The Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by former NFL Wide Receiver Stevie Johnson. After an incredible career with Kentucky and Buffalo, Stevie talks about remaining a part of Bills' Mafia and how he became inspired to author a pair of children's books. 3:30 - Stevie talks about growing up playing all kinds of sports, and how playing basketball helped prepare him to become a great football player. 6:30 - How did Stevie start playing football and how easy was it considering he got such a late start to the game? 9:00 - How Stevie described being open all the time and not getting much coaching 15:00 - Why was it so important for Stevie to be an entertainer and have fun when he was on the football field? It all started with Deion Sanders. 20:30 - After Rex makes a comparison of Wide Receivers to Dunkers, Stevie says you deserve to be acknowledged for running around all game. 22:30 - One of the best moments in Kentucky Wildcats football, the guys talk about when Stevie Got Loose. 26:00 - How did Stevie Johnson end up at Kentucky? It was long before they came out to visit him while in junior college.  36:30 - How did Stevie decide on becoming a children's author? It was a continuation of helping younger players on the field, to providing life lessons for the next generation. 39:00 - Who are the top receivers in the NFL right now according to Stevie Johnson?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by NCAA Champion and former No 1 pick, Danny Manning. With March Madness all wrapped up, Danny looks back on UCONN's title run as well as what he was able to accomplish with the Kansas Jayhawks in 1988. Coming off his first season at Louisville, the guys touch on the Cardinals season and what the team has in store under Head Coach Kenny Payne. 9:30 - Danny talks about what brought him to Louisville to coach under Kenny Payne and what their first season together was with the Cardinals. 11:30 - Josh reminds Danny that it's pronounced Louisville, not Louisville 13:00 - Where did Danny develop his attitude on the floor as someone who was willing to do anything and everything for his team? 15:00 - What were Danny's first impressions of Rex Chapman as a basketball player? 17:00 - The Rex and Danny two man game in Phoenix called SHARK "Watch the slip" 18:40 - Looking back on the 1988 Kansas National Championship team, the last thing he wants it to be remembered by is "Danny and the Miracles". 23:30 - Looking back on the success at Kansas, was Danny always going to end up at Lawrence once his father became an assistant coach under Larry Brown? 28:00 - There was a huge adjustment dealing with significant knee injuries in the NBA after Danny had never missed any time in high school or college. 35:30 - What can we expect from Danny, Coach Payne and the Louisville Cardinals in Year 2? 45:00 - What did Danny learn from the NCAA Tournament and just how dominant UCONN's run to the title was? 47:30 - Danny being taken back to his college days just by hearing the NCAA on CBS music 49:00 - Despite how his NBA career began as a member of the Los Angeles Clippers, Danny still follows the team to this day, interested in how the organization is run now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Kenny Mayne, of ESPN fame and his latest project supporting veterans with Run Freely. After a storied career at ESPN, what has Kenny been up to, and how does he watch sports now with the NCAA Tournament and NBA seasons in full swing? Where did Kenny find his persona and become such an original voice for the biggest sports broadcasts on the planet? 2:15 - How has Kenny enjoyed the NCAA Tournament and with such a unique Final Four with a bunch of first time teams? 7:30 - How Kenny got his big break in broadcast media and began to forge his path to ESPN 12:00 - Was Kenny always the funny guy growing up or did it come naturally when broadcasting? 13:30 - Where Kenny found his voice, and jokes that he would be able to use on Sportscenter.  16:00 - Much like a comedian, Kenny would figure out how to use humor in his everyday life and on the air. The important part was to never warn anyone before you try out a joke during a broadcast. 20:00 - How Kenny's confidence, writing and execution as a journalist landed him his dream role at ESPN, even if he didn't know every single player on the Chicago Cubs' roster. 22:30 - After having to give up his dreams of being a professional QB, when did Kenny make the decision that broadcasting was in his future? 25:00 - Kenny talks about his ankle injury and getting $10 from the NFL before ending his professional football career 31:30 - It was almost an accident that Kenny ended up in sports, as someone working in local news in Washington, it turned out that going to Huskies' games and Sonics' games were more fun than going to city council meetings. 36:00 - Kenny's interview process at ESPN was a little unique as someone not quite as strong on sports trivia as some of the other broadcasters. 44:45 - How were the Runnin Rebels basketball team while Kenny was at UNLV? Graduating in 1980, Kenny was right between the dominant teams of the 70's and the late 80's-early 90's. 48:00 - What Kenny's great work with Run Freely is all about. Taking one of the hardest times in his life with the ankle injury and turning it into a positive story, while helping those that have served our country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this edition of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by BYU head coach, Mark Pope. They talk March Madness, the 1996 Wildcat team, the cutting edge of NIL and Coach Pitino's famous workouts. 04:30 Mark compliments Rex's jumper 06:45 Mark on playing for Rick Pitino 11:00 Rex and Mark remember Rick's famous workouts 17:30 A little of Coach Pitino is in Mark's coaching style 28:30 NIL cutting edge and what it means for BYU 34:00 A Rhode Scholar candidate who gave up med school? 39:00 Who is cutting down the nets in 2023? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On a special episode of The Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Jeff Goodman and Mike DeCourcey. Up first, Jeff Goodman of Stadium and Field of 68 discuss the potential Head Coaching changes which could cause a distraction for some of the NCAA Tournament teams. Then, Mike DeCourcy of Big Ten Network and FOX Sports takes an in depth look at the bracket. Everything you need before the NCAA Tournament is right here! Jeff Goodman up first 5:00 - What happened to Kentucky this year and are they prepared for an NCAA Tournament run? 6:30 - Ed Cooley's name continues to be mentioned as the next potential hire for Georgetown, so how much of a distraction is that for Providence? 9:00 - What surprise team does Jeff expect to get to the Final Four? 12:30 - Is it the lack of experience of the distractions surrounding the program that will keep Alabama from being the National Champions? 15:30 - With Chris Beard now at Ole Miss, how will Texas address their Head Coaching Vacancy after the Tournament? How far do they need to go for Rodney Terry to keep the coaching job? 19:00 - How is covering the NCAA Tournament different today with the looming coaching changes and transfer portal news always ready to break? 21:00 - Jeff lists his Final Four and has Houston winning it all 27:00 - Mike DeCourcy Joins 28:30 - Coming from Greensboro, NC, Mike previews the NCAA Tournament with the overarching storylines that stand out over the matchups throughout March Madness 30:00 - Comparing regions, the West has been an absolute juggernaut with so many good teams, while Alabama, with all their distractions, has a clear path as the No 1 overall seed out of the South. 33:30 - How many games do the Kentucky Wildcats need to win in the NCAA Tournament for the fans to give John Calipari some breathing room? 41:00 - Can UCLA overcome the loss of Jaylen Clark due to injury? At their best, this is the best defensive team in the country. 45:00 - Mike goes through his Final Four picks and what pressure he's under knowing his bracket is available for everyone to see online. 50:00 - Why is Houston getting left out of Mike's Final Four? Is the loss of Marcus Sasser that much of a difference maker? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hokpins, the guys are joined by Randy and Jason, the Sklar Brothers! Looking back on their time on MTV, ESPN and so many other TV shows and movies, the guys talk about how they got into comedy, and where their life's work is following the success at Cheap Seats. 5:00 - When did the Sklar Brothers realize they were funny, and more importantly, funny together? 8:30 - How easy was it growing up and playing sports when you always had someone to play with? 14:00 - At the same time, being together all the time led to a lot of fights, but the key was to never hold a grudge. 16:00 - Draymond Fights Jordan Poole 17:30 - As twins, what's the difference between relying on each other vs depending on each other? 24:00 - How did the Sklar Brothers end up at the University of Michigan, and then have a pilot on MTV just a couple years later? 33:30 - After 35 years of performing comedy, the Sklar brothers describe how they still get nerves before getting on stage. 39:00 - The Sklars describe the launch of Cheap Seats on ESPN, and how they were able to create the kind of show they always wanted. 