Why I Left Canada: The Dark Side of Content Creation | Matt Kiatipis DSH #1069

Summary

Digital Social Hour Episode Summary Title: Why I Left Canada: The Dark Side of Content Creation | Matt Kiatipis DSH #1069
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Host: Sean Kelly
Guest: Matt Kiatipis

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1. Introduction

In this engaging episode of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly sits down with Matt Kiatipis to delve into Matt's personal and professional journey. The conversation explores Matt's decision to leave Canada, his foray into professional basketball, the challenges of content creation, and his aspirations within the sports and digital landscapes.

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2. Matt’s Professional Basketball Journey

Matt Kiatipis shares his passion for basketball, detailing his experience playing overseas and his ambition to ascend to higher professional leagues. He reveals his intention to secure a Greek passport to facilitate his entry into European basketball circuits.

“[03:17] C: I'm actually happy to announce it today... Once I get that passport, I'll be playing professionally. In Greece or anywhere in Europe.”

Matt discusses the differences between European and North American basketball styles, aiming to infuse American flair into his play to captivate audiences and enhance his professional prospects.

“[07:13] C: It's a little bit different... I want to bring that little American, Canadian kind of flair to Europe and try to go crazy with that.”

He elaborates on his strategic approach to climbing the ranks in Greece’s basketball leagues, aspiring to reach the Euroleague and ultimately the NBA.

“[05:38] C: I'm going to have to prove myself at 24 right now, probably until 26... maybe the NBA.”

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3. Content Creation and Social Media Influence

Matt emphasizes the pivotal role of social media in his career, particularly through his YouTube channel where he documents his basketball journey. He aims to create a documentary-style vlog that offers authentic insights into professional basketball overseas.

“[03:39] B: Are you still going to upload those videos?... [C]: I'm going to be probably the first one to make like a legitimate YouTube documentary series vlog.”

Matt highlights the growing importance of having a strong social presence, asserting that "attention is the money."

“[25:56] B: Yep. I mean, I've gotten so many opportunities. Not even funny. [C]: Social media is life changing... attention is the money.”

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4. Beefs and Relationships in Content Creation

The discussion touches on Matt's past conflicts with other content creators, such as Cash Nasty and Kenny Chow. Matt reflects on how competitive interactions can lead to temporary tensions but often resolve over time.

“[17:08] C: There's been beefs in the past... [17:54] C: I don't really have beefs. It's more just like, I'm being competitive...”

Matt narrates an incident where he wore a provocative shirt during a tournament, leading to police intervention, illustrating the intense and sometimes volatile nature of competitive content creation.

“[17:32] B: Yeah. [C]: I got escorted by the police out of the fucking building.”

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5. Views on Canada vs. US for Content Creators and Basketball

Matt articulates his dissatisfaction with Canada's environment for content creators, citing censorship and limited growth opportunities. He contrasts this with the United States, where he perceives greater freedom and opportunities for expansion.

“[22:49] C: I don't like Canada. No. I'm not the biggest Canada fan... [24:43] B: Yeah. No. 100%, man.”

He expresses a desire to contribute to Canada's growth but fears institutional barriers will impede progress, underscoring his preference for countries like the US and Greece that offer more supportive landscapes for his endeavors.

“[24:43] C: I want someone who wants to build... why would I rock with that?”

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6. Training and Athletic Development

Matt discusses his rigorous training regimen, including his Air Vert program designed to help individuals improve their dunking capabilities. He attributes his athleticism to disciplined training and the influence of his father, a bodybuilder and life coach.

“[40:09] C: That was the same training program that I was on. [C]: Air Vert... started skydiving.”

Matt elaborates on his vertical leap and dunking techniques, emphasizing the blend of dedication and methodical practice required to excel.

“[40:23] C: It's not genetics. It's not genetics. [40:53] C: Yeah. Like, the sprinting was there, bro.”

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7. Personal Life and Relationships

The conversation shifts to Matt's personal life, highlighting his commitment to long-term relationships and the importance he places on building meaningful connections beyond superficial interactions. He underscores the value of emotional support and mutual growth in relationships.

“[34:54] C: No. Dude, I like the same thing. As a friend... [34:44] C: They’re amazing in my opinion.”

Matt advocates for relationships that offer emotional stability and collaborative support, which he believes are crucial for personal and professional success.

“[34:25] C: I've met people most of the time... given me some of the greatest ideas.”

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8. Future Goals and Aspirations

Matt is resolute in his ambition to reach the NBA, viewing it as the pinnacle of his basketball career. He plans to document his journey meticulously, leveraging his content creation to inspire and engage a global audience.

“[39:12] C: 100, dude. 100... I'm gonna make it the most exciting thing as like 360 dunks…”

His ultimate goal extends beyond personal achievement; he aims to influence and motivate aspiring athletes through his documented experiences.

“[42:46] B: Absolutely. Does that hate ever get to you?... [C]: If you want to join the Discord, I do weekly calls with people.”

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9. Interactions with Notable Figures

Matt recounts his interactions with prominent personalities in the entertainment and sports industries, including Drake and Andrew Wiggins. He expresses deep respect for Drake, noting the support he's received, and admires Canadian NBA players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and RJ Barrett.

“[20:18] C: I should have, bro... [21:19] C: I'm loyal to Canada. I'm loyal to Drake for sure.”

His encounters with NBA stars reinforce his drive to excel, as he draws inspiration from their journeys and achievements.

“[30:05] B: Yeah. How nasty was rj, bro?... [30:19] C: He’s a beast, dude.”

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10. Conclusion

The episode concludes with Matt reflecting on his journey, the challenges he has overcome, and the unwavering focus on his goals. His candid discussion provides listeners with a comprehensive view of the complexities surrounding content creation and professional sports, especially from the perspective of a Canadian athlete navigating global opportunities.

“[43:23] B: That's dope. I didn't know you had a Discord... [44:29] C: Appreciate.”

Matt's story is a testament to resilience, strategic planning, and the integral role of digital platforms in shaping modern athletic careers.

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Notable Quotes

• On Professional Ambition:

  “[03:39] C: I'm going to be probably the first one to make like a legitimate YouTube documentary series vlog.”

• On Social Media's Importance:

  “[25:56] C: Social media is life changing... attention is the money.”

• On Competitive Nature:

  “[17:54] C: I don't really have beefs. It's more just like, I'm being competitive.”

• On Training and Athleticism:

  “[40:22] C: It's not genetics. It's not genetics. It's not genetics.”

• On Relationships:

  “[34:25] C: I've met people most of the time... given me some of the greatest ideas.”

• On Overcoming Challenges:

  “[39:12] C: 100, dude. 100... I'm gonna make it the most exciting thing as like 360 dunks…”

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Final Thoughts

Matt Kiatipis’s candid and introspective conversation with Sean Kelly offers a deep dive into the intersection of sports, content creation, and personal growth. His experiences underscore the importance of adaptability, strategic social presence, and unwavering dedication in pursuing one’s dreams amidst challenges and competitive landscapes.

Transcript

[A]

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[B]

I will say the public's perception of it was interesting to see.

[C]

You know why?

