Podcast appearances and mentions of ian thomsen

On today's episode, It's Only Sport host Martin Devlin continues detective work on the weekend of sport and further inspects the important results and storylines.First off, Devlin delivers a sermon on a Radio New Zealand article claiming the Maadi Cup (regatta) - the long-running high school rowing event - to be sexist. Author Dana Johannsen makes a case saying the Maadi Cup - a trophy awarded to the best male eight crew - is only one of 40 titles that are contested. Devlin argues, in the great scheme of things, does it matter? Does the term Maadi Cup really create division and inequity in the sport?Then, it's time for some rugby, as Devlin is joined by All Blacks icon and renowned commentator Justin Marshall, who focusses on the Crusaders suffering yet another defeat in Super Rugby Pacific, this time to their old rivals the Blues. Following that, Mark 'Watto' Watson talks the Maadi Cup story and future Kiwi rugby stars, basketball journalist and author Ian Thomsen shares his thoughts on the main contenders for the NBA championship with a month to go before the playoffs begin, and Matt Gunn is positive about his Bulldogs, the Warriors, Sail GP, and more.Plus, Devlin and producer Lachlan Waugh talk about the Crusaders and how much longer - realistically - they'll be struggling for wins, and they face off debating a slew of topics on the Tight 5. All that and much more!

Everybody loves winners, but sometimes the most compelling stories are born out of losing. That's one of the things Ian Thomsen learned when he was assigned to cover the losingest team in college football while in Northwestern University's famed journalism program. He also juggled a job for the Chicago Sun-Tribune and eventually earned a spot on one of the greatest writing rosters of all time with the Boston Globe. This gave Ian an insider's view of the heated Celtics-Lakers rivalry that defined NBA basketball in the 80s, and led to a candid, two-hour interview with Michael Jordan when he was coming back from a potential career-ending foot injury. Later stints with Sports Illustrated and The International Herald Tribune saw Ian covering events as diverse as the Rugby World Cup, UEFA Champion's League, and London Olympics. Throughout all these experiences, Ian's love of people, ability to unearth previously untold stories, and passion for sports has shone through in every single word he puts on the page. In this interview, Ian shares: What it was like to interview Michael Jordan, Pat Riley, and the best Celtics team How living in London and Paris expanded his perspective on lifeWhich unexpected stories he most enjoyed writingHow the Heat vs Lakers vs Celtics vs Mavericks rivalry pivoted the NBA for the betterWhat place longform storytelling has in our attention-limited societyTo enjoy more of Ian's insights, follow him on Twitter and read The Soul of Basketball.

HOUR 4: The author of “The Soul of Basketball” joins the show to discuss the finals. Can the Nuggets be a blueprint? Plus, Advanced Analytics & the Epic Fail.

On today's show, Martin Devlin does a comprehensive recap of the opening State of Origin match for 2023, where Queensland ran out 26-18 winners over New South Wales in Adelaide. Brendan Bradford from CodeSports in Australia joins the show, and talks about how the Maroons won the match and how disappointing New South Wales were. Plus, Martin previews the NBA finals with best-selling author and basketball expert Ian Thomsen, with game one tipping off between the Denver Nuggets and Miami Heat on Friday (New Zealand time). Marty discusses the prospect of a State of Origin-type rugby series in NZ with independent journalist Jamie Wall, and talkSPORT's Jon Norman previews the English summer of cricket ahead. All that and much more!

Ian Thomsen is an author and former writer for Sports Illustrated. Ian joins the program to chat about the Celtics Game 6 win, Tatum's weird performance, and Joe Mazzulla's adjustments. Twitter: @IanThomsen 2:45 Inserting Rob Williams made the difference 16:06 Tatum was more of a playmaker last year 28:55 Tatum continues to prove mental toughness 47:40 Game 7 expectations Available for download on iTunes and Spotify on Friday, May 12th, 2023. Celtics Beat is powered by Fan Duel! Go to FanDuel.com/Boston for a no sweat first bet up to $1,000! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOUR 3: Did the NBA get the Jokic decision right? NBA writer Ian Thomsen talks NBA Playoffs with DA. Did McNair force a QB pick?

