PLAY PODCASTS
The Kevin O'Connor Show

The Kevin O'Connor Show

192 episodes — Page 3 of 4

Ep 91Part 1: Kevin Durant Emergency Pod with John Gambadoro + NBA Draft Risers with J. Kyle Mann

Kevin O'Connor and the rest of the NBA world woke up to the stunning news on Sunday morning that Kevin Durant had finally and officially been traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets. Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the #10 overall pick and 5 future second rounders was the haul, so who won the deal? John Gambadoro covers the Suns and has been all over these KD rumors for weeks - don't miss this must-hear conversation between KOC and Gambo.Later, KOC is joined by J. Kyle Mann to discuss the fallout of the KD trade, mainly who Phoenix will now target at #10 overall. Plus the guys go through some players whose stock is falling — why is J. Kyle Mann starting to be out on Richardson and Fears?? Why is KOC downgrading Khaman Maluach? What does Mann see in Danny Wolf that Kevin just isn't buying? Nearly every Round 1 prospect is hit in this comprehensive NBA Draft conversation, with just a few days til Draft Night 2025 — lock in!(00:40) - KOC & Gambo react to the KD trade(21:45) - J. Kyle Mann deep dives on all things NBA Draft Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 22, 202558 min

Ep 90GAME 7!!! Pacers blowout OKC, trade speculation, NBA expansion & KD confusion

KOC and Tom Haberstroh went LIVE to react to the Indiana Pacers destroying the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6. Is Indiana about to prove to the world on Sunday that they are a team of destiny? GAME 7!! Plus, all the latest NBA Trade and NBA Draft rumors! Kevin Durant, Paul George, Ace Bailey and tons of rumors — and of course the guys react to the sale of the Los Angeles Lakers AND the Seattle Supersonics potentially coming back with talks of "expansion" in the air.(00:45) - Pacers blow out Thunder to force Game 7(24:15) - Is Ace Bailey skipping Philadelphia 76ers visit cause for concern?(33:15) - Haliburton was right to play tonight(47:15) - League news: Lakers plan to sell + latest on NBA expansion & rule changes(56:40) - Latest on Cooper Flagg(1:01:10) - NBA trade tumors: Kevin Durant & Paul George Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 20, 20251h 12m

Ep 89Ace’s fall + more NBA Draft rumors, sleeper trade targets & Game 6 Finals preview with Es Baraheni

KOC and Es Baraheni offer up their insights on all the latest NBA Draft and trade rumors, including: Ace Bailey's stock, is it falling? Would Dallas really consider moving Anthony Davis? Would the Lakers trade Austin Reaves in order to land a Lottery pick in this Draft? Should Minnesota swing for the fences on Kevin Durant, even if he doesn't want to be there? What are the Toronto Raptors going to do this summer? Are the San Antonio Spurs most likely to keep their #2 pick and have Dylan Harper join the Fox + Castle backcourt, or could one of those assets be moved for an even bigger prize like Giannis or Jaylen Brown? All this and much more — plus an NBA Finals Game 6 preview as the Oklahoma City Thunder look poised to hoist the Larry O.(1:10) - NBA Draft talk: potential trade-ups & predictions(25:00) - NBA trade talk: Kevin Durant, Spurs & more(52:40) - NBA Draft news: Cooper Flagg & the Mavs, Pacers-Pelicans trade(1:04:45) - Are SGA and J Dub the NBA's next great duo?(1:08:00) - Finals Game 6 preview: can Pacers make magic? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 18, 20251h 13m

Ep 88JDub’s 40 bomb, OKC takes control, Bane to Orlando, Ja’s future, & KD’s trade list

Kevin O'Connor and Dan Titus offer their instant reaction fresh off Jalen Williams helping the OKC Thunder grab a 3-2 lead in the NBA Finals. KOC explains why he thinks it's over come Thursday night, and why he expects it to be a blowout! Then the guys react to the Desmond Bane trade that sent him to the Orlando Magic -- was it an overbuy or not? And on the Grizzlies side of things, Kevin stands his ground on the take that Ja Morant is a "good, not great" NBA player. Top 40-50 is what Kevin says, AND he's got the list of players he considers to be ahead of Ja... wait til you see some of the names. And of course, the absolute latest on Kevin Durant trade rumors, and some NBA Draft chatter, too!(0:32) NBA Finals Game 5 reaction(17:02) Latest KD trade rumors(36:34) Magic trade for Desmond Bane(40:41) Is Ja Morant even a top 40 NBA player? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 17, 202554 min

Ep 87Thunder rally, Pacers gag in Game 4 + KD trade watch & draft smoke

Kevin O'Connor and Tom Haberstroh went LIVE following Game 4 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers. The guys react to OKC's insanely clutch 4th quarter comeback, where SGA showed up big — and the Finals is all even at 2-2 as we head to a pivotal Game 5 on Monday. PLUS the latest on trade news surrounding Kevin Durant, and KOC's got you covered on new NBA Draft intel! What types of offers can the San Antonio Spurs expect to get for the #2 pick, likely to be Dylan Harper? It's all on this Friday night installment of the KOC Show!(00:50) - Instant reaction: OKC's incredible comeback to tie the series 2-2(27:50) - Favorite landing spots for Kevin Durant(38:00) - Russell Westbrook declines player option(40:10) - New York Knicks to meet with Taylor Jenkins(42:15) - NBA Draft talk: Sixers want to make a big move up? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 14, 202559 min

Ep 86Pacers flip the NBA Finals, fake KD trades and a bonkers summer ahead

Kevin O'Connor's live, postgame reaction following Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder, plus the latest trade rumors surrounding Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant! Dan Titus joined KOC for this pod that covers it all: KOC puts the blame squarely on Chet Holmgren, and Kevin explains why he still thinks this series is going 7! And on the Durant front, wait until you hear KOC's blockbuster trade proposals involving the Toronto Raptors, Detroit Pistons, Philadelphia 76ers, and Orlando Magic. PLUS Kevin and Dan also hit on the New York Knicks failed Head Coaching search and the Jaylen Brown surgery news. Monster pod, lock in!(00:30) - Instant reaction: Pacers defeat Thunder in Game 3 of NBA Finals(24:00) - Kevin Durant trade: potential landing spots(44:40) - Jaylen Brown & the future of the Boston Celtics(54:05) - Knicks coaching search debacle Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 12, 20251h 0m

Ep 85Trade buzz with Chris Mannix, Playoff prospects with John Fanta & Game 3 preview with Caitlin Cooper

On this triple-header, STACKED edition of the KOC Show: Chris Mannix stops by to talk about the latest rumors he's hearing around the NBA. Jaylen Brown to the SPURS? Giannis Antetokounmpo latest -- and a spicy take on Jason Kidd's name being tied to the New York Knicks HC gig. Then John Fanta swings by to chat about the NBA Draft -- whose stock is rising? Why is Ace Bailey such a terrible fit with the Philadelphia 76ers? And since John's a Cavs fan, a BLOCKBUSTER Darius Garland trade proposal you've got to see (you'll want to check this out Los Angeles Lakers fans). And lastly Caitlin Cooper stops by to talk about her Indiana Pacers. What are the keys for Indy, if they want to defend home court and get the Game 3 win? And why the vibes all around Indiana are truly immaculate at the moment.(0:23) Chris Mannix joins to talk trade rumors(32:42) John Fanta on Cavs future + NBA Draft(1:15:06) Thunder @ Pacers Game 3 preview with Caitlin Cooper Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 10, 20251h 45m

Ep 84OKC strikes back in Game 2, Cooper Flagg watch & Knicks fallout with Adam Mares

Kevin O'Connor went live immediately following Game 2 of the NBA Finals! Adam Mares joined in on the fun as the show reacted to Oklahoma City getting their revenge on the Indiana Pacers. With the series now tied at 1-1, KOC was disappointed in tonight's lackluster performance by Tyrese Haliburton. The guys also gave plenty of love to SGA, who showed up ready for battle. And WHAT WAS UP with the digital trophy display on the court?! Plus - the guys discuss Cooper Flagg's upcoming meeting with the Dallas Mavericks, and react to the news that Dolan "spearheaded" the Thibs firing in New York.(00:50) - Reacting to Thunder beating Pacers in Game 2(28:10) - Thoughts on Michael Jordan as an NBA analyst(34:00) - Thibs' firing spearheaded by James Dolan?(37:15) - Cooper Flagg to visit Mavericks(39:05) - On-court Finals logo digitally returns Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 9, 202551 min