[B]

Why?

[C]

Because people want to see the goat fall. Yeah.

[B]

People want the underdog to win. It's just human nature.

[C]

Exactly.

[B]

Like when I'm watching random games, I'm like, oh, let me root for the team that's not favored to win.

[C]

Exactly. So why wouldn't everyone want to see Drake lose for once? Yeah. Because he hasn't, in my opinion.

[B]

I don't think he has. And he's been on top for so.

[C]

Long, all the beefs he's won, I'd like to say.

[B]

All right, guys, got MK here today and we're balling tonight.

[C]

We are balling tonight.

[B]

Let's go, baby.

[C]

Expecting some dunks from you.

[B]

You too.

[C]

I need some oops from you. I'm going to be putting people on posters. I've been in the lab, bro. I'm ready to, like, get back into America and start hooping.

[B]

Yeah. You've been in Greece for a year, you said.

[C]

I've been in Greece. Been in Costa Rica recently. Haven't really played ball much at all. So I'm excited to get on the court.

[B]

You took some time off?

[C]

I took some time off, yeah. I was doing more of, you know, trying to be an organizer for it, but I realized, like, I really love hooping.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

I'm back in this shit, you know?

[B]

I love it, man.

[C]

Are we allowed to cuss on this?

[B]

Yeah, you can cuss.

[C]

Okay, good.

[B]

We'll censor it just for YouTube. You know how it is. Do you send to your cost on YouTube?

[C]

I have to. Yes. Yeah. Because I've been getting like. I mean, in the beginning I didn't know how it worked. I just uploaded my videos and everything was getting Flagged, Right. So even, like, blurring out a push or a little head rub or me cussing.

[B]

That was getting flagged.

[C]

Everything for a head rub? Yeah.

[B]

What?

[C]

That's bullying? No, I think. I think I've gotten bullying. I've gotten maybe like borderline. What would you call it? It's not assault, but it's like touching someone and they're not. But you know what? They do it to me first, so that's why.

[B]

So you never make the first move on the court? You do.

[C]

You do, bro. I. I have to. Sometimes I have to. It depends who I'm dealing with. If they're talking crazy, I have to.

[B]

Yeah, yeah. No, I just meant talking wise, actually.

[C]

Not talking wise. Not even physical talking wise.

[B]

You start up the talk.

[C]

I have to, bro. That's what makes the game interesting to me. Because if there's no talking, I mean, that's what fuels me. If I'm just playing against a bunch of randoms, if they're not good, if they're not skilled, I have to do something to spice it up. Otherwise I'll play down to their level. So a lot of people think it's just me going out and talking. It's actually me bettering myself in the game.

[B]

I mean, I love that.

[C]

Yeah. Dude. If you see me just, like, by myself, training.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

You would be scared at how badly I bully myself and talk about myself, which is why I just do it on the court to other people. When I'm there, I'll spice this up. You know what I mean? Otherwise, it's boring.

[B]

No, that's facts, though, because I'm in some leagues where the comp is not good.

[C]

And then how do you play?

[B]

You play, like.

[C]

Exactly, bro.

[B]

You don't try as hard.

[C]

And. And what's fun about playing basketball? Getting highlights, having fun with it. And you're not having fun when you're losing or just playing shitty hoops. You know what I mean?

[B]

So that's fire. Yeah. So you're. You said you might. I don't know if you announced this yet, but you might sign to a league.

[C]

I'm actually happy to announce it today, probably. Yeah. I mean, like, I'm actively working on my Greek passport. I am Greek. My grandparents are Greek. I've been working at this for about seven years now. I was supposed to get it through my grandparents, but now I'm getting it through my father. And we're exploring. I mean, we've talked to many agents, many teams. Once I get that passport, I'll be playing professionally. In Greece or anywhere in Europe.

[B]

Wow.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

And are you still going to upload those videos or. Or.

[C]

No, dude. That's the cool thing about it. I'm going to, dog. I'm going to be probably the first one to make like a legitimate YouTube documentary series vlog. Super, like, you know, nonchalant about pro basketball. And however far it takes me, like the goal is the NBA and people will laugh at that, people will criticize it. I don't care. I'm going for. That's the main goal. And if I end up, you know, below here, wherever it is, it's professionally overseas and it'll be fun to document, show people what it's like.

[B]

Yeah, no one's ever seen that international hoops document documented, honestly.

[C]

And it's insane. You know how exciting international overseas hoops are, dude. Yeah, Like Mike James, that's the one I'm really familiar with.

[B]

He's on the heat, right?

[C]

I thought he played. So Mike James, I think that's his name. He's a super big overseas player. He played on the Brooklyn Nets. Maybe he got like a 10 day or something like that. He did pretty well, but he's like an overseas legend.

[B]

Really?

[C]

Yeah. And he kind of brought. He brought the attention from America to the overseas kind of basketball scene and he's been killing it. So that's kind of what I want to do. But like put that on film everywhere.

[B]

Yeah, that'd be lit. How does the Greece league work? Do you play other countries or is it within Greece?

[C]

So if you're on a big team like Penathanaikos or Olympiacos, like you're in the Euroleague playing against the best of the best. Right. But if you're on, you know, the, the lower end teams of the first division, you're not necessarily playing against all the other countries. From what I know, you're playing within Greece. And then if you play a lower division under, which is probably where I'll start out, it's called A two. That's just national. You know, they're playing.

[B]

You got some work to do.

[C]

I have some work to do, bro. It's. It's a little bit different. Like they like experienced players, they want like 28, 29, 30, even older. Those are the guys that start. Whereas here in the US we want those young prospects. Right. So I'm going to have to prove myself at 24 right now, probably till 26. Hopefully I can do something crazy to get up in the ranks in the A2 league, probably to build up to the A1 and then Euroleague and then maybe the NBA.

[B]

Wow. Giannis was able to do it at such a young age. Giannis is a different shout out to today's sponsor, Prolon. If starting a year with a fast feels a little daunting, you're not alone. There's an entire community of individuals wanting to make a meaningful decision in their health, just like you. This is what makes group fasting so powerful and why I'm joining in on Prolon's January Longevity Challenge, which is a coach led program to set you up for fasting success. Prolon's Fasting Mimicking diet is a revolutionary plant based nutrition program that nourishes the body while making cells believe they're fasting. I got all five boxes here and I'm starting day one tomorrow. It's researched and developed for decades at USC's longevity institute and backed by leading US medical centers. It helps promote healthy blood sugar, enhanced skin appearance, fat loss and improved energy and focus. It all starts with their five day program which contains snacks, soups and beverages designed to keep the body in a fasting state. No guesswork or planning required, which is a relief after a busy holiday. If you guys are Ready to make 2025 your healthiest year yet, order your Prolon 5 Day Kit at prolonlife.com dsh and they're offering Digital Social Hour listeners 15% off their 5 Day Nutrition Program. Use the code [e-mail] dsh Giannis is.

[C]

A like beast, bro. That's a monster. So it's hard to relate. Like if you look at me and Giannis is just body type, athleticism, everything, it's different.

[B]

Yeah, you're six, four. That's like average height these days.