48:00 - When you're striving for success, you have to be able to face a little conflict in order to achieve what you set out to do. 55:00 - There's a unique closeness that twins have, but those kinds of bonds can exist between anyone. You can be the same age, growing up in St Louis with the Sklar Brothers, and be able to tell the same stories and share those memories. 1:11:00 - Why Nikola Jokic is the Sklar Brothers MVP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by the great Roger Lodge! The former Blind Date host and current Angels broadcaster shares his story of how he became an actor, after growing up a sports fanatic. After running around Hollywood for so many years with his best friend, John Stamos, it seems like Roger Lodge has never had a bad day in his life! 9:00 - Forget Rex's basketball career, Josh and Roger share war stories from the NBA Entertainer's League in Hollywood. 10:00 - What are the keys to being a great shooter? Roger talks about how he grew up playing basketball and what he's learned from the elite basketball players over the years. 13:30 - How many nights did Roger spend his childhood with a basketball in his hand, just trying to figure out what was going on in his life? 17:00 - Roger Lodge started wearing baggy shorts before everyone else in 1980, facing the Georgia Bulldogs, and the decided to get into broadcasting 19:30 - Roger spent his childhood in his step dad's station wagon driving out to see every great team in Southern California, including John Wooden's Bruins, at the height of UCLA's dominant win streak. 20:30 - Roger attends Wooden's practice and realizes there's no secret formula to his success. Just hard work. 22:00 - Roger talks about how his best friend, John Stamos, helped convince him to pursue acting, and how their relationship blossomed both on set and as roommates for over a dozen years. 26:00 - What in Roger's early life as an athlete prepared him for his life's work in acting and as the host of Blind Date? 34:00 - How many seasons did it take for Blind Date to devolve into a bunch of drunk people starving for attention? 39:00 - Where did Roger get his knack for broadcasting and hosting? He's been preparing pretty much his whole life. His goal was to become the Johnny Carson of Sports. 49:30 - LeBron has broken the all-time scoring record, and the Lakers have made some trade deadline acquisitions. Are they primed for a playoff run in the 2nd half? 53:00 - Roger shares front row center stories, he's sitting with Stamos and Larry Bird admits he watches General Hospital "Aren't You Supposed to be In Jail?" 56:30 - Rex shares some of his favorite stories about Roger's favorite player of all time, Pistol Pete Maravich. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by the incredible actor, Steve Zahn. With a list of nearly 100 film credits including Dallas Buyers Club, Saving Silverman, Diary of A Wimpy Kid and so many more, Steve talks about his beginnings in acting and what projects he has coming up next. We couldn't have Steve on without talking about his beloved Kentucky Wildcats and his farm in Lexington! 18:00 - Steve discusses the importance of having a creative space separate from his farm in Lexington, KY. How many years has it been since Steve first visited Kentucky? 20:30 - Steve discusses what he loves about his farm, and why it's an environment he's wanted to raise his family in. 27:30 - What were some of the core memories from making movies over the years? Steve goes back to "That Thing You Do", and the family Tom Hanks has built over the years with so many of his projects. 32:20 - When Steve was singled out as the only good actor and he realized he was special 38:30 - It's taken a long time, but Steve feels he is getting a wider range of roles after coming up as the goofy, stoner guy. His leading roles had to have some quirkiness to them in the past. 42:00 - After reading the books to his kids every single night, Steve says he jumped at the chance to be a part of the "Diary of The Wimpy Kid" movies. 43:00 - With so many roles that he has loved doing, Steve says his biggest regret was having to pass on "Band of Brothers."  46:00 LeBron breaks the record and what is going on with the Wildcats? 48:00 - How did Steve compare his time growing up in Minnesota to now living in Lexington, especially when it comes to sports. 50:00 - Steve talks about having a spark and passion for sports. 57:30 - What goes through Steve's mind when he walks onto a big Hollywood set. He recalls walking onto The Planet of The Apes and recognizing he had to be at his best for this huge production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by NFL Network Analyst and the Host of The Rich Eisen Show, Rich Eisen. After Tom Brady retired from the NFL, again, his fellow Michigan man speaks to the Greatest to ever lace them up in the NFL, plus the upcoming Super Bowl with the Chiefs and Eagles. Is Patrick Mahomes the one player that could chase Brady's all-time success? 7:00 - How do you prepare yourself as a broadcaster when you find out that Tom Brady announces his retirement? 8:00 - Tom Brady recording the farewell video, and the old retiree walks through with the metal detector 11:00 - What is it about Tom Brady's longevity that makes him not only the G.O.A.T. but a once in a lifetime kind of player? 14:45 - The significance for Tom Brady winning a Super Bowl in Tampa, away from Bill Belichick and the Patriots, and doing it in his first season. 16:30 - Rich on Tom Brady "In terms of winning, in terms of resumes, in terms of winning, it's Brady and his name will be synonymous with the NFL" 18:30 - Going back to his Michigan days, Tom Brady had to fight for his opportunity to play, and Rich talks about his rise to the NFL. 24:00 - Rich talks about his path to the University of Michigan in part because of the great sports teams, and also because of "The Big Chill". 27:00 - Rich reflects on his relationship with his father and how important it was for the foundation of his upbringing. 32:30 - How have the biggest moments in life and sports prepared Rich for his own show? What has the impact been of broadcasting with your heart and emotions on your sleeve? 41:30 - Looking ahead to the Super Bowl, Rich takes a look at the Chiefs/Eagles matchup. 42:20 - Rich says the Super Bowl will be close and come down to the last possession, just like the AFC Championship. 46:30 - Origin story of "He Got It" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Rex's former teammate, Kendall Gill. The Illinois native has returned to Chicago after his 15-year NBA career, now calling games for the Chicago Bulls. How did life in Chicago and Champaign help mold him into the man he is today? There are some classic moments the guys share from those early 90's Hornets. 9:30 - The former teammates and roommates circle back on their time together with the Charlotte Hornets. 12:30 - What were the first impressions from when Rex and Kendall first met each other? 17:30 - How Kendall's experience of fighting for his spot at Illinois is almost unheard of in college basketball today. 24:00 - How special those Illini Teams were, and how the Final Four loss to Michigan stays with Kendall to this day. 30:00 - Where did Kendall discover his passion for Boxing, and how did he make the decision to go pro after his NBA career? 35:30 - On the Charlotte Hornets, there was no bigger star than Muggsy Bogues. Kendall and Rex trade stories from those young, talented Hornets teams. 36:00 - Muggsy Was the Floor General, calling everyone honey as they ran up and down the court. 37:00 - Why Kendall blames himself for getting traded to Seattle and why it felt so good being immortalized as a Charlotte Hornet for life. 44:30 - LeBron ranks at least 3rd and here's why Michael Jordan is the GOAT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Hall of Fame Member Class of 2022, Tim Hardaway. After a long career, Tim looks back on growing up in Chicago and why it's been a hotbed of NBA talent. Now as a parent of an NBA star, he talks about teaching the game of basketball to the next generation. 11:00 - Rex and Tim talk about joining forces in Miami and the incredible night Rex had against Michael Jordan and the Bulls. 12:45 - It was unusual to have a scoring point guard until Tim Hardaway came into the NBA. How did he balance being a scorer vs a facilitator for his teammates? 16:00 - Who does Rex think is the best comparison in the NBA right now for Tim Hardaway? 19:00 - Tim compares playing for Pat Riley in Miami to when he entered the league with the Warriors, with Run TMC. 23:00 - Tim discusses growing up on the South Side of Chicago, and talks about the heated rivalries with the West Side. 26:45 - Top 5 South side vs West Side Chicago Basketball OUT - Josh "I Admire you trying to answer it" 31:00 - When did Tim Hardaway get the basketball bug? It goes back to watching his Dad, a Chicago playground legend. 41:30 - What were some of the core memories Tim had as a kid growing up? It was always playing some kind of ball, whether that was basketball, football baseball, or soccer. 49:50 - Tim remembers Benji Wilson, and the tragedy around his murder. It was as if the President of Chicago had been killed. 52:30 - How did Tim Hardaway end up at the University of Texas El Paso? It's a pretty far way from Chicago. 