The Drive with Tim Donnelly

<p>With the 30th pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, the Carolina Hurricanes selected left wing, Bradly Nadeau. Nadeau, who's only 18, registered 113 points (45g, 68a) in 54 games with the Penticton Vees of the British Columbia Hockey League in the 2022-23 season. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox react to the pick and the draft overall.</p> <p>Also, we discuss Bradley Nadeau as a player and how he'll need to develop throughout his career. We also hear from Nadeau himself as he shares his reaction to being drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes organization. </p>

<p>During the Daily Checkdown, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the new pairing of Chris Paul and Steph Curry, a handful of NFL players expecting to receive a season-long suspension for gambling violations, Shohei Ohtani's outstanding performance this MLB season, and the ACC and SEC Challenge being set. </p> <p>Also, tonight is the 2023 NHL Draft which is taking place at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. The top prospect in the draft is Connor Bedard, a highly skilled forward who plays for the Regina Pats of the WHL. What is the Carolina Hurricanes' strategy in the draft, as they hold the 30th pick in the first round?</p>

<p>In honor of the 2023 NHL Draft tonight, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox during a four-of-a-kind discuss what they'd like to see the Carolina Hurricanes do this offseason. They also run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It including the Men's & Women's ACC/SEC Challenge, Notre Dame wanting to triple its media rights fees, Steph Curry excited to play with Chris Paul, a pair of Air Jordan sneakers being auctioned for $75,000, and Tennessee State becoming the first HBCU to offer hockey.</p> <p>Also, are we beginning to see a sense of pride in play for the Carolina Panthers once again? For example, Chandler Zavala texted General Manager Scott Fitterer during the draft about wanting to play for the organization. Miles Sanders also believes running back coach Duce Staley will bring out the best in him, and is Marquis Haynes the right fit on the other side of Brian Burns?</p>

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes hold the 30th pick in the 2023 NHL Draft tonight. Walt Ruff, Hurricanes.com, joined Chris Lea & Dennis Cox to discuss what kind of target player the organization is looking to acquire and what to expect in regard to Sebastian Aho's new contract. The Hurricanes could also look to trade up in the draft, as they have a number of valuable assets that they could use to move up the board. </p> <p>Also, we review how much of a once-in-a-lifetime player Shohei Ohtani is as he continues to sign for the Los Angeles Angels. They discuss his incredible athleticism and his ability to excel at both pitching and hitting. </p>

<p>Tonight is the 2023 NHL Draft which is taking place at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. The top prospect in the draft is Connor Bedard, a highly skilled forward who plays for the Regina Pats of the WHL. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the Carolina Hurricanes' strategy in the draft as they hold the 30th pick in the first round.</p> <p>Also, Norte Dame is looking to triple its football media rights fees. The Fighting Irish wants $65 million to $75 million annually for the next deal. If Norte Dame wants that kind of money, they might have to give up being independent for football and finally join a power five conference. </p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the NHL Draft taking place tomorrow, as well as things to look out for, which would be the Carolina Hurricanes making trades. They also break down the Carolina Hurricanes 2023-2024 schedule, the demand for tickets to the NFL game in Germany, and the Italian national team president being irate with Paolo Banchero for wanting to play for Team USA in international competition. </p> <p>Also, the Carolina Panthers are one of the teams mentioned as a potential landing spot for free agent-wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the pros and cons of the Panthers signing Hopkins and the likelihood of it happening. They also discuss what Hopkins would mean for the Panthers' wide receiver group. </p>

<p>Chris Lea & Dennis Cox during a four-of-a-kind share what they'd like to see the Charlotte Hornets do this offseason. They also run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It including Connor McDavid winning MVP of the NHL, the Italian national team president being irate with Paolo Banchero for playing for Team USA, Dereck Lively on why he wants to provide for his mother, changes to national letters of intent, 1.2 million people wanting to get tickets to see an NFL game in Germany, and Travis Kelce claiming that doing a podcast is the toughest job in the world.</p> <p>Also, one of the food staples here in North Carolina, Bojangles, is looking to change its menu to focus on the overall experience. The new menu will feature A Bo-Berry milkshake and include higher-quality ingredients. How will this affect our local tailgate experience? </p>