Ep 82Clutch Hali AGAIN! Game 1 takeaways + KD rumors with Tom Haberstroh & NBA Draft talk with the Barlowes

Kevin O'Connor and Tom Haberstroh reacted LIVE immediately following Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals. The Oklahoma City Thunder choked away a huge lead, and Tyrese Haliburton came up clutch yet again! The guys weighed in on what they just saw transpire, with Indy taking the 1-0 series lead. KOC and Tom were left stunned! Plus, the 2 discuss Kevin Durant trade rumors and whether the Phoenix Suns would consider a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers. Later in the Pod KOC was joined by Rafael and James Barlowe to talk about all the latest intel surrounding the NBA Draft. What’s real, what’s a smokescreen, and how a Giannis trade could change everything.(0:25) Pacers STEAL Game 1 from Thunder on the road(28:36) Could Clipper trade for Kevin Durant?(33:37) Suns hire Ott, should Booker get out of Phoenix?(46:12) NBA Draft talk with Rafael & James Barlowe Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 6, 20251h 30m

Ep 81NBA Finals preview and Thibs gets axed with Mo Dakhil + Draft boards are shifting with Corey Tulaba

Old friend of the show Mo Dakhil joins KOC to preview the NBA Finals in full -- how both guys landed on the Oklahoma City Thunder to take care of business in 5 games. BUT the guys play out the scenario, "what is the path to an Indiana Pacers Finals victory?" PLUS during the taping -- the guys' live reaction to the stunning breaking news that the New York Knicks were parting ways with Thibs! Dakhil says New York should reunite with Jeff Van Gundy to go for some real Garden Nostalgia.Up next, Corey Tulaba and KOC weigh in on which NBA Draft Prospects have a real level of toughness, nastiness and tenacity. After a physical and grueling NBA Playoffs, Kevin and Corey discuss the 1st Round names that aren't afraid to mix things up and get their hands dirty. Some names discussed: Kon Knueppel, Tre Johnson, Jeremiah Fears, Noa Essengue, Cedric Coward, Carter Bryant and more.(0:20) NBA Finals Game 1 preview with Mo Dakhil(37:40) Knicks fire Tom Thibodeau(45:48) What went wrong for Ant & Timberwolves?(59:25) NBA Draft talk with Corey Tulaba Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 3, 20251h 44m

Ep 807 NBA questions keeping me up at night: Finals, Draft & trade rumors with Nick Gallo & CP The Fanchise

Kevin O'Connor has 7 NBA questions keeping him up at night! He's joined by Nick Gallo to talk all things Oklahoma City Thunder and NBA Finals, and additionally CP The Fanchise stops by to talk about the New York Knicks dream season coming to an end. Let's start there: what should New York do first, get rid of Thibs or trade KAT? KOC's got an idea and it involves bringing in former NBA MVP Kevin Durant. Trade talk doesn't end there -- Kevin rattles off his top 10 biggest names that could be moved this offseason, and that list includes the likes of Kawhi Leonard, Desmond Bane, Austin Reaves, Jaylen Brown and of course Giannis. And Kevin gets into the nuts and bolts of the NBA Finals matchup itself, AND still has time to hit the NBA Draft and specifically what on earth the Spurs could do at #2 with Dylan Harper.(0:46) Can Nembhard do to SGA what he did to Brunson?(3:06) Will Pacers play zone defense?(5:49) Should Knicks trade KAT?(6:32) CP The Fanchise joins(24:00) Will an East team go from worst to first?(30:31) Which stars will be available for trade?(32:11) Should the Spurs take Dylan Harper?(34:46) Is OKC’s dynasty about to begin?(35:08) Nick Gallo joins Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Jun 2, 202558 min

Ep 79Knicks survive, OKC thrives: Tom Haberstroh on the playoffs, Tate Frazier on the draft & Marcus Morris takes the hot seat

Do not miss this STACKED triple-header KOC Show. First up Tom Haberstroh joined Kevin following the Knicks' huge Game 5 win over the Indiana Pacers to keep hope alive. Could New York actually pull off the improbable and WIN this series now? And the guys on why Indy looked so sloppy.Plus -- Marcus Morris is back! The longtime NBA veteran rejoined the KOC Show, and didn't hold back on anything. Kevin had Marcus play "Double Down or Walk It Back," in regard to the many HOT takes Marcus has uncorked over the last 2 months. Do the Thunder really lack the depth to win a title? Is Tyrese Haliburton the next SGA? Nikola Jokic is NOT Top 20 all-time? The Luka and LeBron pairing will definitely work? Get your popcorn ready... Marcus and KOC absolutely brought it.Lastly Kevin's longtime pal Tate Frazier stops by to talk about the NBA Draft, which is now just a month away. Could the Spurs figure out a way to make Dylan Harper work? Is there any chance at all that the Dallas Mavericks would at least LISTEN if the Bucks called offering Giannis for #1 overall? Who are the biggest DEEP sleepers at each position? Which shooters in the Draft should the Orlando Magic target? Who should the Minnesota Timberwolves draft? Nearly every prospect that declared for the 2025 NBA Draft is discussed in some manner on this awesome convo with basketball guru Tate Frazier.(0:37) Knicks beat Pacers in Game 5(13:49) OKC awaits NBA Finals opponent(25:40) Marcus Morris doubles down on his hot takes(59:17) Tate Frazier talks 2025 NBA Draft prospects Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 30, 20252h 3m

Ep 78Anthony Edwards = Playoff Harden? Plus OKC’s Big 3, Knicks-Pacers & Draft talk with Andrew Sharp + my conversation with Derik Queen

Andrew Sharp joins KOC on this episode to discuss the Oklahoma City Thunder's 3-1 lead in the WCF. Has Anthony Edwards regressed to the point of being this era's version of Playoff James Harden? Have the Thunder "big 3" emerged to the point where a title is almost guaranteed in June? Plus speaking of OKC - Kevin and Sharp wonder if SGA has officially become the greatest player to ever wear a Thunder uniform (even beyond Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook). And the guys hit the Pacers-Knicks series out east, plus talk Chris Paul news, and NBA Draft latest.Then, Kevin sat down with Derik Queen, one of the stars of March Madness and current projected Lottery pick in this year's NBA Draft. Is he really "baby Jokic?" What does he need to work on? What sets him apart? Plus, a look back at what went through his mind during his all-time classic buzzer beater back in March.(0:40) OKC goes up 3-1 vs. Wolves(21:42) Could SGA be the best OKC player EVER?(32:09) Knicks beat Pacers in Game 3(42:13) Chris Paul won’t return to Spurs(46:32) Brooklyn may trade Cam Johnson + picks to move up in Draft(48:49) Who should Wizards target in NBA Draft?(1:04:52) Draft prospect Derik Queen joins the show Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 27, 20251h 20m

Ep 77SGA’s MVP night & OKC’s smothering D with Tom Haberstroh and Knicks fan therapy with Jonathan Macri—plus Asa Newell talks NBA Draft

Kevin O'Connor and Tom Haberstroh saw SGA and the Oklahoma City Thunder lay the absolute smackdown on Anthony Edwards and the Wolves on Thursday evening, and both are ready to declare the series a wrap. Little hope remains for Ant and company in their 0-2 hole, and KOC takes it a step further declaring that the MVP is clearly levels better than Minnesota's young superstar.Up next, Knicks fans: Kevin sees you, and Kevin hears you. Please sit down, get comfortable, and tell KOC how Tyrese Haliburton and Aaron Nesmith hurt you. Because that's what his friend and New York Knicks diehard fan Jonathan Macri did after the never-say-die Indiana Pacers did the unthinkable, yet again.Plus, projected 2025 NBA Draft first-rounder Asa Newell joins Kevin O’Connor from the Combine in Chicago to break down Newell’s game as a floor-spacing, switchable big.(0:37) Thunder vs. Wolves Game 2 reaction with Tom Haberstroh(26:27) NBA All-Defensive Team announced(29:36) Nuggets hire David Adleman as head coach(31:31) Pacers beat Knicks in heartbreaking fashion(34:07) Post-game Knicks therapy session with Jonathan Macri(1:12:27) Asa Newell joins from the NBA Draft Combine Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 23, 20251h 28m

