Loading summary
Transcript81 lines
- [00:00]
Keon Clark
This is an iHeart podcast.
- [00:05]
BET 106 in Sports Announcer
Tonight at 10, 9 Central on BET, an all new episode of 106 in Sports from executive producers LeBron James and Maverick Carter. It's a new top five countdown with hosts Ashley Nicole Moss and Cam Newton. They're breaking down the top moments in sports, culture and entertainment and highlighting both established pros and the stars on the come up. Watch the all new series 106 in sports tonight at 10, 9 Central on BET or catch up the next day on BET.
- [00:36]
Ryan Seacrest
Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway now through November 4th. Shop the annual beauty event and save $5 when you spend $25 on select beauty products. Shop in store or online for items like Dove Body Wash Native Body Wash, Cetaphil gentle skin cleanser, Dr. Squatch body wash, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, Dial Liquid Hand Soap and Olay Body wash. And say $5 when you spend 25 do or more. Offer ends November 4th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.
- [01:06]
LEGO Star Wars Advertiser
When you say Lego Star wars, the first thing you think of is imagination or action. Or both. Definitely both. Like with Jango Fett's Starship. I mean, with Stud Blasters, Seismic charges and three minifigures, your kid is going to be creating stories until the Banthas come home. And for yourself, there's the Jango Fett's Firespray Class Starship Lego set from the Ultimate Collector series. Enjoy some Jedi Master level mindfulness during your building time. Shop now for Star wars lego sets on lego.com or in lego retail stores.
- [01:40]
Kraken Crypto Advertiser
This October. You can earn up to 2% back when you deposit $1,000 or more on Kraken, the crypto platform with over 400 assets to buy and trade. The bonus is uncapped. So so if you deposit $50,000, you could earn up to $1,000 back. Download the Kraken app in the App Store or Google Play and deposit by October 31st. Not investment advice. Crypto trading involves risk of loss and is offered to US customers through PayWord Interactive, Inc. Terms apply.
- [02:11]
Matt Barnes
One of the biggest scandals in NBA history has hit the Feds have uncovered an illegal gambling operation. First it was johntae Porter, then Terry Rozier, now Damon Jones and Chauncey Billups. Insider information, rigging, poker games and even ties to organized crime. This is one of the biggest scandals, in my opinion, that the NBA has ever faced. And obviously keep in mind with the latest in Rozier, Damon Jones and Chauncey Billup these are all allegations. No one has been charged yet but we're going to try to make a little bit of sense of all this of what I've kind of been picking up and, and you know Chance is a former teammate, great dude, kind of knew Damon Jones and then don't really know Terry Rosier but obviously there is a lot going on and let's, let's, let's walk down this timeline. Jonte Porter was first hit on the Raptors caught and banned from the NBA. He's still waiting s awaiting sentencing which will take place in December. He's facing up to 40 or 50 months in prison. Terry Rosier who was once cleared of wrongdoing by the NBA. But let's keep in mind the NBA doesn't have the reach and the resources that the FBI does. Rosier was picked up allegedly providing inside information leading to bets. He was like and again he was cleared earlier by the NBA but the fed said nah, not yet. We got some more questions. And then obviously my brother. Former teammate Portland Trailblazers head coach Chauncey Billups arrested alleged participation in rigging poker games tied to organized crime. There's a lot to unpack. I mean they're saying I think you guys have all seen this loaded decks, glass glasses that could basically had X ray vision. I even didn't even have like I think Austin Powers had glasses that X ray vision. I didn't know that was real but I guess it is real. And then they're also saying that unfortunately Billups may be involved in extending information about players. Games players. Yeah, you know through the Chauncey's legal counsel. I was obviously denied all claims and they put out this statement. You can take a look. Damon Jones, former player assistant coach charged with selling non public NBA information to betters allegedly tipped off people about a star in LA sitting out against the bucks. So a lot to unpack, a lot to talk about. Obviously the FBI jumped at this opportunity. Congress requested a briefing with Adam Silver concerning gambling before this weekend, before October 31st which is Halloween. You know to me living in this crazy world we're in right now and, and, and just looking at this administration, it doesn't surprise me how hard the FBI is going on this to you know, bring down some athletes that have been made some bad decisions whether it be gambling or providing information but won't work this hard to release the Epstein files. But hey that's neither here nor there I guess. How much blame should the NBA and its commissioner take with this? And it's an Interesting conversation. I mean gambling has always been an issue in professional sports. Obviously understanding how rapid gambling has ran and you hear the rumors back in the day about MJ and you know, now that these professional leagues have opened the doors to be partnering with these betting sites, I mean I think we're obviously know what we're kind of headed for. So it's going to be interesting moving forward at the NBA put out a statement basically saying they're going to tighten up their belts. But I mean how much is really in their control? And we have some ideas we'll talk about in a little bit that can possibly help bridge these gaps. But another thing that I wanted to touch on was just the NCAA and always been horrible at reading the room and not to think that you guys are in charge of so many kids is unbelievable. In the midst of all this NBA stuff going on, they announced that they're now allowing their players to bet and their coaches to bet and staff to bet and gamble on professional sports, which came out I think the day after or the day of all this NBA madness. So again, NCAA's blind leading