Ian Thomsen is a former writer for Sports Illustrated and NBA.com. Ian chats about the Jays in the All-Star Game, the importance of Marcus Smart, and why the Celtics are just so likable. Twitter: @IanThomsen 4:28 Brown, Tatum All Star performances carry weight 23:58 Boston is a great place for Jaylen to have a maximum impact 31:15 Did Mazzulla leak his playoff rotations? 38:24 Smart is the 3rd most important Celtic 42:16 This team is so likable  Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Friday, February 24th, 2023. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG and Hello Fresh! Go to BetOnline.AG today and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% sign-up bonus! And go to HelloFresh.com/beat60 and use the promo code beat60 for 60% and free shipping on your first order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ian Thomsen is a former writer for Sports Illustrated and NBA.com. Ian joins the show to break down why Boston should be more patient in trading for Kevin Durant. Twitter: @IanThomsen   3:17 Kevin Durant is probably getting traded    11:31 Jaylen Brown is the best player in any reported deal   21:23 Can you trust Durant?   28:28 Boston is the perfect place for KD   35:02 Depth will be the Celtics biggest strengths   Available on iTunes and Stitcher on Thursday, August 11th, 2022. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG! Go to BetOnline.AG today and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% bonus on your next deposit!

If you missed the live show, you can catch all of our interviews here! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/wnsp/support

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints makes many claims about the importance of priesthood. It also claims that conferral of the priesthood is only to be given to men, only needed by men, not women. Why is that? Yet when LDS leaders actually talk about priesthood's power in relation to men's spirituality and the special gifts it holds, their messaging seems to be describing things that are good qualities and attributes for all people, for anyone who seeks to be a good disciple of Christ. So what is it about men that they need the priesthood boost whereas women don't? What do men lack that seems to be inherent in women? In the spirit of inquiry and clarity rather than in service of an agenda related to priesthood conferral upon and ordination for women, this episode features a discussion about such things between Ian Thomsen and LDF host Dan Wotherspoon. They discuss specific messages by leaders as well as the kinds of explanations one often hears in LDS circle that employ some form of "gender essentialism," which hinges on essential differences between men and women, as part of the reasoning. Yet no real explanation for a men-only priesthood emerges when pressed. Such things are usually asserted rather than examined or argued for. Ultimately, this sort of approach to justifying the exclusion of women from priesthood (essentially saying they already have the spiritual qualities and don't need ordination) leads to a need to really ask fresh what, exactly, is priesthood? Is priesthood "power" distinct from priesthood "authority"? Do our current teachings about priesthood rely on scriptural precedent? Do practices from early LDS history and within Mormonism's own scriptural record match with what we see today regarding a universal priesthood for all men? Is there a place for non-priesthood-ed men within the church? Is that even conceivable within today's church assumptions? What role do cultural notions, especially older ones, play in keeping us today from asking important questions in these and other areas? If we are here on earth to thrive and grow spiritually and ultimately develop as God has, it sure would be helpful to understand what priesthood is.  Listen in! These are important things to think about.

If you missed the live show you can catch all of our interviews here! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/wnsp/support

Catch up on any interviews you missed during the live show here! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/wnsp/support

Ian Thomsen is a former NBA writer for NBA.com and Sports Illustrated. Ian joins the show to talk about Brad Stevens' impact on this team, the importance of Marcus Smart, and the maturity of Jayson Tatum. Twitter: @IanThomsen   3:58 It might be the perfect storm for the Celtics   11:17 Brad Stevens fingerprints are all over this team   25:28 Celtics LOOK like the better team   33:00 Tatum's maturity is on full display   44:32 Smart's importance    Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Friday, May 20th, 2022. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG! Go to BetOnline.AG today and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% sign-up bonus!

Mark Heim and Lee Shirvanian talk everything N.I.L. and Transfer Portal with Ross Dellinger then NBA Playoffs with Ian Thomsen! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/wnsp/support

HOUR 3: Warriors take a 3-1 series lead. Ian Thomsen weighs in on the NBA Playoffs. Bogusch is Stunned to a News. Will the Dolphins improve their poor run game?