Ep 76SGA vs. Ant takeaways, OKC’s amazing defense & KOC’s Tre Johnson interview

Kevin O’Connor reacts to the Oklahoma City Thunder’s dominant win against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. Is SGA’s grifting really as big of a deal as it’s made out to be? Or is a poor shooting effort from the Wolves more to blame for the lopsided box score? Plus, later in the episode, Kevin is joined by NBA Draft prospect Tre Johnson to break down his current game and how he expects to fit in the NBA. (0:30) OKC beats Minnesota in Game 1(0:41) Is SGA's grifting a big deal?(4:03) Shocking shooting differential from Game 1(6:57) Thunder's depth advantage vs. Wolves(8:39) Why OKC's depth will win them this series(13:23) Tre Johnson joins the show Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 21, 202538 min

Ep 757 questions about the NBA Playoffs, the Draft and trade rumors + my Kon Knueppel conversation

KOC has 7 big questions to start the week, and you need to hear them all. For starters, who does Kevin have winning the Eastern Conference Finals and how? Might the Boston Celtics consider trading Jaylen Brown in a blockbuster trade to the Houston Rockets? Whose NBA Draft stock is rising, and whose is FALLING? It's all on this must-hear Monday episode of the KOC Show.(0:43) How long until we see Nesmith on Brunson?(3:10) Will the Knicks create a size advantage?(5:38) Can KAT have the series of his life?(7:14) Can Haliburton reach a new level?(10:14) What changes should the Celtics make?(18:12) Who are Draft Combine fallers?(20:08) Who are Draft Combine risers?(24:06) Kon Knueppel & KOC from the Combine in Chicago Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 19, 202543 min

Ep 74Game 7 BEATDOWN! OKC crushes Denver & now awaits Ant's Wolves!

KOC's live, postgame reaction to Game 7 between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder! OKC dismantled the hapless Nuggets, are they primed to do the same to the Minnesota Timberwolves? Dane Moore, who covers the Wolves, joins KOC to break down what's to come in the Western Conference Finals -- plus the pair on whether MAJOR changes are coming for Nikola Jokic's squad this offseason.(0:57) Dane Moore joins the show(1:20) Thunder beat Nuggets in Game 7(11:54) Thunder vs. Wolves Western Conference Finals preview(32:55) What’s next for the Nuggets?(48:59) Western Conference Finals preview continued Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 18, 20251h 1m

Ep 73Flagg pulling an ELI? 'Playoff Jimmy' a MYTH? + Game 7 preview!

KOC is joined by Tom Haberstroh on this INSANE edition of The Kevin O'Connor Show. The guys both think it's well within the realm of possibilities that COOPER FLAGG could pull an Eli Manning, and demand his way to the Boston Celtics. Kevin has sources that told him Flagg met with the Celtics at the Draft Combine in Chicago! Plus KOC absolutely destroys "Playoff Jimmy" Butler, and explains why Golden State is in trouble for years to come. And of course, the guys preview Sunday's Game 7 between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder, plus Tom and Kevin on why the Boston Celtics are still VERY MUCH ALIVE vs the New York Knicks.(0:53) Nuggets force Game 7 vs. Thunder(14:26) Wolves advance to Western Conference Finals(20:05) Is ‘Playoff Jimmy’ a myth?(28:34) What’s next for the Warriors?(36:46) Celtics vs. Knicks Game 6 preview(42:15) Boston interviews Cooper Flagg at NBA Draft Combine Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 16, 202551 min

Ep 7223 NBA Draft questions with Jonathan Givony + Cedric Coward joins

Kevin O'Connor is joined by the legendary NBA Draft guru Jonathan Givony on this edition of the KOC Show from the Chicago Combine. KOC pays tribute to Michael Jordan and hits Givony with exactly 23 NBA Draft Questions. Could Ace Bailey be a bust for the 76ers? Which player is the best shooter in this class? Who's more likely to trade up, the Wizards or Jazz? What should the Bulls do, period? And Cooper Flagg is the best college prospect since WHO??Plus, Cedric Coward joins to break down his remarkable rise from DIII basketball to NBA draft prospect. Cedric explains what's special about his game, shares lessons learned from his Olympic gold-medalist grandfather, his NBA player comps (including Kawhi Leonard) and what drives his obsession with basketball.(0:53) 23 questions with Jonathan Givony(1:00) Questions 1-5(8:38) Questions 6-10(18:55) Questions 11-15(25:03) Questions 16-20(31:08) Questions 21-23(35:19) Cedric Coward joins(44:58) How would Cedric describe his game?(59:58) Reaction to Luka traded to Lakers(1:02:04) NBA Playoffs breakdown(1:04:49) Best basketball memories(1:08:01) 7 random questions with Cedric Coward Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 15, 20251h 16m

Ep 71NBA Combine day 1: draft board shakeups, NIL impact + fallout from physical playoffs with Rafael Barlowe

Kevin O’Connor is joined by NBA draft expert Rafael Barlowe from Chicago to break down how the NBA playoffs’ rise in physical play is shifting their 2025 draft boards and prospect evaluations. They spotlight prospects like Cedric Coward and Jase Richardson and debate whether double-big lineups could become the NBA’s next big trend. The pair also break down how NIL has reshaped the draft pool, leaving it older and deeper with late withdrawals.(0:35) OKC takes series lead vs. Denver(2:46) Pacers advance to Eastern Conf Finals(5:23) Rafael Barlowe joins(5:32) Impact of playoffs on draft evaluations(6:44) Evaluation of Cedric Coward(8:26) Evaluation of Jase Richardson(11:18) Evaluation of Colin Murray-Boyles(16:04) Is Dallas certain to draft Cooper Flagg?(18:55) What should Spurs do with #2?(20:47) Evaluation of Thomas Sorber(23:50) Evaluation of Maxime Raynaud(25:50) Impact of NIL on NBA Draft Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 14, 202537 min

Ep 70Draft Lotto winners and losers: Mavs! Poor Jazz and Wiz! Giannis trades! Plus, Tatum’s injury and Knicks go up 3-1

One of the wildest days in NBA history is recapped in full on this edition of the KOC Show. First, the Dallas Mavericks pull off the dang-near-impossible, winning the NBA Draft Lottery with only 1.8% odds! Will Nico Harrison KEEP or TRADE that pick? Don't miss KOC's full Round 1 Mock Draft based on the outcome of a WILD lottery. Plus, Tom Haberstroh joins to discuss the heartbreaking Jayson Tatum injury, and the Knicks taking a commanding 3-1 lead.(0:52) NBA Draft Lottery recap(7:46) Does Flagg fit in Dallas?(12:41) Should NBA change lottery again?(16:38) Draft Lottery winners & losers(34:29) Knicks vs. Celtics Game 4 recap(49:36) Pacers vs. Cavaliers Game 4 recap(54:04) Thunder vs. Nuggets Game 4 recap(59:18) Wolves vs. Warriors series update(1:02:12) KOC’s 2025 NBA Mock Draft(1:02:33) Picks 1-5(1:12:55) Picks 6-10(1:21:26) Picks 11-20(1:38:55) Picks 21-30 Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 13, 20251h 52m

Ep 69Blown leads, series adjustments & NBA Draft Lottery preview

KOC and Tom Haberstroh react to the Wolves evening their series with the Golden State Warriors at 1-1. Anthony Edwards suffered a bad-looking ankle injury, but miraculously returned for the 2nd half. But does it even matter, as Kevin thinks the Warriors are DONE after this one? PLUS - what team would be the absolute dream landing spot for Cooper Flagg on Monday night's NBA Draft Lottery? The guys preview the Lotto that is just a weekend away! Up next, NBA Skills Coach Drew Hanlen is back on The KOC Show to talk about how his client Chet Holmgren bounced back to have a great Game 2. What did the Oklahoma City Thunder do different on both ends of the floor to completely neutralize Nikola Jokic? Hanlen also works with Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers, calling him "the best passer in the NBA." With the Pacers set to take on the Cavs in Game 3, KOC wants to know, why doesn't he shoot more?? And then, Noa Dalzell and Jack Simone join KOC to break down how the Boston Celtics have fallen into the completely unexpected 0-2 hole vs the underdog New York Knicks. How much of the blame should superstar Jayson Tatum get, and how much of it falls on HC Joe Mazzulla? Find out the answers to all those questions in this awesome KOC Show conversation! (0:22) Tom Haberstroh joins the show(0:33) Wolves beat Steph-less Warriors in Game 2(18:41) NBA Draft Lottery preview(35:33) Drew Hanlen joins the show(36:06) Thunder dominate Nuggets in Game 2(55:10) Pacers take 2-0 lead vs. Cavs(1:11:57) Noa Dalzell & Jack Simone join the show(1:12:32) Celtics blow ANOTHER 20-pt lead to Knicks Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 9, 20251h 44m