the blind over there. I don't know what the they're thinking. How can gambling be a part of our game without losing the integrity of the game, without players jeopardizing their careers, without people going crazy, without people getting arrested. Obviously the media is a big part in sponsored. A lot of obviously. I mean we're sponsored by DraftKings. A lot of your favorite shows these days are sponsored by these betting companies and betting sites. So it's just like how can you, how can we clean this up? Because I think it's going to take all of us to do it possibly. Here are some ideas that the team and I came up with to possibly help bridge the gap. We could change prop bets limited to three or four stars on the team. You know, obviously guys who have made a lot of money and have a reputation to uphold and franchises to carry and you know, they're not going to be with, you know, risking their livelihood and their legacy on gambling. You look at some of the names involved in this, you look at Ajonte Porter who is, you know, was trying to make his way, was a two way guy and, and, and thought he found a quick lick. So to me you shouldn't be able to bet on guys like that. We're moving the unders. Unders are something that can be affected by referees, by players. So if you're able to possibly remove the unders, that could help. And then I also just think there's so much little shit they allow people to bet on. I mean, there was people making fun of. At some point you could pick what color Gatorade it is. You know, you think of the movie Kevin Garnett was in, Uncut Gems where they bet on who's going to win the jump ball. I mean, there's so many little things you can bet on. I think professional sport is really going to have to tighten their belt up on what is allowed to be bet on and what's not because not to their. What am I trying to say? Not to their point. But also there's only so much that the NBA can control. You know, I mean, you can't control everything. You know, you've opened the doors to gambling to legalize it, but there's only so much they can control. So obviously some things have to be done. Gambling is something that people love. You know, some people enjoy it as a sport. You know, as, as a former athlete, I was never a gambler, but I'm thinking for former athletes, I mean, it's still that competitive edge. You know, we don't get to get out there and run up and down the court or the football field or the baseball diamond anymore. So some guys still get that competitive juices flowing, competition from betting. So how do we make it still fun, but make it more responsible and make sure that athletes at least aren't getting caught in the matrix and risking everything? I feel like gambling is here to stay. It's, it's, it's, it's always been here. It's always going to be here. So I think it's our jobs to again find a way to bridge this gap with still making it fun for the fans and even fun for athletes if they decide to bet. But, you know, having the integrity and responsibility and understanding of what we are doing while we're doing this. Again, everyone I mentioned today is alleged no one has been proven guilty of anything. Everyone has their due process. So I'm just hoping for the best. You know, again, this is, you know, this is something that's close to me with a few of these guys and, you know, it's something I didn't think I would hear. But, you know, they say there's, there's more names coming and more trouble and you seeing guys in different sports being wrangled in it too. So I think these professional leagues have their hands full trying to figure out how to make this lucrative for the game, fun for the fans, and safe for the players. So, man, this is going to be an ongoing story and with more, I want to welcome to the show our resident expert on some of this. Welcome to the show, my brother, Keon. Dueling Keon. What's up, bro?
- [10:57]
Keon Clark
Man, good to see you, bro.
- [10:58]
Matt Barnes
Good to be seen. Good to be seen. Great to see you. As we're. Keon, I mean, just know we're coming up on a year since, you know, you've kind of re. Acclimated and, you know, everything in society or, you know, the, all the media buzz right now is what is going on in the NBA with, you know, a handful of our former colleagues and, and teammates. When you initially heard about the Chauncey and Damon Jones situation, obviously Gilbert's been thrown in there. We've. We've had other players linked to it. What was your initial thought?
- [11:31]
Keon Clark
So the initial thought for me and Matt, thanks again for having me, man. I miss you. Boy, your headline's still looking great, you know, man.
- [11:37]
Matt Barnes
Ain't it, man? I'm 45 and this shit is up front.
- [11:41]
Keon Clark
Yeah, yeah, I'm jealous.
- [11:42]
Matt Barnes
Low key.
- [11:43]
Keon Clark
But my initial thought was it was a trigger for me, right, because it took me and my family back to the time where we got indicted and the feds came to my house in Utah when I was coaching, right. So it really hit home for me. And then the, the, the love and the care and the respect that I have for Chauncey and those guys in particular. Chauncey, I got a lot of love and respect for that man as a human being. I know his family, I know how much he cares about them, and I know he's excelled at every intersection at life. And yeah, man, it was a, it was a real trigger for me. And I'm just thinking about his family during this moment because I know how my family felt experiencing that simultaneously. And then I know the isolation that comes along with that because a lot of your homeboys and things like that, when they think you fried or you going through something like this, they might love you more from a distance. So it gets really quiet. So I'm just thinking about all those different elements that he's probably experiencing in the moment.
- [12:46]
Matt Barnes
Walk us through. Because I know we touched on this initially when we sat down with you almost a year ago. Walk us through the morning you were arrested, the time, how it took place, and then once you were in custody and kind of the behind the scenes stuff that none of us really think about or really even know about.
