Episodes

Buzz City is alive. The Charlotte Hornets have ripped off their first nine-game winning streak since 1999 and now sit just one win away from tying the franchise record set in 1997-98. In just three weeks, they’ve gone from the bottom of the Eastern Conference to the 10th seed at 25-28 — completely flipping their season. So what changed? We break down the Hornets’ stunning surge, powered by a true “committee” approach: Brandon Miller emerging as the offensive engine, leading the team in scoring ...

https://x.com/kwabakayesfrom Thttps://x.com/thedimenba joins the show as we break down Jason Kidd’s recent clap back, the looming Giannis factor, and why much of the league feels frozen waiting for that pin to drop. We dive into the latest NBA Trade...

This week’s episode is a must-listen as our brother from another mother Jabari Davis joins the show as guest co-host, and we waste no time diving into everything happening around the NBA. We kick things off with our thoughts on NBA Rivals Week, asking the big question: Was it a Heated Rivalry… or just Lukewarm Competition? Did the matchups deliver real intensity, or was the hype louder than the product? From there, we break down the latest league headlines, including: Giannis Antetokounmpo expe...

On this episode of The Baseline NBA Podcast, we reflect on the 40-year legacy of MLK Day in the NBA, inspired by Dominique Wilkins’ powerful memories of playing in the very first MLK Day games in Atlanta. More than a date on the schedule, MLK Day represents responsibility, sacrifice, and the platform the league continues to stand on today. We then shift to the court with MLK Day game previews, breaking down Bucks vs. Hawks, Thunder vs. Cavaliers, Mavericks vs. Knicks, and Celtics vs. Pistons — ...

This week on the show, we break down a whirlwind of NBA news, rumors, and franchise-shaping decisions that could redefine the league landscape. We start with the blockbuster scenario of Trae Young being traded to the Washington Wizards for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, and what that move would signal for both franchises moving forward. We also dive into reports that the Memphis Grizzlies are entertaining offers for Ja Morant, discussing whether a true reset could be coming and what teams would...

This week on The Baseline NBA Podcast, we break down the highs and lows shaping the NBA right now — from major injuries impacting contenders to historic performances that continue to redefine greatness. First , as injuries take center stage around the league. Jalen Suggs suffers a Grade 1 MCL contusion and is out indefinitely, while Jonas Valančiūnas is sidelined with a right calf strain and will be re-evaluated in four weeks. Combined with Nikola Jokić’s knee injury, the Nuggets’ frontcourt ta...

The new year brings new priorities across the NBA, and we kick things off by laying out our 2025 NBA New Year’s Resolutions — bold calls on teams and stars at pivotal crossroads, from roster resets and superstar futures to the mindset shifts we want to see from the league’s top talent. Then, ESPN NBA analyst Kevin Pelton joins the show for an in-depth breakdown of the NBA’s renewed anti-tanking push in the wake of recent gambling investigations. Pelton walks us through the league’s updated inju...

🎙️ Former NBA Vet Anthony Marrow Joins The Baseline NBA Podcast 🏀 This week on The Baseline NBA Podcast, we’re bringing in a special guest with real league experience — Anthony Marrow, a 10-year NBA veteran and co-host of the Charlotte On The Scene...

This week, we preview the Emirates NBA Cup matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks, breaking down key matchups, X-factors, and what’s at stake as both teams look to make a statement. Then we nerd out on “Did You Know?” NBA stats, highlighting some of the most uncanny, unexpected, and eye-opening numbers from around the league this season. From surprising efficiency to bizarre trends, it’s a fun mix of hoops analysis and basketball trivia you didn’t know you needed. Become a ...

In this week’s episode, we examine two franchises that many expected to struggle — but instead are delivering some of the most impressive early-season performances in the NBA. The Los Angeles Lakers are showing surprising cohesion, unlocking new lineup combinations, and getting strong production from emerging players while navigating a retooled system. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics are exceeding preseason expectations with efficient two-way play, improved depth contributions, and a renewed cla...

In this week’s episode of The Baseline NBA Podcast, we welcome Paul Landono, Associate Producer of Drink Champs Sports, to break down the Miami Heat’s surprising early-season success. We dive into what’s driving Miami’s hot start, whether their formula is sustainable, and how the team continues to evolve behind the pillars of Heat Culture. Landono gives his insight on Bam Adebayo’s two-way leap, Tyler Herro’s expanded role, and Jimmy Butler’s ability to set the tone without overextending early....

This week on The Baseline NBA Podcast, we’re joined by the always insightful Jabari Davis for one of our favorite segments: Talk Shit or Abandon Ship. We break down the latest storylines surrounding the: Milwaukee Bucks Toronto Raptors Orlando Magic Phoenix Suns Rookie of the Year Race and we discuss the biggest name we believe could be moved as trade talks begin to heat up. If you’re looking for sharp analysis, bold takes, and high-level NBA insight, this episode delivers. Tap in and ride with...

In this week’s episode, we dive into the Western Conference’s most troubled teams — four franchises that are far off the pace in the 2025–26 NBA season: New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, LA Clippers, and Dallas Mavericks. New Orleans Pelicans has stumbled out of the gate with a 2–10 start, the worst record in the West so far. Their offense ranks near the bottom of the league at just 108.8 points per game, while their defense is hemorrhaging points — allowing 121.6 per game, giving them a ...