Ep 68The Buddy Hield game, Pacers wake-up call, Clippers collapse (again), and the zone wars ahead in Round 2

Kevin O'Connor was joined by Yahoo's Dan Titus to instantly react to the Golden State Warriors' win over the Houston Rockets in Game 7. Don't miss KOC's thoughts on what he's calling "The Buddy Hield Game." Do the Dubs have a chance to keep the magic rolling in Round 2 against Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves? Plus Dan and Kevin react to the Indiana Pacers' SHOCKING win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on the road. Kevin is now picking Indy to win the series. Speaking of shocking upsets, don't miss Titus explain why the NEW YORK KNICKS have a chance to knock off the Boston Celtics! Plus the guys preview OKC-Denver, but not before tearing the Los Angeles Clippers to shreds. Does Kawhi Leonard deserve some of the blame that James Harden has been getting?(0:42) Warriors beat Rockets in Game 7(14:20) Nuggets beat Clippers in Game 7(22:38) Nuggets vs. Thunder Game 1 preview(30:22) Pacers beat Cavs in conf. semis Game 1(37:33) Celtics vs. Knicks Game 1 preview Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 5, 202545 min

Ep 67Hello Game 7! + Pop steps down, LeBron's leverage & clutch Brunson

On today's episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show, KOC and Tom discuss the 2 best words in sports: Game Seven. Who will walk away the winner in the grueling Denver Nuggets-Los Angeles Clippers series, and will Nikola Jokic fix his late-game struggles? Will we get a Game 7 in Golden State-Houston, too? Jalen Brunson says "goodbye" to the Detroit Pistons as the New York Knicks advance to take on the Boston Celtics. Plus mid-pod Kevin and Tom react to the stunning news that Gregg Popovich would be stepping down from his HC role with the San Antonio Spurs. And lastly, might LeBron James consider returning home (again!) to Cleveland for a final season, poetically season #23? It's all on this news-packed Friday edition of the KOC Show!(1:09) Knicks defeat Pistons in Game 6(16:21) Clippers force Game 7 vs. Nuggets(25:22) Rockets vs. Warriors Game 6 preview(30:09) Could Giannis go to Spurs or Rockets?(40:34) Pacers vs. Cavs semifinals preview(45:37) Gregg Popovich steps down as Spurs HC(49:36) Suns hire Brian Gregory as GM(54:50) Lakers not in ‘championship shape’(57:38) Could LeBron leave LA for Cleveland? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 2, 20251h 9m

Ep 66Luka’s flaws, LeBron’s future & Lakers carnage with Nick Wright + 7 NBA Playoff questions and KOC’s latest mock draft

Kevin O'Connor is joined by the one and only Nick Wright of FS1 to put a bow on the Los Angeles Lakers' 2024-25 season. Nick didn't expect things to end so early and abruptly for LeBron James and Luka Doncic, but here we are. Where did things go wrong? Nick thinks you can point at JJ Redick's Head Coaching decisions in the Playoffs, and he's noticing a disturbing pattern emerge with JJ shrinking in big moments. Where does LeBron James go from here; could that be the end of his career? And how do the Lakers move forward, rebuild and trade for the right pieces around Luka? Plus Nick and Kevin hit on every other Playoff series, and even weigh in on the conspiracy surrounding Victor Wembanyama's "real" height.With the NBA Draft Lottery about a week away, KOC has you covered on this 1st Round mock that spans all 30 picks. With the Lottery draft order totally randomized, wait until you see where Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey all wind up.Read KOC’s most recent mock draft: https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/draft/(0:39) Nick Wright joins the show(1:10) Wolves knock out Lakers from playoffs(36:47) LeBron’s legacy in LA(43:23) Who do Wolves want in conf semis?(45:56) Can Rockets win Game 6?(47:48) Nuggets vs. Clippers Game 6 preview(50:07) Pistons vs. Knicks Game 6 preview(51:47) Can Bucks do anything to keep Giannis?(54:42) How tall is Wemby really??(55:46) Nick disrespecting Evan Mobley?(57:38) KOC’s latest 2025 NBA mock draft(58:07) Picks 1-5(1:02:30) Picks 6-10(1:05:51) Picks 11-20(1:13:38) Picks 21-30 Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

May 1, 20251h 21m

Ep 65NBA Playoff weak links and must-make adjustments with Marcus Morris, Warriors-Rockets series breakdown with Ethan Strauss and Sam Esfandiari

Marcus Morris is back on The Kevin O'Connor Show, and didn't hold back on any of his takes. Find out why Marcus believes Anthony Edwards is exposing JJ Redick as a rookie Head Coach, why he thinks the conditioning (and defense!) of Luka Doncic is perfectly fine, and what the Lakers need to do to make this a series. Plus, Marcus weighs in on what Ty Lue needs to change for the Los Angeles Clippers to regain the upper hand against the Denver Nuggets. Morris explains why he sees Giannis Antetokounmpo taking his talents to South Beach this summer, and why the Orlando Magic need to trade for Trae Young this offseason, too. Morris went in on everyone from Pat Riley to Ja Morant to NBA refs, and even had time to tell us why Shedeur Sanders' NFL Draft slide made him angry!Then Ethan Strauss and Sam Esfandiari both stop by to give their takes on the Golden State Warriors' 3-1 lead on the Houston Rockets. Ethan says it's finally time to admit that the Steph Curry-Draymond Green duo has joined Stockton/Malone and Jordan/Pippen as an all-time legendary tandem. Sam gives Draymond Green his flowers too, but acknowledges that even some Warriors fans still don't like Green. And, is Steve Kerr soundly out-coaching Ime Udoka?It's all on this must-consume episode of the KOC Show!(0:26) Marcus Morris joins the show(0:47) Clippers vs. Nuggets Game 5 preview(12:17) 'Weak link' vs. 'strong link' NBA(21:10) Lakers vs. Wolves Game 5 preview(35:59) Ja Morant says ‘I had them figured out’(38:59) Pistons vs. Knicks Game 4 replay review controversy (45:01) Celtics vs. Magic Game 5 preview(48:50) Bucks down bad after Damian Lillard injury(57:33) Cavs sweep Heat(1:00:45) NBA Draft’s Shedeur Sanders equivalent?(1:08:47) Sam & Ethan join the show(1:08:57) Warriors vs. Rockets Game 4 reaction(1:36:39) 'Weak link' vs. 'strong link' NBA continued Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 29, 20251h 44m

Ep 64NBA Playoff series breakdowns, banged up stars & LA’s Jokic blueprint

On today's episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show, KOC is joined by Tom Haberstroh and the guys do a deep-dive on every single series. Do the Los Angeles Clippers have the Nikola Jokic stopper? Did the New York Knicks turn a corner against the Detroit Pistons? Why the physicality of the Houston Rockets-Golden State Warriors series is a bad thing, how Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies would have been better off missing the Playoffs altogether, and Darius Garland's blunt trash talk about Tyler Herro. And why Jayson Tatum's wrist injury is a great thing for Jaylen Brown. The guys give their takes on where every single NBA Playoff matchup stands -- don't miss this episode of the KOC Show!(0:47) Nuggets vs. Clippers Game 3 reaction(12:12) Lakers vs. Wolves Game 3 preview(18:33) Rockets vs. Warriors Game 3 preview(30:25) Pistons vs. Knicks Game 3 reaction(40:13) Bucks vs. Pacers Game 3 preview(52:29) Thunder vs. Grizzlies series update(1:06:45) Celtics vs. Magic series update(1:12:58) Cavs vs. Heat series update Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 25, 20251h 18m