- [13:07]
Keon Clark
No, that's great, man. I appreciate you for asking that question. I'm gonna put my cell phone out for a second because I got like 10 missed calls at about 5:40, no, I'm about 5:15am in the morning and from an unknown number. So before I answered the phone, I went and looked out the window. While I was in the mountains of Utah, I went and looked out the window and I saw that the feds were out there. And so what I did is I went back to my phone and told them I was coming down. But before I did that, I tapped my wife and said, hey, I'm about to go to jail. The feds are out there. So the fear, you know what I mean, the guilt, you know what I mean, all those different elements I was feeling and experiencing in that moment. And so you have any clue, it was crazy coming. The first thing they do is they put you on coast. It wasn't out of the blue. It was, it wasn't out of the blue. And the reason why I say that because I got a superseding indictment, meaning, you know what I mean? Our guys went down, I believe in October and they came to get me in April. So before they came and got me, obviously there's conversations that happen along the way. There's cooperation that happens along the way. So before they come and get you to, they go for the low hanging fruit a little bit to make sure that, you know, they have a full case when they do a superseding indictment. So for years, for me, because I played around in the dark, like if I heard a helicopter or if I like heard sirens or things like that, you're like, okay, is this your day though? You're not doing that in those moments, right? You know what I mean? Like, what's done in the dark comes to the light and it's a really stressful time even before that kind of situation happens, you know, if you see other people go down in something similar. So it was definitely, you know, a thing that I wouldn't say was out of the blue. I didn't know it was coming, but because of one of my, one of the people who cooperated against me, and I hope I'm not telling too much, but they called me a few days before I got indicted and they hadn't called me, you know, for quite some time to that point. So I was like, oh, okay, he's already gone down. They might be on my trail, you know. So the fear that's associated in the silence that you have is a real thing, champ. It's a real thing.
- [15:37]
Matt Barnes
How long was the process? You were arrested, you were taken into custody how long was that? Like, walk us through your day in the next few days.
- [15:45]
Keon Clark
So the first thing they do is when they arrest you, they put the cuffs on you. It was early in the morning, so they allowed me to go back upstairs and put on clothes. And from that process, they take you to a warehouse. Now, that's where the rubber meets the road mat. Because, like, in that moment, you have a decision to make, a choice to make. Whether you cooperate in that moment and have a conversation with them, or you just say, hey, you know what? I want an attorney, and let's play the long game. So for me, that was a very, you know, long morning. I spent about eight hours, you know what I'm saying, in a cell where there was no water, no food or anything like that. You're just looking at the wall. Then I went before the judge, and then I was able to bail myself out in that process. And then once you bail yourself out, now you have to deal with the reality of how your family's feeling. You have to deal with the team and the organization or the. Or the institution that you're working from for in those moments. And those are real rough conversations. And then it gets really quiet. And then you have to deal with the shortcomings and the mistake, the choices and the decisions that you made and the consequences that come along with it. And that's a really hard time. And that's where people can spiral out of control. So it gets really quiet. It gets really silent.
- [17:08]
Matt Barnes
So what's. I mean, again, we know your situation. In your opinion, what do you feel like the next steps are moving forward with Chauncey? Because it looks like he probably went through some of the similar stuff you went through. He saw the judge, he was arrested, then he saw the judge that day. What is kind of his next few weeks to a month look like?
- [17:25]
Keon Clark
So the first thing I think he's going to have to do is he's going to have to make sure he lawyers up, gets the right information. He's going to have to make some decisions about how he wants to approach this. Because when you're facing, you know, a lot of time you have to, like, calculate how you want to navigate it. So for me, I was facing two charges initially, wire fraud and conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud. And I think both of the wire fraud held up to 20 years. Right. And I had never had an experience with being arrested. It was my first time in handcuffs, all that stuff. But I also had, like, morals value, standards and things like that. Right. So for me, you know, Me, like telling on people or incriminating people and things like that. That wasn't an option for me. So he's going to have to figure out if you're going to, you know, try and make a better deal for yourself. Right? Especially because like the charges, you know, a lot of times are so trumped up that they throw things on you that you're not responsible for, but because you're included in it, you're going to be held accountable for. So you have to make a decision in those moments. Do I, you know, cooperate or do I accept responsibility? You know, you have to calculate all those different things. So there's a million thoughts that's kind of going through your head at the moment. And then you got to deal with the organization and the NBA and the institution and the brotherhood and the letdown as well, and how it makes your family feel. So it's a lot of different emotions that you're feeling in this moment and it's difficult to come to those conclusions illusions instantly. You have to like, take a step back and you have to reflect, you have to humble yourself. But then at some point you get this feeling that you have to activate and you have to fight for yourself. Stand up and you have to figure out like the tactics you're going to use in this fight.
- [19:13]
Matt Barnes
So you did 30 months, correct?
- [19:15]
Keon Clark
I got sentenced to 30 months. I did 10 months and, and eight days in. I did eight, seven months in a halfway house and then I did a month on home confinement because like I was a first time offender. Number and when you're a first time offender you get certain benefits. I accepted responsibility for my role in the actions that I did. So you get some points minimized. But also my charges got elevated because I was considered a manager supervisor in that situation, though in my opinion I wasn't. But I digress on that point. But at the end of the day you have to, you have to figure out the best way for you to navigate this for yourself and your family. I just know for me putting anybody else's family in this situation wouldn't have done me good. When you're talking about like the situation that our guys are in and you're dealing with, you know, some real underworld boss type shit, you know what I mean? That that's a scarier thing for your family. So yeah, it's a lot of thoughts that's probably going through the homies minds right now for sure.