<p>Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) has revolutionized the college sports landscape. The most recent discussion involving NIL comes from if collectives are sustainable from donors to provide NIL opportunities to the athletes. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the best things for donors to do, donate to your respectful universities' athletic department or a collective to help create opportunities for athletes regarding NIL.  </p>

<p>The Carolina Panthers are one of the teams mentioned as a potential landing spot for free agent-wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the pros and cons of the Panthers signing Hopkins and the likelihood of it happening. They also discuss what Hopkins would mean for the Panthers' wide receiver group.</p> <p>Also, the NHL and the NHL Players' Association (NHLPA) have launched a new Player Inclusion Coalition to promote diversity and inclusion in hockey. The coalition is co-chaired by NHL alumni Anson Carter and P.K. Subban, and it includes 20 players from across the league. The coalition's goals include increasing the number of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) players in the NHL, as well as creating a more inclusive environment for all players.</p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the upcoming NBA free agency, the Durham Bulls partnering with a local Durham business to attach their name to a coffee, Steve Smith's comparison of Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback to Drew Brees, and the Philadelphia Flyers looking to trade Tony DeAngelo back to the Carolina Hurricanes and what would it mean for current defenseman Brett Pesce? </p> <p>Also, Jordan Staal has re-signed with the Carolina Hurricanes, locking up the team’s captain for four more seasons. The deal is $11.6 million, with a $2.9 million annual salary cap. Staal, 34, has been with the Hurricanes since 2012 and has helped the team reach the playoffs in each of the past five seasons. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the impact of re-signing on the Hurricanes</p>

<p>In honor of the Carolina Hurricanes re-signing captain Jordan Staal, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox during a four-of-a-kind share what they'd want to see the Carolina Panthers do this offseason. They also run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It including Jordan Staal's contract extension with the Carolina Hurricanes, Tony DeAngelo possibly returning to Carolina, what it would mean for Brett Pesce if DeAngelo returned, and a possible Jabari Park return?</p> <p>Also, the Charlotte Hornets, Carolina Hurricanes, and Carolina Panthers will be back in the season before we know it. What will their outlook be for the upcoming season? We discuss if they'll be better, worse, or the same. </p>

<p>With the rumors of the Philadelphia Flyers expecting to trade defenseman Tony DeAngelo back to the Carolina Hurricanes, how would the fans react to the trade? DeAngelo has a checkered pass but was a well-liked teammate on the Hurricanes roster during his previous season with the organization. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss DeAngelo's past and at what point we forgive athletes. </p> <p>Also, we live in a time where everything is well documented on social media, and it can negatively impact athletes. For example, look at everything that's happened to Ja Morant and Zion Williamson in recent months. How do athletes do a better job of protecting their private lives? </p>

<p dir="ltr">Jordan Staal has re-signed with the Carolina Hurricanes, locking up the team’s captain for four more seasons. The deal is $11.6 million, with a $2.9 million annual salary cap. Staal, 34, has been with the Hurricanes since 2012 and has helped the team reach the playoffs in each of the past five seasons. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss the impact of re-signing on the Hurricanes.</p> <p>Also, the Carolina Hurricanes could also be expecting the return of a former defenseman, Tony DeAngelo. The Philadelphia Flyers acquired DeAngelo last year for three draft picks. Former Flyers general manager Chuck Fletcher signed the 27-year-old defenseman to a two-year $10 million contract. New GM Danny Briere is looking to clean house a trade is expected to happen for DeAngelo by the Hurricanes. </p>

<p>In the Daily Check, Chris Lea & Paul Ihander discuss athletes from the local area who were drafted last night in the NBA Draft, Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred saying one big turnout for the Oakland A's doesn't change the decade worth of inaction, the comeback of R-Rated films, and the Tampa Bay Rays benching young shortstop Wander Franco over handling of his recent 'frustrations.'</p> <p>Also, Carolina Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal expressed during exit interviews that he wanted to remain with the Carolina Hurricanes and wanted to finish his career in Raleigh. TSN Hockey insider Darren Dreger reported that contract conversations have hit a standstill. Staal is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st. Could we have seen Staal play his last season in Carolina this past year? </p>