Ep 63Kawhi’s masterpiece, KAT’s vanishing act & the state of every NBA Playoff series

Kevin O'Connor is joined by Nate Duncan on this jam-packed edition of the KOC Show. First the guys react to the Game 2 thriller between the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers -- Kawhi Leonard's performance has Kevin asking some big legacy questions. The New York Knicks fall to Cade Cunningham's Detroit Pistons -- what options does Tom Thibodeau have at this point? Nico Harrison's latest comments have Kevin and Nate befuddled. Cooper Flagg officially declares for the Draft! Damian Lillard is back! Plus Kevin and Nate discuss each NBA Playoff series -- this episode has you covered!(0:48) Clippers beat Nuggets in game 2(12:33) Pistons FINALLY get a playoff win(25:08) Landry Fields fired by Hawks(30:42) Cooper Flagg officially declares for Draft(33:47) Nico Harrison stupidity strikes again…(39:01) Damian Lillard to return for Bucks vs. Pacers(47:01) Most overrated NBA players(50:23) Thunder vs. Grizzlies game 2 preview(52:01) Magic vs. Celtics game 2 preview(53:09) Warriors vs. Rockets game 2 preview(1:02:17) Lakers vs. Timberwolves game 2 preview Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 22, 20251h 8m

Ep 62NBA's Top 40 Players in the 2025 Playoffs – KOC's CONTROVERSIAL Rankings REVEALED!

Kevin O'Connor went into the lab and cooked up his definitive TOP 40 players of the the 2025 NBA Playoffs, in order. Come for the snubs, stay for the controversy. It's KOC's opinion and if you don't like it, let him know in the comments. All 16 NBA Playoff teams are represented in this comprehensive, first-ever Top 40 Postseason Player rankings — and you can only get it on this special edition of The KOC Show!(02:00) - #40-31(16:20) - #30-21(28:35) - #20-11(43:35) - Top 10 Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 19, 20251h 0m

Ep 62Steph & Butler dominate the play-in, Lakers-Wolves and Nuggets-Clippers breakdowns and Nico Harrison drops more stupidity

KOC is joined by Esfandiar Baraheni to preview and predict some of the best Round 1 matchups of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, starting with the Golden State Warriors vs. the Houston Rockets, who are fresh off the Dubs advancing out of the Play-In against the Memphis Grizzlies. Will Amen Thompson shut down Steph Curry again?? Don't miss Kevin's prediction for the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves -- as the guys preview what to expect when LeBron James and Luka Doncic take on Anthony Edwards and company. Why Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets vs. Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers could be the best matchup of Round 1.Plus: KOC's got hot takes on Trae Young having "sore loser energy," the Boston Celtics-Orlando Magic Round 1 series, what the Joe Dumars news means for Zion Williamson's future in New Orleans (hint: TRADE time!) and, of course, Kevin goes scorched earth on Nico Harrison's latest boneheaded comments about the Dallas Mavericks. (0:43) Warriors beat Grizzlies Tuesday night(8:24) Warriors vs. Rockets preview(22:32) Magic defeat Hawks on Tuesday(28:15) Magic vs. Celtics preview(33:51) Timberwolves vs. Lakers preview(45:35) Nuggets vs. Clippers preview(58:16) Nico Harrison says ‘defense wins championships’(1:05:15) Pelicans hire Joe Dumars(1:10:43) Damian Lillard out for start of playoffs Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 16, 20251h 12m

Ep 61Did the Warriors blow it? Full NBA playoff preview, Flagg’s ideal teams, Suns fire Bud & Andrew Sharp joins

Kevin O'Connor is joined by fellow NBA podcaster Andrew Sharp, host of "The Greatest of All Talk"and "Sharp Tech with Stratechery” to preview the Play-In Tournament, as well as the NBA Playoffs. Are the Golden State Warriors too fatigued to make it out of the Play-In, and what version of Jimmy Butler can Steph Curry expect?Why is Andrew picking Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves to knock out Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers. Plus, the biggest question when it comes to each of the contender's chances just before the postseason begins.And don't miss KOC and Sharp reacting to the breaking news that the Phoenix Suns were firing Mike Budenholzer — what could that mean for the future of Devin Booker and Kevin Durant?(0:30) Andrew Sharp joins(1:02) Clippers beat Warriors in OT(14:22) Is this the best Kawhi-Clippers team?(19:07) Can the Denver/Clippers winner beat OKC?(24:46) Lakers vs. Timberwolves preview(31:54) Eastern Conference Playoffs questions & answers(31:56) Which play-in team is most likely to make a run?(33:41) Do the Celtics need Jaylen Brown?(35:52) What do the Cavs need to win?(40:31) Is Cade Cunningham the best player in the DET/NYK series?(44:07) Should Knicks fire Thibs?(49:08) What do the Bucks need out of Damian Lilliard?(50:51) Are we sleeping on the Pacers?(51:43) KOC’s 5 favorite Flagg fits(1:02:38) Pelicans fire executive VP Griffin(1:03:00) Suns fire head coach Budenholzer Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 14, 20251h 9m

Ep 60KOC hands out his 2025 NBA Awards hardware, & latest on jam-packed Playoff Picture out West

On the latest episode of the Kevin O’Connor Show, KOC is joined by Tom Haberstroh to reveal his 2024-25 NBA awards ballot. The pair debate all the biggest honors including Nikola Jokic vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for MVP and Amen Thompson vs. Draymond Green for DPOY. Plus, is Payton Pritchard the undisputed Sixth Man of the Year? And should Cade Cunningham even be ELIGIBLE for Most-Improved Player considering he was a no. 1 overall draft pick??Later, they recap the Minnesota Timberwolves routing of the Memphis Grizzlies. Anthony Edwards dropped 40+ despite Zach Edey finding his footing for Memphis—could the Wolves find themselves the four seed in the West?(0:35) Timberwolves beat Grizzlies Thursday night(3:12) Updated Western Conference playoff picture(11:11) KOC’s NBA awards ballots(11:12) SGA vs. Jokic for MVP?(24:54) Stephon Castle for Rookie of the Year?(34:39) Amen Thompson vs. Draymond Green for DPOY?(50:25) Payton Pritchard for 6th Man of the Year?(54:55) Who should win Coach of the Year?(1:00:11) Cade Cunningham MIP controversy Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 11, 20251h 16m

Ep 59One thing each contender needs to clean up for an NBA Finals run

Kevin O'Connor is joined by Danny Parkins of FS1's "Breakfast Ball" to do a little Spring Cleaning ahead of the NBA Playoffs. Today is 4/09, so Danny and KOC decide to address and tidy up the biggest MESS on each title contender. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Milwaukee Bucks are discussed in the East, while in the West KOC and Danny "clean up" the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets, and Minnesota Timberwolves. Plus - the guys offer further analysis, fallout and reasoning from the surprise firing of Nuggets HC Michael Malone.(0:28) Danny Parkins joins the show(1:10) Nuggets fire Malone & Booth(12:21) Luka returns to Dallas Wednesday night(15:38) Title contenders ‘spring cleaning’(16:04) What Cavs need to clean up(20:51) What Celtics need to clean up(26:20) What Thunder need to clean up(30:43) NBA needs to clean up officiating(33:04) What Rockets need to clean up (37:16) What Timberwolves need to clean up(39:44) What Lakers need to clean up(43:40) What Warriors need to clean up(47:49) What Knicks need to clean up(50:17) What Bucks need to clean up Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 9, 202556 min

Ep 58Instant Reaction to Nuggets firing Michael Malone and Calvin Booth

Kevin O'Connor and Dan Titus react to the shocking news on Tuesday that the Denver Nuggets have fired both head coach Mike Malone and GM Calvin Booth with just DAYS before the NBA regular season is set to come to a close. What's next for the Nuggets? What does this mean for the NBA playoff picture? What is going on in the NBA with two playoff-bound coaches fired in two weeks!? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 8, 202514 min

Ep 57Wild NBA Playoff Picture, NCAA Title Game Recap and Latest Draft Buzz with Jason Timpf