- [20:24]
Matt Barnes
I also want to reiterate, this is all alleged. No actual charges have been brought forth yet. So we want to keep that clear. And the reason why I say that, and because it's kind of bothered me how, you know, obviously we're in the media now. Some of our colleagues have jumped out there and, and, and, you know, whether they insinuated with the situation with Rachel Nichols where she insinuated, you know, or posed a question, was Gilbert connected to this? And then. Then later, erase that tweet, which I didn't agree with when I initially saw, because again, this. These are people's lives. You know what I mean? And. But I will say, is Gilbert and his little trolling ass invited. I felt like this type. And I've kind of been talking again. That's the one thing I was like, bro, you got to stop the. Because you're opening the door to people to make these type of accusations on you. You know what I mean? Because he's been super. He and I have actually been talking a lot the last few days. The process. He's been schooling me on all this. I'm just like, whoa. So he's kind of been giving me game. And then also Pablo Torre, the way he just kind of threw Kevin Garnett out there initially, and then Kevin's camp came back to him and told him, hey, you know, Kevin thought it was something else. Once he found out what it was, he left. So his initial statement got over 5 million views. And his, you know, his. His response to something on there, you know, got a couple hundred thousand, you know, so to me, to go out there and throw someone like Kevin Garnett's name out there without actually having the facts, and to me, it comes back to trying to be first and not right. I think we're in an area where people want the clickbaits and the views and the virality of the situation, but you're really messing with people's livelihoods and their families and opportunities they have going on. So to me, it's very irresponsible for anybody in the media to throw these accusations out there, although it's the world we live in until we actually know. So that's why we again, wanted to, you know, reiterate that nothing has. No one has been charged. Everything is alleged right now. And they knew they need their. Their process. Katie, obviously, you've been a crazy. You've had a crazy journey, and. And thank you for sharing that with us. And I'm glad that, you know, we were talking about on camera. It's coming up on a year since you've been back and. And trying to kind of Re acclimate yourself into society as several different pillars. You are a father, a leader of your family, a businessman, a former player. What has that journey been like? Because we're literally coming up on a year for you.
- [22:43]
Keon Clark
Yeah, Matt, you know what? It takes me back to, like, our high school days because you and I both were, like, overlooked a lot of times, right? In our journey, in our basketball careers, even as pros, we were under overlooked and with the value that we brought to the team, right? And so you have to, like, start from rock bottom. So I'm used to it. I'm built for this. I'm built to, you know, be resilient. I'm built on accountability. And the first step with accountability is you have to recognize when you make a mistake. And I, Lord knows I fell short. I fell short in my family knife, my family life, my personal life, even my professional life with some of the decisions that I made. But one thing I know about me, man, is that, like, I have this unique ability to lock in and reinvent myself. They say you have to reinvent yourself at least five times in your adulthood. And so I'm on, like, phase four at this point, right? So I'm thankful for it. You know, I'm better for it. Things are a lot better on. On my end and for my family than there were when I saw you guys in December.
- [23:49]
Matt Barnes
You saw us in December. You look like Chris Tucker on Money Talks in that Snoop Dogg wife beater. All just disheveled, like, it was like, okay, okay.
- [24:00]
Keon Clark
And we was in Miami, so you look like Philip Michael Thompson. Like, he was on the set of Miami Vice.
- [24:06]
Matt Barnes
Miami Vice.
- [24:08]
Keon Clark
I don't know who you look like, champ, but. But you know what? You and Stack Jack treated me in that moment because y' all knew I was. Y' all knew I was just kind of coming out of halfway house and things like that. And the path that I kind of. That I'm on right now with, you know, some of the shows and the podcast and the things that I'm doing and some of the consulting opportunities and the things that I'm doing right now, had you guys not allowed me to come on the platform and show so much love and care and do that interview in a way that was appropriate, that could be, like, digested by the right, I wouldn't be here right now. So I thank you guys. All the Smoke Productions, Matthew Barnes, all y' all boys, man, I really appreciate you guys for giving me that opportunity. And I'm. You guys have trailblazed a place that a lot of us are trying to get to and so man, I just tip my hat to you guys, man. Keep doing it. Keep going.
- [24:59]
Matt Barnes
Come on man. You know I love you, your family and it's always again to be able to see you land back on your feet like I know you would and be able to, you know, make the best out of it. So moving on, get ready because sports, culture and entertainment is colliding like never before.
- [25:16]
BET 106 in Sports Announcer
Wednesday at 10, 9 Central on BET is BET's all new series 106 in Sports.
- [25:22]
Matt Barnes
Hosted by NFL star Cam Newton and sports analyst Ashley Nicole Moss, 106 in Sports is where the biggest plays meet the biggest conversations. Each week, Cam and Ashley are counting down the top five moments everyone's talking about. From the most jaw dropping highlights on the field to the viral clips taken over the feed to the culture shifts shaping fashion, entertainment and black excellence. The Top five Countdown dives into all the game winning touchdowns, buzzer beaters, red carpet fits and headlines making stories that define our culture. With Cam bringing an athlete's perspective and Ashley bringing an analyst's edge, they're breaking down every angle. The wins, the controversies and the unforgettable moments that keep us talking. Whether it's a wild play that broke the Internet or a championship celebration for the ages or the latest trends shaking up culture. If it's big, it's on 106 in sports. Whether it's stars like LeBron, Steph Giannis and Durant making waves on and off the court, you know it's making the countdown. So tune in and join the conversation because it's where sports meets style, competition meets culture, and every moment matters.
- [26:27]
BET 106 in Sports Announcer
Don't miss the all new series on Wednesdays at 109 Central on BET's 106 and Sports.
- [26:33]
Matt Barnes
If you want to relive the countdown or catch what you missed, stream the next day on BET.