<p>To honor Tommy White, a.k.a. "Tommy Tanks" walk-off home run in the College World Series last night, Chris Lea & Paul Ihander list their favorite nicknames for current sporting athletes. They also run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It, including the Charlotte Hornets drafting Brandon Miller with the No. 2 overall pick, two Alabama guys getting drafted to Charlotte, how Dereck Lively & Dariq Whitehead will fit their new teams, NC State's Terquavion Smith and Jarkel Joiner not getting drafted.</p> <p>Also, Wake Forest's season ended in the College World Series following a 2-0 loss to LSU thanks to Tommy Tank's walk-off homerun. Essex Thomas, Blogger So Dear, discusses how the Demon Deacons came up short and how they return to Omaha next year. </p>

<p>Earlier today, it was announced that the United States will host the Club World Cup in 2025, marking the first time the FIFA tournament will consist of 32 teams. We'll see a Major League Baseball game in London his weekend, as the St. Louis Cardinals will face the Chicago Cubs. Chris Lea & Paul Ihander discuss the need to bring these certain sporting events to other countries.</p> <p>Also, Brandon Thomas is a native of Apex, NC, and is a semi-finalist on NBC's hit show American Ninja Warrior. He's made a successful run and shares what the experience has been like on the show. He also discusses the ninja warrior community throughout the triangle. </p>

<p>With the second pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets selected Brandon Miller, a forward from Alabama. Chris Lea & Paul Ihander discuss the Hornets' decision to draft Miller and speculate how he'll fit into the team's long-term plans. The Brotherhood continues to grow in the NBA as Dariq Whitehead and Dereck Lively II from Duke were also picked in the first round.</p> <p>Also, Carolina Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal expressed during exit interviews that he wanted to remain with the Carolina Hurricanes and wanted to finish his career in Raleigh. TSN Hockey insider Darren Dreger reported that contract conversations have hit a standstill. Staal is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st. Could we have seen Staal play his last season in Carolina this past year? </p>

<p>In honor of the 2023 NBA Draft, Paul Ihander, Louis Fernandez, & Graham Hill selected a team of their own based on the top picks in the NBA Draft since 2003, when LeBron James was selected first overall. They also run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It, including a Florida man with no prior basketball experience being NBA draft eligible, a report of another team linked to a trade for Brett Pesce, Gareth Bale's MLS advice to Lionel Messi, Brian Kelly wanting the FBI to be involved in regards to NIL, and should the Oakland A's remain as the A's when they move to Las Vegas?</p> <p>Also, we asked artificial intelligence to rank the top-five North Carolina natives drafted to the NBA since 2008. Did it get it right?</p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Paul Ihander & Louis Fernandez discuss the Baseball Hall of Fame collecting the Oakland A's fan's protest t-shirts, former LSU basketball coach Will Wade being hit with a ten-game suspension for recruiting violations, Wake Forest baseball looking to avoid back-to-back losses against LSU in the College World Series, and Mike Trout thinking Shohei Ohtani will get more than $500 million on his next contract.</p> <p>Also, since the 2023 NBA Draft is taking place tonight, Terquavion Smith from NC State is expected to come off the board, and one individual who knows him better than anyone is his high school head coach from Farmville Central, Larry Williford. </p>

<p>With the 2023 NBA Draft taking place tonight, who will be the first player from Duke to be selected to keep their active NBA draft picks streak alive? Brendan Marks of The Athletic joined Paul Ihander & Louis Fernandez to share who he thinks will be drafted first between Dereck Lively II and Dariq Whitehead. He also discussed the factors NBA teams will be looking at between the two.</p> <p>Also, the Washington Wizards continue to make headlines ahead of the 2023 NBA Draft as they expand their blockbuster Bradley Beal trade to send Chris Paul to the Golden State Warriors and acquire Jordan Poole. The Wizards also receive a protected 2030 first-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick from Golden State in the deal, sources said.</p>