[C]

Two and a half. Oh, six.

[B]

I'm short dog, but still yam though.

[C]

I can yam and I have that, that edge that makes basketball exciting. It sells tickets and wins games. To be frank with you, have you.

[B]

Played over there yet? Is it much different than over here? The style?

[C]

It's a little bit different. I will say that like if you play fives, if you play threes with your boys just in a pickup run, it's very organized. There's lots of ball screens, there's lots of passing, there's lots of off ball screens. It's a lot different. Um, but I'm trying to bring that flair. It's starting to come. I want to bring that like little American, Canadian kind of flair to Europe and try to go crazy with that. Maybe, maybe shock the world in that sense or Shock Europe at least.

[B]

I mean, they would need that, right?

[C]

I think so. I think it would be pretty exciting, especially if it's like, if. Especially if I'm documenting every part of it, like on YouTube and whatnot.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

And they're seeing that in the Euroleague. That, in my opinion, that's pretty cool. Groundbreaking.

[B]

It was like dream on screen podcast run during the chip that was legendary. After every game, he would make a pod.

[C]

Exactly, bro. That's what I'm trying to say. And like, every game will be documented off court, will be documented. Practice is what goes into it. And that's kind of like what I'm starting now. I mean, any takeover I go to, any1v1 I do, it's really just to train to get better. That's why I'm looking for the best comp in America. Canada. Going to Brazil in a few days. Everywhere around the world. Just came back from Paris, London, Greece. So just trying to get it everywhere, form my game, into what I want it to be, to be able to play at the professional level.

[B]

Nice. What country surprised you?

[C]

Paris.

[B]

Really?

[C]

Paris. I didn't enjoy Paris necessarily. I like the other countries better just to be there. But the basketball. I met some of the craziest prospects you'd ever. You'd ever see. Whoa, bro. Like, I'm Talking in a 1v1. Shifted, dude. Shifted dude again. Shifted him one more time down the lane. Through the legs. Dunk.

[B]

No.

[C]

Next play. Same thing. Windmill dunk. Next play. Off the backboard. Dunk.

[B]

What?

[C]

Like electric. His name is. What's his name? I know his Instagram. K. Kdj or Calvin, his name is. That's one guy just absolutely shocked me. But the thing is, bro, you're going to find that everywhere around the world. You just got to go and look. And that's. That's what I'm doing.

[B]

Damn. Is that guy in the league out there or what?

[C]

That's a problem, bro. He's not. He's. He's a nobody. I don't want to say he's a nobody because he could be. He could be a legitimate pro athlete, probably pro basketball player and make money from it, but he just hasn't gotten the exposure.

[B]

Damn.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

You think the money in the outside leagues is there yet or is it still pretty low?

[C]

I like to say from the numbers that I've been talking with agents and other players, I'd like to say it's there. Obviously it's not NBA money. It's not like insane millions and millions of dollars, but it you can make a nice little living off of it, dude. You know, you, you get some sponsorships involved, you know, shoe sponsorships, anything else? It's getting there. Yeah, it's getting there. But definitely enough to make a living out of it.

[B]

Was going pro always the goal for you when you're growing up?

[C]

Always, dude, Always. I mean, I dropped out of college during the COVID era and I was like, I want to pursue a pro contract. I went to Brazil, tried out, wasn't good enough, found an opportunity in Costa Rica, played a year of professional there. It was great. And then coincidentally, like the YouTube thing hit and I found like, this is fun right now. I kind of want to direct it back into pro, but pro has always been the goal. And I've done it once. Not the level I want to, but it is, it is still the goal. That's like NBA, bro. Yeah, I don't care. People can laugh, people can talk. Like, I will, I will do my best to get there.

[B]

Let's go.

[C]

And I will document it.

[B]

I love the confidence.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Have you always had that?

[C]

The confidence?

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

Yeah, bro. 100. It's, it's, it's self made. I mean, going through all the negativity with myself, training and stuff like that, that's what builds the confidence, right? And then when an opportunity hits, since I've been working so hard, then I create the luck, right? Which I've gotten from this YouTube stuff. I mean, shout out to all the fans and stuff that have supported me. I mean, I met you through this stuff, right? But that's, it's, it's pushing myself and that's what gives me the confidence.

[B]

Absolutely. Yeah. We've been talking for years, man. You've really changed the game in a.

[C]

Sense, I'd like to say so. I mean, there's obviously people like Friga before Friga Professor.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

My apologies to everyone on the pod if I'm not mentioning you. But they, like, they've paved the way. I like to say I'm part of it and I bring a different feel to it. And if people like that, they like it. If they don't like it, they don't, but they watch it. So it is essentially, like you said, changing the game. In a sense.

[B]

You are polarizing.

[C]

That's the word I like to use about myself. Yeah, I think polarizing is like the perfect word to describe it. People will hate me. Like the death threats. I don't know if I'm allowed to say this 100%, bro. Like, I'm going to Pull up. I'm going to pull up to the court and air you out. What?

[B]

Yeah, just for hooping.

[C]

I mean, you is. Is what I do, hooping.

[B]

Good point, good point.

[C]

But I told you before we hopped in this, I've been doing the exact same thing. You can ask any one of my high school teammates, any one of my elementary school teammates, my best friends, like, even in the schoolyard, like, we're. I'm hooping the exact same way. All that head rubbing, pushing, talking, fouling. That's how I grew up playing.

[B]

Right.

[C]

So I'm not doing this for an act. It's not me just, you know, getting clicks and stuff. Like, that's how I enjoy playing. So that's what makes it polarizing in a sense, I guess.

[B]

People take it personal, right?

[C]

People take it personal. I think that's soft. You take it personal. I like to call it competition. Because off the court, I'm. I'm going to be your best friend. I'm going to do whatever I can for you. If I can help you with an opportunity, if I can pay for your meal, if I can get you an Uber, I'm going to be there for you regardless of how much you hate me. But, like, when we're on the fucking court, like, I'm trying to fucking cook you, bro.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

I don't even care if it's for no money. I want to win. That's it. Yeah, sorry, go ahead.

[B]

No, I'm just saying you could separate that friendship verse on the court.

[C]

Absolutely. And most people can't.

[B]

Not these days. The NBA players these days, they're making too much.

[C]

Yeah, bro. They're making too much. But, I mean, hey, there is some fights starting. I don't follow the NBA too much, but I do see a lot of. A lot of fights starting to arrive.

[B]

Yeah, there's a bit more. It might be coming back.

[C]

I like it, bro. I like it.

[B]

Draymond Green's talking about the game of clay coming up. Might get a little chippy there.

[C]

I'm going to be real with you. If we do hop into any NBA content, I'm going to give you some of the worst takes of all time. Because I don't watch basketball. I don't watch basketball much, bro. I. I follow the highlights. I follow my favorite players to a, like, to a degree. Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball, all the new school guys. But I don't really watch too much ball, dude.

[B]

Why is that?

[C]

I. I just love playing it. I feel like if I'm watching a game, I Mean, courtside's a different thing where you're. You're watching the NBA game. It's an experience with friends. But I don't like watching basketball if I feel like I could compete in that setting.