- [26:38]
Washable Sofas Advertiser
Time for a sofa upgrade. Visit washablesofas.com and discover Annabe where designer style meets budget friendly prices with sofas starting at $699, Annabe brings you the ultimate in furniture innovation with a modular design that allows you to rearrange your space effortlessly. Perfect for both small and large spaces, Anime is the only machine washable sofa inside and out. Say goodbye to stains and messes with liquid and stain resistant fabrics that make cleaning easy. Liquid simply slides right off. Designed for custom comfort, our high resilience foam lets you choose between a sink and feel or a supportive memory foam blend. Plus our pet friendly stain resistant fabrics ensure your sofa stays beautiful for years. Don't compromise quality for price. Visit washablesofas.com to upgrade your living space today with no risk returns and a 30 day money back guarantee. Get up to 60% off plus free shipping and free returns. Shop now at washablesofas.com Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply.
- [27:38]
Odoo Business Software Advertiser
Running a business is hard enough, so why make it harder? With a dozen different apps that don't talk to each other, one for sales, another for inventory, a separate one for accounting. Before you know it, you are drowning in software instead of growing your business. This is where Odoo comes in. Odoo is the only business software you'll ever need. It's an all in one fully integrated platform that handles everything CRM, accounting, inventory, E commerce, HR and more. No more app overload, no more juggling logins. Just one seamless system that makes work easier. And the best part? Odoo replaces multiple expensive platforms for a fraction of the cost. It's built to grow with your business whether you are just starting out or already scaling up. Plus it's easy to use, customizable and designed to streamline every process so you can focus on what really matters running your business. Thousands of businesses have made the switch, so why not you try Odoo for free@odoo.com that's o d o o.com hey.
- [28:39]
Ryan Seacrest
It'S Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway this fall. Take care of the little ones in the family with Baby Club Savings now through November 4th. Spend $25 on select Baby Club products and save $5. Shop for items like Pedias shore bottles, Pedialyte powder packs, Huggies baby wipes, Huggies diapers, Gerber puffs and Gerber pouches. And save $5 when you buy. $25 or more on participating products. Offer ends November 4th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.
- [29:09]
Matt Barnes
Week one of the NBA season has just passed and it's been explosive. The NBA is in great hands right now. What stood out the most for week one for you?
- [29:21]
Keon Clark
Wow. It's two things that really stood out to me. I think Wimby really stands stands out to me.
- [29:28]
Matt Barnes
The fact that numbers will hold on. Keep your thought real quick. I want to throw out numbers before you praise him. What is he about?
- [29:33]
Keon Clark
I think it's 33, 13 and 6 blocks.
- [29:35]
Matt Barnes
33 points, 13 rebounds and 6 blocks a game.
- [29:41]
Keon Clark
Wow.
- [29:44]
Matt Barnes
And the monks and the right, the changing shots. He was with kg. He's with Jamal this summer I mean he is scary. Yeah, scary, scary. But go ahead. And before I interrupt it, he really.
- [29:55]
Keon Clark
Stands out to me along with some of the other superstars because we've had multiple 50 point games. I mean sometimes we get desensitized to like SGA and things like that because he's already dropped 50. You know, Austin Reeves had 51, I think last night. So those guys like. Right. You expect that. But Wimby in his body and his movements, I've never seen a, a center that plays like a shooting guard but then protects the rim like Manute bowl or some like, it's even more, I mean it's.
- [30:26]
Matt Barnes
What is the. I want to say the league. Mark Eaton holds the record in that to me. I mean obviously to be able to. Everything you just said, to be able to protect the, protect the paint the way he does. Change shots, block shots, get the rebound and go lead the drop like lead the fast break, get all the way downhill if he wants or he'll give you a hesi pull up 3 at 7 foot 11 and you know what I mean? I just, I don't think we've, we, we've never seen this. We may never see anything like this again.
- [30:53]
Keon Clark
Dude. The dude came up the floor and he understood that it was a two for one situation. He's the center from deep and he pulled that bit from down with the lefty.
- [31:02]
Matt Barnes
Hesy into it.
- [31:05]
Keon Clark
It's, it's, it's crazy. It's awesome to see, you know, his growth, his development. But also what I, I like about him is that he took an approach that was so humble. Like he went and got centered by going to see the Monks, right? You saw him with the ball head. He, he, he, he fed his childhood love for the community by going out and playing soccer. Then he went and saw the Jedi warrior KG took for, for dog and mentality. He got himself healthy. Remember the summer before last, he had the Olympics, right? And they were on their way in that situation as well. So like we are witnessing history right now. If he can stay healthy, he's going to go down as one of the greatest players of all time.
- [31:46]
Matt Barnes
But we're also seeing something that I think I don't. And we would have to go back who has dominated both sides of the floor the way he has. Obviously we've seen Michael Jordan win defensive player of the year and be able to score his 30 points. But I think what Wimby's doing is even different than that. You know, I mean being able to lock up, being able to Protect the basket. And then, you know, on the offensive side, I mean, you know, obviously only one game, but Anthony Davis is one of the best defenders in the game, and Anthony Davis could not do anything with him. So what makes you think anyone else in the league can? So I'm definitely excited about what he's been able to do. That's a young, very talented team. And keep in mind, the Aaron Fox hasn't even played yet, you know what I mean? And you got these. These. These young Harper out there and Castle, and San Antonio is rebuilt the right way and with the franchise player leading, leading the helm. So it's going to be very interesting to see what their journey is. Is there any nicknames that come to mind when you think about Wimby?