<p>With the second overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets have a big decision to make. Should they draft Alabama forward Brandon Miller or NBA G League star Scoot Henderson? Paul Ihander & Louis Fernandez discuss the two prospects and make a case for who the Hornets should draft.</p> <p>Also, the player they call Victor Wembayama is being called a generational player, but why don't other sports get to have this same type of player enter their professional sports league? </p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Dennis Cox & Louis Fernandez discuss Utah Jazz head coach Mike Malone getting a tattoo to celebrate the NBA Finals, Wake Forest vs. LSU in the College World Series, the United States Women's national team roster being announced, and the Charlotte Hornets potentially drafting Brandon Miller with their second overall pick in the draft.</p> <p>Also, Carolina Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind'Amour missed out on being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame again. What factors go into being inducted, and what's holding the captain of the 2006 Stanley Final roster back?  </p>

<p>In honor of Dennis Cox's birthday tomorrow, he and Louis Fernandez discuss birthday gifts for four-of-a-kind. They also run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It including Rod Brind'Amour being left out of the Hockey Hall of Fame again, Brandon Miller being the top prospect for the Charlotte Hornets, a potential blockbuster trade in the NBA, and Paul George being the greatest all-time player to Brandon Miller.</p> <p>Also, NC Courage defender Emily Fox has been named to the United States women's national soccer team roster for the upcoming Concacaf W Championship. The tournament is crucial for USWNT as they look to qualify for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. Fox has been a regular starter for the Courage since joining the team in 2021.</p>

<p>Charley Pereira is the captain & owner of Sushi Sportfishing and the winner of the 65th annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament. He joined Dennis Cox & Louis Fernandez to respond to the allegations made by Donnie White, captain of 'Sea Wolf' on Monday that Charley's boat left 'April Mae' strained after they were struck by lightning out at sea. He shares communications that he had with Coast Guard and 'April Mae' owner Joe Visser.  </p> <p>The Charlotte Hornets are reportedly eyeing Alabama forward Brandon Miller with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Miller, a 6-foot-9 forward is considered to be one of the top players in the draft class. The Hornets are looking to add a versatile player to play alongside LaMeolo Ball, and Miller fits the bill.</p>

<p>Carolina Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind'Amour was left out of the Hockey Hall of Fame again. The former member of the Philadelphia Flyers and Carolina Hurricanes '06 Stanley Cup Final roster has been left out of the past previous inductions as well. Dennis Cox & Louis Fernandez discuss the reasons why he should've gotten in and the issues they have with the voting itself.  </p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss Wake Forest defeating LSU 3-2 in the College World Series, Chris Paul being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, MLB players not wanting to play in North Carolina, and what the Carolina Hurricanes need to do this off-season in regards to trades.</p> <p>Also, UNC head football coach Mack Brown spoke with the media today about the team's progress during spring practice and what he's looking forward to in camp. this summer Brown also discusses the upcoming season and his expectations for the Tar Heels.</p>

<p>Chris Lea & Dennis Cox run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It such as the Portland Trail Blazers going after Bam Adebayo, what the Charlotte Hornets do with the second overall pick in the draft, Zion Williamson being traded is unlikely, Chris Paul calling out Isiah Thomas' role with the suns, and Mack Brown's media availability. </p> <p>Also, it was discussed yesterday that the Carolina Hurricanes might trade away their core defenseman Brett Pesce. Greg Wyshynski, ESPN, shared that a couple of goaltenders in the league are entering free agencies. Should the Hurricanes go after a top-level goaltender this off-season since Andersen and Raanta are approaching free agencies? </p>

<p>Chris Paul was traded from the Phoenix Suns on Monday and has highlighted Isiah Thomas' unofficial role in the Bradley Beal trade. Chris Paul suggested that Thomas was in the ear of Suns' owner Mat Ishbia regarding the deal. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss how Isiah Thomas despite being a great basketball player, is the last person you should seek advice from if you're a front office worker. </p> <p>Also, in a new lawsuit, Brandr Group, which has agreements to facilitate group licensing deals for 54 D-I schools and their athletes, is suing EA Sports over an upcoming college football video game. Brandr alleges that EA Sports is violating its intellectual property rights by using the name, image, and likeness of college athletes without their permission.</p>