56:00 - Once he made the NBA, Tim had to put the teams on notice that passed on him that it would be their biggest mistake. 48:30 - Where would the NBA be today without Tim Hardaway's crossover? 49:30 - The origin story of the UTEP Two Step 55:00 - Is it more gratifying or difficult having a son playing in the NBA? What would Dad have done if he had Jr's height? 55:00 - Tim "If I was 6-foot-6 I would be an MVP every year" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Kentucky National Champion and now Assistant to the Head Coach at Mississippi State, Scott Padgett. Scott talks about earning his spot on the basketball team under Rick Pitino and winning a Championship with Tubby Smith. How did playing for those two legendary coaches lead him down a path to become a coach himself? 5:30 - Will be rooting for Kentucky for every game except one, and now he wants to beat them. 6:30 - How many kids growing up as Kentucky fans end up going to play basketball at Kentucky? According to Rex, not too many, but Scott Padgett was one of them. 7:30 - Scott was dying to get Rex's autograph for his "Cat Paws" program book 15:00 - As a talented athlete growing up playing all kinds of sports, why did Scott stick with basketball? 18:30 - When did Scott realize he was seriously being recruited by Rick Pitino and Kentucky? 25:30 - After a tough adjustment to college during his freshman year, Scott recognized he would have to earn his spot back on the Kentucky basketball team. 31:30 - Scott nearly left Kentucky and even enrolled at Louisville, at least until Coach Pitino found out. OUT - "I almost died" 36:30 - As a lifelong Kentucky fan, where does his Elite 8 game-winner or cutting the nets down compare to winning games in the NBA? 44:30 - Where did Scott find the confidence as a shooter, especially in those big moments with the game on the line? 54:30 - Kentucky now has a 2nd generation of Padgetts, with his son on the football team. Scott shares what it's like as a Dad watching his kids pursue their own athletic dreams. 59:30 - The guys recall each of their stories meeting the great Muhammad Ali Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by CBS Sports College Basketball Analyst, Clark Kellogg. After being one of the best players in the country at Ohio State, he talks about his transition from the NBA to television. It's not too surprising, that with his dedication to his craft, Kellogg has become one of the best voices in all of college basketball. 7:00 - Where did Clark's iconic free throw routine come from? Rex admits it's his favorite part of his game from back in the day. 10:00 - After all these years, Clark looks back on his basketball career and says the biggest disappointment was losing the State High School Championship game. His 51 points remains an Ohio record to this day. 13:30 - How did Clark make an immediate impact on the court in both college and the NBA? It wasn't easy separating himself from the rest of the Class of 1979, one of the best recruiting classes ever. 20:30 - For everyone that only knows Clark as a TV guy, Rex and Josh have to remind them about how his NBA career ended short, and how he made that transition off the court. 29:00 - How did Clark become one of the best voices in all of college basketball? His broadcasting career began in the booth, and with his faith, his life found purpose once again after his playing career ended. 37:00 - As one of the leading voices in college basketball, what is Clark's opinion on Name, Image and Likeness and how it has changed the landscape of college athletics? 47:00 - Clark looks at the Kentucky Wildcats and the rest of the landscape in college basketball right now. Who are the teams Clark will be talking about come the NCAA Tournament? 56:00 - Clark shares his relationship with another friend of the show, Seth Davis. How has their mutual love for basketball kept the friendship strong after all these years? 57:00 - The origin of spurtability and the 1996 Wildcats Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by ABA/NBA veteran Len Elmore, who is now a practicing attorney and professor for Columbia University. He discusses how his passion for both education and sports helped him flourish into the incredibly accomplished man he is both on and off the basketball court.  5:00 - How much of Len's upbringing during the Civil Rights Movement helped influence his pursuits later in life outside of basketball? 8:30 - It wasn't basketball, but baseball that Len wanted to pursue as a professional athlete. That was at least until his growth spurt changed everything. 9:30 - Len played basketball like Chief in One Flew Over The Cucko's Nest 13:00 - Len discusses his transition from growing up in New York, and attending college at Maryland. Basketball became the culture on that campus as they became one of the best teams in the country. 16:30 - As an accomplished broadcaster himself, of course the guys have to ask Len about calling the iconic Duke-Kentucky game that ended with Christian Laettner's game winner. 22:30 - Len recalls the impact that watching John Carlos and Tommie Smith in the 1968 Olympics had on him, combined with reading Malcom X's autobiography. He said it caused an awakening for him then, and he continues to hold those principles to this day. 37:30 - Len never felt like basketball was beneath him with all of his scholarly pursuits, but he just decided after 10 seasons he was just done. 42:30 - There were plenty of Len's former teammates who took to heart what advice he had for them, knowing everyone needed to find their life's work after basketball.  47:00 - Len and the rest of the Terps gave John Wooden, Bill Walton and UCLA their toughest test as they were in the greatest winning streak in college basketball history. 50:00 - The NCAA Tournament had to expand their field after Len and Maryland were left out after losing the ACC Tournament to NC State 52:00 - Even though they weren't close, the passing of Len Bias just absolutely rocked Len Elmore just like everyone at the time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On The latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by former 11-year NBA veteran and Maryland Terrapins icon Walt Williams. Walt shares what it was like playing with Rex in Miami, his college days, what it meant to represent his home team at Maryland, following the legacy built by the late Len Bias and more. 5:00 - Walt gives all the credit to the high socks, it's funny what superstitions some players have, and some stick too. 9:00 - After being traded to Miami, Walt shared the advice he received from Rex that helped make it a seamless fit playing in a winning environment, after they both played for losing teams. 11:30 - Part of being a professional is recognizing that your game can always get better. Even if you're already a great player, you still need to put in that work to stay in the league. 15:30 - Walt's welcome to the NBA moment - "Hey we watch film in this league, I knew you would pull that move" 18:30 - The guys share their admiration and appreciation for Len Bias, and Walt talks about the impact his loss had on him. After that, there was a duty to follow in his footsteps going to Maryland. 25:00 - With the state of the Maryland program when he arrived on campus, Walt didn't realize until later in life just how important he was for the stability of that program in the wake of Bias's death and the NCAA violations. 27:30 - When the only point guard in the country that was 6'8" was Magic Johnson, Walt discusses how he ended up playing the position for Gary Williams at Maryland. 36:00 - What was the transition like leaving home in Maryland and arriving in Sacramento as an NBA player? 39:00 - Was Walt Williams ahead of his time? How would his style of game fit in the modern NBA compared to when he played in the 90's? 43:30 - As a businessman and entrepreneur in his post-playing career, Walt thinks he'd have made himself some money with Name Image and Likeness with the headband and those iconic knee high socks. 47:30 - The guys gush about George Gervin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coach K on His Legendary Career at Duke, Coaching Kobe Bryant and Team USA, Christian Laettner, More 5:30 Should Laettner have been ejected in 92? 7:00 - After a storied career, what is Coach K up to these days? What's life after coaching like for him? There's still plenty of basketball. 9:15 - Is it difficult watching Duke Basketball from a different capacity? Are there any regrets after leaving the bench, and now watching Jon Scheyer take over as Head Coach? 11:30 - What did Coach K see in Scheyer in his playing days at Duke that made him the perfect archetype to be a great coach? 18:30 - Where did Coach K gain his unparalleled work ethic? He goes back to his childhood and what he learned at West Point that he continues to use to this day. 22:30 - At West Point, it wasn't just learning from Coach Bobby Knight on the basketball court, but there were so many facets of leadership and life skills he learned at the Academy. 24:00 - Coach K's philosophy to "be worthy of winning"  28:00 - On the recruiting trail, Coach always made it a point of emphasis to understand what a player's relationship was with their mother, and you could learn even more if they had an older sister. 