[B]

Yeah, you know, I feel like you can learn from it, though, if you watch it.

[C]

Absolutely. That's what I've started. I've opened up my mind and I've have watched more just to try, like, learn a little bit more. Before, I was watching it just from a closed eye, like, oh, I can go and hoop against these guys. Why the would I watch this? But I do try to watch and learn. Like, dude, Steph Curry in the Olympics. How am I not supposed to want to learn from that as unbelievable.

[B]

I was legendary.

[C]

He's. Bro, he's my favorite player now just because of that.

[B]

Wow.

[C]

Like, what he did was insane. He back to back to back to back.

[B]

They would have lost without him, I.

[C]

Think, bro, that's crazy. And to think the guys he had on his team and they were giving him the rock to do what he did is crazy, dude. Yeah. That's why I'm working on my shot so much right now, is because of him.

[B]

I have noticed your progression, man.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Because you couldn't shoot at first, right?

[C]

Yeah, that's. That's a crazy take. And it's facts. You know why? It's because I love dunking so much.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

There's something about dunking that's just so electric and amazing. It brings the crowd into things. But I noticed, like, with Steph, like, he generates the same excitement from a shot.

[B]

True.

[C]

So why not develop that as well? So you're gonna see tonight when we hoop shots, they're gonna be pulling off shots. Maybe I've taken a few days off, so I gotta get. Gotta get us some shots.

[B]

You can get that shot. You're gonna be unguardable.

[C]

That's the hope. That's the hope. Because you can get a little hesi. Go buy them and then do the dunk, right? Hit a few shots and you're good.

[B]

That's why hesi. God's such a scorer. He could do both.

[C]

Hezzy is one of the most fun guys I've ever played with. Dude. I love playing with Heze God. Just because he does things on the court where I'm like, how did you do that? Not even, how did you do that? How did you come up with that? Do you practice these things?

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

I don't understand. And I. I study his game a lot. I study his game. I Study bone collector's game. And I try to bring it into the professional world because it's like, dude, how do you do this? He's. He took off people's headphones. He throws it on the side of the backboard. Like, if I tried to, you know, fake someone and shoot on the side of the backboard, I'd probably miss the side of the backboard. So that's why I ask him, like, do you practice this shit?

[B]

Yeah, he has to, right?

[C]

Dude, but is he really just in the lab throwing it off the side of the backboard? Like, come on, bro, you really think he practices that?

[B]

I don't know. He's different, man. He definitely practices that slow two step layup he's been doing.

[C]

Yeah, that one's crazy. And that's what I love about him, dude. He's so like, all his posts are controversial. All the comments are fucking travel, this and that, this and that. I love it, dude. And he, he's such a villain.

[B]

Yeah, that travel stuff's an old.

[C]

One of my favorite players to watch.

[B]

Those MDW basketball videos.

[C]

That guy.

[B]

Yo, that's a travel, bro.

[C]

Does he certify I haven't looked as he certified that has he got is in fact not traveling?

[B]

He has.

[C]

Okay, so it's not a travel.

[B]

It's not a travel. But it looks like a travel, bro.

[C]

Where do I look at to like tell people your camera, Hezzy, you're not traveling. You are the go. If you practice that, you're. You're different, bro.

[B]

The thing is, refs are gonna call it.

[C]

You think so?

[B]

I mean, not the slow two step, but there's some crazy MDW videos where he'll fucking jump off.

[C]

Yeah, those ones are ridiculous, bro. But like, refs, like, you need to do better. Come on. Like, why are you calling this stuff that just shows me that you've never played the game or you haven't played it enough.

[B]

Have you ever got into it with a ref?

[C]

Only time I ever got into it with a ref was when he didn't let me play. Like, there was an instance where a team, we came late, my team came late, and he was like, yeah, you're not, you're not playing. I said, why? He said, you're not playing. I said, okay, we'll pay. I'll pay you your money to ref this game extra on top of what you already made, even though you didn't ref the game and I'll pay the other team to play this game. And like, nope. So I got into it with him. Bro, like, how you going to, like, stop me from playing? Yeah, that pissed me off. But other than that, like, on court. No, I respect the ref's calls. I mean, I get mad, like everyone does, but I'll never, like, lay a hand on effort. No, I don't. I'm not a. I'm not a hands thrower. I avoid that.

[B]

So you'll keep it to the players?

[C]

I'll keep it. Yeah, exactly.

[B]

Any beefs with other content creators?

[C]

There's been beefs in the past, but, like, not necessarily serious beasts. I mean, I think I'd like to think we've squashed all of it. I'd say the main ones that come up to my mind are House of Highlights. A few years ago, we played in the 1v1 50k on the line Creator League and Cash Nasty. You know, Cash Nasty. We got into it. I wore a shirt that said, like, Cash is scared at an event. And then, like, Cam got robbed, which is Cam Wilder.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

I didn't think that Cash should have won, so I voiced it with my shirt. And I got a police escort. Not. No, not the good kind of police escort. I got escorted by the police out of the fucking building. Damn. Because I was wearing that shirt, and, like, everyone wanted me out. So that was a beef that was, like, really, like, building up in the House of Highlights tournament. And then we played in the championship, me and him, and he was, like, talking me right at the start, and I'm like. I didn't say nothing. And he kind of was like, yo, what the fuck? Why is this guy not talking? I won. And I told him at the end. I stopped everyone, I said, I respect this guy. He's a great player. And we kind of squashed that beef. But that brings me back. Like, I don't really have beefs. It's more just like, I'm being competitive, and if you like it, you like it. If you don't, then you're going to feel some type of way. The other one is Kenny Chow. We had a beef, kind of. Honestly, I don't even remember the specifics. So we're good now. And then, K. Showtime, my Canadian brother. We've had some weird beefs kind of in the past, but we're. We're good now. I can't really. I don't know, kind of like, you know, me leaving his team, like, those kind of politics.

[B]

You were on his five on five team?

[C]

Yeah, when we. When we first blew up, like, I was on his team, and we kind of blew up together. We Shut down Canada and we brought it to the States. And I kind of just decided I want to do my own thing while staying with the team. And we just had conflicting interests. Maybe not conflicting interests. We were just, you know, we couldn't decide on anything together. So we took our separate ways and, you know, we tried to come back. Didn't work. Tried to come back again, didn't work. And now we're. We're brothers. I love that guy.

[B]

Yeah, it's tough mixing business with friendship sometimes, dude.

[C]

Huge, bro.

[B]

I try not to do it anymore.

[C]

Yeah. Everyone says, don't do it, and I like to just try and do it anyways, but it's. It's.

[B]

I've lost some friends because of it.

[C]

Because you have to have difficult conversations and those difficult conversations. I mean, if one person is overly confident in their idea and the other person isn't, there's always going to be conflicts and then it just ruins the friendship.

[B]

Absolutely. Yeah. Damn. So you won 50k in that tournament.