Ian Thomsen used to cover the NBA for Sports Illustrated and NBA.com. Ian joins the show to talk about the ascension of Jayson Tatum, how historically good the Celtics defense is, and KG's jersey retirement ceremony. Twitter: @IanThomsen   2:37 Celtics are on a roll   11:38 Tatum certainly looks capable of leading a Championship-level team this year    28:32 Can the defense make up for any lack of offense in the playoffs?   33:00 Should the Celtics be angling for playoff seeding?   37:57 KG's retirement ceremony   Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Monday, March 21st, 2022. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG. Go to BetOnline.AG today and use the promo code "CLNS50" for a 50% bonus on your next deposit!

Mark Heim and Lee Shirvanian talk NFL, Packers and Aaron Rodgers with Andy Herman and NBA with Ian Thomsen! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/wnsp/support

Ian Thomsen used to cover the NBA for Sports Illustrated. Ian joins Adam and Evan to discuss the Celtics Trade Deadline, what to expect with Derrick White, the new look Sixers and Nets, and what Boston's future could look like. Twitter: @IanThomsen   3:13 Recapping the Celtics Trade Deadline   9:55 C's becoming East Coast Spurs?   21:00 Brad is giving himself good flexibility   26:55 Philly has a better shot at winning the title right now   41:52 Did the Celtics give up too many picks?   Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Friday, February 11th, 2022. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG. Go to BetOnline.AG today and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% bonus on your next deposit!

Ian Thomsen is a former writer for Sports Illustrated and NBA.com. Ian joins Adam and Evan to dissect the team's inconsistent play, the lessons the Celtics can learn from the first 26 games, and whether they should make a big play for Damian Lillard. Twitter: @IanThomsen.   5:00 We should have expected an up-and-down year   13:06 Guys are still adjusting to new roles   24:16 Is this the right core?   29:46 Can the Celtics trade for Dame Lillard?   38:32 Danny's next job   Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Friday, December 10th, 2021. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG and INSA. Go to BetOnline.AG and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% bonus when you sign up! And go to any INSA location and tell them we sent you to get the coolest t shirt in your closet for just a penny!

Ian Thomsen is a former NBA writer for Sports Illustrated and NBA.com. Ian joins Adam and Evan for a lengthy Paul Pierce discussion as Pierce gets ready to enter the Hall of Fame. They overlook Pierce's career, what truly made him unique, and his place in NBA history. Twitter: @IanThomsen   13:51 Pierce was always comfortable in his own skin   29:57 Was Pierce better than most remember?   35:04 Is Pierce a top-50 player?   56:06 Bill Russell's greatness   Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Friday, September 10th, 2021. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG and Legends Apparel. Go to BetOnline.AG today and use the promo code NFL100 for a 100% bonus on your next deposit. Also go to legends.com and use the promo code BEAT20 for 20% off your full order!

Cottage Hill Christian certainly had a day Wednesday. There are now head coaching openings in football, basketball and baseball. There are some early lines out for the upcoming football season, including a line on the Iron Bowl and Alabama-Miami. Featuring Tony Ruggiero, AL.com's Ben Thomas, SEC Network's Paul Finebaum, Senior Bowl Executive Director Jim Nagy, Nationals Special Asst Dan Jennings and Ian Thomsen on the NBA Play In Tourney. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/david-schultz/support

Is Tatum capable of going off vs. Brooklyn? / Famed NBA scribe Ian Thomsen talks NBA Playoffs with DA / Uptown Goal. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ian Thomsen used to cover the NBA for Sports Illustrated and NBA.com. Adam, Evan, and Ian get into the Celtics hectic season and if there's anything else we can learn from the final six games. They then take a look at the playoffs and which team would suit Boston best in the first round. Twitter: @IanThomsen   03:24 There is no super team this year   20:25 Celtics can really reset heading into the playoffs   25:02 Is Kemba ready for the postseason?   39:00 Nesmith/Pritchard contributing   45:42 Should the Celtics want Brooklyn in round 1?   Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Thursday, May 6th, 2021. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG. Go to BetOnline.AG today and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% bonus on your next deposit!