31:30 - With the success Coach K has had, especially in the NCAA Tournament, he describes how several of his teams may have been worthy of a National Championship, but may have fallen short because the one thing you can't fast track is experience. 42:00 - Where coaching USA Basketball ranks among the accomplishments of Coach K's career. To him, there's no greater honor than representing your country on the world stage. 45:30 - What was so special about The Redeem Team of 2008 under the leadership of Kobe Bryant? It was about winning a gold medal, but more so about winning the respect of their country. 48:00 - Kobe Bryant approaching Coach K in 2008 and asking to guard the best player on the opposing team. "Most people don't dream of moments" 52:00 - Coach K says Rex Chapman was one of the players Coach K always wanted to coach because he had a spirit and passion for the game. 54:00 - Coach K recalls "The Shot" and gives the guys his view of those final seconds in that incredible victory over the Kentucky WIldcats. It was at that moment he recognized he had to say something to the team he had just beaten. 59:00 - What Coach K's expectations are for Kentucky this season, and how hard it must be for John Calipari to have to go out and win every game for the fans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by the great coach, Tom Crean. Coming off his latest stint with the Georgia Bulldogs, the guys look back on his career which includes a number of wins over those Kentucky Wildcats in Bloomington. Tom explains where he found the drive to become one of the great recruiters in college basketball, and what it was like marrying into one of the great coaching families. 5:00 - What has Tom been up to since leaving Georgia? Is broadcasting going to be the next big thing for him, or is he itching to get back to coaching? 8:30 - How have both the college and pro games changed in the last few years with the influence of Name Image and Likeness plus the transfer portal? 15:00 - What separated some of the great ones Tom got to coach like Victor Oladipo?  21:30 - How competitive has it been on the recruiting trail with each program doing everything they can to secure the best players in the country? 25:00 - How old was Tom when he realized he was going to be a coach? 30:00 - Tom describes what it was like marrying into the family of coaches, and just how fun it can be when he's with both John and Jim Harbaugh. 35:00 - What was it like walking into the Indiana program, and what kind of a mess was there when he arrived? How long was it before Tom brought the Hoosiers back? 40:30 - Tom details the Final Four run with Marquette and when he recognized just how special Dwyane Wade was. 54:00 - How was handling a player with NBA expectations like Anthony Edwards compared to Dwyane Wade or Victor Oladipo that had to grow into their NBA-level talent? 1:06:30 - The impact a coach can make for an individual player, that can set the course for the rest of their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by 2x NBA All-Star and Grandmama himself, Larry Johnson. Rex's former teammate in Charlotte for 3 whole months, Larry talks about his time with one of the greatest college teams ever at UNLV and how he had to change his game after undergoing back surgery. 3:45 - Rex recalls the first time he met Larry Johnson at the USA basketball trials, and LJ admits he was a bit star struck seeing Rex Chapman for the first time. 5:45 - Growing up in Dallas, TX, Larry says he was a football player who ultimately picked basketball. He says he can still throw the football today. 9:10 - Larry talks about meeting Stacey Augmon, and figuring out that UNLV would be the right place for him to transfer out of UNLV. 11:50 - After being the star of one of the most famous college basketball teams of all time, Larry talks about how important paying the student athletes is now. 16:50 - How soon after arriving on campus at UNLV did LJ recognize this was the best team in the country?  21:00 - When Duke and UNLV met for the first time, LJ mentions a surprise guest that provided the pre-game pep talk that gave them the confidence to blow out the Blue Devils by 30. 23:40 - When it came to the rematch, LJ admitted he didn't give it his all, and Duke came in wanting to avenge their loss from the year before. 27:30 - How getting snubbed by SMU motivated LJ to continue his pursuit of playing professional basketball. 33:30 - What is the origin story of Grandmama, and how Larry Johnson ended up at Converse, because UNLV was a Nike school. 43:00 - How did Larry change his game after injuring his back? One of the most athletic players in the NBA had to completely change how he played overnight. He might have been an even better fit in today's game. 49:00 - What were those pickup games like on the set of Space Jam? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by the great actor, "Dollar" Bill Stern on Billions, Kelly AuCoin. Before getting into the Portland Trail Blazers, the guys discuss how much they have in common. Both growing up in politics and pursuing acting, Josh and Kelly both connected with their passion for basketball. 4:30 - Kelly discusses his upcoming role in "The Sterling Affairs" and the opportunity of a lifetime for a diehard basketball fan. 6:30 - Rex and Kelly may look alike, but Kelly and Josh have a lot more in common. Both of their fathers served in Congress, so how did they both become actors? 14:00 - Kelly admits that it took him a long time to tell his parents he wanted to pursue acting professionally, which was a huge shock. 18:30 - Kelly and his father bonded over basketball, and sometimes the fundamentals of the game could be applied to his approach to acting. 27:00 - How did Kelly fall in love with basketball and especially the Portland Trailblazers? 33:00 - What makes Damian Lillard so special, and why Kelly says he is the most clutch player in the NBA. 42:30 - Kelly's lists his All-Time Starting 5 Trailblazers 49:15 - Kelly flips the script and asks Josh what made him want to become an actor after growing up playing sports. 51:30 - Josh names the actor, then Kelly and Rex give the basketball player comparison. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Arkansas Legend Pat Bradley. Our resident Wildcats do their best to contain this Razorback fanatic's enthusiasm after the latest Final Four run. Hearing from one of the best shooters in college basketball history, they ask Pat for his basketball origins growing up just outside of Boston. 5:00 - Pat explains how Arkansas-Kentucky became one of the best rivalries in the SEC, even playing on Super Bowl Sunday. 7:30 - Pat grew up playing all kinds of sports, but living just 4 miles from the Boston Garden, it was basketball. How special were Larry Bird and those Celtics were to a young Pat Bradley? 13:00 - How on earth did Pat end up in Fayetteville, Arkansas after growing up in New England? What did Nolan Richardson see in Pat that other coaches didn't? 22:30 - What do all great shooters have in common, with just how dedicated they are to their craft? 31:30 - Reflecting on his college choice, Pat says it was the best decision to get out of his comfort zone, only to find out Arkansas ended up feeling like home to him. 36:00 - After his playing days were over, Pat was fortunate enough to have basketball remain a part of his life both with coaching and broadcasting. 41:30 - Rex and Pat draw a parallel from playing basketball to Josh's acting. What does it take to be among the best actors or basketball players in the world? 46:00 - What is it about being one of the faces of the SEC that Pat enjoys the most? 52:30 - Where do the Razorbacks stack up in the SEC compared to the Kentucky Wildcats? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Rex Chapman Show, Rex and Josh chat with veteran NCAA head coach Bobby Cremins. 10:00 - Bobby Cremins tried to recruit Rex to Georgia Tech 20:00 - Bobby is a first generation Irish- American 27:00 - Bobby's #1 goal was to play pro basketball but he came up short 36:00 - As a coach for Georgia Tech in that era he had to game plan to play against Michael Jordan and James Worthy 48:45 - The ACC head coaches took a lot of pride in making it the most competitive conference in the country. 51:00 - Tough losses in the NCAA take their toll on a head coach 59:30 - As a college coach, Bobby has strong feelings on NIL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this edition of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by former NBA veteran, Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf. Two decades before NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick decided to take a knee during "The Star-Spangled Banner," it was Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf who refused to stand for the national anthem. In his new memoir, "In The Blink Of An Eye," he tells of his drive and success in the sport, but that his principles came first. 