[C]

Yeah. That's dope, I like to say. Unless you're having fun, though, back on that point. Unless you're having fun together with it. Which is why we blew up in the first place. Like, we were having fun just playing basketball and then everything else was just fudgeing, exploding. Like Drake was fudgeing with us. Like. Yeah, yeah, bro. It was. It was electric. The entire country was on our backs just because we were on the court having fun, hooping. And then the moment we started to take it to, like, business, like you said, and mixed it, then it's just differing opinions and it made it difficult.

[B]

Yeah. When money gets involved, it's always going to be emotional.

[C]

Yeah. Unless you're winning 50k.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

Then it's good.

[B]

Drake hit you up. Did you play with him?

[C]

I. Bro. Oh, man. Drake, I'm sorry, bro. I'm sorry, dog. We're always in a different place at a different time. I was so pissed on Drake.

[B]

No, I would have flown out.

[C]

I should have, bro. I was in LA and Showtime went to his house to play two on two.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

And I was supposed to go with them. They went to a Raptors game together and I was like, fuck, bro.

[B]

I would have flown out, bro.

[C]

I know. I was in LA at the time. Didn't have the funds to get back there. I did finally meet him in LA afterwards, and just meeting that guy was amazing. He can hoot, bro. Like that. That guy is realistically the. The most genuine celebrity, whatever you want to call him. Yeah, he's. He's the man, dude.

[B]

Wow.

[C]

The most genuine guy I've ever met.

[B]

Yeah, I didn't like him and DeRozan were going at it. Did you see that?

[C]

Yeah, bro, Whatever it is. Like, I've talked to this guy personally, Drake, he's done things for me, like just the smallest things that he doesn't have to do. I respect him so much. So when. Whenever someone like comes at him like Kendrick Lamar, not like just cringe, bro. Like, get the out of here. Like DeRozan, like, DeRozan's a weirdo. The that Drake did for DeRozan is probably 10 times what he did for me. And for him to hop in that music video, I find there's a betrayal no matter where you're from, bro. Like he just. I don't know. That's my opinion on it. But I'm riding with Drake, bro. That's from. For what he's done for me. And like that I'm always riding with.

[B]

No, I could see that, man. Cuz he was supporting Drozen for 10 years.

[C]

He no, bro. Like he had DeRozan like he was repping to Rosen. Imagine the he's probably done for DeRozan.

[B]

Like, I mean, tons.

[C]

And then to hop in a music video where the guy is saying, that type of is crazy to me. Yeah, Kendrick Lamar. We're not. We're not weirdo, bro. Loyalty is very important for me. But like also like just not being a weirdo, I find, like Lamar is a weirdo. Kendrick Lamar, you got his. Even his lyrics, bro. Like crazy.

[B]

I love it, bro. You got his back.

[C]

It's a capper. All this shit's cap. Like the shit he's saying. We really want to get into this right now. I have some great opinions on this, bro. Kendrick Lamar, I will say the public's.

[B]

Perception of it was interesting to see.

[C]

You know why?

[B]

Why?

[C]

Because people want to see the goat fall. Yeah.

[B]

People want the underdog to win. It's just human nature.

[C]

Exactly.

[B]

Like when I'm watching random games, I'm like, oh, let me root for the team that's not favored to win.

[C]

Exactly. So why wouldn't everyone want to see Drake lose for once? Yeah, because he hasn't, in my opinion.

[B]

I don't think he has. And he's been on top for so.

[C]

Long, it's all the beefs he's won. I like to say all the beats meek he won. I'm actually not educated.

[B]

There was one he lost, but I can't think of it. But no, you might be right. He's won a majority, if not a majority, bro.

[C]

Because he's. And it's just like his talent is undeniable. He's there. He's the best in the game, in my opinion, and he always has been. I've always looked up to him and then after meeting him, solidified everything. So. Yeah, no, he's. I'm loyal to. I'm loyal to Canada. I'm loyal to Drake for sure.

[B]

Yeah. I love him, man. You like Canada or the us?

[C]

Oh, we're gonna get into that.

[B]

Yes, sir.

[C]

I don't like Canada. No. I'm not the biggest Canada fan. On a surface level. I don't like the weather.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

In Toronto, it's freezing. Suburbs, it's freezing. The summers are all. I spent my first summer there last year. It was filled with rain. Why the am I there? You know what I mean? The food, it is diverse. I do. I do like it. The people are great. But just, you know, the way that countries run on a surface level, because I don't really get into the politics too much.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

I just. Not a big fan of it.

[B]

Yeah, no, I've heard that from many people. Nelk boys have said that I'm with.

[C]

Basically where they stand.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

That's kind of my opinion.

[B]

On.

[C]

On Canada, you have to be as.

[B]

A content creator, because if you can't be yourself, then why would you support it?

[C]

That's the problem, bro. And like, when my shit's getting censored and it's not being exposed to where it needs to be exposed to. Just because. Why? Why? Because of rules that they're putting in place that I don't agree with. I don't like it, bro. I really don't like it. And again, I'm not educated enough to talk on the specifics as to why that stuff's happening, but, like, I'm just not with it. I don't like it. And I rather be in the United States where it's so much opportunity. Even other countries that are growing, like I said, I'm going to Brazil. They want to grow, so I'm there. Canada almost seems like they don't want to grow.

[B]

And I haven't heard anything for growth there, entertainment wise.

[C]

Have you?

[B]

Nah.

[C]

Exactly. What show has come out of there? What music has come out of there, besides those main big guys that obviously went to the US and are huge in the US Weekend? Drake, Justin Bieber.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

The other girl artists. I don't know.

[B]

They all leave Canada.

[C]

No, everybody does.

[B]

Yeah. I think you'll like Greece, man.

[C]

I do think I like Greece. I mean, I do want. My goal is to build Canada up a little bit so I can try to build it up, but I just fear that they won't allow it to happen. That's my fear.

[B]

They want control.

[C]

I want. I want someone who wants to build or I want a country or a place or people who just want to build things. And if you're stopping it from growing, why would I rock with that?

[B]

Yeah. No. 100%, man.

[C]

And Greece is the perfect example, bro. They're growing. Basketball is just going crazy. Sure it is.

[B]

With the. With the three brothers, right? Is there three or four?

[C]

I think there's four.

[B]

Four of them.

[C]

Jeez. I got Thanasi, Giannis, Alex, and Costa.

[B]

Costa.

[C]

Costas.

[B]

They're all in the NBA, right?

[C]

One of them's not. I think the other three have been, from what I know, maybe two of them. I think three of them. And they're like, just. They're going crazy and they perform at a high level. Giannis, obviously leading the way. I got to meet Alex in Greece. I got to meet Thanasi in Greece. Great people, amazing people. And they're good Hoopers, bro.

[B]

Did they find you from your content?

[C]

Yeah, yeah. He followed me. Alex followed. I followed Alex and I was like, yo, like, he's not gonna follow me back. And then he followed me. I'm like, yo, what the. I'm coming to Greece. Let's link up. He did a video with me. Super down to earth. He's like, yo, pull up to the crib. I was leaving that day, so I didn't get to link everybody. But eventually, in due time, we'll. I'll link with them and hopefully do some stuff in the future.

[B]

That's fire, dude. That's. That's the power of social media, though, right, bro?