Ian Thomsen joins me today for a discussion on his career as a sports writer for such great publications as The Boston Globe, The National Sports Daily, the International Herald Tribune, Sports Illustrated, and NBA.com. He is also author of The Soul of Basketball: The Epic Showdown between LeBron, Kobe, Doc, and Dirk That Saved the NBA. We're talking about many of the players that are responsible for the NBA we see today, stories of his coverage as a reporter and what he had the privilege seeing and doing over the past three decades. I think he portrays the NBA today and into the future with a view from experience that you are going to appreciate. Join us for the conversation today and I hope you enjoy this most interesting perspective on how several players alone have shaped the sport as we know it today.Valentine's Day is just around the corner and the means your personal grooming better be where it needs to you. You want to be your best for your partner don't you? Then order up your personal grooming products from Manscaped. You're going to love their stuff and you'll get a kick out of reading the descriptions as well. Type in NAPES in the discount code and get free shipping plus a 20% discount on mens grooming items by visiting www.manscaped.com.

Ian Thomsen used to cover the NBA for Sports Illustrated and is the author of "The Soul of Basketball". Twitter: @IanThomsen   3:10  What to do with player safety as COVID-19 ramps up again   16:45 Nets trade for Harden gives them a talented top-3   27:05 ’08 Celtics gives Nets a blueprint for success    36:43 Celtics’ brass must be thrilled Kyrie isn’t their problem   48:14 Celtics place in East hierarchy    Available for downloads on iTunes and Stitcher on Thursday, January 14th, 2021. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG. Go to BetOnline.AG and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% bonus on your first deposit!

Patreon: patreon.com/nblpocketpodcast Ian on the Zach Lowe Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3njJaiTMzzA Buy the book here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-soul-of-basketball-ian-thomsen/book/9780547746517.html Questions:* To skip the introduction (3:35) Your book is called ‘The Soul of Basketball' - why this title? Should it be so broadly ‘Basketball' or the ‘NBA or NBA Basketball'? (4:30) The ‘bi-line' of the book reads: ‘The epic showdown between LeBron, Kobe, Doc and Dirk that Saved the NBA' - saved it from what? And with the latest Finals ratings so poor, do you still hold this belief? (7:03) You chose a quote by Wynton Marsalis to start your book. How did you find it? Why did you choose it? (12:35) “Rarely did Kobe make the game look as easy or artistic as Jordan” - I agree. Why do you suppose that was? (16:44) I want to talk to you about writing with courage - “Kobe's stubbornness had been earned throughout his years of fighting to be the player he could never be. He could never be Jordan, and from that failure he had broken free.” - You wrote this describing Bryant's 6/24 in Game 7 of the Finals over Boston. I totally agree with the assessment, but where did you find the courage to write this and the challenging/critical bits of your book? (18:50) During the 2011 Finals Gregg Doyel asked a very piercing question about LeBron “shrinking” offensively in Games 1 to 3. If I remember correctly - you didn't make mention of it, why not? It seemed to mirror your own thoughts precisely. What are you thoughts on Doyel asking that question at the time and now? Thoughts on Lebron's condescending “watch the tape and you can ask a better question tomorrow” response? (24:01) Page 45 - you described the post Decision dislike for LeBron as it pertains to James as Jordan's heir. Despite living 16,000kms apart you described exactly how I and my friends felt about that decision. What helped you articulate this thought? (29:14) Stern - “we knew it (the decision) was going to be terrible, and we tried very hard for it not to happen”. Why do you suppose Stern/The League failed in their ambition to stop the decision? (32:32)  You write; Stern had a “less endearing inclination to bully and berate” - don't suppose you have any examples? (34:00)  “In America, where freedoms are often taken for granted, the theatre of the NBA was often frustrating. Elsewhere, however, it was inspiring.” - Just tell us what you meant by that? Why frustrating? (36:52) Following on from the above question where does masculinity and the lack of contact factor into your thinking about basketball as it pertains to its appeal to Americans (or even Australians)? Is it a masculine sport? Compared to Rugby or AFL or NFL it's not - do fans struggle to understand it? (41:49)  Page 67 - Michael Jordan vs Bill Russell as a civil rights activist. I disagree with you from an international standpoint. It's a question of passive v aggressive. (46:08) Doc Rivers: “The superstars are the easiest to coach … They play because of something other than the money. It's the average player and the below-average player thats chasing the money. Those are the guys that are tough, because you're trying to get them to buy into a role, to be a winner - but they're trying to make their careers”. Great quote. How did you leverage a relatively explosive quote like this from Doc? What were the conditions/surrounds of your interview(s)? Does this quote fill you with optimism about his chances of success with the 76ers? (50:37)  “The obsession with discovering the next Michael Jordan was based on a cynical assumption that the NBA had peaked in the 1990s, as if nothing could be better than the past” - why cynical? Why that choice of words? Did the people saying and thinking that have something to gain? (57:08)  The above condition is something the Australian NBL is struggling with. Coming away from Andrew Gaze and the Gaze family. I compare it to - how do you tell a Star Wars story without Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader? That's my question to you - how to shake the cynicism? (59:33)  Page 199 - Doc Rivers via John Thompson “Nobody wants to put their reputations on the line anymore” - you seem to imply this is a result of a lot of the players coming from single-parent, mother only households and the informal AAU basketball playgrounds. Did I read that right? (1:02:00)  “Need to know your faults, little bit of an asshole and fucked-up to be a ref”. I really enjoyed the chapter on referee Joey Crawford. It was my favourite. Did you always have the ambition to include it? Why did you include it? And why as the second last chapter of the book? (1:06:17)  What do you suppose would have happened to the NBA had LeBron James and the Miami Heat won the 2011 NBA Championship? (Page 286) (1:12:31)  “I'm a good Irishman … I don't hold a grudge. Only the drunks do - and the Celtics. But not me.” - Pat Riley - again, how did you get this quotes - what were the situations surrounding him giving it? What was it in answer to? (1:17:05)  The final line - The Great Gatsby - The final line of your book reads “Basketball, thanks to Dirk Nowitzki, had grown up at long last to become the sport of the American Dream.” it has shades of “Gatsby believed in the green light the orgastic future that year-by-year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter tomorrow we run faster, stretch out our arms further. And one fine morning so we beat on boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past”.  Am I reading into this too much? Was this your intention? Is Dirk a foreign-born basketball Gatsby? Did you read that book in preparation for writing this one? Has Dirk read the book and said anything to you? Have any other personalities mentioned in the book contacted you? Interviewed Sam Smith - I asked him if he thinks Michael Jordan has ever read The Jordan Rules - he answered NO - do you think LeBron James has read your book? What do suppose LeBron's reaction would be if he read it? (1:22:26)  Does LeBron James winning this most recent championship with the Lakers, his third team, change or reaffirm anything from your book? (1:26:37)  How does the NBL and Australian media sell the sporting embodiment of the ‘American Dream' to a non-American audience? (1:28:04)

Ian Thomsen is the author of The Soul of Basketball; former writer for SI. Twitter: @IanThomsen   4:21 Miami has the model to win championships   11:42 What respect is LeBron looking for?   20:47 Do the Celtics have more titles than the LA Lakers?   30:17 Rondo for the Hall of Fame   41:02 Gordon should come back for one more year   45:34 Is Jayson Tatum REALLY a championship level player?   Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Tuesday, October 13th, 2020. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG. Go to BetOnline.AG today for your exclusive sign up bonus!

LIVE from Saraland High School. Alabama students can only get tickets to two games. Which two would you pick if you couldn't pick both Auburn and Georgia. You could only have one of them. The NBA lottery continues to be the best part of any draft in any sport. Saraland's Director Strength & Conditioning Jon Hershel, Donna Sunnycalb, Women's AD & Softball Coach, Dianna Collins, Director Health Services, Principal Brent Harrison, Superintendent Aaron Miller, Head Football Coach Jeff Kelly, John Raciatti & Ian Thomsen on the NBA. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/david-schultz/support

The ACC has made its move. We tell you what that means for the SEC and where it missed the mark, like Catholics vs. Cons. Joe Kelly's suspension results in a pitcher, who threw high and tight, getting punished more severely than an organization that got caught cheating. Guests include Brad Lowell AD for Mobile County Public Schools, Paul Finebaum, Nats Special Assistant Dan Jennings, Ian Thomsen on the NBA restarting and Barrett Sallee on CFB. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/david-schultz/support

Mark & Lee discuss who CBS Sports says has a shot at the National Championship. Guests include, John Garcia, Jr, Paul Finebaum, Brett Hudson from AL.com, and Ian Thomsen talking NBA. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/david-schultz/support

Mark & Lee continue to discuss Brees' apologies and Mark Emmert's plan to shorten the college football season. Guests include, Mobile Christian's Ronnie Cottrell, former Alabama Football Coach and Green Bay Packer, Bill Curry, Mike Detillier, Nats Special Assistant Dan Jennings, John Racietti and Ian Thomsen on the NBA coming back. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/david-schultz/support

Today's interview is with journalist, Ian Thomsen. We discuss his background in sports journalism, his book, The Soul of Basketball: The Epic Showdown Between LeBron, Kobe, Doc, and Dirk that Saved the NBA, and the future of the NBA given our current situation. Find out more about him here.Read the transcription of this episode here.

Basketball legends collide as longtime NBA expert, Ian Thomsen & Tom Keegan, lead columnist for the Boston Herald join Bob Ryan and Jeff Goodman at Fenway Johnnies for a NBA opening week round table review. Heavily focussing on the Celtics opening night flopper and Kyrie Irving's 50 point loss, majority of this episode is Celtics-centric BUT the gents do sway out to LA to visit the Lakers and Clippers opening night game and even throw in some college hoops.   Tune in. Subscribe. Rate and review! 

Ian Thomsen is the author of "The Soul of Basketball" and is a former scribe for Sports Illustrated and NBA.com. Twitter: @IanThomsen   5:07 How would David Stern handle the NBA’s issue with China   12:33 Should Jaylen gamble on himself?     27:56 KAT to Boston?   33:30 Boston’s edge over Philadelphia    38:13 Carsen Edwards will have an impact   49:29 NBA GM poll   Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Sunday, October 20th, 2019. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.AG. Go to BetOnline.AG and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% bonus on your first deposit!

Ian Thomsen used to cover the NBA for Sports Illustrated and NBA.com. Twitter: @IanThomsen   3:17 Catching up on summer moves   13:31 What’s different about Kemba Walker    24:07 What’s the Celtics next big move?   34:05 Kyrie was a bad influence on Tatum’s game     38:22 What can we expect from Hayward    47:05 The Nets are going to be a reality show   Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher on Friday July 5th, 2019. Celtics Beat is powered by BetOnline.ag. Go to CLNSMedia.com/celticsbeat and use the promo code CLNS50 for a 50% bonus on your first deposit of $25 or more 

Mike and Bobby are joined by author Ian Thomsen to discuss his new book "The Soul of Basketball: The Epic Showdown Between LeBron, Kobe, Doc, and Dirk That Saved the NBA," which chronicles the important events and larger themes of the 2010-11 NBA season, the year the Mavericks won the championship.

Zach talks to author and NBA contributor Ian Thomsen on this novel The Soul Of Basketball that examines the 2010-2011 season and the key players from that season that helped shift the NBA's popularity, marketability and more.

Mike and Jason talk Comets with Andy Zilch and Lebron with Ian Thomsen

Joining Chris Mannix of Yahoo Sports is Ian Thomsen, longtime NBA writer and author of the new book, The Soul of Basketball. Mannix and Thomsen discuss LeBron James’s role in Thomsen’s book, his future in Cleveland, a combustible Kawhi Leonard situation in San Antonio, Thomsen’s lengthy interview with Gregg Popovich and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk to veteran basketball writer Ian Thomsen whose new book ‘The Soul of Basketball: The Epic Showdown Between LeBron, Kobe, Doc, and Dirk That Saved the NBA’ was just released. The book focuses on the 2010-11 season and how it revealed the NBA’s identity and its impact on the future of the league. Thomsen shares stories about LeBron James, Dirk Nowitzki, Pat Riley, Doc Rivers and Gregg Popovich, and he explains why he wanted to write the book.

Kyle Draper and A. Sherrod Blakely are joined in this episode by Ian Thomsen to discuss the Celtics/Bucks series, a big picture look at where Boston is right now in the NBA landscape, and his new book, “The Soul of Basketball”.Complete show notes:(:30) Kyle and Sherrod talk about the first two games of the series against the Bucks, and how the lack of fight and organization from a talented Bucks’ team has been the most noticeable factor so far.(4:57) Ian Thomsen joins the pod, and starts off talking about how the Bucks need to win the next four games, because there’s now way they’re winning a Game 7 in Boston. (6:30) Ian weighs-in on the Terry Rozier/Eric Bledsoe “feud”. (8:25) Jaylen Brown has been huge for the C’s so far, Thomsen talks about how impressed he’s been with the 2nd year guard this season. (10:44) While in some respects, the logjam of point guards the Celtics have had has hurt Terry Rosier, the benefits have also been great in some aspects, including how to be a leader. Ian references Avery Bradley as a mentor to Rosier on his inconsistent minutes. Thomsen talks about the number of role models and culture the Celtics have built. (12:29) The discussion then moves to how this postseason and the experience the Celtics young players are getting could be a huge factor in Boston being a contender next year, when their health hopefully returns. Ian talks about the only factor that could derail this thinking. (15:00) Thomsen talks about what Danny Ainge might do with Marcus Smart and Terry Rozier, and the possibility they could be used in a trade for Anthony Davis. (16:40) Thomsen then talks about his new book “The Soul of Basketball”, and how Paul Pierce and the Celtics shaped the last 7-8 years of the NBA. Thomsen gives us some great nuggets on the 2010 behind the scenes drama with Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen. Ian’s of the opinion that Paul Pierce, the Celtics, and the 2007 NBA Draft lottery had a lot to do with LeBron’s decision to leave Cleveland for Miami.(25:00) Kyle and Sherrod take a quick trip around the NBA playoffs, discussing the Cavs/Pacers series, along with OKC/Utah and New Orleans/Portland.Find Ian Thomsen on Twitter @IanThomsen | More Twitter Follows: @ASherrodBlakely @KyleDraperTV @NBCSceltics

Kyle Draper and A. Sherrod Blakely are joined in this episode by Ian Thomsen to discuss the Celtics/Bucks series, a big picture look at where Boston is right now in the NBA landscape, and his new book, “The Soul of Basketball”.Complete show notes:(:30) Kyle and Sherrod talk about the first two games of the series against the Bucks, and how the lack of fight and organization from a talented Bucks’ team has been the most noticeable factor so far.(4:57) Ian Thomsen joins the pod, and starts off talking about how the Bucks need to win the next four games, because there’s now way they’re winning a Game 7 in Boston. (6:30) Ian weighs-in on the Terry Rozier/Eric Bledsoe “feud”. (8:25) Jaylen Brown has been huge for the C’s so far, Thomsen talks about how impressed he’s been with the 2nd year guard this season. (10:44) While in some respects, the logjam of point guards the Celtics have had has hurt Terry Rosier, the benefits have also been great in some aspects, including how to be a leader. Ian references Avery Bradley as a mentor to Rosier on his inconsistent minutes. Thomsen talks about the number of role models and culture the Celtics have built. (12:29) The discussion then moves to how this postseason and the experience the Celtics young players are getting could be a huge factor in Boston being a contender next year, when their health hopefully returns. Ian talks about the only factor that could derail this thinking. (15:00) Thomsen talks about what Danny Ainge might do with Marcus Smart and Terry Rozier, and the possibility they could be used in a trade for Anthony Davis. (16:40) Thomsen then talks about his new book “The Soul of Basketball”, and how Paul Pierce and the Celtics shaped the last 7-8 years of the NBA. Thomsen gives us some great nuggets on the 2010 behind the scenes drama with Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen. Ian’s of the opinion that Paul Pierce, the Celtics, and the 2007 NBA Draft lottery had a lot to do with LeBron’s decision to leave Cleveland for Miami.(25:00) Kyle and Sherrod take a quick trip around the NBA playoffs, discussing the Cavs/Pacers series, along with OKC/Utah and New Orleans/Portland.Find Ian Thomsen on Twitter @IanThomsen | More Twitter Follows: @ASherrodBlakely @KyleDraperTV @NBCSceltics

Ian Thomsen joins DG to talk about Lebron and the Cavs this post season, why some people hate on Chris Paul, and who he has in the NBA Finals Championship game. Does DG have faith in the Cavaliers making it to the finals? DG gives his take on who will survive til the end and take home the NBA Championship. Also this hour, Darin Gantt is on air to discuss his Twitter exchange with Greg Olsen, if he believes Tom Brady will be back this coming NFL season, and what he believes Dez Bryant's value is.

Ian Thomsen of NBA.com joined Sam Packard and Jared Weiss to discuss the next moves for Danny Ainge and the Boston Celtics with the NBA Draft Lottery rapidly approaching. They discussed the crazy ending to Game 2 of Thunder vs Spurs and picked the player they would build their pretend new franchise around.

Ian Thomsen from NBA.com joins Celtics Stuff Live this week to discuss his well-timed article on Isaiah Thomas just before the Celtics grabbed a win against the Warriors on Friday night.  Ian also praised the efforts of Mike Zarren and described his value in preventing the Celtics from falling into the trip of overpaying for a Free Agent in the offseason.  A look ahead at the playoffs has Ian as mystified as anyone else so to what is happening in Cleveland, but acknowledges they will be dangerous.  After the discussion with Ian, Jon and Justin go into more depth on the win against Golden State and snapping their home win streak, as well as a look ahead to the final 5-6 games of the season with tough match-ups against the other Eastern Conference 3-6 seeds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2015 is coming to a close and was a phenomenal calendar year for the Boston Celtics.  Unfortunately, the Celtics suffered what was unequivocally their worst week of the calendar year: A big fat doughnut.  Losses to LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Detroit Pistons and the Atlanta Hawks left the Celts with an 0-fer week. Sean Grande, radio play by play voice for the Boston Celtics on 98.5 FM The Sports Hub is this week's featured guest.  What happened to the Boston Celtics this week? Does this team need to make a trade to shake things up like last year? Or will it be an issue that teams are afraid to trade with Danny Ainge? If there's nothing to be done, what plagued the team this past week and how do they improve? Ian Thomsen of NBA.com will also stop by to discuss where the Celtics are compared to their peers in the rest of the league.  There have been quite a few trade rumors around the Celtics.  Are these even rumors or are these media dirty tricks? Celtics Beat is brought to you by lynda.com/clns,  audiblepodcast.com/celtics, Casper, American Farmer's Network, and Harry's.  Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher Sunday, December 20, 2015.  Powered by CLNS Radio.

There are a lot of storylines and angles to the coming Boston Celtics NBA season.  Many are excited of the team taking a major leap this coming season, building upon last year's success.  How necessary will it be and how attainable is it? Most importantly, what kind of effect does it have on the Celtics organization.  Does it make the Celtics coaching situation more enjoyable for Coach Stevens and keep him from going elsewhere? Will Brad Stevens be the coach of the Boston Celtics next championship team? That is our Facebook Question of the Week. Ian Thomsen will return to the show and chat with LHR regarding the importance for the Celtics to continue to make strides.  And more importantly, will they make strides? There's also been plenty of NBA news as well including the NBA Playoffs reform.  We know what LHR thinks, but what does Ian think of that? So check out this week's edition of Celtics Beat being presented by lynda.com/clns,  audiblepodcast.com/celtics, Casper, and American Farmer's Network.  Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher Sunday, September 13, 2015.  Powered by CLNS Radio.

The Ides of March are upon us: A major checkpoint in the NBA season.  The sprint to the finish line now begins.  Who knew as late as mid January that the Boston Celtics would play a major factor in the outlook of the 2015 NBA campaign?   The playoff chase is officially on.  It was a busy, but successful week for the Celtics with a real highlight win over the Memphis Grizzlies at home on Wednesday.  Plus the team picked up some solid victories against the Miami Heat and Orlando Magic.  Fans are thrilled, and host Larry H. Russell is one of them.   LHR will be joined by Ian Thomsen, now of NBA.com.  Ian wrote a feature on Danny Ainge and the Celtics rebuilding project back on February 17th titled “Danny Ainge's Balancing Act.”  LHR will discuss that feature with Ian, and will dive into further detail with where Ian thinks the Celtics stand in all of this.  How does Boston's rebuilding plan stack up? Particularly against the rival New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers?   LHR will also wrap the show up by going Around the NBA in 5.   So tune in this Sunday for another edition of Celtics Beat, presented by lynda.com/clns and Peak Organic Brewing Company.  Available for download on iTunes and Stitcher Sunday, March 15, 2015.  Powered by CLNS Radio.

Ian joins Butch Stearns to talk about Ray Allen signing with the Heat and how he fits into Erik Spoelstra's system. Ian also gives us a health update on Avery Bradley and discusses the 2012 USA Men's Basketball team.

Sports Illustrated NBA writer Ian Thomsen joined D&C to discuss what to expect in Game 6 and if the Heat will force a decisive Game 7. He talks about the legacy of each big three the vibe of Miami's locker room and also looks ahead at a potential Boston-OKC NBA Finals matchup.