KOC is joined by Jason Timpf on this episode, which recorded right after the Men's National Championship Game between Florida and Houston went final. They discussed the star players whose NBA Draft stock was impacted in the Final Four (Walter Clayton Jr! LJ Cryer!), and they didn't hold back on the state of college refs. Plus Kevin and Jason dive into the wild, absurd Western Conference playoff picture. Are the Houston Rockets a bona fide threat to win the West? Concerning losses by the Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors have Kevin wondering which team should ACTUALLY hit the panic button. Did the New York Knicks get better while Jalen Brunson was sidelined? All that and more on this installment of The KOC show!(1:00) - Florida wins National Championship!(14:10) - Draft stock of Final Four players: Auburn, Duke & more(33:00) - Western conference: Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves(1:05:15) - Eastern conference: Indiana Pacers & New York Knicks Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 8, 20251h 16m

Ep 5610 Massive storylines with 10 days left in the NBA Regular Season

Kevin O'Connor and Tom Haberstroh went LIVE on Friday morning to discuss 10 storylines with 10 days left in the NBA regular season, and they started with reaction to last night's masterclass performance by Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Did Steph officially enter the MVP conversation, and is GSW the team best-suited out west to KO the Thunder? Plus the guys hit 9 other massive storylines -- including why Cooper Flagg landing with the San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama would create "Tim Duncan-David Robinson 2.0" (0:43) 10 storylines with 10 days left in the season (0:52) Steph is Top 5 MVP 5(5:55) Can Cavs & Bucks fix their issues? (8:58) Grizzlies are all-in on Ja Morant (14:23) Can Thunder win 70 games? (19:56) SGA nears +1000 (23:36) Where will Houston's pick end up? (26:47) Mailbag/live questions pt. 1 (39:59) Tanking teams contend for Cooper Flagg (42:05) Who will earn the 'Mark Madsen' award? (45:13) Can the Timberwolves keep it rolling? (51:50) All 30 teams in action on April 13 (54:25) Mailbag/live questions pt. 2 Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Apr 4, 20251h 12m

Ep 55R.I.P. Suns, Bad Boy Pistons = BACK, + Final Four preview with Noah Eagle

NBA on NBC's play-by-play commentator Noah Eagle joins Kevin O'Connor to discuss all of the fallout from the weekend of hoops, including Kevin Durant's injury and Phoenix getting blown out by Houston. Find out why one of our hosts says Phoenix is "gonna lay down and die... they're done. It's over!" Plus the brawl that took place between the Detroit Pistons and Minnesota Timberwolves got Noah Eagle thinking: what if he got to COMMENTATE a fight? He gives Kevin a hilarious broadcasting "sneak peak" of what that would sound like, and of course it got them both wondering if the "Bad Boys" are officially back. And Atlanta Hawks fans, this is the episode for you! KOC finally admits he was wrong about Zaccharie Risacher who Kevin says, officially, "is NOT a bust." KOC and Noah also hit all of the college hoops fallout from over the weekend, including Elite 8 reactions and a full-blown Final Four preview. It's all on this loaded episode of the KOC Show! (0:36) Noah Eagle joins the show(1:35) Is it over for the Suns?(12:05) Pistons-Timberwolves brawl(24:11) Grizzlies fire Taylor Jenkins(33:05) Risacher shines for Atlanta Hawks(38:55) Walter Clayton Jr. leads Florida to Final Four(43:31) Khaman Maluach & Duke dominate Alabama(47:03) Would you rather: Derik Queen or Khaman Maluach(48:32) Daniel Wolf NBA prospects(55:21) All no. 1 seeds in men's Final Four(57:09) Broome boosts Auburn in victory(59:11) Non-tourney players to watch in NBA Draft(1:07:19) SGA = Michael Jordan?(1:10:08) Will Syracuse MBB ever be elite again? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 31, 20251h 14m

Ep 54NBA Expansion and March Madness with Tom Haberstroh, Futuristic Thunder and Streaky Lakers with Thinking Basketball

KOC is joined by Tom Haberstroh as the guys react to the absolutely unbelievable game-winning buzzer beater from Josh Giddey. LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers lose in devastating fashion (mostly because of LeBron's careless late turnover), and now it has the guys wondering if the Chicago Bulls are BACK?? Plus the Indiana Pacers scored HOW MANY points last night vs the hapless Wizards? And Kev and Tom weigh in on how fun an Indiana-Detroit Pistons First Round matchup would be. Plus Adam Silver's press conference on Thursday covered everything from NBA Expansion in Europe, (and Seattle/Las Vegas), how All-Star Weekend needs to change (again!), and how Tanking can be addressed. And don't miss the guys' thoughts on Cooper Flagg's masterpiece performance vs Arizona that sent them to the Elite 8, along with Coach John Calipari's Arkansas squad blowing a massive lead to Texas Tech, and Alabama's historic night from 3-point land.Then, Thinking Basketball's Ben Taylor joins Kevin O'Connor to discuss the cutting-edge strategies being implemented by the "futuristic" Oklahoma City Thunder. Are the Boston Celtics on that level, too? Plus, Ben is blown away by what he's seeing from LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers, he just wonders if they'll be able to keep it up over the course of the Playoffs. And Ben weighs on why so many fans complain about the volume of 3-pointers being shot in today's "modern" NBA, and how the league may need to address it. (1:05) Lakers lose on Bulls buzzer-beater(6:28) Pacers put up 162 pts on Wizards(9:34) Current Eastern Conference playoff matchups(12:01) Adam Silver comments on NBA expansion(18:34) Silver admits All-Star game missed the mark(23:46) Could NIL in college hoops end NBA tanking?(35:32) Cooper Flagg shines in Duke win vs. Arizona(39:31) Texas Tech rallies back to beat Arkansas(44:55) Alabama shoots record 3’s vs. BYU(48:18) Ben Taylor of Thinking Basketball joins(48:59) Are Celtics title favorites?(56:28) Draymond Green deserving DPOY favorite?(1:02:25) Is Camara a modern-day Pippen?(1:08:40) 2024 NBA re-draft(1:12:01) A Thinking Basketball video on Bronny?(1:13:28) Assessment of Lakers recent skid(1:22:55) Banchero bounces back(1:23:01) Modern vs. ‘old school’ NBA Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 28, 20251h 52m

Ep 53CHRIS VERNON joins! 10 Semi-Bold predictions for the NBA final stretch & March Madness

Kevin O'Connor reunites with Chris Vernon on the latest episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show, delivering 10 semi-bold predictions for the NBA season's remainder and the NBA Draft. KOC and Verno kick off sharing discontent with the Memphis Grizzlies' performance and speculate that both the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers might miss the NBA Finals.The guys also suggest that a healthy Kawhi Leonard may make a dangerous run in the NBA Playoffs, that Chicago's Josh Giddey could be in line for a huge payday this offseason and Verno goes off on the league, predicting that massive competitive balance changes will come this offseason to address tanking and star players resting.Finally, the pair close out with two NBA draft-themed predictions coming out of the ongoing NCAA tournament.[Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Baseball league for the 2025 MLB season](2:30) - Memphis will miss the playoffs(11:05) - CLE & OKC will miss NBA Finals(17:05) - OKC sweeps their first-round series(21:35) - LAC wins at least 3 playoff games(26:15) - Josh Giddey becomes $100 million man(30:25) - Dame/Giannis duo will fail & Milwaukee cleans house(38:45) - NBA enacts sweeping competitive balance changes to appease TV partners(52:20) - Nique Clifford is a lottery pick this June(56:50) - Boogie Fland is drafted as a first rounder🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 25, 20251h 9m

Ep 52Superstar Austin Reaves? Has Giannis hurt his legacy? Kawhi dominant again? + 11 more big NBA questions