04:00 - The first time Rex and Mahmoud met in the NBA 05:30 - Growing up in Mississippi 10;15 - Mahmoud was discovered on the playground 15:00 - Mahmoud meets Dale Brown for the first time 20:00 - Josh remembers going to watch LSU v Kentucky when Mahmoud was playing 23:00 - Mahmoud grew up with Tourette Syndrome but wasn't diagnosed until age 17, his symptoms actually caused him to practice harder 35:00 - Mahmoud wrote a 24 page story about Dr. J and carried it around with him. 38:45 - Mahmoud was Steph Curry before Steph Curry, and he was Colin Kaepernick before Colin Kaepernnick 52:00 - Traveling as a basketball player to play in different countries really opened up Mahmoud's mind to how people are treated in America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this edition of the Rex Chapman Show with Hopkins, the hosts are joined by TCM host, Ben Mankiewicz. Ben talks about his famous family, future projects, and Season 4 of his podcast "The Plot Thickens" - out October 25th centering on the story of Pam Grier as only she can tell it. Her sudden stardom, her iconic roles, her fights against the system. It's a story of bravery, both onscreen and off. It's a story about race in Hollywood and race in America. 05:00 - Ben's famous grandfather is the topic of 2020 film "Mank" 18:00 - Ben started his career as a television reporter in SC 23:30 - Ben went to Tufts because he was caught up in college rankings and was afraid to go to school in New York. 27:15 - Ben is one of the creators of Young Turks 34:00 - You have to give up music or movies forever, which one do you choose? 39:00 - The Plot Thickens is launching Season 4 on Pam Grier 44:45 - Podcasting as a collaborative art Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, it's 12-year MLB veteran and current MLB network analyst Bill Ripken. We find out who Bill thinks is the true homerun king and what it was like growing up as the little brother of baseball's Iron Man, Cal Ripken Jr. Follow MLB Network on Twitter and listen to Sirius XM MLB radio to hear more from Bill. 09:15: Cal was always a good big brother 10:45: He could always go to the ballpark with his dad (Cal Sr) but he never forced him to go into baseball to follow him and big brother 16:30: Cal Sr's influence on both Cal and Bill and the different approaches he had to take 19:00: Recalling a moment when his dad was outwardly proud (which wasn't common for him) 22:30: Why he was able to scrap out a long career despite not having the talent of his brother 27:00: His mom's influence on him and the family 30:00: Being a good analyst on TV  33:00: What retirement was like for him and how Cal Jr had an influence on that 39:00: The youth sports projects he's involved it 44:00: Bill doesn't think there is much of a difference in the game of baseball over the last 50 years, just how we look at it (good stuff on analytics) 49:00: At the end of the day, baseball is a game that's best kept simple when coaching on the field 51:30: Bill leans towards Aaron Judge as the home run king 1:00:15: Ohtani is a freak- Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by the Sports columnist and commentator, Christine Brennan. The first female sports reporter for the Miami Herald and the first woman at the Washington Post on the Washington Football team beat in 1985, continues her advocacy work today. Christine talks about her past as an advocate for women in sports and Title IX and what's next for women's sports. Follow Christine on Twitter 03:30 - How Christine's relationship with her father got her interested in sports. 07:30 - Not every girl that plays sports is a "tom boy" 12:00 - After the rise of women in sports, the next achievement will be a female president. 17:00 - Many remember their times in team sports fondly, are we depriving young women of that? 23:00 - The younger generation has a better handle on equality than the older generation. It is easy to see in today's youth. 33:00 - Christine vows to be the successful female role mode that she never had. 36:00 - When was the first time you were treated poorly by a chauvinist in sports? 43:45 - Rex recalls the first woman who worked for an NBA team in the 80's and how bad he felt for her. 54:00 - Christine discusses today's controversy around athletes who are transitioning or trans and how it affects women's sports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by the Head Coach of the Providence College Friars, Ed Cooley. The reigning Naismith Coach of the Year discusses the success he's achieved at Providence, and the trials he went through as a young man to get there. He has called himself a born leader, and the guys get into what makes a great coach, especially in the changing landscape of college basketball. 10:30 - Ed opens up about what he saw as a young man, and how he felt empowered by basketball, not the surroundings he grew up with in Providence. 14:00 - If he wasn't going to be a pro player, Ed recognized that he was going to find something that would keep him in basketball, and it turned out to be coaching. 15:30 - While playing at Stonehill College, Ed quickly realized that he was different from the rest of the white kids on campus, and he learned to embrace diversity when those opportunities presented themselves. 20:00 - Who were the coaches that set an example for Ed Cooley on what it meant to be a great coach? There are certain qualities every man needs to be a leader of young men, and nothing was more important to him than having patience. 24:00 - In a changing landscape for college basketball, Ed discusses what qualities he looks for in recruiting that makes a certain player a good fit for Providence College? 30:00 - Since joining Providence as the first minority Head Coach of the Basketball program, Ed has made it a point of emphasis to use his platform and profile to empower others around him. Give everyone an opportunity because of who they are, not just because of what they look like. 39:00 - How has Name, Image and Likeness changed Ed's approach at Providence? It seemed like all aspects of being a coach in this era of college athletics had changed overnight. 43:00 - "The Me Doesn't Become the We if we don't win. Period. End of Discussion" 45:00 - After signing an extension with Providence after this past season, Ed has made it a goal to one day be looked at as the greatest coach in that program's history. He wants to be a pillar of the Providence community for people to look up to. 52:00 - Ed enters this year as the longest tenured basketball coach in the Big East. How is he embracing being one of the leaders in college basketball with a changing of the guard with guys like Jay Wright and Coach K stepping down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can follow Jeff on Twitter and Instagram @GoodmanHoops. On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by College Hoops Insider Jeff Goodman for the latest from the hardwood, plus what got him into journalism. 4:30 - Jeff describes the love/hate relationship he has with the Kentucky Wildcat fanbase. 7:00 - Growing up in Massachusetts, Jeff admits that his favorite NBA player growing up was Andrew Toney, who with the 76ers, always killed the Celtics. 10:00 - Jeff recalls conducting his first interview with NBA players as a teenager. He convinced James Worthy and Michael Cooper into calling his parents' answering machine, and even though he hadn't hit puberty yet, Jeff knew this is what he wanted to do. 14:30 - Jeff brings up meeting Josh on the set of Cougartown, and all Josh wanted to talk about was which recruits the Kentucky Wildcats were getting. 29:00 - Jeff speaks to the tough position he's in as a recruiting insider and analyst, and why his relationship with a number of coaches including John Calipari have been contentious. He is a University of Arizona alum and they don't even like him there. 38:00 - How Jeff ended up at the University or Arizona, and how someone who didn't play a lot of high level basketball was able to evaluate the best college players in the country. 43:30 - Josh and Jeff are living the dream, hosting podcasts with their heroes. 45:00 - Jeff recalls his first time meeting Derek Smith, and just how special of a person he was. It's been no surprise to anyone just how successful his son Nolan has been at Louisville. 49:00 - The 2022-23 Season is defined as "The Year of The Big". Jeff goes over a number of the exciting coaching hires for the upcoming year. 56:30 - Why are the Kentucky Wildcats the #7 team in the country according to Jeff Goodman? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Jemele Hill, the incredible journalist, producer and podcaster. What in life gave Jemele the ability to ask the difficult questions and to continue to push the envelope? From an early age, Jemele had a passion for writing and for sports, and it has evolved so much to get to this point. 6:00 - The former CNN+ colleagues talked about their short time together, and what lessons were learned after things came to an end so abruptly. 12:00 - Jemele grew up playing all kinds of sports, excelling at baseball and softball. All while discovering her passions for reading, writing and journalism. 19:00 - While reflecting on all of their upbringings, Jemele comments on the public education she received and the strong sense of identity she received coming from Detroit. 23:30 - Fast forward to today, and how important it is to restrict what is being taught in schools and banning books is just so confusing to people that are seeking out knowledge. 26:00 - Jemele talks about meeting one of the most beloved people from Kentucky, Muhammad Ali. 29:30 - The state of today's media is no longer participating in the very oath Jemele took when she became a newspaper writer all those years ago: "To Comfort the Afflicted, and Afflict The Comfortable." 