so you're playing right into his hands. So that five out scenario is going to be created on one of the one of the most dominant players in the NBA, and when he's there, so when he's on the floor and he's able to create for everybody else, it's going to play into the pail's hands. So I'm looking forward to seeing that five altum with guys like CJ. Dejon Te, Trey Herb and be out on the floor, spread out and then he's kicking and then you're trying to close out to one of those guys. Good luck, because now you're going to close out some of the best ISO players and best curators in the league. So it's gonna be one of the things that it's going to be our strength.

How much are you looking forward just in general being able to watch this team and cover this team every game? I mean, you mentioned a few of the names, but to me, it kind of stands out how talented this team already was, and then they add to John Tay Murray. So I mean, how much you look forward to just being able to watch these guys all season?

How much are you looking forward just in general being able to watch this team and cover this team every game? I mean, you mentioned a few of the names, but to me, it kind of stands out how talented this team already was, and then they add to John Tay Murray. So I mean, how much you look forward to just being able to watch these guys all season?

I'm looking I'm excited about it, just from coaching. When I was coaching, I was they were my scout and it was like one of the things I was always a fan of. I was a fan, and when be I first came into the league, I was a fan of his and actually being here, and I was a fan of the Jonte's when he was at San Antonio, and obviously seeing heard because he played a position I played and having to guard multiple positions and he's like phenomenal, like he does stuff people haven't even seen, being able to go one through five and dominate a game just on the defensive end and love it. So seeing this night in and night out, it's going to be for me, It's gonna be a pleasure.

I'm looking I'm excited about it, just from coaching. When I was coaching, I was they were my scout and it was like one of the things I was always a fan of. I was a fan, and when be I first came into the league, I was a fan of his and actually being here, and I was a fan of the Jonte's when he was at San Antonio, and obviously seeing heard because he played a position I played and having to guard multiple positions and he's like phenomenal, like he does stuff people haven't even seen, being able to go one through five and dominate a game just on the defensive end and love it. So seeing this night in and night out, it's going to be for me, It's gonna be a pleasure.

I think One of the things that I'm looking forward to seeing when it comes to this season too, is the fact that you have a deep bench.

I think One of the things that I'm looking forward to seeing when it comes to this season too, is the fact that you have a deep bench.

As well in those role players.

As well in those role players.

And that's something that's different because we go back to the whole locker room talk to you, Hey, look, there's some guys are gonna get the touches and play minutes. I think Willie Green called it the thirty minutes. Six guys gonna be six or seven players are gonna be thirty minutes, and then everyone else is going to have their time. But that's important in it, right. I mean, he's gonna be injuries, but it's also be minutes where hey, you may have it today, you may not.

And that's something that's different because we go back to the whole locker room talk to you, Hey, look, there's some guys are gonna get the touches and play minutes. I think Willie Green called it the thirty minutes. Six guys gonna be six or seven players are gonna be thirty minutes, and then everyone else is going to have their time. But that's important in it, right. I mean, he's gonna be injuries, but it's also be minutes where hey, you may have it today, you may not.

You know, some other guys and they step up and do that.

You know, some other guys and they step up and do that.

Guys like Cozy el Varado stood out in Nashville feel his presence.

Guys like Cozy el Varado stood out in Nashville feel his presence.

He loves being of the captain of that second YEARNIT.

He loves being of the captain of that second YEARNIT.

And then on Monday we heard Willie Green talk about Jordan Hawkins, how they with Tray Murphy out right now, we're.

And then on Monday we heard Willie Green talk about Jordan Hawkins, how they with Tray Murphy out right now, we're.

Gonna roll through him.

Gonna roll through him.

And that's big forst second year player to hear. For sure, we're playing off of you and stuff. So there's so many different dynamics on this team. But none of that can really happen unless you kind of buy in and you have that leader in coach Green.

And that's big forst second year player to hear. For sure, we're playing off of you and stuff. So there's so many different dynamics on this team. But none of that can really happen unless you kind of buy in and you have that leader in coach Green.

Huh, yes exactly.

Huh, yes exactly.

I mean, especially him saying that they've given you, like all the confidence in the world, saying we're going to play through you. I mean, I mean it's the world for a player. I mean having your coach behind you and then everybody hearing that and knowing like, Okay, go be you, and that gives you every every every fire in your body to go out there and it's like, you know, I can play free. I don't have to worry about anything. And then you're going to see him progress as a player, especially from the year one of year two, because you've seen him in college he was led him to national championship and being able to do that and highlight and do that on this level, it's gonna be a thing that he grows.