Kevin O'Connor is joined by Tom Haberstroh to answer 14 big NBA questions at the moment: Is Austin Reaves the modern day Manu Ginobili? Is Giannis' legacy taking a major hit this season? Could "Skinny Kawhi" help the Clippers go on an improbable Playoff run? Plus the guys talk Nikola Jokic and whether the Denver Nuggets' big man is seriously injured, the concern level surrounding the Cleveland Cavaliers after suffering a 3rd straight loss, who will get the 10-seed between the Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers, the Boston Celtics being sold for a record amount of money, the Houston Rockets' 8-game win streak and which East sleeper goes on the deeper run between the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons. All this and more on this monster 14-pack of NBA questions KOC needs you to think about. (0:40) Are the Clippers formidable with Kawhi ‘back?’(5:41) Concerned for Cavaliers?(9:23) Reaves steps up for Lakers(15:36) Can Phoenix hang on to the 10 seed?(19:58) Anthony Davis nearing a return(22:30) Are Warriors still top-tier title contenders?(25:26) 21 stars did not play Wednesday(31:10) Nuggets struggle without Jokic(34:03) Who’s to blame for Bucks failures?(40:28) Celtics sold for $6.1 billion(45:26) Who can make a deeper run: Pacers or Pistons?(49:12) Where should Amen Thompson play for Rockets?(51:27) What’s wrong with the Grizzlies?(53:28) NCAA Tourney predictions(55:52) Favorite mid-lottery prospects Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 20, 20251h 2m

Ep 51March Madness prospects to watch with Mark Titus & NBA contender check-in with Marcus Morris

Kevin O'Connor and Mark Titus unveil their first-ever March Madness NBA Prospect Draft! Mark says the #1 overall player on both offense and defense in the coming NBA Draft is Cooper Flagg, which has both guys realizing the Duke phenom compares to football's 2-way stud, Travis Hunter. Mark drafts a full 5-man starting lineup of prospects participating in March Madness, including a 6th Man. Kevin then drafts his 5-man starting lineup including the 1st guy off his bench. Some of the names they discuss: Jase Richardson (Michigan State), VJ Edgecombe (Baylor), Kon Knueppel (Duke), Derik Queen (Maryland), Jeremiah Fears (Oklahoma), and more. Plus both guys weigh in on the disappointment of Rutgers not being in The Tournament, which means America misses out on getting to see the brilliant play of both Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper (boo!)And then, 14-year NBA veteran Marcus Morris did NOT hold back in his debut appearance on the KOC Show, going absolutely scorched earth on Daryl Morey -- "I don't trust Daryl Morey!" Marcus explains his disdain for the Philadelphia 76ers' VP of Basketball Operations in this MUST-watch sitdown interview. Plus Marcus takes Kevin behind the scenes of how he found out his brother Markieff was traded with Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. Morris also believes the Oklahoma City Thunder could be upset by the Los Angeles Clippers in the opening round of the NBA Playoffs, and explains why the Cleveland Cavaliers won't get by the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. (0:27) - Mark Titus joins(2:08) - Titus' NBA draft prospect locks(33:45) - Ace Bailey & Dylan Harper miss March Madness(37:30) - KOC's NBA draft prospect gambles(1:06:25) - Marcus Morris joins Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 18, 20251h 32m

Ep 50Playoff risers, lottery tankers and Cooper Flagg’s injury

Let the NBA Draft Lottery tanking COMMENCE! De'Aaron Fox of the San Antonio Spurs, out for the year. Paul George, likely done for the year. The Mavs, well they're not TRYING to tank but it's happening anyway because DuMont and Nico Harrison's respective visions for the Dallas Mavericks continue to blow up in their face. The Miami Heat, we can't tell if they're tanking or just plain stink. The Utah Jazz are tanking in plain sight (and getting fined for it). But there's plenty of good too -- Tom Haberstroh tells Kevin O'Connor that the Golden State Warriors are officially a "top-tier" title contender, right up there with the Cavs, Thunder and Celtics. It's all on this fresh new episode of The KOC Show.Plus, former NBA star Gordon Hayward joins Kevin O'Connor to break down Cooper Flagg's injury, and what this could mean for #1-ranked Duke's immediate future with The Tournament looming. Hayward explains how after he saw the Flagg injury, the first thing he thought of was his own gruesome ankle injury. KOC and Gordon also talk about which players for Duke will now need to step up, including Kon Knueppel. Gordon also reacts to his alma mater Butler losing on Thursday to #6 St. John's. (1:28) NBA teams beginning to tank(1:59) Utah Jazz fined(2:35) San Antonio Spurs tanking?(3:50) Philadelphia 76ers tanking?(7:26) Miami Heat tanking?(10:47) Are teams tanking for Cooper Flagg?(13:22) Portland Trail Blazers are NOT tanking(20:49) Mikal Bridges comments on ‘minutes’(27:41) DuMont comments on Luka trade(35:47) Golden State Warriors title contenders?(43:43) Minnesota Timberwolves title contenders?(52:33) Why incentives matter in NBA postseason(58:17) Gordon Hayward joins the show Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3DdhtRO🎧 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4gDqoKY📢 Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 14, 20251h 18m

Ep 49Contender Chaos, MVP Mood Swings and French Rookie Reviews

On this edition of The Kevin O'Connor Show, KOC welcomes in Steve Jones Jr. to help him break down the chaos of the NBA at the moment. The Nuggets and Thunder split their back-to-back, but KOC feels like an MVP may have emerged. More importantly, what did he and Steve learn about both teams? Can Denver be trusted to turn it on this postseason, and is Jalen Williams a viable #2 option on a Championship contender? Speaking of contenders, the Milwaukee Bucks' chances of going on a deep run are thoroughly dissected. Winless against the East's top teams, does anyone believe in Giannis Antetokounmpo and company? Will the Cleveland Cavaliers ever lose again? Would Cooper Flagg really stay one more year at Duke? And don't worry Atlanta Hawks fans, KOC is finally ready to talk Zaccharie Risacher.(00:40) - Takeaways from Thunder-Nuggets series(14:05) - Grizzlies def. Suns 120-118(25:30) - Cavs on 14-game win streak(36:15) - Do Bucks still have a shot this season?(42:10) - How LeBron and Amen Thompson’s injuries affect the playoff picture(49:00) - Rookie Report: The French Guys (& Cooper Flagg)📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 11, 20251h 8m

Ep 48Luka, LeBron leave OT with WIN, Brunson leaves LIMPING

Kevin O'Connor and Tom Haberstroh dive into the Lakers' thrilling overtime victory against the Knicks in this episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show. How concerned should Knicks fans be about Jalen Brunson's ankle injury, and does Thibs deserve any blame for the star guard's usage down the stretch? Plus, the OT heroics of Luka Doncic prove yet again why Nico Harrison made "the dumbest trade" in the history of sports.Plus KOC and Tom rank the current Western Conference Play-In picture teams currently seeded from #6-through-#12. How awesome would it be to get a Golden State Warriors vs Los Angeles Lakers series in Round 1 of the Playoffs? Speaking of the Dubs, the guys break down Draymond Green's foot-in-mouth comments about Karl-Anthony Towns missing the Knicks-Warriors game. And their hilarious recap of the Charles Barkley vs Kendrick Perkins "media feud" that took place on social media Thursday night.Later, 2025's #1 recruit and BYU commit AJ Dybantsa sits down with KOC to talk his greatest inspirations, why he plays basketball, his expectations for the NBA and much more.(00:45) - KOC's West Play-In power rankings(25:20) - Do NBA coaches need to experiment more?(31:30) - Jalen Brunson suffers ankle injury(36:00) - NBA media drama: Draymond & KAT, Charles Barkley & Kendrick Perkins(42:25) - Best restaurants in Portland(47:00) - AJ Dybantsa on life & basketball📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 7, 20251h 11m

Ep 477 NBA takes I NEED to get off my chest

I’ve got a lot on my mind watching the NBA as of late, and on this pod I’m unleashing some of those takes. Some are hot. Others are mild. After opening with some thoughts on the Phoenix Suns and Philadelphia 76ers, I brought on three guests to discuss the rest. Jared Weiss, who covers the NBA for The Athletic, talked Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets. Then Legend Of Winning came on to discuss the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers, before Bryce Simon made his second appearance to talk Detroit Pistons and some NBA Draft.(00:30) - Devin Booker needs to request a trade(2:20) - NBA should change the play-in rules(4:50) - Celtics are still the favorites in the East(18:35) - Nuggets need to play their young guys(21:05) - Lakers are best-equipped team to take out OKC(44:00) - James Harden needs to adapt(54:25) - LOW calls out KOC’s dunk contest takes(1:02:05) - Could the Pistons win a playoff series?(1:22:15) - NBA draft takes: Jase Richardson & Danny Wolf📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Mar 4, 20251h 38m