[C]

Social media is life changing, in my opinion. And it's the way to go now in total in anything you want to do, you have to have some kind of social presence. You need a brand, social currency. Attention is the money.

[B]

Yep. I mean, I've gotten so many opportunities. Not even funny.

[C]

You're just an absolute beast, bro. I look up to you so much, and what you're doing, the volume aspect of it, like the consistency and then the. The volume and quality balance that you're delivering is just unbelievable. And that's. Honestly, I see it and it motivates me. Every day I'm seeing fucking digital social hour pop up. Right. So I'm trying to do the same thing.

[B]

No, that's Respect, dude. That's how I felt about you when I found you years ago. You were posting what, like three times a week?

[C]

Yeah, I've actually got up to seven times a day sometimes. Yeah. Now I've kind of slimmed down to one time a day. I'm building it back. But yeah, it's. Dude, I saw this pod grow from absolutely zero. It's been crazy. So to be here right now on the pod with you is an honor. I appreciate that.

[B]

And likewise, you've only been on one other show, so, yeah, I know you turned down a ton of opportunities.

[C]

Yeah, I appreciate it, bro.

[B]

You said earlier you follow lamelo ball.

[C]

I do follow lamello ball. I like lamelo ball. I've been. His journey is kind of what I want to mimic. Not mimic mirror in a sense, but in my own unique way. Just because his is super untraditional. I want like a, just a crazy, authentic way. And for me, to the NBA or wherever I can land. Going to the NBA, that's my goal. And the way he did it, I mean, he had the ball show. He went crazy at Chino Hills. He played in like, what, maybe his Lithuania or something. He went crazy and then he played. I don't know where he played after that. They had their own pro league. The big baller. Yeah, bro. It's crazy. And now he's in the league, killing it. And I always knew he would because, number one, he's good and he used social media and he's just, he's him, he's authentic.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

And that's why I like him. Same with a guy like Anthony Edwards. Those are the two guys I follow the most.

[B]

Yeah, Ants. I love his mindset.

[C]

He's himself. He's himself. Like, you can tell. Like, he, he's, he has the mindset to play hoops and be very, very good, but he's himself in terms of off court, and that's why everyone loves him. And on the court, like, you see the way he was in preseason defending that one guy?

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

Like, he was like, screaming at him. Like, I love that, bro. That's the same energy I would bring.

[B]

Absolutely.

[C]

I respect it.

[B]

So you don't watch the games, though. You just watch highlights.

[C]

Yeah, bro, I, I, I have a hard time tuning into games just because my attention span, unless I'm number one, going to a game, get invited, or I'm watching a championship game, like, the Olympics was super lit. I had to watch that anytime. When the Raptors won the chip, I was tuned in every game. Feel that every Playoff game.

[B]

Really?

[C]

That's my squad, bro.

[B]

That was when Kawhi was on there.

[C]

Yeah. That was the craziest thing I've ever seen in for basketball in Canada. Ever since that moment, it's changed. And that probably that moment right there is what allowed me and other guys in Canada, like, case Showtime, to explode.

[B]

Really?

[C]

I'd say so, bro. No one was at the courts, dog. Whoa. I was there before, though. That shit was happening. And, like, it was what, 15 people now? Every court, bro. Yes, L.A. fitness outside of the courts. Number one, it's too cold. But when it's summer, no one's fucking out there. They're doing whatever else. But now everyone's playing. They're playing ball, dude.

[B]

I gotta wait an hour sometimes to get in a run in Vegas. America, it's nuts.

[C]

It's America. That's why I love America. Yeah, but Canada is getting there, bro. Like, that. We have NBA talents. Like, think of who's in the league right now. That's Canadian.

[B]

There's. There's a good starting five, right?

[C]

Jamal Murray, RJ Barrett.

[B]

Sga.

[C]

Sga.

[B]

There's two more because I remember the Canada team.

[C]

Andrew Wiggins.

[B]

Yeah, Wiggins.

[C]

Tyler Ennis was there for a bit. A.J. lawson. Some of these guys I grew up playing with Andrew Nembard for the Pacers. And those are just, like, smaller names. Smaller names. They're in the league, but the big supers, even big superstars, they're Canadian nowadays. So it's amazing to see for the country. Lou. Lou Dort, the. Okay. Does he play for okay still?

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

So it's just like. It's growing, bro. Let's go.

[B]

And you played with some of these guys, you said?

[C]

Yeah, I grew up playing with RJ Barrett. Wow. Andrew Nembard and AJ Lawson, who plays for Dallas, I believe, right now.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

Seeing them, like, it's just so weird. Like, I feel like it was just yesterday I was on the same court with them, and I'm like, these guys are good, but, like, you know, I think I'm just as good.

[B]

Wow.

[C]

They're in the fucking league, and they're going crazy. It's so inspiring, bro. And that's. I use that as motivation.

[B]

Yeah. How nasty was rj, bro?

[C]

RJ was disgusting. RJ was like a man among kids when he was young. Like, he was doing crazy shit. I was always trying to compete with him in the point system. Like, I was trying to get more than him, but he's just. He's just a beast, dude.

[B]

Damn.

[C]

A.J. lawson was an interesting one because. And Andrew Nembard, because they kind of. They really, like, built and worked on their game, fought through everything, and they made it to the league. And seeing them develop was awesome as well.

[B]

Dudes, you're right there.

[C]

I'd like to think so. People don't understand, dude. They see, like, the entertainment and what I do, and they don't understand, like, I hoop for real. You know, maybe I haven't had the opportunity to, like, play a D1 school or be on the best AAU team or play, you know, professionally in the best leagues. But I think if I know. Matter of fact, if I'm given those opportunities, I can perform at those levels. I put in enough work to do it. I just need the opportunities.

[B]

Where do you get that work ethic from?

[C]

I'd like to say my dad, for sure. I mean, but even before, my dad is kind of built into me. You're born with it. Yeah, but, you know, my dad's helped, you know, push it. My host dad, who I lived with in North Carolina, I see him working every day. You know what I mean? I'd say those two mainly, dude.

[B]

Two father figures. Was your dad a Hooper, too?

[C]

Hell, no. If you're watching this, you're not good at ball, dude. You're not good at ball. He's a bodybuilder. He's jacked. He's like a life. A men's life coach. He's super big in that, and he's very athletic. But he. He's a. He's a competitor. So whatever sport it was that I chose. Track and field. State champion. He helped me get there.

[B]

Damn. You were state champ?

[C]

Yeah. What Was your line? 400 meter, 200 meter, 100 meter?

[B]

Let's go, bro. I ran the 400.

[C]

What was your time?

[B]

It was ass compared to you. No, my main event was 800. Okay, 400 was 54.

[C]

That's not bad.

[B]

It's not bad.

[C]

You probably got into 49s when I was like, 16 or 17. So I was. Yeah, I got like North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Yale, UNCW Brown. Those were the interests I had to run at. So that would have been cool, but I'm not trying to be a runner.

[B]

Yeah, it's not cool. The money's not there.

[C]

The money's not there. But imagine some shorties come up to you. Like, what team are you on? You're an athlete. I see your gear. You're like, yeah, I'm on the track team.