I mean, especially him saying that they've given you, like all the confidence in the world, saying we're going to play through you. I mean, I mean it's the world for a player. I mean having your coach behind you and then everybody hearing that and knowing like, Okay, go be you, and that gives you every every every fire in your body to go out there and it's like, you know, I can play free. I don't have to worry about anything. And then you're going to see him progress as a player, especially from the year one of year two, because you've seen him in college he was led him to national championship and being able to do that and highlight and do that on this level, it's gonna be a thing that he grows.

Last thing for me, You know, if you're a player or a coach, there's a whole process in place that you've done for years and years to get ready for the season. I think October twenty third will be your first broadcast, the regular season opener against the Chicago Bulls. What's the next two weeks look like for you in terms of getting ready for the season. I know you probably haven't even gotten a chance to Yeah, I think you just met your your studio, like literally just a few minutes ago. But what's it like these next couple of weeks getting ready for the start of the season.

Last thing for me, You know, if you're a player or a coach, there's a whole process in place that you've done for years and years to get ready for the season. I think October twenty third will be your first broadcast, the regular season opener against the Chicago Bulls. What's the next two weeks look like for you in terms of getting ready for the season. I know you probably haven't even gotten a chance to Yeah, I think you just met your your studio, like literally just a few minutes ago. But what's it like these next couple of weeks getting ready for the start of the season.

Actually, I don't know.

Actually, I don't know.

I mean it just watching games one watching games and really just taking it day by day. I'm looking forward to it. It's just like going to the season. You don't know what the season is going to brings. You prepare for as much as you can. But on this side, I just watch games, listen and hear everybody that's doing games, Sports Center, ESPN Radio, to hear what they're talking about, how they're doing it, and then hopefully on twenty third everything go smooth.

I mean it just watching games one watching games and really just taking it day by day. I'm looking forward to it. It's just like going to the season. You don't know what the season is going to brings. You prepare for as much as you can. But on this side, I just watch games, listen and hear everybody that's doing games, Sports Center, ESPN Radio, to hear what they're talking about, how they're doing it, and then hopefully on twenty third everything go smooth.

All right, I'll tell you what. Let's wrap up with something. I'm pretty sure you're gonna be asked on that first broadcast, right man, what do you think of the Western Conference?

All right, I'll tell you what. Let's wrap up with something. I'm pretty sure you're gonna be asked on that first broadcast, right man, what do you think of the Western Conference?

What do you think of.

What do you think of.

Where the NBA is right now?

Where the NBA is right now?

Because we love talking about it, and look, and I understand that term playing and no one wants to do that, but I think that that.

Because we love talking about it, and look, and I understand that term playing and no one wants to do that, but I think that that.

It was almost like a negative context to it.

It was almost like a negative context to it.

In the past, there was a there was a four way tie for first in the Western Conference going into the final game last season, Right, those teams are still good. Something got better here the Jah to Memphis, They're going to be competitive.

In the past, there was a there was a four way tie for first in the Western Conference going into the final game last season, Right, those teams are still good. Something got better here the Jah to Memphis, They're going to be competitive.

He plays, So I think if you finish, not saying that you want the Pels to finish seventh, eight, ninth or tenth. But I mean when.

He plays, So I think if you finish, not saying that you want the Pels to finish seventh, eight, ninth or tenth. But I mean when.

Lebron and Steph are playing in the nineties, I guess what I'm getting at is you better play every night. And we've seen with this franchise the last two years. One game, Wesley, one game all the difference in the world than standards at the end of.

Lebron and Steph are playing in the nineties, I guess what I'm getting at is you better play every night. And we've seen with this franchise the last two years. One game, Wesley, one game all the difference in the world than standards at the end of.

The game, of course it does.

The game, of course it does.

I mean, the West is no joke, and it's always been like this, always night and night out.

I mean, the West is no joke, and it's always been like this, always night and night out.

You're getting the top tiers rolling in.

You're getting the top tiers rolling in.

So that being said, we have a lineup and have a team that is built for the depth and playing those five out, moving Zion around and having a ball in his hands and everybody playing and crating off him is going to be scary for everybody else. So that being said, the way the league has changed, the game has changed is changing in the way that it's going to benefit us because now we're spaced out as well. All those teams that you're naming, everybody's spaced out. Oklahoma City spaced out, Denver spaced out like Lebron when he moves to the five or how you want to play him. He's bringing a ball if everybody's around the perimeter. So we have a team that's matched up with it.