39:00 - Despite what our country has been through over the last few years, Jemele still has faith in a number of bright spots in traditional media that provide plenty of hope for the future. 42:30 - Jemele previews her forthcoming memoir "Uphill" and discusses the adversity she went through, and felt should be in her own words. 51:00 - What was going through Jemele's mind watching Serena Williams step away from tennis? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by former MLB pitcher LaTroy Hawkins. After playing more than 20 years in the bigs, LaTroy has stayed in baseball, as a special assistant with the Minnesota Twins. He discusses where the game of baseball is today, plus what could have been if he stuck with basketball over baseball. 10:00 - LaTroy discusses life growing up in Gary, Indiana and what he learned about working for everything you have. 13:00 - What was it about baseball that made LaTroy want to pursue being a professional? Some advice from his grandfather helped him stay committed to the sport. 19:30 - On the basketball court, LaTroy Hawkins was one of the best players in Gary, but then Big Dog Glenn Robinson hit his growth spurt and became Indiana's Mr Basketball. 20:00 - Rex on Big Dog Glenn Robinson and his jump shot.... "and I should know because I don't [play defense] either." 22:30 - After LaTroy was signed by the Twins, he discussed when baseball really started to click. While battling in the minors, he felt he could really be a pro player. 29:00 - After growing up idolizing Michael Jordan, LaTroy talks about playing against him when he was in the minor leagues with the Birmingham Barons.  30:10 - LaTroy goes out of his way to meet Michael Jordan in Birmingham "...oh cool I had some girls in Gary, Indiana" 35:30 - LaTroy recalls what it was like getting the call to The Show, and why coming off the 1994 strike season created a unique set of circumstances for him. 40:00 - How the transition from starter to relief pitcher worked for LaTroy, while others would feel like it would be some kind of demotion. 44:00 - For most professional athletes, they want to retire on their own terms, and when they feel like they could still do it. For LaTroy, he made that decision at 42 years old, after 21 years in the Bigs. He could even throw a 96 MPH fastball! 51:00 - One of LaTroy's best friends with the Twins, Pat Mahomes, was so excited to share being a father with him. The story of how LaTroy became the godfather to Patrick Mahomes II. 57:30 - What kind of mindset did LaTroy have when he was on the mound and it was 1-on-1 with so many of those great hitters of the 90's and 00's? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Pro Football Hall of Fame Running Back Eric Dickerson. There's so much Eric has accomplished both on and off the field, that gave him the inspiration for him to write "Watch My Smoke." Still living in Los Angeles, Eric is just one of the many Rams fans celebrating the Super Bowl Championship. 7:00 - Josh is losing his mind, sitting down with his two all-time idols: Rex Chapman and Eric Dickerson. You even get the tour of his childhood bedroom, covered in their posters. 9:00 - Josh shows off his poster collection, including Rex Chapman and Eric Dickerson 13:00 - Going back to Eric's childhood, he found out his identity not only on the football field, but he also found out he was adopted. How did those two moments in his life mold him into the man he would become? 15:00 - Eric remembers signing up for football, and in his first game he scored 6 Touchdowns. He was hooked on football ever since. 21:00 - It's his rookie season, and Eric has his "Welcome to the NFL Moment." Josh remembers watching one of the iconic Eric Dickerson touchdowns when he was 12 years old. 24:30 - As the Number 1 player in the country coming out of high school in 1979, his recruitment story is unlike anything you've ever heard before. He wanted to go to Oklahoma, but as a Texas boy, he decided to stay closer to home, ultimately going to SMU. 30:00 - How Eric Dickerson ended up at SMU, after pulling his commitment from Texas A&M (his mom convincing him to go to SMU) 33:00 - The famed gold Trans A&M, and how the story of that car followed Eric for the last 40 years. 38:00 - It took decades for SMU to finally welcome back Eric Dickerson and Craig James after the school received the death penalty. While it was great to be invited back, Eric still wonders why it took so long. 40:30 - Looking back on his own experience in college, Eric says Name Image and Likeness was a long time coming, and the student athletes deserve to be given some kind of compensation beyond the scholarship for what they put into their programs. 45:00 - The biggest impact NIL can provide for student athletes is giving them the means to take care of themselves and provide financial literacy. Eric and Rex both recall their first paycheck and wondering why they were losing money to taxes. 49:00 - Was going to the pros easy for Eric? He joined the Rams and immediately began setting rushing records that still haven't been broken. 51:00 - When Eric first recognized he was in the NFL, and what that felt like being in a professional football game. 58:00 - The NFL still has a number of great running backs, but Eric explains why no one will ever break his single-season rushing record. 1:01:00 - Coming off the Super Bowl Championship for the LA Rams, Eric is thrilled with how they've come together, and how important the title was for the city. Bottom line, he just wants his team to win. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cedric Ceballos Talks Lakers, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Playing With Rex -03:00: Surviving COVID -05:30: Where his drive to be good came from -06:30: Early on, he was not a good basketball player at all, but made sure to sit near coaches to learn -09:00: His brother being good is what pushed him to want to be good at basketball -11:15: Growing up on a block that drugs were constantly being sold on -16:30: Working at a Taco Bell in junior college and how it led to his basketball career -19:00: Why he decided to go to CS-Fullerton -24:00: Ced being drafted by Phoenix and his first stint with the Suns and the advice the vets gave him about scoring that was helpful -30:30: The first time Ced played against Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan and playing with the philosophy that every game that could be your last -34:00: Going back to their days as teammates in Phoenix -36:00: The best in-game dunks during his first stint with Phoenix and his strong off-balance skills -41:30: Knowing Warren G and going to high school with a member of N.W.A. and having a passion for music -44:30: Being part of the "bridge" Lakers teams between the Showtime era and Shaq/Kobe -50:00: How Ced ended up back in Phoenix and recalling an early season game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by NBA Champion Matt Barnes. After a long career in the NBA, Matt talks about his path to finding his 2nd career in the media. The All The Smoke Podcast is the culmination of Matt and Stephen Jackson's playing careers turned into stories and insightful interviews. You can follow Matt Barnes on Twitter and Instagram 5:00 - Growing up in Sacramento in a mostly white school, Matt talks about how important it was to him to stand up for himself in the face of racism. 9:30 - To this day, Matt describes himself as a football player on the basketball court. What mentality did he take from the gridiron to ratchet it up a notch on defense? 12:30 - Matt's "Business Decision" to choose basketball over football had everything to do with longevity. Matt Barnes could have been a star player in the NFL, but he never envisioned he could have lasted 14 years like he did in the NBA. 15:00 - In 2006, Matt reached a crossroads in his career where he thought playing basketball would come to an end. He received an opportunity from Don Nelson in Golden State that extended his career another decade. 19:30 - Working with the next generation of NBA players, Matt describes coaching AAU Basketball, and preparing kids on what it's like to be in the NBA for over a decade. 28:00 - How Matt's reputation helped set a special mentality and edge to his game. How does he stay true to himself to this day as a member of the media, based on who he was on the basketball court. 30:00 - Barnes talks about his approach to being a member of the media "Jay-Z Said it Best" 35:00 - Compared to how he grew up, Matt knows his kids now don't have it as tough as he did. It's so important to him to give those kids all the opportunities to overcome adversity on the court. Don't let anyone run away from the grind to becoming the best version of yourself. 38:30 - The Kobe Bryant pump fake. Matt takes it back to meeting Kobe Bryant while he was at UCLA, and how the competitive fire built between the two. It all worked out between the two, with Barnes getting a phone call to join Kobe in LA. 44:00 - Being Able to Watch Kobe Bryant grow and develop, breaking his hand and going through left-handed workouts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Ice Cube. The legendary rapper and actor discusses the success of Big3 Basketball, now in the middle of its 5th season, while looking back on his rap career. All these years later, Cube explains the message behind his music and why he still enjoys making it to this day. You can Follow Ice Cube @IceCube on Twitter and Instagram You can follow Big 3 Basketball at @TheBig3 on Twitter and Instagram 6:10 - It's been 34 years since "Straight Outta Compton" came out, putting a lens on police misconduct. Today, it remains an issue that Cube is working on to make progress. 