Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 1: LIVE from The Irish Exit
Podcast Information:
- Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
- Host/Author: ESPN New York, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
- Description: Featuring Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg, the podcast delves into New York sports, hip hop, WWE personalities, and more.
- Episode: Hour 1: LIVE from The Irish Exit
- Release Date: March 14, 2025
1. Introduction and Setting the Scene
The episode kicks off live from The Irish Exit at the Moynihan Train Hall, situated across the street from Madison Square Garden in New York City. Hosts Don Hahn and Peter Rosenberg engage in light banter, setting a lively and nostalgic tone for the discussion ahead.
Peter Rosenberg [00:43]: "It's a Friday in New York City. A beautiful day here. Let's hear it."
2. St. John's Basketball Resurgence
A significant portion of the conversation centers around the resurgence of St. John's University basketball program under the leadership of Rick Pitino. The hosts express enthusiasm about St. John's return to national prominence and discuss the broader implications for the Big East Conference.
Don Hahn [01:26]: "St. John's is a player again and we get a chance to see it firsthand tonight."
Key Points:
- Historical Context: The decline and recent revival of St. John's within the Big East.
- Rick Pitino's Impact: Investment in the program, recruitment strategies, and leveraging Madison Square Garden as a home venue.
- Big East Dynamics: Changes in the conference, including Rutgers' move to the Big Ten and its effects on rivalries and team sustainability.
Don Hahn [04:24]: "It's like St. John's moved and came back. It's the prodigal son returning."
3. Coaching and Leadership in Sports
The discussion shifts to the importance of coaching in both college and professional sports. The hosts debate the longevity and impact of experienced coaches like Rick Pitino versus the industry's preference for younger coaching talent.
Peter Rosenberg [10:14]: "You have to really think about coaches who have been in one more than one place. And that's what Pitino represents."
Notable Quotes:
- Ann [16:01]: "In the age of the empowered athlete that we are in right now, are we not learning that the coach is still the most valuable piece of a franchise?"
- Don Hahn [16:10]: "They all got scared off when Parcells had the heart problems and needed to walk away."
4. NFL Update: Aaron Rodgers and Quarterback Decisions
Interspersed with the main conversation are discussions about NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers and his potential moves, particularly focusing on his interest in joining the Minnesota Vikings and the implications for other teams like the Giants and Steelers.
Peter Rosenberg [28:20]: "Brett Favre did. Yep, he wants to go there."
Key Points:
- Minnesota Vikings' Dilemma: Balancing between retaining J.J. McCarthy or bringing in Rodgers.
- Team Strategies: Evaluating the potential success of different quarterbacks and the impact on team dynamics.
Don Hahn [48:40]: "You got more of a chance to win, I think, than you do with the Giants."
5. Special Guest: Walter Berry on St. John's Legacy
The podcast welcomes Walter Berry, a St. John's legend from the 1980s, providing deep insights into the program's history and its current trajectory under Rick Pitino.
Walter Berry [29:39]: "They're back. And there's no doubt in my mind that St. John's is back, back on top."
Key Points:
- Nostalgia and Legacy: Berry reminisces about the golden era of St. John's basketball and draws parallels to today's team.
- Rick Pitino's Influence: Berry highlights Pitino's authenticity, connections, and rejuvenation of the program.
- Future Aspirations: Predictions of St. John's aiming for the Final Four and winning the Big East Tournament.
Walter Berry [38:28]: "The potential is Final Four. I think they're gonna go to the Final Four."
6. Nostalgia and History of the Big East
Berry and the hosts delve into the rich history of the Big East Conference, comparing its past competitiveness to the current landscape. They highlight how the Big East was akin to the NBA in its former glory, with multiple teams producing NBA talent.
Walter Berry [39:04]: "The Big East was like the NBA back in old days because every team had three to four starters that made it to the NBA."
7. Conclusion and Looking Forward
As the episode wraps up, the hosts express excitement for the upcoming St. John's semifinal game coinciding with the podcast's live broadcast. They emphasize the unique blend of nostalgia and present-day excitement surrounding St. John's basketball resurgence.
Peter Rosenberg [39:34]: "That is just unbelievable to see that when people, when, you know, we saw the, the 30 for 30 requiem of the Big East."
Final Thoughts:
- Community and Fan Engagement: Celebrating the involvement of legendary figures like Walter Berry and the emotional connection fans have with the team.
- Future Episodes: Teasing upcoming segments with more Big East dignitaries and continuing the exploration of St. John's journey.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Don Hahn [02:12]: "It felt like Madison Square Garden was the de facto home for UConn."
- Peter Rosenberg [08:22]: "Like that. Yeah. Let's get... Whatever works."
- Don Hahn [16:52]: "In the age of the empowered athlete, the coach is still the most valuable piece of a franchise."
- Walter Berry [35:39]: "It's magical, like you said, they are there."
Conclusion
This inaugural episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg offers a rich blend of sports analysis, nostalgic reminiscence, and lively debate. Focusing heavily on the revival of St. John's basketball and the evolving dynamics of the Big East Conference, the hosts and their guest provide insightful commentary that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. With engaging discussions, memorable quotes, and a charismatic delivery, this episode sets the tone for a series that promises depth, passion, and a deep love for New York sports.