<p>North Carolina head football coach Mack Brown spoke with the media this morning ahead of their summer workouts. Some of the things discussed were what was great about the new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey and how excited he is for quarterback Drake Maye in his sophomore season. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss how UNC's football program has the opportunity to be known as the school that produces top-level quarterbacks. </p> <p>Also, Wake Forest continues their success in the College World Series after defeating LSU 3-2 after an 8th-inning comeback. The Demon Deacons will now face the winner of No. LSU or Tennessee tomorrow.</p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss Dariq Whitehead's 2023 NBA draft stock potentially going down, Wake Forest advancing in the College World Series, Brett Pesce trade rumors, and Chris Paul being traded by the Phoenix Suns.</p> <p>Also, Donnie White, captain of 'Sea Wolf' discussed his crew assisting 'April Mae' after the ship was struck by lightning earlier in the week during the Big Rock Blue Marlin fishing tournament last week. He also discusses the controversial ending of the event regarding 'Sensation' catching a 600-plus pound blue marlin, but being disqualified based on 'mutilation.' </p>

<p>In honor of North Carolina's very own Chris Paul being traded from the Phoenix Suns, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox for their four-of-a-kind discuss the best trades of all time. They also run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit including the celebration of Juneteenth, Chris Paul being traded by the Phoenix Suns, Dariq Whitehead's NBA draft stock potentially falling, Draymond Green declining his $27.5 million option, and Wake Forest advancing in the CWS.</p> <p>Also, Donnie White is the captain of 'Sea Wolf' and participated in the 65th annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing last week. He shares the story about how his crew rescued 'April Mae' out at sea after their boat was struck by lightning. He also discusses the controversial ending to the tournament regarding 'Sensation' 600-plus pound blue marlin being disqualified due to mutilation. </p>

<p>The Wake Forest Demon Deacons have a balanced lineup that hit for power and average, and their bullpen is one of the best in the country. Les Johns of the Demon Deacon Digest joins Chris Lea & Dennis Cox to discuss how Wake Forest will need to continue to play their brand of baseball in order to advance in the CWS. That means hitting the ball well, pitching well, and playing good defense. </p> <p>Also, the Washington Wizards are expected to acquire Chris Paul as part of a package with the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Bradley Beal. The Suns were hoping to build around Paul, Devin Booker, and Kevin Durant, but the trade signals they believe Beal can provide more to the roster. Speaking of the NBA, a lot of NBA Draft experts are projecting that Duke Forward Dariq Whitehead can slide into the second round. </p>

<p>This year's Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament saw a record-breaking 271 boats compete for the top prize. In the end, the team on board 'Sushi' took home the top honors with a 484.5-pound blue marlin. 'Sensation' caught a 600-plus pound blue marlin on the final day, but it was disqualified based on 'mutilation.' Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss </p> <p>Also, will the Carolina Hurricanes be trading away one of their top defensemen this offseason? Brett Pesce is heading into the final year of his contract with new representation and it is rumored that if Carolina can't extend Pesce this summer, they'll potentially look to trade him. With Pesce potentially on the way out, the Hurricanes must find a way to replace his production.</p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdwon, Dennis Cox & Pat Welter discuss the latest from the Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament, the U.S. Open at Los Angeles Country Club, Ja Morant's 25-game suspension to begin the 2023-2024 NBA season, and the issues regarding Wake Forest's Bob Klintmant and what happened with his NBA agent?</p> <p>Also, Michael Jordan is selling a majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets after 13 years of ownership. The sale leaves Jordan with a 20% stake in the team, but he will remain as chairman of the board. The deal is reportedly worth $3 billion, and it is expected to close later this year. How good has Jordan been at building a brand based on his name alone?</p>

<p>In honor of Michael Jordan selling his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets for $3 billion dollar, Dennis Cox & Pat Welter shared what they'd buy with that amount of money. They also run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It including the college world series starting this weekend, the U.S. Open, Mike Dunlevey Jr. becoming general manager of the Golden State Warriors, Ja Morant's 25-game suspension, and more.</p> <p>Also, how would you compare Michael Jordan's tenure as owner of the Charlotte Hornets to owner of the Carolina Panthers David Tepper, as well as Tom Dundon, owner of the Carolina Hurricanes? How important will the first years be for the new ownership? </p>