15:10 - How did Ice Cube figure out his style, balancing between sharing his reality, while trying to make hit records that could reach people outside of the hood? 19:00 - Based on his success as a musician, Ice Cube spoke about what interested him in pursuing a film career and the influence John Singleton had on him. 26:00- How did Cube become such a giant sports fan? 28:00 - Now in its 5th season, Ice Cube describes the formula to the success of Big3 Basketball, and how it has grown in popularity, by providing great games for a starving fanbase. 34:30 - Ice Cube is excited for his Raiders this year, but it'll be a gauntlet getting through the AFC, including the Chiefs, Chargers and Broncos right there in the division. 36:00 - Cube says this year for the Lakers is going to have to be better than it was last year. This team will be hungrier after the disappointing finish and if they run it back with the same group, the Lakers will still be competing for an NBA Championship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Super Bowl Champion Willie Colon. After a career in the NFL, protecting Ben Roethlisberger and other QB greats, Willie made the transition to joining the media. He lets the guys in on all the fun that goes on as a radio talk show host, still keeping close tabs on all sports. 7:30 - Willie describes playing all kinds of sports growing up in the Bronx, and when it came to football, he almost missed his calling after missing his first freshman practice. 13:00 - Willie took to football quickly, but how was he as a leader? He allowed his courageous play on the football field to speak for him, with the team following his example. 18:00 - Willie describes what it was like being bigger than everyone else, and how that translates into NFL success. That said, it took a long time before Willie realized he could be a professional football player. 25:30 - How important was staying close to home for Willie when making his college decision?  30:50 - Willie had multiple "Welcome To The NFL" moments because when you're drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, you learn not only about the proud tradition, but the high expectations that come with it. 37:50 - Willie melting when he finds out he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers 43::50 - Willie talks about the transition from Bill Cowher to Mike Tomlin, which is a big deal for a Steelers organization that only has had 3 coaches since 1966. 49:50 - Life after football is keeping Willie busy, touching on his Foundation as well as his sports bar which you can visit in his neighborhood. 1:06:00 - Willie on Deshaun Watson's 6-GM Suspension Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by Naismith Hall of Famer and former Maryland Coach Gary Williams. It's been 20 years since the 2002 National Championship, and looking back on his success on the sidelines, the guys ask Gary about what it took for him to reach that pinnacle, with stories along the way. 11:00 - Following the passing of Bill Russell, Gary touches on what made him special both on and off the court.  13:10 - Gary will always remember the impact Bill Russell made in advancing civil rights, and defending Muhammad Ali when everyone else wanted the champ in jail. 16:45 - Gary recalls the first time he spoke to Bill Russell as a "young man", and the piece of rebounding advice that to this day he never forgot. 18:30 - When did Gary realize he was going to be a basketball lifer? Even when Billy Cunningham may have put an end to his dreams of being an NBA player, there was always coaching. 24:30 - Rex remembers moving to DC to play with the Bullets and moving in next door to Gary Williams. At the time, Gary said the only job he would have left Ohio State was to return to his alma mater, even with the probation. 29:30 - A decade later, Gary had Maryland in back to back Final Fours, including the 2002 National Championship. What was it about building those teams that made an NCAA Title possible? 36:00 - Gary describes Steve Francis arriving on campus. How soon from when he got there, did Gary realize how special he was? 40:30 - While recruiting Kevin Durant, there was another player that caught Gary Williams' attention. What was it about Greivis Vasquez that made him become one of the best Maryland players of all time? 42:00 - There was no one more impactful for Maryland than Juan Dixon. Gary talks about the fight and passion he played with in games, and in practice, that laid the foundation for the National Championship run. 48:30 - Gary looks back on Mike Krzyzewski's career and says there is no Duke program without his accomplishments. 52:00 - How Name, Image and Likeness has changed the landscape of college athletics, and Gary can recall 35 years ago trying to make inroads to allow more incentive for players to play for the NCAA. 57:00 - While he's retired, Gary is still thinking about how the game has evolved, and some changes he'd like to curb to see more fundamentals and less 3-pointers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Podcast, the guys are joined by former NBA All-Star and now Head Coach of the Vanderbilt Commodores, Jerry Stackhouse.  12:10 - Basketball will always be a part of Stack's life, describing his love for the game. Now in this next chapter of his career, he enjoys being able to share it with others. 15:45 - How good was Stack's Oak Hill Academy team? Were they even good enough to match up with his UNC team? 23:00 - From Oak Hill to Chapel Hill, Stack says his time with Steve Smith, and then Dean Smith, was a formal education in the art of basketball. 25:30 - For all the critics of North Carolina's academics, Stack is a prime example of what it takes to be a diligent student athlete. Now as the Head Coach at Vanderbilt, he takes pride in setting the standard for academics in college basketball. 29:10 - That wasn't a scowl Stack was playing with, it was seriousness. You have to be serious to not only make the NBA, but stay in the NBA. It was especially hard coming into a losing situation after the success in high school and college. 34:30 - The comparisons to Michael Jordan were always flattering, but Stack never saw himself as the next MJ after following him at North Carolina. Leave it to Mike to turn that into bulletin board material when they battled in the NBA. 34:45 - Stackhouse on Michael Jordan 40:30 - How NIL has impacted college athletics, and what approach Stack and Vanderbilt has taken to enhance their platform for the student athletes. 51:00 - What impact will Scotty Pippen Jr have at the NBA level after wrapping up his collegiate career at Vanderbilt? Who's the next man up for Vandy with Pippen Jr headed to the next level? 56:00 - The rivalries in the SEC are alive and well, especially when talking about the Commodores and the Wildcats. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by legendary play-by-play voice Gus Johnson. Over his storied career, Gus gives his perspective on living life to the fullest and bringing passion and energy for everything beyond calling games. 7:20 - Right off the jump, Rex and Josh have to tap into Gus's connections to Kentucky Basketball. 11:00 - Gus admits that sports were an escape for him growing up in Detroit, before finding his true calling in the broadcast booth. 15:00 - As a Detroit native and lifelong fan, no athlete will mean more to Gus Johnson than Isiah Thomas. He even got into fights arguing over Isiah Thomas. 22:45 - Gus describes making that transition from athlete to sports broadcaster. He said it was immediate that he fell head-over-heels in love. 26:30 -Gus says he is where he is today because of Bryant Gumbel, and his Mom had a crush on him too. 38:00 - Gus explains why he calls games with plenty of gusto, and even if others say he's over the top, he understands what he's bringing to so many athletes every time he calls a game. Every game is a historical piece, and Gus considers himself a sports historian. 49:30 - Gus goes back to his days calling Knicks games, and says Patrick Ewing helped him succeed and reach the pinnacle of his career. 50:30 -Gus did whatever he could to get that interview with Patrick Ewing on his first day with the Knicks 55:00 - Josh has to ask about a few of Gus's iconic moments from the broadcast booth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by legendary broadcaster Bob Costas. One of the most accomplished men in all of broadcasting, Bob discusses how his career got started in St Louis, and where some of his favorite stops have been along the way. Bob goes into great detail about some of his most memorable people and places that remain with him after all these years.  4:00 - For Rex, Bob will always be the voice of the Spirits of St Louis. For all the guys that were a part of the ABA, including Rex's father, it will always be a fraternity. 6:40 - Thinking of his own nickname, Boy Wonder, Rex asks Bob about how he was so accomplished, so fast. Bob talks about his big break with KMOX from when he was at Syracuse University.  