So that being said, we have a lineup and have a team that is built for the depth and playing those five out, moving Zion around and having a ball in his hands and everybody playing and crating off him is going to be scary for everybody else. So that being said, the way the league has changed, the game has changed is changing in the way that it's going to benefit us because now we're spaced out as well. All those teams that you're naming, everybody's spaced out. Oklahoma City spaced out, Denver spaced out like Lebron when he moves to the five or how you want to play him. He's bringing a ball if everybody's around the perimeter. So we have a team that's matched up with it.

And you have.

And you have.

Some guys that are amazing to watch too.

Some guys that are amazing to watch too.

What ant Man did towards Dan last year and becoming that and taking that mantra. I mean that guy sitting there on the Olympic team going I'm the best guy.

What ant Man did towards Dan last year and becoming that and taking that mantra. I mean that guy sitting there on the Olympic team going I'm the best guy.

I'm like, I love that. I love that. I grew up obviously watching Jordan wgmdays and stuff, which is crazy.

I'm like, I love that. I love that. I grew up obviously watching Jordan wgmdays and stuff, which is crazy.

Had an intern US Sports talks you I talk about all the time, like did you never seems like no. I was born the year after he last won a championship, and I was like, wow, But that's.

Had an intern US Sports talks you I talk about all the time, like did you never seems like no. I was born the year after he last won a championship, and I was like, wow, But that's.

The thing I love.

The thing I love.

I think there's so many good young guys. I mean, I was just looking with him the NBA GM survey. I mean, SGA, you have so many young players that that are taking kind of that next leap.

I think there's so many good young guys. I mean, I was just looking with him the NBA GM survey. I mean, SGA, you have so many young players that that are taking kind of that next leap.

Going moving forward and Luca, by the way, is good. It's just it's crazy, man.

Going moving forward and Luca, by the way, is good. It's just it's crazy, man.

It's fun from our perspective, and now you're on our side. Every game is fun to watch because every game matter, every game, every game could be competitive, and every game you're gonna have star players, yes in this league.

It's fun from our perspective, and now you're on our side. Every game is fun to watch because every game matter, every game, every game could be competitive, and every game you're gonna have star players, yes in this league.

Right now, Yes, right, it's exciting and so I have the time to play. And because you're getting all these young players that, like you're saying the jordan As players that you've got to watch growing up. Now we're seeing that in our form in this era. So the kids growing up watching this as one of those players like, oh my god, I watched him growing up.

Right now, Yes, right, it's exciting and so I have the time to play. And because you're getting all these young players that, like you're saying the jordan As players that you've got to watch growing up. Now we're seeing that in our form in this era. So the kids growing up watching this as one of those players like, oh my god, I watched him growing up.

So we're getting to see that. Yeah, it's gonna be interesting.

So we're getting to see that. Yeah, it's gonna be interesting.

Defense still matters, the three balls, so many different aspects. Again, we're just getting started, and that's the point Weston. We're gonna have you in throughout the season. Definitely talk about what's going on with the team here as well. You'll be along with Aaron Summers on road games. Cannot wait to see that. And welcome aboard again, appreciate it, Thank you for stopping by, Thank you all right, Thanks again to us, Say Johnson for coming in first and foremost, Aaron Summers is really gonna like doing studio work with him because there's someone actually taller than her.

Defense still matters, the three balls, so many different aspects. Again, we're just getting started, and that's the point Weston. We're gonna have you in throughout the season. Definitely talk about what's going on with the team here as well. You'll be along with Aaron Summers on road games. Cannot wait to see that. And welcome aboard again, appreciate it, Thank you for stopping by, Thank you all right, Thanks again to us, Say Johnson for coming in first and foremost, Aaron Summers is really gonna like doing studio work with him because there's someone actually taller than her.

Yeah, I mean I.

Yeah, I mean I.

Feel about mite thing for her. I'm five seven and you're just around that area as well. Nothing like that. We look straight up there. How's the weather out there? Now? Look for you, man, it had to be cool. Again.

Feel about mite thing for her. I'm five seven and you're just around that area as well. Nothing like that. We look straight up there. How's the weather out there? Now? Look for you, man, it had to be cool. Again.

You mentioned the Sarahcuse connection, but and you mentioned it, he played on a team and that was number one in the nation in the place like Sarahcuse. Syrahcuse hoops man has history and things that nature. He played in the league and just to hear him talk about all the different aspects of it from being a player, being a high lottery pick as you mentioned, and then kind of being traded, understanding how that is going to a team that had well that season, how it was in nineteen, so many different distractions and things that nature of the locker room, the importance coaching, scouting.