- [32:55]
Keon Clark
I mean, if I was thinking about it, in a sense where history would take place, I would call them the Anunnaki, the Nephilim. You know what I mean? Goliath Jr. Like, something that's, like, affiliated with being a giant. I don't know what nickname we gonna call them, but, like, I've never seen anything like it. And I'm seeing his siblings, like, you know, on the same track as him.
- [33:18]
Matt Barnes
It's crazy, crazy, crazy, crazy. The Internet saying Wimby and Cornett are coined French vanilla.
- [33:27]
Keon Clark
French vanilla for sure. I ain't mad at that. But that's running Cornet with. With Big Fellow, you know what I mean?
- [33:34]
Matt Barnes
He's not necessarily there yet.
- [33:36]
Keon Clark
We got to find something that, like, is unique to him.
- [33:40]
Matt Barnes
Also something that I found kind of interesting and. And. And not necessarily took the league by storm, but a few teams have tried is trying to play without a true point guard. Obviously, the Rockets come to mind, the Suns come to mind, the Mavs come to mind, and the T come to mind. And as of Monday, those teams combined record are 4 and 7. You look at Houston with they were what, 6, 8 and above, all the way up to 7ft. With the starting lineup, the Rockets, the Mavs playing. And although I love Cooper Flag, It's. It's. It's a lot to ask him to play point guard at this point. Not that he doesn't have the talent, but it's a lot to ask him. Obviously, the T Wolves, with Mike Conley being a little older and them not necessarily trusting the young boy they got. What's his name? Dillingham. Dillingham, yeah. And then obviously the Suns have been struggling, period, just to kind of find some cohesiveness, but Dylan Brooks thinks he's Kevin Durant all of a Sudden leading the team in shots and taking more shots in Devin Booker, which is insane. But what are your thoughts about teams trying to play without a traditional point guard?
- [34:49]
Keon Clark
It's a fine line, man. It's a fine line because if you look at like Detroit and they put the ball in Cade Cunningham's hand early, Cade has the pace, the rhythm, the cadence. Because he's a taller guy, he. He's not what I consider a striker. He's more of an initiator. He's got a good ground game. He's cut from like that Jalen rose 2.0 type build. So he has more of a better opportunity to become a point guard than a Cooper. Cooper. To me, his superpower is his energy, his motor, getting out in transition, being a live body. I look at him more of as like a Sean Marion, like type as far as his energy. So it's two things, I think. One, they'll get Kyrie back at some point. Second part is they do have D Russ Russell over there as well. So if they want to implement him, they could potentially do that. But also when you're talking about like developing these young guys, it's a lot of ways that you can develop them. Jason Kidd is one of the best basketball. He's a beautiful mind as far as basketball knowledge. So I think Cooper will benefit from having a run rock at the one, right. He'll be able to benefit it because it'll help him in situations and things like that. But when Kyrie comes back and he can get out and he can be athletic and things like that and you can put him in positions to be successful, I think that'll be beneficial to him.
- [36:08]
Matt Barnes
Agreed. Rockets, who, you know, have championship aspirations, you're picking up Kevin Durant lost Van Fleet with to an ACL injury. They have assets to make a move at some point, whenever that may be. But I definitely think there's a glaring hole there. As good as Sengun is, as good as Kevin Durant is, these guys are being picked up nearly full court and having to back the basket from half court. Not really in their kill spots and not being effective. Granted, they're both still scoring very well, but I remember the first game against okc. There's plenty of times where KD didn't really get the ball in his spots. He was got it out of his spots and if you're going to slow someone down, especially someone that's a little older, it's getting them off their spot. So they need someone to initiate and set the table for these guys. And I think we're taking that point guard position lightly, thinking that, hey, we don't need one. We can just be long out here and everyone plays basketball. Now. There's a reason why there's still Chris Paul's here in year 20 and guys that run teams, I mean some of the targets that are out there with expiring deals or, or, or you know, friendly situations are Colin Sexton has an expiring deal. Kobe White has an expiring deal. CJ McCollum has an expiring deal, Jordan Poole, interesting situation design. Murray's coming back off injury. Anthony Simmons, Tyus Jones, and then one Drew Holiday who's later in his career. He's out in Portland right now and we kind of know what's going on with Portland. Although he's owed some money, there are teams that can make space for him. So I don't know if he'll finish his season in Portland, but there's some guys out there. Anybody that you think is a good fit. Also, keep in mind free agents like Ben Simmons and, and John Wall are also sitting at home and, and ready to, to jump at the opportunities or anyone that you think fits that Houston role.
- [37:59]
Keon Clark
Yeah, I do. And it's a wild card because he hasn't had an opportunity to play. So you haven't seen him play with the spurs yet. But Fox, right, Fox is from Houston, if I'm not mistaken. I know he's a Texas boy and you got a young boy who you drafted really, really high in the draft that has some potential that you got to let him go through his growing pains if you want to be a contender. Because when Fox comes back, his minutes might be minimized a little bit. So I would say, like de' Aaron Fox, it's a good opportunity with what Harper has been able to show this far and the upside that he has, he might be a good candidate, you know, to fit that Houston mole Castle as well.