<p>Jarkel Joiner is a 6-foot-3, 190-pound guard who is known for his shooting and playmaking ability. He averaged 15.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game as a senior at NC State. Joiner has been working out with multiple NBA teams in recent weeks including the Charlotte Hornets. Dennis Cox & Pat Welter discuss Joiner's strengths as a prospect, his chances of being drafted, and his goals for the future.</p> <p>Also, Wake Forest basketball head coach Steve Forbes addressed the issues with Bob Klintman's NBA agent in a presser today with the media. Forbes said that the agent had been "disrespectful" to the program and it was the worst experience he's ever had with an agent. The agent had reportedly been trying to pressure Klintman into leaving Wake Forest for the NBA draft. Forbes said that he was "confident" that Klintman would stay at Wake Forest and that he was "excited" about the future of the program.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p><strong> </strong></p>

<p> Michael Jordan has agreed to sell the majority stake of the Charlotte Hornets to a group led by Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall. Jordan, who has owned the Hornets since 2010, will retain a minority stake in the team. The deal leaves the NBA without any Black majority owners. Dennis Cox & Pat Welter discuss the implications of Jordan's decision and what it means for the future of the Hornets.</p> <p>Also, Rapper and Fayetteville native J. Cole has become a minority owner of the Charlotte Hornets. Cole's investment could help the Hornets attract more fans and sponsors. The team is currently in the midst of a rebuild and is led by LaMelo Ball who is one of the most exciting young players in the NBA.</p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown Dennis Cox & Pat Welter discuss the first day of the U.S. Open, the Carolina Panthers training camp schedule has been released, along with the SEC Schedule for 2024, and the likelihood of Major League Baseball coming to North Carolina.</p> <p>Also, the PGA Tour's merger with LIV Golf and Saudi backers is being investigated by the Justice Department. It seems like this merger was put together overnight, and we're not sure what it is. Is there a possibility that the PGA tour and the LIV golf merge may not even be around soon? </p>

<p>In honor of Michael Jordan's 'Catch 23' yacht participating in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament and his competitive nature, Dennis Cox & Pat Welter discuss what side bets he'd be willing to make in the tournament. Plus, they run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It, including the U.S. Open, Zion Williamson potentially getting traded, Roy Cooper wanting an MLB team in NC, the Denver Nuggets parade, the movie Bull Durham turning 35 years old today, and more.</p> <p>Also, Roy Cooper wants to continue the recent success of the state of North Carolina following the signing of the mobile and online sports betting bill yesterday. He says he wants to bring a Major League Baseball team to the state next. What is the likelihood of this happening?</p>

<p>Today marks the 35th-anniversary debut of the movie Bull Durham which was filmed in North Carolina. The Durham Bulls will celebrate the film tomorrow with "Bull Durham" night at Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Dennis Cox & Pat Welter discuss the history of the film and how it put the triangle area on the map. </p> <p>Also, we're officially one week away from the 2023 NBA Draft. Are we going to see Zion Williamson get traded by the New Orleans Pelicans, and is he worth the risk of picking up?  </p>

<p>Governor Roy Cooper made it known yesterday that the state of North Carolina is already known for college sports. We have several top-level pro sports teams in the Carolina Hurricanes, Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, Charlotte FC, and NC Courage. Roy Cooper said he wants to add another. He wants a Major League Baseball team in North Carolina. Dennis Cox & Pat Welter discuss if this is possible and which city in the state has the best chance of hosting a team. </p> <p>Also, the U.S. Open started today making it the first event since the merger of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. Is there a question of whether both will still exist down the line as more events happen?</p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Dennis Cox & Louis Fernandez discuss the Carolina Panthers' mandatory minicamp, the Vegas Golden Knights winning their first Stanley Cup Final in franchise history, the potential of the Charlotte Hornets trading their pick to the New Orleans Pelicans to acquire Zion Williamson, and Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon wanting to sign Sebastian Aho this summer.</p> <p>Also, Gov. Roy Cooper made it official earlier today by singing the North Carolina online and mobile sports betting bill. The bill is expected to go into effect as early as January 8th. What are the benefits beyond the fans making money but also for teams in North Carolina and local communities?</p>