[B]

When I was a runner, I got no respect because distance Gets even less respect.

[C]

Crazy, bro. This like, imagine like, oh, like you're a 100 meter sprinter. Nah, I run distance.

[B]

Yeah. That's like the bottom of a total pole, bro.

[C]

That's bad. I'd rather be a high jumper than distance.

[B]

For real. The farther the distance, the least the respect.

[C]

That's crazy.

[B]

Like, you look at these marathon runners and like, it's awesome. Like, I could admire that. But look at them physically. They're like twigs.

[C]

It's like, yeah, bro. I mean like to do what they do is unbelievable. But yeah, no one's trying to. I'm not trying to do that.

[B]

Yeah, no one's, no one's going to hit you up.

[C]

Shorties are going to squash you, bro.

[B]

You get distracted with the ladies.

[C]

Do I?

[B]

Yeah. Be honest.

[C]

Do I get distracted? No. I've been in long term relationships for the past six years of my life.

[B]

Okay.

[C]

Yeah. But you know, in the past, it was definitely something I had to navigate. I, I've noticed that building relationships with them is far more valuable than just the short term, you know, satisfaction that you can get just hanging out with each other and you're benefiting that way. I find, like if you build, and this goes for anyone, a business relationship, a friendship, but obviously if you're asking about the females, like building a relationship with them outside of sex, it's the best thing you can possibly do. And people often ignore that because it's like, what do you think of it? It's like, oh, boy and a girl. Okay, you know what happens? Yeah, no, like men and women are the exact same. Like, you know what I mean? That, that's what I believe. And from a business standpoint, I've learned a lot from girls in that aspect. Creativity wise, you know, artist wise, all that stuff I try to learn from them just as much as I would a business owner or something else.

[B]

Yeah, that's respect.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

I've been in a relationship for seven years.

[C]

There you go.

[B]

And she's helped me a lot. Dude.

[C]

Yeah, dude, they're. They're amazing in my opinion. I don't like, it's just the same thing. As a friend, if you're not best friends with that lady or whoever your partner is, then it's. What is it?

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

If all you're gaining from is sex, like, there's nothing. I don't know.

[B]

Yeah. Sex doesn't even rank top two for me.

[C]

No, dude, you have to respect them on a massive level. And thankfully I've met people most of the time. Most girls have helped Uplift me in my projects. Been excited about them. Given me some of the greatest ideas.

[B]

Nice.

[C]

Supported me through that. So.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, they're great for support, especially emotionally, because as men, sometimes we don't know how to control emotions.

[C]

Yeah, no, we don't.

[B]

You know, 100.

[C]

It's definitely nice to, like, have someone to come home to and be like, you up. You didn't do what you were supposed to do. And at least they're still there. Obviously you're still gonna work, but the comfort is nice sometimes.

[B]

Yeah, for sure.

[C]

But distractions sometimes, bro. I used to get distracted a lot. Yeah, I'm more locked in.

[B]

With what?

[C]

With girls.

[B]

Oh, with girls. Okay. I thought you meant other things.

[C]

Other things?

[B]

Drugs, alcohol, partying?

[C]

No, dude, I like, I know how to have fun, but I have a strict schedule. Like, if XYZ is not getting done, 300 makes a day. That's my Bible. 300 shots a day. Basketball training every day, working out two times a week. I went from five down to two. I've seen more results.

[B]

Really?

[C]

Yeah, I've been preaching that. But if those things aren't getting done, then I'm. I'm not going to party. I'm not going to party.

[B]

Damn. 300 shots a day.

[C]

300 makes.

[B]

300 makes.

[C]

300 makes.

[B]

Rudy Gobert out here or. No, that wasn't Rudy. That was Carl Anthony Towns with that. I think he said he made a today or something. Did you see that?

[C]

Some of these guys be capping, though. Like, come on, bro. Come on. I follow. I try to follow Steph when it comes to shooting. I mean, but. But like I said, like, no distraction in terms of partying and going out. I do know how to experience things and have fun. But if things aren't getting crossed off the list, not happening, I feel that it's useless.

[B]

You need that though, cuz there's a lot of distractions as you level up.

[C]

Yeah, I've noticed that. I mean, when I first started to like, blow up, per se, like it was distractions out the wazoo. Everything was just going crazy. I was like, whoa, this, Whoa, that. Oh my God that. I was just like.

[B]

Right. Some people get lost in that.

[C]

You can easily. But for me, it's. I've always been disciplined, so I've always been able to somewhat manage. It got a little bit loose when I was in la and. Yeah, it's like, you know, LA does that to you. Yeah, sometimes, you know, Miami, this and that. But I like to say I'm locked.

[B]

Nice. You were In Vegas before, was there some beef I heard about?

[C]

Yeah, Las Vegas is crazy, dude. Last time I was here, I was. So I went with my friends and Ball Is Life was there at the same time. Coincidentally. I was super tight with Baller's life. We're going everywhere together with Kenny Dobbs while he was there. And they were like, you'll pull up to this run, he'll go crazy. I was not. Let's just say I was not fit to run in that specific hour. I was having fun in Las Vegas. Okay. I went and I did not perform well at all. I wouldn't say there was beef, but they were like blocking my shit, getting in my face. They were like, the shit you're doing on the Internet, it's not happening here. It's not happening in Las Vegas. Like rubbing my head, dropping me, getting even, getting buckets. It's not fucking happening. And they basically, yeah, they humbled the fuck out of me.

[B]

Oh, wow.

[C]

Yeah. So I wouldn't say it was like a beef necessarily, but they definitely, like, ran the show, so. And that's why I'm here now to get my.

[B]

Are they coming back tonight?

[C]

Everyone's coming back. I promoted the shit out of it because I just want to like, number one, I want good hoops. And here it was the only place I have never liked done it, had any highlights, any success.

[B]

Okay.

[C]

So that's why partly I'm here, obviously. It's Vegas. I'm gonna have fun. The main reason why I'm here is to do the pod with you, but I was like, why not? Like, you connected me with Baldog.

[B]

Yeah, it's like, hell, yeah.

[C]

Yeah. A little revenge tour. It starts now. We got Vegas. I'm gonna hit LA for four days and then go into Brazil.

[B]

Let's go.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

What are you doing in la?

[C]

Same kind of dude collab. I'm doing Dev in the lab. Has he. God. There's a platform off the dribble. It's kind of like. Kind of like Next Chapter with Friga. They're doing like a one on one kind of thing. So I'll be. I'll be playing in that, most likely. Honestly, bro. Yes, it's content. It's mainly just to like, make videos, show people what I'm up to, have fun with doing it and prepare for a professional career.

[B]

Let's go.

[C]

I have to play the best of the best. Yeah, I'm done playing scrubs. I mean, a lot of people I play aren't scrubs, but if, you know, you see the videos, sometimes they are scrubs. So I have to. I have to start locking in. Like I told them, best people come to Vegas today. Atlas, we're there.

[B]

Let's go. Yeah, it's gonna be. It's gonna be badass. Yeah. I like Dev in the labs new content series.

[C]

Yeah. Devin the lab is like the OG genius. Anything he says, you should follow, in my opinion. Like, that guy's been here forever if you think about it. I've been following him since I was like, what, 12, 13 maybe. So just being able to just like, go to his gym now, it's like, so cool.

[B]

Have you trained with him before?

[C]

Yeah, I have. I've done a little training session. I did some, like, king of the court 1v1s with him. He and a few other guys who won. I don't know, bro. I don't know what the king of the court happened. I think it was mixture of, like, me winning, Hezi winning. It was just like. It wasn't ones. It was just like, yeah, king of the court. Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. So it was kind of just whoever's hot that day.

[C]

Yeah. And I didn't really have that edge to win when I was here. Like, I was just doing content and enjoying it. But now it's like whenever I step on the court, I have to win or at least compete as best I can to train for the ultimate goal.

[B]

So you got a different mindset now?

[C]

100, dude. 100. Because there is a max goal I want to achieve. And going there, I'm gonna make it the most exciting thing as like 360 dunks, dunking on people, windmill dunks on people, dropping people, fixing my shot, like, defending the out of people. Everything I can possibly do to get to that main goal.

[B]

I love it.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Have you always had that nasty vertical leap?

[C]

No, I built it myself. I built it. Yeah, dude. I was like, what, 15, 16, 17, like, going up for dunks, not making anything. I trained. I built a program which I have air vert, which we've helped thousands of people now start dunking. I did that. Started dunking. But even after I started dunking from the program, like, not in game. I would go in games that I'd miss dunks. You know how embarrassing that is? Fast break dunk game on the line, and I miss it. Like, so then it's like a technique thing. So I've mastered the technique, I mastered the workouts that go into it, and that's pretty much how I built it.

[B]

Yeah. Six, two. That's. That's not Common for people to dunk at the height.

[C]

There's some. Yeah. No, it's not. With social media, you see everyone dunking in that height now. But, like, there's a select few that can do it. Right. And they either work for it or it's genetics. Yeah, it's not genetics.

[B]

Have you measured your vert?

[C]

No, I. I mean, a long time ago I did, but I can't. I couldn't give you an exact answer. I want to say it's in the 45 plus. I'm for sure it's in the 45 plus. Whether it's 48 or 49, 46, I don't know. But somewhere there, that's still insane. It's pretty good, bro. It's pretty good. If I can windmill, 360. Windmill East Bay 360 through the legs. Everything, like, I'm. I'm there.

[B]

Yeah. That's filthy. So you're just work at it because you were running 49 second, four hundreds.

[C]

49 seconds at like, 16 maybe.

[B]

And was that genetic or work ethic?

[C]

That was the same training program that I was on.

[B]

Oh, really?

[C]

Yeah. Like, my dad's a bodybuilder. Right. So. And he was a sports coach, so he knows to train these people. And I basically learned everything from him.

[B]

Wow.

[C]

He, you know, implemented this blueprint since a young age. I followed it. Jumping wasn't necessarily a part of it, so we had to modify it. But the sprinting was there, bro. Always been fast because of that. I started training when I was like, 10, dog.

[B]

Holy crap.

[C]

Yeah, dude.

[B]

They say that stunts your growth, bro.

[C]

No, he did stuff that wasn't with weights and stuff like that. As long. As long as we weren't, like, crushing our spine with squats, then I'd say it was chill. Yeah, But I saw this guy as a bodybuilder at, like, 40 years old. I'm like, I want to be like that. I don't want to be like other fat dads. Like, I don't. I don't know. I respect my daddy's jack, so teach me what you're doing. And then I implemented.

[B]

Love it. Your kids are going to be animals.

[C]

Yeah. I got to find the right. I got to find the right girl to give me those, like, connect those jeans.

[B]

Yeah, they do that in China. That's how they make Yao Ming.

[C]

We got to manufacture these. Yeah. My kids.

[B]

That's not far away. Dude. You can actually edit jeans.

[C]

So I'd like to. To get a six, seven shooter. Basketball player can dunk. Great. Iq. That's kind of what I'm thinking. So I gotta find the right girl.

[B]

You need all that these days to make the league?

[C]

Yeah, I want my kid to go league.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

I want it to be. Yeah, that'd be good.

[B]

Like, before, you could just be a freak athlete like Nate Robinson to make the league.

[C]

Or I can get, like. Or I can just go league myself and then just, like, get my kid in the league through that.

[B]

Ooh, like some LeBron.

[C]

I mean, I didn't say anything.

[B]

I'm rooting for Bronnie, though, to be honest. I want him to succeed.

[C]

Dude, like, the fact that you saw him get on the court when you first checked in and when you made his first bucket, like, imagine how Braun LeBron feels. Yeah, that's probably, like, the craziest feeling as a dad. And what he's, like, accomplished. Unbelievable. So I am rooting for him, and I would love to be in his position, you know, after our talk already, like, all odds stacked against you, chip on your shoulder. I would love to be him right now, and I really am wishing the best for him.

[B]

Absolutely. Does that hate ever get to you? Because you get them on every video, right?

[C]

I love it, bro. Like I said, you either it's. You said it polarizing. You either love me or you hate me. And choose one side and stick with it. And if you want to change, I'm here to welcome you with open arms, bro. If you want to join the Discord, I do weekly calls with people. A lot of my clients for Air Vert have become friends of mine, so I'm a really nice guy off the court, bro. I really just, like. I love building relationships with people, learning about people, learning about their culture, where they came from, their story. So if you're a hater watching this right now, try to, like, rock with me for a little bit, understand my story, and then we can. We can go from there.

[B]

That's dope. I didn't know you had a Discord.

[C]

Yeah, I have a discord. We have 12, 000 something members.

[B]

Holy crap.

[C]

It's not bad.

[B]

That's for the Air Vert stuff.

[C]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Our program.

[B]

Well done.

[C]

Good, dude. Yeah, it's fun.

[B]

You probably help people dunk, then.

[C]

I've helped thousands of people dunk worldwide. Yeah. We've probably almost hit every country now.

[B]

Let's go.

[C]

Yeah, yeah.

[B]

There's a lot of countries that are emerging right now.

[C]

Yeah. Hell, yeah. No, some of the talent we see, like, some of these kids, it's so cool. They just, like, message you randomly from, like, burner accounts, and then, like, they'll send you a video, and they're like, a 6. 6 prospect. I'm like, yo, you're tough. Like, you should play somewhere. You know what I mean? And they're dunking and shit like that in a few weeks from the program, so it's legit.

[B]

I love it, man. Well, shit, where can people keep up with you? Find you and, you know, learn from you?

[C]

Me message me, bro. I'm like. Like I said, I'm an open book. If you want to DM me, you can DM me. If you're talking about airing me out, probably won't answer you. Probably won't. But if you want to message me, you can message me there. You can message me on Team Air Vert on Instagram. And, yeah, I answer all my DMS. We have a 24.7DM service on Airbirt, so we're just answering people all the time.

[B]

Let's go. Well, I'll see you tonight, man. It's gonna be fun.

[C]

We gotta go crazy. It was a pleasure.

[B]

Thank you for having us, guys. Yes, sir. Peace, guys.

[C]

Appreciate.