- [38:40]
Matt Barnes
I mean, they got two young monsters over there. And although dear Fox is one of the best point guards in the NBA and he just got a five year extension too, right Nate? Yeah, I mean the, the, the, the, the play of these young kids are, are thinking about, you know, making, not, I'm not, wouldn't say making them expendable, but it, it, it, it makes you say, hmm, it obviously couldn't trade Fox until February close to the deadline because of the extension, but, but it does, you know, get, get, get the rumor meals starting to turn top three players in week one. Wimby again, 1613 and six blocks. His team is three and oh. SGA is averaging 40 points, six and five as his team is three and oh and Giannis 36, 16 and seven. I want to say Steph Curry's up there, right? Steph is averaging nearly 33 a game at 37 years old, which is absolutely incredible. Anyone else come to mind that we haven't really spoke on that's really kind of out there getting loose up to this point.
- [39:43]
Keon Clark
I mean, Luca, you know, before he went down last game and missed last game, like Luca's been putting up incredible numbers. Austin Reeves dropped 50 last night. Aaron Gordon has dropped 50 this season as well with the 360 lob, which I have really never seen outside of the Rucker or some like that. But it's early in the season, man. Guys are healthy, you know, to get the game is free flowing and things like that. So it's, it's exciting to see, man. It's a lot of talent in our league. I think the rules are conducive for freedom of movement and things like that. So I'm excited to see who can do it. It's not if you can do it for a week. Right. Because all star time, you know, those like those different intersections within the season, that's where, you know what I mean. It's not just about your talent. It's about your stick to itiveness, it's about your mindset, it's about like your habits, all those other things. So yeah, everybody shot out of a cannon right now. But I want to see how it, how it looks like December after the tournaments and all that stuff happens.
- [40:49]
Matt Barnes
Absolutely. But also too, I mean, outside of these great numbers, how do you affect winning? Because at the end of the day, that's what this game is about. You know, when you look at a guy like LaMelo Ball who, who has enough about being one of the most talented guys in the league, he's at 28, 10 and eight, you know, and his team is two and one and he stayed consistent as he turned the page. I want to say this is year six for him or seven. So he's been in it for a minute. Then Brunson at 30 points, six and four and his team is, is, is two and one. So I mean, to your point, it's week one. We're not crowning anybody the greatest outside of possibly Wimby. There's still a whole season to be played, but it's been a lot of exciting. Overtime, double overtime, big shots, big plays, big dunks. I'M just Katie. I'm happy the season is back, bro.
- [41:32]
Keon Clark
I am too. I miss. I miss hoops. I love it. Matt, real quick, can I make a point real quick? Is that okay?
- [41:40]
Matt Barnes
Please?
- [41:40]
Keon Clark
So the things like you mentioned Brunson and. And Ball. Right. Lamelo. I think one of the things they could do instantly is become more engaged defensively to be more complete. We don't complain about them on the offensive end. If they really want to impact winning, I want to see you, you know, getting over screens. If you, you know, get a switch. I want to see you take the challenge, accept the challenge and things like that. Sometimes you don't have to look outwardly. Sometimes you have to challenge your superstars to be better. And I think they're capable of doing that. So I don't care if they got to bring Papa Ball in there to get on Mellow's ass. I don't care if you know what I mean. They got to bring the og, you know, back to talk to his boy Bronson up in, in. In New York. But like, defensively, I feel like they can give more effort and I can. I think that can impact their team's winning.
- [42:30]
Matt Barnes
And I think when you say this, I mean, I don't want fans to get confused. Like we're not looking for a first team. All NBA defense just not to be a liability, you know, not to be a hole. And I think that's something early on that Steph was kind of targeted with that he was a liability and he worked his ass off to be a great team defender and not a. Not a huge liability on the defensive because you're doing so much offensively. You know, I mean, it's. Very few people can be all NBA on both sides of the ball. You know, those are, those are the great ones. But there are guys that are very talented in this league putting up tremendous numbers. They can definitely give more effort to your point on the defensive end, which would automatically make their team better. Also, some rookies that are out here showing their asses VJ Edge come. I mean, insane, insane debut. I think a franchise record for rookies for 34 points. Had the third most points in a regular season debut behind Wilt Chamberlain 43. And who is that? Frank Selvi at 35 in 1954. So he came out and looked great. Dylan Harper. I mean, we've been big fans of his game and obviously his pops had a lot of game. He's been in double figures all three games for the Spurs. Cooper Flag has been doing this. Cooper Flag stuff Cedric Coward for the Grizzlies. The 11th overall pick has been 19 points, 70% from the. From the three point line. And he's a former JUCO guy.
- [43:56]
Keon Clark
Yeah.
- [43:56]
Matt Barnes
Who's kind of found his spot. And then this, the 6 pick, Trey Johnson out of Texas is averaging 17. And you know, there's the con canipple in Charlotte. He had a 20, 20 point. He's averaged a 20.6 and 2 as of Sunday night, averaging about. Excuse me, had 26 and 2 Sunday night, averaging about 15 a game, shooting over 50 from the 3. And then Cooper Flag has struggled a little bit, but you see his flashes. He had 22, four and four the other night. So, you know, week one, this is a small taste of what you know is to come. Yeah, and it's a very long season, but again, I think the, the league is off to a. Excuse me. The season is off to a great start and I'm just really excited it's back.