Join us for a special edition of FaceTime with The Baseline featuring best-selling author and cultural commentator Shea Serrano. Hosted by co-host Warren Shaw, this episode dives into Serrano’s latest book, Expensive Basketball, a captivating exploration of basketball’s unquantifiable magic beyond the box-score. Shea opens up about his journey — from middle-school science teacher to four-time New York Times bestseller author (including hits like Basketball (and Other Things). He shares how Expe...

In this week’s episode of The Baseline, we hit the court running with News and Notes, as Trae Young goes down with a sprained MCL expected to sideline him for four weeks and Ja Morant headlines a dramatic start to the 2025-26 NBA season. Then, in our featured segment “Impress Me,” we spotlight the teams and players making noise early — the Chicago Bulls, Philadelphia 76ers, and San Antonio Spurs have each turned heads with strong starts, fueled by rookie impact performances and veteran leadersh...

We break down the shocking details behind the FBI’s Operation Nothing But Bet and Operation Royal Flush, a gambling scandal shaking the NBA to its core. With over 30 arrests tied to organized crime, insider betting, and underground poker rings involving figures like Chauncey Billups, Terry Rozier, and Damon Jones, this case has rewritten the conversation around integrity in professional basketball. Then, in our “Do It or Don’t” segment, we shift focus from off-court chaos to on-court stakes — ...

It’s award season on The Baseline Podcast! Cal, Shaw, and special guest Jabari Davis break down their 2025-26 NBA Award predictions — from Rookie of the Year to MVP — and debut a few exclusive Baseline Awards you won’t hear anywhere else. 🏆 Official NBA Award Picks: Rookie of the Year: Cal – Cooper Flagg | Shaw – Ace Bailey | Jabari – Cooper Flagg Most Improved Player: Cal – Amen Thompson | Shaw – Matas Buzelis | Jabari – Amen Thompson Defensive Player of the Year: Unanimous pick – Victor Wem...

In this episode of The Baseline NBA Podcast, we deliver our 2025-26 NBA Western Conference Preview — breaking down all 15 teams into four tiers: Contenders, Middle of the Pack, Play-In Hopefuls, and Lottery Bound squads. While many believe it’s OKC Thunder’s conference to lose, the West is as tight as ever, with razor-thin margins separating playoff locks from the lottery line. We debate where every team stands, highlight breakout candidates, and predict how this year’s Western Conference hierar...

The Baseline NBA Podcast is back with a full-court Eastern Conference preview! Hosts Cal Lee and Warren Shaw are joined by Dan Favale of Hardwood Knocks to break down all 15 teams in the East — from the Eastern Elite contenders to the Playoff Powerhouses, Play-In Pack, and those chilling in Lottery Lane. Who’s rising? Who’s rebuilding? And who’s ready to run the East in 2025-26? We’ve got predictions, hot takes, and sharp analysis on every franchise that matters. Tune in for your definitive N...

On this week’s Baseline NBA Podcast, Warren Shaw takes us inside Miami Heat Media Day with nsights, reactions, and storylines coming out of South Beach as the Heat gear up for its most challenging season yet. Then we go Around the League with a jam-packed slate of headlines: Nikola Jokić reveals his plans to retire as a Denver Nugget — what this means for the franchise’s long-term identity.? The Houston Rockets face a major challenge after the devastating loss of Fred VanVleet to injury — can ...

The NBA is buzzing with controversy and big storylines. The league has launched a high-profile investigation into Kawhi Leonard and the LA Clippers, probing a reported $28 million “no-show” endorsement deal that could bring major salary cap penalties. We also break down Cam Thomas’ bold decision to sign a one-year qualifying offer with the Brooklyn Nets, setting up a critical contract year that could reshape his future. Plus, we look back and celebrate the 2025 Basketball Hall of Fame Class—fea...

We break down which rising stars could capture their first MVP award in the next 3–5 years. From favorites like Luka Dončić, Victor Wembanyama, and Anthony Edwards, to strong contenders such as Jalen Brunson, Donovan Mitchell, Anthony Davis, and Jayson Tatum, we evaluate their cases for becoming the face of the league. We also spotlight intriguing dark horses—Tyrese Haliburton, Cade Cunningham, Paolo Banchero, Evan Mobley, Cooper Flagg, and Zion Williamson—and debate what it would take for each ...

This week, we break down the players entering fresh situations with something to prove. Will their new teams and roles spark a comeback season, or are we selling the hype? Join us as we discuss who’s primed for redemption and who might be headed for disappointment. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-baseline-nba-podcast--3677698/support.

We sit down for some FaceTime with the Baseline featuring none other than Jordan Hinds — one of the brightest stars rising out of the college hoops scene. CIAA 2024–2025 Player of the Year Leading Scorer in the CIAA CIAA All-Conference Selection Atlantic Region Player of the Year HBCU Division II Player of the Year Jordan chops it up with us about his unforgettable college career and takes us behind the scenes of a grind-heavy summer that saw him ball out in the Miami Pro League, try out for t...