Ep 46Steph drops 56, LeBron dominates, and Father Time calls timeout

After yet another night of Stephortless Brongevity, Kevin O'Connor and Tom Haberstroh are wondering if Father Time has lost his powers. Steph Curry drops 56 (including 12 threes!) vs. the hapless Orlando Magic, and LeBron James continues to rewrite the history books after a 3-and-D clinic vs the Minnesota Timberwolves. All of that "Face of the League" talk can be quieted, as KOC and Tom point out that these two might STILL be in their primes. Speaking of the "face of the league" comments from King James, Kevin and Tom agree -- the way the national media covers the game right now is STALE.Also on this episode of The KOC Show: the Denver Nuggets fell to the Milwaukee Bucks and the guys think THE BLAME GAME is about to fall squarely on Russell Westbrook. Uh oh. Plus, the season of misery continues for the Phoenix Suns. They fell to the New Orleans Pelicans and Zion Williamson, who logged his first triple-double -- maybe thanks to Zion's new tattoo? Plus Kevin and Tom hit the streaking Detroit Pistons, the surging Portland Trailblazers, pay homage to Gregg Popovich, and discuss Paul George's temporary leave from podcasting life. (0:48) Steph drops 56 pts on Magic(19:50) Bucks defeat Nuggets at home(29:19) Lakers take down Timberwolves(37:53) LeBron on being “face of the league”(43:29) Zion’s new tattoo(50:53) Suns lose to struggling Pelicans(58:02) Anthony Edwards double technical(1:01:32) Popovich won’t return this season(1:03:32) Paul George breaks from podcasting(1:04:07) Blazers recent success(1:06:51) Can Pistons make run in playoffs? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3DdhtRO🎧 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4gDqoKY📢 Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Feb 28, 20251h 10m

Ep 4510 NBA questions keeping me up at night

Are you tossing and turning at night thinking about all the unanswered questions going on in the NBA right now with just 6 weeks left in the regular season? Kevin O'Connor is dealing with some BAD insomnba, which is like insomnia — just way worse. KOC is tormented wondering if the Suns could actually MISS the Play-In. No way... right? Is the Joel Embiid Era in Philadelphia finally over? Will the New York Knicks problems be fixed with the return of Mitchell Robinson, or will they continue to REGRET the Mikal Bridges trade? Is Paolo Banchero even good?!? Are the Cleveland Cavaliers now built to OVERCOME the Boston Celtics? Will Ja Morant ever return to his old form in the Memphis Grizzlies new-look offense? Was Kevin dumb for thinking the Golden State Warriors should have blown it up? As you can see, it is a BAD case of insomnba. Counting sheep hasn't helped, but voicing his concerns on this episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show might do the trick.(00:25) - Do I regret suggesting GSW blow it up?(3:20) - Will small ball benefit the Los Angeles Lakers?(5:30) - Can Ja find himself in Memphis' new-look O?(7:30) - Are the Phoenix Suns about to miss the play-in?(27:45) - Is Paolo Banchero actually any good?(30:25) - Is it worth holding onto hope for the Milwaukee Bucks?(32:25) - Can new-look Cavs perform better vs. Boston?(33:15) - Does Mitchell Robinson complete the Knicks?(53:00) - Who’s going to start tanking?(56:20) - Is the Joel Embiid era over in Philly?📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Feb 25, 20251h 16m

Ep 44Contenders vs. Pretenders, Ring Culture, and Growing NBA Superstars with Drew Hanlen

Drew Hanlen is the basketball skills and development trainer for superstars like Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Tyrese Maxey, Tyrese Haliburton, Trey Murphy and many more of the NBA's elite. What can this "short," former college hooper possibly offer to these GIANTS of the game? A lot, as you'll see on this episode of the Kevin O'Connor show! Why Drew thinks critics are DUMB for calling Joel "washed," how Tatum took the mental leap before winning a title, how Haliburton became "the best passer" in the NBA, and so many more interesting stories, secrets and opinions from one of the most prolific trainers in the NBA. No one knows the inner circles of all the players and teams like Drew, and he keeps it real with his picks for NBA MVP, who he thinks will make the NBA Finals, and more.(01:32) NBA Contenders(04:58) Giannis improved mid-range game(08:18) Cavaliers a real threat in the east?(10:58) Any hope for Sixers and Joel Embiid?(17:29) Could you fix Ben Simmons?(20:55) Jokic and Nuggets on a winning streak(22:49) Will Luka help LeBron(25:25) Outlook for the Knicks(28:31) Jayson Tatum’s mentality(39:17) Teaching NBA superstars(43:06) Tyrese Haliburton’s nature(48:11) Changing NBA end of year awards(54:32) Ring culture downplaying NBA regular season(57:04) Player you would love to work with(1:00) Drew talks his new book Subscribe to The Kevin O'Connor ShowApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Feb 19, 20251h 4m

Ep 43Under-appreciated players and teams with Trey Murphy

From role player to STUD, Trey Murphy's individual ascent this season surprised even himself. The Pelicans' superstar-in-the-making shares how he went from doubting himself to now KNOWING why he belongs. Trey kept it real on why his New Orleans Pelicans team started the year so poorly. Kevin asks Murphy to fill-in-the-blank: Zion Williamson is a top __ player in the NBA right now? That answer will surprise you. Plus with Trey being the most UNDER-APPRECIATED, unheralded star in the NBA, KOC asks Trey to pick a "starting 5" of the most underrated players in the NBA right now. You will never guess who's on his list. Trey also weighs in on what Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors said about the NBA becoming "boring." how the Oklahoma City Thunder are so hard to beat, his personal reaction to the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade, and much more.(0:49) Draymond Green comments on NBA(1:33) Why Trey Murphy loves ball(2:26) Assessment of Orlando Magic(5:16) Assessment of Detroit Pistons(6:01) Murphy's development & improvements(13:53) Under-appreciated NBA players(20:41) Luka - AD trade reactions(21:17) How can Murphy become an All-Star?(23:27) Zion Williams impact on Pelicans(25:49) Pelicans struggles this season(30:48) Assessment of Oklahoma City Thunder(34:20) Assessment of Denver Nuggets(35:08) Toughest places to play in NBA(40:34) Current state of the NBA(45:41) Kobe's influence on Trey Murphy(48:27) Call of Duty & gaming Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3DdhtRO🎧 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4gDqoKY📢 Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Feb 18, 202551 min

Ep 42Worst All-Star Weekend EVER!? NBA, TNT, LeBron & Kevin Hart TORCHED by KOC!

Kevin O'Connor spared no one from a total evisceration of the NBA All-Star Weekend, especially the new Sunday night game format. Why did TNT make the night more about themselves than the players? How did Commissioner Adam Silver allow an All-Star Weekend in San Francisco without Steph Curry in the 3-point contest? How is Kevin supposed to be excited about a "G-Leaguer" that "only uses props" in the Slam Dunk contest? KOC loves LeBron but says he's to blame as well for pulling out of the All-Star Game last-minute! EVERYTHING All-Star is a mess according to Kevin and Dan Titus. The guys also break down the several weird sound bytes from Draymond Green, including he and Jimmy Butler both being "alpha" personalities, Dray's prediction that the Warriors will win the title THIS season, and Green allegedly "turning down" the Warriors' Head Coaching position in the future once Steve Kerr retires.0:22 - Team Shaq Wins 41-25! MVP: Steph Curry (2nd ASG MVP)2:16 - Was Wemby Impressive? Injected energy into Team Chuck3:40 - New Format vs. East vs. West – Which one’s better?5:35 - Charles Barkley vs. Draymond – Did Dray’s generation ruin the NBA?6:52 - How To Fix All-Star Weekend – KOC & Dan’s ideas9:41 - Giannis' Big Idea – Team USA vs. World + Global ASG Cities12:20 - Mac McClung 3-Peats in the Dunk Contest17:49 - Draymond on Butler & GSW’s Title Chances19:08 - Did Draymond Turn Down Future GSW HC Job? Serious or trolling?21:08 - Fantasy Basketball Breakout Players w/ Dan Titus26:36 - More Fantasy Pickups – Who’s worth adding? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network, yahoosports.tv and Yahoo Sports NBA on YouTube

Feb 17, 202534 min