- [44:42]
Keon Clark
I'm excited about it. A guy who you didn't mention, who I like as a rookie is a guy down with the Pelicans. Jeremiah Fears, I believe his name is. Went to ou, went to Oklahoma. Getting downhill. I saw him play against John Moran the other night. He looks like he doesn't care about anything. He ain't scared of nobody. Like these young boys are ready. It's like, you know, they are bringing two kids to reality for real.
- [45:09]
Matt Barnes
Speaking of John Morant, do you see John Morant being moved?
- [45:13]
Keon Clark
I hope so. At some point, you know, you want to get a guy like that into a bigger market. He's been with the Grizzlies his whole career. And so you want to pair him with a program and some players that can, while he's in his prime, that can help develop him, can help protect him where he doesn't just feel like it's all on him. I think a change of scenery would be great for him, personally, and I would love to see him get with one of the better programs where they can challenge him and hold him more accountable so that he can reach his full potential. Because, like, he still got it. He's still cold.
- [45:49]
Matt Barnes
Still got it. And I agree. I think a fresh start. Unfortunately, I pilot. Sorry, Memphis Grizzlies fans. I think a fresh start would. Would do his career. It would just be a, A new spark, a new. A new life. And I think it'll be good. Katie. Unfortunately, Jalen Brown has struck again with his spray paint hairline. It's been unbelievable. I remember. I remember. Yeah, you could probably use. You might need to hit him. But you. He needs the shit that sticks, though. Like, his shit is rubbing off on these jerseys. I remember while we play, remember when Booze, I love you, Booze, you did some bullshit. Remember Booze put the black. The black shoe cleaner or the black shoe dye on his head during the game. Yeah.
- [46:35]
Keon Clark
It was an elevated version of maybe Beijing that he just maybe didn't wash off. He just was like, you know what? I'm good. I'm gonna just go to. With the bowling ball effect.
- [46:44]
Matt Barnes
No, I think what it was. Remember, I don't know if. I don't know if your dad had. But my dad used to have this white shoe dye and black shoe dye that the OGs would put on there. And it had like a sponge tip and you would squeeze the bottle and it just dabbed on. I think that's all he did to his. I think that's what Booze did. And it didn't work. And then obviously Jalen Brown, you know, playing great. There it is. It's on the screen. She died playing great. But Jayden Brown, I don't know. Jalen, you got to tighten your up, bro. I know Braids probably did a nut. He probably did a number on you on your hairline. Jason Tatum is. Is the hairline king. You might need to go ask your. Your yellow brother what he suggests for you to tighten up with all the time is undefeated.
- [47:25]
Keon Clark
But, you know, like, the same way we invest in our bodies and you know what I mean, like, we got guys going to get their teeth done and things like that. We might have to call turkey and go get those hairlines restored.
- [47:38]
Matt Barnes
Would you lead the trip? Would you. Would you lead a trip of current, informal players to go and restore their youth?
- [47:45]
Keon Clark
I would love to lead the trip, but Matt, the feds would have to give me my passport back first. I am still not allowed to leave the country at this moment, but when I am, I damn sure lead that charge.
- [47:57]
Matt Barnes
Oh, God, I love it. Key man, always great to catch up. God bless you and the family. Good to see you. And we'll. We'll definitely talk to you soon. Fan questions. This year on Unplugged. We want you guys to be able to connect with us and our guests more than ever. We recently started a hotline where fans can call in and ask questions that can possibly be featured on Unplugged. Make sure you give us a call at 279-C-A L L a T S. That's 279. Call ATS and let your voice be heard. That's a wrap. You can catch this on all The Smokes Productions, YouTube and the DraftKings Network. We'll see you guys next week.
- [48:46]
Odoo Business Software Advertiser
Running a business is hard enough. Don't make it harder With a dozen apps that don't talk to each other. One for sales, another for inventory, a separate one for accounting. That's software overload. Odoo is the all in one platform that replaces them all. CRM, accounting, inventory, E Commerce, hr. Fully integrated, easy to use and built to grow with your business. Thousands have already made the switch. Why not you try Odoo for free@odoo.com.
- [49:14]
Keon Clark
That'S odoo.com this is Julian Edelman from Games With Names. Football is back. That means it's tailgate time and this season the only meat I'm going to grill is Dietz and Watson. I'm loving the Black Angus Dietz dogs. They're flavor packed and you can tell they are made with the highest quality ingredients. Sundays just got a whole lot better. Visit deetsandwatson.com the right way to learn more about the deets difference.
- [49:50]
Ryan Seacrest
Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway this fall. Take care of the little ones in the family with Baby Club Savings now through November 4th. Spend $25 on select Baby Club products and save $5. Shop for items like Pedias Shore bottles, Pedialyte powder packs, Huggies, baby wipes, Huggies diapers, Gerber Puffs and Gerber pouches. And save $5 when you buy $25 or more on participating products. Offer ends November 4th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.
- [50:20]
LEGO Star Wars Advertiser
When you say Lego Star wars, the first thing you think of is imagination or action. Or both. Definitely both. Like with Jango Fett's Starship. I mean with Stud Blasters, Seismic charges and three minifigures. Your kid is gonna be creating stories until the banthas come home. And for yourself, there's the Jango Fett's Fire Spray Class Starship LEGO set from the Ultimate Collector series. Enjoy some Jedi Master level mindfulness during your building time. Shop now for Star wars lego sets on lego.com or in lego retail stores.
- [50:54]
Keon Clark
This is an Iheart podcast.