<p>Dennis Cox & Louis Fernandez run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It, including the of North Carolina getting more fun with online and mobile sports betting becoming official, the Vegas Golden Knights winning their first Stanley Cup Final in franchise history, Tom Dundon making it a priority to resign Sebastian Aho this off-season, and more.</p> <p>Also, the amount of money in college sports currently is staggering. USA Today recently released an article discussing the Big Ten and SEC topping $2 billion in athletic department revenue, outpacing their fellow power conferences. The school in the ACC that generated the most revenue was the University of Virginia.</p>

<p>Online and mobile sports betting is expected in North Carolina as early as January 8th. Earlier today Gov. Roy Cooper addressed sports wagering in the state already, but the safeguards that will come with this upcoming legislation. Dennis Cox & Louis Fernandez discuss the benefits beyond just fans that will help the local teams and community. </p> <p>Also, are the New Orleans Pelicans willing to trade Zion Williamson in order to move up in the NBA Draft? Should the Charlotte Hornets give up their second overall pick in the draft as a part of a trade to acquire Williamson? Dennis Cox & Louis Fernandez discuss whether the Hornets should look to go after Williamson despite his recent injury history and if he's available. </p>

<p dir="ltr">With the signing of Gov. Roy Cooper, it’s now official. Online, mobile sports betting becomes legal in North Carolina as early as January 8th. Dennis Cox & Louis Fernandez discuss where we could see the sportsbook located at venues in North Carolina and how this will affect upcoming renovations at PNC Arena.</p> <p dir="ltr">Also, Dallas Austin is the captain and owner of the “Sashimi,” fishing in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament. He discusses his strategy of going offshore and what determines which days they go out to fish. He also shares how long he's participated in the tournament and how much it has grown throughout the years.</p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss day two of the Big Rock Blue Marlin fishing tournament, Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals, Charlotte pro sports including updates from the Panthers minicamp, and the Denver Nuggets winning their first-ever NBA Final.</p> <p>Also, Jordan Reid, ESPN NFL Draft Analyst, discusses how important this upcoming season is for North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye and where he has him listed in the 2024 NFL Draft prospects list. He also shares what's different between Maye and former quarterback Sam Howell. </p>

<p>As the 65th annual Big Rock Blue Marlin fishing tournament continues in Morehead City, NC, the executive director of the Big Rock, Madison Struyk, provides an update on the tournament and how much it has grown throughout the year. She also describes what it's like to have Michael Jordan's yacht 'Catch 23' competing in the tournament and the coverage he brings to the area. </p> <p>Also, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox run through the latest sports headlines with Hit It & Quit It, including the Denver Nuggets winning the NBA Finals, a mass shooting that took place in downtown Denver following the game, Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals taken place tonight, and more. </p>

<p>We're now just nine days away from the 2023 NBA draft. The Charlotte Hornets hold the second overall pick, but New Orleans Pelicans have their eyes on Scoot Henderson. Does this mean they could trade up to No. 2? Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss how the Hornets could make a trade with the Pelicans to gain Kinston, NC, native Brandon Ingram. </p> <p>Also, Chris Spatola, ESPN, provides insight on former NC State guard Terquavion Smith's draft profile and how he could benefit an NBA team. </p>

<p>The Denver Nuggets won their first-ever NBA Finals in franchise history as they defeated the Miami Heat 94-89 in Game 5. Nikola Jockic led the team in scoring providing 28 points, and was awarded the Finals MVP. Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss if the Nuggets can repeat next season and the beginning of the Carolina Panthers' mandatory minicamp.</p> <p>Also, last week we saw the hypocrisy of PGA Commissioner Jay Monahan regarding the merger of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. Now he's trying to blame Congress for lack of action. Is this further proof as to why Monahan is a stooge? </p>

<p>In the Daily Checkdown, Chris Lea & Dennis Cox discuss Day 1 of the Big Rock Fishing Tournament, NC State basketball landing guard Kam Woods in the transfer portal from NC A&T basketball, the weak points for the Carolina Panthers, and the latest with Bobi Klintman of Wake Forest basketball as he has withdrawn from the 2023 NBA Draft. </p>