12:30 - A decade ago, Bob used his platform to discuss the tragic story of Jovan Belcher and how it reflected on the gun culture in our country. How does Bob find perspective after these events seem to happen over and over again? 26:00 - Bob speaks to how special Muhammad Ali both in and outside the boxing ring. He remains one of Bob's favorite athletes ever for who he was as a principled and disciplined man. 37:30 - In a life spent in the front row of some of the greatest events of all time, Bob says some of the moments that will always look back on is his conversation with Paul McCartney, Michael Jordan's final shot with the Bulls and Kirk Gibson's Walk off Home Run. 45:00 - After hearing of the passing of Ray Liotta, and remembering Field of Dreams, the guys discuss classic baseball movies, and Bob's most recent trip to Dyersville, IA. 54:00 - Rex has to know when Bob figured out he had a gift for articulating his thoughts, and when it all seemed to click with sports. 56:30 - What advice does Bob have for any up and coming broadcasters, and how the great ones found their voice? 1:08:00 - Josh has always had this vision of Bob Costas and Billy Crystal sharing a drink in New York. Not only did that happen, but they had Mickey Mantle with them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of The Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys chat with legendary sports-media personality Michael Wilbon, who works as an ESPN NBA analyst and the co-host of Pardon The Interruption. In 2021, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame honored him with the Curt Gowdy Award, which is given to outstanding basketball writers and broadcasters. Follow Michael on Twitter and Instagram. 05:30: Wilbon's early impressions of Rex   07:00: Growing up on the Southside of Chicago with African-American Athletes playing on the Northside in Chicago   10:30: When he realized he wasn't going pro (when Kirby Puckett took him deep in a travel ball game   013:30: When he knew he could marry his love of sports and his skill of writing   18:00: When he had the confidence that came with the skill - writing on deadline will develop it or break it   21:00: Wilbon became a columnist around the same time Rex became a Bullet   24:00: Michael feels like sports has done a better job of embracing diversity quicker in the writer & media world than in other areas   26:30: How the seeds of PTI and becoming a TV presence became planted starting with The Sports Reporters   31:15: Wilbon's friendship with Tony Kornheiser and why they became good buds   39:00: Michael doesn't ever go into the comments section on his stuff, hates the purposefully decisive stuff    44:30: He feels honored when former athletes ask him to write things for them   -46:00: When Michael felt uncomfortable with the fame and advice he got from Charles Barkley   -48:50: Wilbon was in Hawaii for a Holiday Bowl and had 3 huge stories happen to him in one trip there   -53:40: Taking us through some of the big events MW covered - the one that stands out most was an event when Kathy Freeman won at the Sydney Olympics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by another Dukie: the great ESPN analyst, Jay Bilas. On the heels of Coach K's Last Dance, Jay discusses the impact Mike Krzyzewski had on his life (both on and off the court). There's no one better equipped to discuss the NCAA's changing landscape with Name, Image and Likeness deals, and Jay breaks down the future of college sports. 1:30 - How did Jay end up at Duke all the way from California? It came down to the best recruiting pitch, which came from Mike Krzyzewski who at that time had the least success among his top candidates.  5:30 - Jay never felt he was one of the best players on the court, and it wasn't until later on in high school when he started to believe in his ability and how far it could take him. 7:15 - It's 1982 and Jay steps on campus at Duke University. What was so special about that #1 recruiting class, and what did Mike Krzyzewski do to assemble all that talent? 9:15 -Jay Bilas having to play against Ralph Sampson was like facing your Dad in the Driveway 13:00 - When did Jay discover he was gifted behind the microphone? It actually goes all the way back to high school, without even knowing it would be in his future. 15:30 -Jay Bilas, the secret he kept from all his friends. He was a competitive dancer. 18:00 - The impact Jay Bilas has made on a huge platform like ESPN. What has been the one thing throughout his decades on the network, as he's grown his voice, that he has always been conscious of?  21:30 - Name, Image and Likeness changed the landscape of college sports, so how has Jay viewed the NCAA's reaction to the end of amateur athletics? 25:00 - While the NCAA has stood by and let this all happen, the goal posts have been moved from amateurism to employment. How can these institutions remain in control while the athletes are finally recognizing they are the reason why revenue continues to go up? 32:30 - The NCAA will need a new President with Mark Emmert stepping down, but Jay has to ask, Do you want to take over the Titanic after it hit the iceberg? 36:00 - It's still a bit of a shock that Mike Krzyzewski is finally stepping down, 40 years after Jay stepped on Duke's campus to play for him. There's so much Coach K has shown him over their decades long relationship, including one moment that took place right after Christian Laettner hit The Shot, that Jay will never forget. 41:45 - What is the outlook for the Kentucky Wildcats after they had a disappointing finish in the NCAA Tournament against St Peter's? 46:30 - How the Kentucky's and Duke's continue to recruit the best classes year after year, and how that changes with free transfers and the threat of declaring early for the NBA. 51:00 - Who are the next generation of great coaches after watching Coach K and Jay Wright retire after this past season? 52:45 - If Jay Bilas had the first pick in the NBA Draft, who would he take between Chet Holmgren, Jabari Smith or Paolo Banchero? 58:30 - Why is it only in basketball we have to debate which era had the best players? The game has never been better, with more talented players. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys sit for an interview with Gary Gulman, a standup comedian and mental health advocate, who happens to love basketball. Gary discusses his short-lived D1 football career, the first time he ever heard of Rex, and how he learned to overcome anxiety and depression. Follow Gary on Twitter and check out his HBO special "Gary Gulman: The Great Depresh" on HBO Max. 01:00 - Rex and Josh discuss Chris Paul's altercation with a Dallas fan. 09:20 - Gary Gulman remembers reading about Rex in scouting magazines before he even went to Kentucky. 12:00 - Rex discusses how long it took him to realize he was struggling with mental health. 17:00 - Gary's HBO special "The Great Depresh" was really impactful on Josh 25:45 - Rex talks about a panic attack episode he had at Kentucky 30:00 - Gary discusses how young people today are so open with discussing their fears and struggles, he recalls being afraid to let other male athletes know that he drank Sprite. The guys think about how the "Bob Knight" style of coaching affected players and young athletes. 35:40 - Rex tells his own Bob Knight story 52:45 - Being from the Boston area, Gary of course is choosing the Celtics as his NBA champion this year. 53:45 - Gary wants to know if we'll ever see another Steph Curry? 56:00 - Gary points out the evolution of the game and Rex recalls some classic players who would have fit perfectly today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins, the guys are joined by 4-time NBA Champion Will Perdue, who was a key piece during the Bulls' first 3-peat. Will discusses his NBA career, attributing his basketball success to the state of Kentucky, becoming an analyst with the Chicago Bulls, the 2022 NBA Playoffs and more. You can follow Will Perdue on Twitter and Instagram 11:30 - How Will came to play basketball in a football and baseball obsessed Florida. Was it just because he ultimately became the tallest in his grade? 17:00 - Thanks to his late growth spurt, Will discussed how he became consumed with basketball, progressed through high school and ended up at Vanderbilt University. 35:30 - Will attributes part of his success to the state of Kentucky, and he mentions how nationally, its perception doesn't match what he's come to learn about the great people there. 35:00 - Rex and Will trade stories of when they realized that basketball can be easy and fun, but if they wanted to be their best they needed to be all in. Iron sharpens iron and they both recognized they needed to be better players. 43:10 - Will discusses when he joined the Bulls and how he had to work on his game, and his relationship with Michael Jordan. 49:50 - While fostering a relationship with MJ took time and sweat equity, Will mentions he was fortunate to have Bill Cartwright, BJ Armstrong and other players that helped him become a pro. 57:00 - Time and time again Will was presented with a challenge to be a better player and he had to do everything he could to make sure he could reach those heights. 1:03:30 - Who wins the NBA Finals according to Will Perdue? Is it one of the teams out of the East or Rex's Suns? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices