Podcast appearances and mentions of jimmy watkins

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins break down the Cleveland Cavaliers' 112-84 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, their sixth consecutive win. They focus on the team's potent offense since the acquisition of James Harden and analyze the effectiveness of the new starting lineup featuring Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. The guys discuss Dean Wade's crucial defensive role, the impressive chemistry between Harden and Allen, and the necessary role adjustments for players like Jaylon Tyson and Sam Merrill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the recent success of the NBA All-Star Game, attributing its increased viewership to a more competitive format. The conversation then shifts to the Cleveland Cavaliers' outlook for the final 27 games of the season. They analyze the team's championship aspirations following recent trades, identifying the Pistons, Celtics, and Knicks as their biggest threats in the Eastern Conference. While both believe the Cavs can now win the East, they are skeptical of their chances against top Western Conference teams in the NBA Finals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins react to the retirement of NBA legend Chris Paul. They unpack Paul's legacy as one of the last floor generals who controlled tempo, manipulated defenses and elevated teammates possession by possession — from the electric “Lob City” days with the Los Angeles Clippers to his leadership stops in Houston, Oklahoma City and Phoenix. The hosts examine how his intense, detail-obsessed personality shaped locker rooms, why the lack of a championship doesn't define his impact, and why the unceremonious end to his career somehow felt fitting for a player who always thrived on edge. From there, the conversation zooms out to today's NBA: Has the traditional table-setting point guard been replaced by scoring guards and positionless initiators? And if so, what does that mean for the next generation? The episode closes with a forward-looking twist — potential NBA expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle — and a conversation over which eight players the Cleveland Cavaliers should protect in a hypothetical expansion draft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' outlook heading into the second half of the season. They touch on the team's preparation for post-All-Star break, the complicated case for Koby Altman as Executive of the Year, and the challenges of reintegrating injured players like Max Strus and Evan Mobley into a newly constructed roster. The conversation heavily focuses on how the addition of James Harden shifts the team's championship timeline to align with Donovan Mitchell's prime, altering Mobley's role from a focal point to a supporting piece. Finally, they analyze the team's favorable schedule and the strong possibility of securing a top seed in the Eastern Conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cavaliers' 138-113 victory over the Washington Wizards. They guys delve into the home debut of new acquisitions James Harden, Keon Ellis, and Dennis Schröder. The central theme is the dawn of a "new era" for the Cavs, with the Harden trade accelerating the timeline and establishing a "championship or bust" mentality. The conversation covers the immediate positive impact and winning mindset of the new players, the elevated performance of Jarrett Allen in Evan Mobley's absence, and Sam Merrill's career night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jimmy Watkins joined Baskin and Phelps on Wednesday as the Cleveland Cavaliers return home before the All-Star break. His thoughts on the Garland for Harden trade. Plus looking at the Cleveland Browns and how things shook out with Jim Schwartz, did it feel like they thought they would lose him after hiring Todd Munken?

Full Fourth Hour of Baskin and Phelps on February 11, 2026

Following Nae'Qwan Tomlin's promotion to a standard NBA contract, the Wine and Gold Talk podcast with Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins dive into another win for Cleveland's player development pipeline — a system built to uncover low-cost, high-energy contributors around an expensive core. From there, the conversation shifts to the Cavaliers' final open two-way spot and who makes the most sense to fill it. The guys also take a hard look at NBA All-Star Weekend, questioning the competitiveness of the main event and the steady decline of the Slam Dunk contest. Is star pride getting in the way of participation? And could Evan Mobley's All-Star snub fuel another leap in the second half? The episode wraps with a preview of a looming “trap game” against a Washington Wizards team that appears firmly committed to the tank. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins react to Cleveland's fourth straight win after the Cavs' 119-117 victory over the Denver Nuggets. The guys break down what newly acquired guard James Harden is already changing. They examine how Harden's presence allows the Cavs to stay competitive during non-Donovan Mitchell minutes — a stark contrast from earlier in the season — and why his size and playmaking have reshaped the backcourt dynamic after the move on from Darius Garland. The conversation also explores Harden's immediate chemistry with Jarrett Allen and how his passing has elevated Allen's offensive opportunities, fueling optimism about Cleveland's short-term ceiling. At the same time, the guys temper that excitement by discussing concerns and how the Cavs' reliance on the injured Dean Wade could loom larger as the season progresses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bloomdaddy has Pat Butler in for Fun Friday talking about who you'd want to represent Cleveland should they make the Super Bowl, to do the coin toss. Other Super Bowl topics as well. Jimmy Watkins from Cleveland dot com joins to talk Emmanuel Clase and the latest on his situation. Browns and the latest on Savannah Guthrie's Mother.

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down every angle of the Cleveland Cavaliers' deadline decisions, starting with the headline move: trading Darius Garland for James Harden and dumping Lonzo Ball's salary to reset their financial flexibility. The discussion dives into whether Cleveland truly “won” the deadline, weighing an all-in push toward immediate championship contention against the long-term cost of roster and asset management. The conversation explores what it means for the Cavs to remain a second-apron team, how those restrictions shape both the present and future, and why the front office felt this was the moment to take a calculated swing. The hosts also examine the uncertainty surrounding Max Strus' injury status and how that impacts lineup construction down the stretch. Finally, the episode looks ahead, spotlighting the rapid emergence of Jaylon Tyson and why the organization now views him as a core piece alongside Evan Mobley. From cap mechanics to competitive timelines, this episode asks the big question Cavs fans are debating right now: did Cleveland outmaneuver the rest of the league — or did it sacrifice too much to do it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins react to the Cavaliers trading Darius Garland and a second-round pick for James Harden, debating who actually won the deal. They weigh Harden's current All-Star-level play against his age and playoff history while discussing what moving Garland says about the Cavs' shift to a clear win-now timeline built around Donovan Mitchell. The conversation also looks ahead at what this trade could unlock next — from chasing another superstar to creating future cap flexibility — while acknowledging the human element of moving on from a player who helped define Cleveland's rebuild. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins break down one of the most memorable nights of the Cavaliers' season — a 130-111 win over the Portland Trail Blazers powered by historic performances from Jarrett Allen and Craig Porter Jr. Allen delivered a career-best outing, pouring in 40 points and grabbing 17 rebounds while anchoring the Cavs in the absence of injured starters. Porter added his own stamp on the night, showcasing poise, playmaking, and control as Cleveland's backup point guard. The conversation also explores how Cleveland's ball movement helped lighten Donovan Mitchell's offensive load, what that balance could mean long-term, and how recent roster changes — including the arrival of Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis — factor into the Cavs' evolving identity. The episode closes with a look at Mitchell's latest All-Star nod and the importance of managing his workload as the season intensifies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins answer questions from Subtext subscribers, diving into the Cleveland Cavaliers' roster challenges and trade-deadline possibilities. The hosts break down how Darius Garland and Evan Mobley's returns will shake up a rotation where younger players have flourished in their absence. Then, they turn to the trade market, dissecting what the Cavs could get for De'Andre Hunter and exploring the rumored framework involving Rui Hachimura and the Lakers. Financial flexibility, roster fit, and long-term strategy all hang in the balance as the team navigates its second-apron luxury tax constraints. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' dominant victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, a game overshadowed by what might be LeBron James's final appearance in Cleveland. The conversation centers on LeBron's emotional reaction to a tribute video, sparking speculation about his potential retirement and the possibility of a final return to the Cavs for a "storybook ending." The guys also analyze the strong performances of younger players like Jaylon Tyson and Nae'Qwan Tomlin, the potential trade of De'Andre Hunter and whether the team's recent success can be sustained once injured players return. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins unpack what LeBron James' return to Cleveland truly means for the city, both in the moment and in the long view. They examine the buzz, the speculation and the unavoidable question lingering over Rocket Arena: could this be the final time LeBron suits up in a Lakers uniform in Cleveland, and what might the offseason hold beyond that? From there, the conversation shifts back to the present-day Cavaliers, a team once again navigating uncertainty. With Evan Mobley sidelined after re-aggravating his calf injury, the guys break down how his absence reshapes the Cavs' identity, stresses an already thin rotation and tests their ability to survive a difficult stretch of the season. It's a discussion about legacy, timing and resilience, all colliding at a pivotal moment for Cleveland basketball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins break down the Cavaliers' fourth straight win with a 114-98 victory over the Orlando Magic. They dive into Donovan Mitchell's 45-point explosion, analyzing how his growth as a leader has made him indispensable, especially as the team leans on him more amid injuries and uneven performances from other key players. The conversation then shifts to Jaylon Tyson, spotlighting his selection to the Rising Stars game and debating his case for Most Improved Player. The hosts explore Tyson's development, compare him to league-wide candidates, and underscore why his emergence could be crucial to the Cavs' future success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Jimmy Watkins and Chris Fedor react to the Cleveland Cavaliers stacking wins during one of their most demanding stretches of the season, breaking down a gritty victory over the Orlando Magic that came amid mounting injuries and a brutal travel schedule. The trio examines how adversity has pushed Cleveland back toward its defensive foundation, while also opening the door for younger players like Jaylon Tyson to carve out meaningful roles. The discussion also centers on Donovan Mitchell's leadership — from his late-game shot-making to the quieter, day-to-day influence he's had mentoring teammates through chaos. Finally, the guys debate whether the lessons learned and lineup changes born out of necessity could have a lasting impact on the Cavs' rotations, identity and playoff outlook once reinforcements like Darius Garland return. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jimmy Watkins of cleveland.com joined "Baskin and Phelps" Wednesday talking all things Cleveland sports and why there needs to be a fast turnaround for the Cavs to get to where they want to go by seasons end.

The second hour of "Baskin and Phelps" for Wednesday, January 21, 2026.

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins examine where the Cleveland Cavaliers are — and where they're trying to go. The conversation centers on the growing gap between the Cavs' ambitions and the habits, accountability, and day-to-day processes required to sustain contention. That lens frames a discussion around a proposed trade from The Ringer that would send Darius Garland to Brooklyn for Michael Porter Jr., as a window into the limitations of the current Core Four and the questions Cleveland still has to answer about fit, toughness, and leadership. From there, the guys zoom out, comparing the Cavs' internal disconnects — between players, coaching, and expectations — with organizations like the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks, teams chasing similar goals but supported by clearer identities and stronger cultures. The episode ultimately asks a bigger question: what parts of those models Cleveland can realistically implement, and whether this roster, as currently constructed, has more growth left or is already brushing up against its ceiling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins react to the Cavaliers' 136-104 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder and what it revealed about Cleveland's standing in the contender hierarchy. The conversation centers on the growing gap between a Thunder team operating with championship habits, clarity and edge, and a Cavs group still searching for a consistent identity. The trio examines why injuries can no longer explain Cleveland's uneven play, questionable decision-making and lack of collective assertiveness, particularly from a roster carrying the league's highest payroll. They dig into Evan Mobley's evolving responsibility within the offense, the pressure on the Cavs to play with force and purpose, and how OKC's maturity exposed uncomfortable truths about Cleveland's readiness for May and June. The episode also touches on Donovan Mitchell's All-Star starter snub, the mounting frustration around the Cavs' inability to establish a reliable formula, and why time is becoming less of an ally as expectations remain championship-level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins react to the Cavaliers' 117-115 comeback win over the Philadelphia 76ers, framing it as a gritty culture victory powered by Cleveland's supporting cast. The discussion is led by Jaylon Tyson's career-high 39-point performance and his poise on the final possession, including the game-winning assist that underscored both his feel and long-term upside. The guys also dive into the playmaking impact of Donovan Mitchell and Craig Porter Jr., the energy and connectivity provided by the bench, and how those elements helped stabilize the Cavs in the absence of key contributors. Despite the win, the episode closes with a critical look at Evan Mobley's continued offensive passivity, a lingering concern that remains central to Cleveland's ceiling moving forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down what truly matters for the Cavaliers in the second half of the season — and it's not just climbing the standings. The discussion centers on player development, lineup balance and how Cleveland should manage its rotations amid a growing list of injuries. A major focus is Darius Garland's new toe injury, how it differs from his offseason surgery, the mental and physical toll it can take and what it means moving forward. The guys also examine Sam Merrill's recurring hand sprain, the management of Lonzo Ball and the impending return of Max Strus. The episode closes with a look at who could start against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday, factoring in the latest injuries and the matchup itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down the growing concerns surrounding De'Andre Hunter's fit with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Acquired as a potential missing piece for a championship-level roster, Hunter's second season in Cleveland has been marked by poor shooting, defensive lapses and on-off numbers that show the Cavs have struggled with him on the floor. The guys unpack how a move from the starting lineup to the bench has altered his role, confidence and presence, contributing to what has looked like a joyless stretch of basketball. They also examine why the organization has remained reluctant to move Hunter despite trade interest, what the Cavs still believe he can become and how his uncertain future fits into a team searching for consistency and edge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins unpack the Cleveland Cavaliers' jarring loss to the Utah Jazz and why it felt heavier than a single January defeat. The discussion zooms out from the result to examine a troubling pattern: sharp emotional swings, inconsistent effort and a team that struggles to match urgency from night to night. The hosts break down Cleveland's defensive lapses in transition, recurring rebounding issues and the mental slippage that continues to surface after signature wins, like Saturday's statement performance against Minnesota. They also evaluate the uneven play of key contributors, the growing burden placed on Donovan Mitchell, and the lingering questions surrounding Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen's two-way impact. From there, the conversation turns to head coach Kenny Atkinson's influence and whether the organization, top to bottom, is still learning how to function as a team with real championship expectations rather than an underdog edge. The big question driving it all: Is this inconsistency simply who the Cavs are right now, or are they being crushed by the pressure they spent years trying to earn? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins dig into the Cleveland Cavaliers' 131-122 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. They break down the team's recurring inability to play a complete four-quarter game, highlighting a brutal third-quarter collapse where Minnesota outscored Cleveland 43-22. Sands and Watkins explore the Cavs' vanishing defensive identity, the unsustainable minutes being shouldered by Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley's inconsistent aggression and decision-making. With the season nearly at the halfway mark, they examine whether these persistent flaws are not just temporary lapses, but reflective of the team's true identity — and what that means for Cleveland's decisions in the near future. The hosts weigh whether effort and fundamentals alone can turn things around, or if the Cavs face a pivotal moment where change becomes inevitable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins break down the Cleveland Cavaliers' ongoing struggles while answering questions from subscribers. They examine the ripple effects of losing Ty Jerome in the offseason, the uneven fit and production of his replacement, Lonzo Ball, and what those issues say about Cleveland's lack of toughness and physicality on a nightly basis. The conversation also digs into the defensive limitations of Darius Garland, how those concerns factor into lineup decisions, and the reality that the Cavs' financial and salary-cap constraints make any meaningful in-season trade difficult. Along the way, the hosts weigh the front office's public confidence in a roster that has yet to meet expectations — and whether belief alone can stabilize a team still searching for consistency. The episode closes with a hypothetical discussion about what a true “break the glass” moment could look like, including diving into the breaking news of Trae Young's trade and whether a similar move would actually solve the Cavs' biggest problems — or simply reshape them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking Cavs now on the Kenny & JT Show with Cleveland.com sports columnist Jimmy Watkins.

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down the Cleveland Cavaliers' 141-118 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. They praise coach Kenny Atkinson for making effective lineup adjustments, highlighting the significant impact of Sam Merrill's return. The speakers discuss how Merrill's presence as a shooter and "connector" has unlocked the offense, making things easier for the entire team. The discussion also covers the team's improved physicality and energy, while noting the organization's belief that their issues are fixable without drastic roster or coaching changes. Despite the positive performance, the hosts remain cautious, emphasizing that the team must sustain this level of play against tougher opponents to prove a true turnaround. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' recent victory over the Charlotte Hornets, highlighting the positive offensive performance and key player contributions. They also delve into the team's defensive struggles, the importance of rebounding and the physicality needed to improve their game. Looking ahead, they emphasize the need for the Cavs to bank wins as they face upcoming challenges, particularly with player health concerns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk Podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins react to the Cavaliers' third straight loss to a sub-.500 team — their latest being a dispiriting showing against the Chicago Bulls on Friday night. The conversation centers on a team that looks increasingly disconnected, with a defense that can't sustain effort, possessions that die on the vine and an identity that remains undefined months into the season. The guys examine why Cleveland continues to lose the plot against lesser opponents, including uneven play from key rotation pieces like De'Andre Hunter and a growing list of questions surrounding Kenny Atkinson's in-game decisions. They also dig into the larger implications: whether the belief that carried last season's group has cracked, how fragile the current culture feels, and why the margin for patience is shrinking. With the Cavaliers carrying one of the league's most expensive payrolls, Dan Gilbert's reported dissatisfaction looms in the background — even as the reality of the CBA makes meaningful roster fixes far more complicated than they sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins are joined by The Athletic's Joel Lorenzi for a wide-ranging NBA conversation that quickly turns into a reality check for the Cavaliers. Drawing on his time covering OKC, Lorenzi breaks down how the Thunder have built a dynasty-in-waiting through elite organizational alignment, patient player development and ruthless asset management. That framework casts an uncomfortable light on Cleveland. The group examines the Cavs' lack of a clear identity, inconsistent execution and stalled growth from key pillars like Evan Mobley and Darius Garland. They come to the conclusion that as currently constructed, the Cavaliers are not championship contenders — and teams like the Thunder have permanently raised the bar for what it takes to win in today's NBA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins dig into the Cavaliers' growing inconsistency and lack of urgency, framing the upcoming matchup against the Chicago Bulls as a revealing “Cavs vs. Cavs” moment. With Evan Mobley sidelined, the conversation sharpens around Jarrett Allen and the opportunity in front of him. This isn't just about filling minutes but whether Allen can anchor a team that continues to search for its baseline effort — this two-to-four week stretch presents a clear test of how much Allen can shape a winning outcome when the margin for error is minimal. Sands and Watkins also push for a change in the starting lineup to shift the opening dynamic and discuss why the Bulls are another valiant test for Cleveland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins discuss the performance and perception of the Cleveland Cavaliers' front office. They begin by analyzing the on-court impact of losing Ty Jerome's bench scoring and Isaac Okoro's point-of-attack defense, noting how the front office has found capable, low-cost replacements like Jaylon Tyson and Craig Porter Jr. The conversation then shifts to a survey by The Athletic that ranked all NBA front offices. Finally, they touch on the future of the team, questioning if younger stars like Evan Mobley and Darius Garland are on the same championship timeline as Donovan Mitchell, which could complicate future contract decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' disappointing 14-11 start to the season. They analyze the team's lack of mental toughness, inconsistent effort and a perceived sense of entitlement as the primary reasons for their struggles. The conversation covers how the team is using a five-day break for a "reset" with player-led meetings and tough film sessions. They also touch on the increasingly competitive landscape of the Eastern Conference, which raises the stakes for the Cavs to improve their performance and playoff seeding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bloomdaddy talks to Senator Ted Cruz, Chris Fedor on the Cavs, Rob Walgate on politics, Jimmy Watkins and also celebrates the news of Paul Hoynes winning the 2026 BBWAA Career Excellence award.

The losing streak is finally over. Ohio State snapped a four-game skid against Michigan with a 27-9 win over Michigan. That win punched its ticket to the Big Ten Championship Game against Indiana, ended the Wolverines' chances of making the College Football Playoff and practically guarantees OSU a bye. On this episode of Buckeye Talk, Stephen Means, Stefan Krajisnik, Andrew Gillis and Jimmy Watkins break down the win, what it means and what's next. Thanks for listening to Buckeye Talk and sign up to get text messages from experts Stephen Means, Stefan Krajisnik and Andrew Gillis at 614-350-3315. Get the insider analysis, have your voice heard on the Buckeye Talk podcast and connect with the best Buckeye community out there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Buckeye Talk, Stephen Means and Jimmy Watkins as they dive into the high-stakes showdown between Ohio State and Michigan. With playoff implications on the line, they explore the psychological and strategic dynamics that could determine the outcome. From coaching pressures to player performances, this episode unpacks the intense rivalry and what it means for both teams. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of one of college football's most anticipated matchups. Thanks for listening to Buckeye Talk and sign up to get text messages from experts Stephen Means, Stefan Krajisnik and Andrew Gillis at 614-350-3315. Get the insider analysis, have your voice heard on the Buckeye Talk podcast and connect with the best Buckeye community out there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down the Cavs' 114-104 loss to the Rockets and tackle a growing concern about how opponents view them before stepping foot in the building. They also dig into Cleveland's wavering identity, Kenny Atkinson's increasingly pointed critiques, and why the team's lack of toughness is becoming a defining storyline. They also examine Evan Mobley's developmental stall — his free-throw struggles, shaken confidence, and the pressure on him to grow into the star this roster needs. A blunt conversation about where the Cavs stand, how they're viewed around the league and what has to change before things slip further. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down the Cavs' 114-104 loss to the Rockets and tackle a growing concern about how opponents view them before stepping foot in the building. They also dig into Cleveland's wavering identity, Kenny Atkinson's increasingly pointed critiques, and why the team's lack of toughness is becoming a defining storyline. They also examine Evan Mobley's developmental stall — his free-throw struggles, shaken confidence, and the pressure on him to grow into the star this roster needs. A blunt conversation about where the Cavs stand, how they're viewed around the league and what has to change before things slip further. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins dive into the NBA's $100,000 fine against the Cavaliers for resting Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley — and they don't hold back. They then break down why Houston's physical, slow-paced, smashmouth style is a true challenge for a Cleveland team still searching for consistency, struggling on the glass, and hearing its head coach repeatedly call the offense “clunky.” It's a fiery episode packed with honesty, frustration, and a hard look at whether the Cavs are ready for a “come to Jesus” moment against one of the league's toughest teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down why Cleveland's offense still feels clunky, why Evan Mobley's uneven growth remains the swing factor in their championship hopes, and what to make of Jarrett Allen's shrinking role in fourth quarters — including whether it signals a bigger shift in the organization's plans. They also dig into whether this team has truly earned the right to coast through the regular season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins dig into the Cavs' 126–113 loss to the Raptors — a game that exposed more than just tired legs on a back-to-back. The guys explore the growing gap between who the Cavs say they want to be and the habits they keep falling back into. They break down the lack of competitive fire, concerning nights from Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, and the identity cracks that keep resurfacing for a team with championship expectations. Mindset. Accountability. Are the Cavs actually building toward a deep playoff run, or quietly drifting away from contender principles? Ethan and Jimmy debate it all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins answer questions from subtext subscribers, discussing the emergence of Jaylon Tyson and Sam Merrill and how their early-season impact has deepened Cleveland's rotation — and raised new questions about it. With contributors stepping into bigger roles, the crew debates whether anyone, including Max Strus or Dean Wade, could find themselves on the chopping block. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down why no defense is safe against the Cavaliers' recharged backcourt. They discuss Darius Garland's return, Donovan Mitchell's effortless 46-point performance, and how the team's returning offensive rhythm is revitalizing Cleveland's attack. The trio also spotlight Jarrett Allen's toughness, Sam Merrill's spark, and the nostalgic buzz from the Cavs' classic jerseys at Rocket Arena. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jimmy Watkins was on the mid-day show discussing Andrew Berry and the reasons why he should address the media with the discourse the Browns are on.

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins break down why the Cavaliers' offense looked disjointed and overly isolation-heavy in their season-opening loss to New York — a far cry from the motion-based system they've been preaching. The crew also dives into Cleveland's defensive lapses on the perimeter and whether early-season workloads for the stars are cause for concern. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins preview the Cavs' season opener against the New York Knicks, focusing on the significant injuries impacting both teams. They then offer their season predictions, differing on the Cavaliers' playoff fate and debating whether the team has overcome its past postseason struggles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins dive into the Cavs' injury concerns heading into their season opener at Madison Square Garden. With Darius Garland unlikely to suit up and De'Andre Hunter's status still in question, the crew breaks down what Cleveland's rotation could look like and who might seize the opportunity to start on opening night. They also share bold thoughts on what to expect from Donovan Mitchell and the rest of the Eastern Conference once the season tips off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices