Podcast Summary: "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" – Hour 2: Watch Giannis

Release Date: February 20, 2025

Hosts:

• Don La Greca – ESPN New York and New Jersey legend
• Alan Hahn – Sportswriter and New York Knicks broadcaster
• Peter Rosenberg – Opinionated Hip Hop veteran and WWE personality

Overview: In this episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast titled "Watch Giannis," the hosts navigate through a series of pressing topics in the sports world. The discussion primarily revolves around significant NBA developments, including Victor Wembanyama's injury, Giannis Antetokounmpo's potential departure from the Milwaukee Bucks, and the implications of multi-sport ownership by Stan Kroenke. Additionally, the podcast delves into the dynamics of international hockey, highlighting the rivalry between the USA and Canada.

1. Victor Wembanyama's Season-Ending Injury [00:36 – 02:35]

The episode kicks off with shocking news about Victor Wembanyama, an emerging NBA star and first-time All-Star, who is expected to miss the remainder of the season due to deep vein thrombosis—a condition involving blood clots in his right shoulder.

• Peter Rosenberg [01:07]: "Victor Wembanyama is expected to be out for the rest of the season."

• Alan Hahn [02:06]: "Wembanyama is the most likely successor to the current greats of this league in terms of really becoming that marquee name."

Key Points:

• Wembanyama's injury is not deemed as severe as Chris Bosh's condition but requires blood-thinning medication, preventing him from participating in contact sports.
• His absence significantly impacts the San Antonio Spurs and has broader implications for the NBA, considering his potential to become a face of the league.

2. Giannis Antetokounmpo's Future with the Milwaukee Bucks [02:35 – 09:51]

The conversation shifts to Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks' recent struggles, raising questions about Giannis's commitment to the team and his potential move to a larger market.

• Peter Rosenberg [02:35]: "Giannis Antetokounmpo is somebody to just keep an eye on... he is not locked into Milwaukee as much as he seems to be or once was."

• Peter Rosenberg [06:55]: "Giannis wants out. So this leads to now more of a guy like that becomes available in a trade where he's made it clear he doesn't want to be there anymore."

• Alan Hahn [06:00]: "It is probably the most compelling piece to it because he, he is an immediate contender, changer by arrival."

Key Points:

• The Bucks' acquisition of De'Aaron Fox and Kyle Kuzma signals attempts to bolster the team, but internal issues persist.
• Giannis's exceptional performance remains a focal point, but the team's inability to reach playoff heights since their 2021 championship adds pressure.
• Speculation about Giannis potentially moving to teams like the New York Knicks or Brooklyn Nets if the Bucks fail to establish a sustainable, winning culture.

3. Stan Kroenke's Sports Empire and Financial Strategies [09:51 – 14:13]

The hosts delve into Stan Kroenke’s extensive ownership of multiple sports franchises and the financial intricacies involved.

• Alan Hahn [13:12]: "The 49ers are selling 10% of their franchise... it's almost a billion dollars."

• Peter Rosenberg [13:17]: "What's 10%? It's a lot... There's a lot that you have to."

Key Points:

• Kroenke owns teams across various sports, including Arsenal (soccer), Los Angeles Rams (NFL), Denver Nuggets (NBA), Colorado Avalanche (NHL), and more.
• Discussion on the financial burdens and advantages of owning multiple high-value franchises, including revenue-sharing mechanisms.
• The ethical implications of revenue sharing, especially when Kroenke benefited financially from the Denver Nuggets' championship.

4. International Hockey: USA vs. Canada in the Four Nations Tournament [14:16 – 23:43]

A heated discussion ensues about the Four Nations hockey tournament, focusing on the intense rivalry between the USA and Canada.

• Peter Rosenberg [14:20]: "We're talking about the 1%, there's so few of them... They talk down."

• Alan Hahn [21:07]: "It's only an exhibition or it's made up."

Key Points:

• The USA vs. Canada game is highly anticipated, with the hosts debating the cultural and competitive tensions.
• Peter expresses frustration over perceived patronizing attitudes from Canadian hockey fans and parents at youth games.
• Don and Peter share personal anecdotes about their experiences in Canadian rinks, highlighting cultural differences and the unwavering pride associated with national teams.
• The segment underscores the deep-seated rivalry and national pride that fuel such international competitions.

5. Listener Interaction: Addressing Cultural Rivalries in Hockey [25:55 – 27:43]

The episode features a listener, Raza from Toronto, who engages with the hosts regarding their discussion on hockey rivalries and cultural differences.

• Alan Hahn [25:55]: "Hey Alan. I just want to say I was listening to ENN and I was listening to your comments about your experiences in the hockey rinks in Canada."

• Peter Rosenberg [26:03]: "Raza, because we'll hear this again tonight, so we don't need to hear the whole thing..."

Key Points:

• Raza acknowledges the hosts' points and extends an apology for negative experiences conveyed about Canadian hockey culture.
• The interaction promotes mutual understanding and underscores the importance of respectful discourse despite differing perspectives.
• Hosts accept the apology, emphasizing the value of sportsmanship and cultural respect.

Notable Quotes:

• Peter Rosenberg [01:07]: "Victor Wembanyama is expected to be out for the rest of the season."

• Alan Hahn [02:06]: "Wembanyama is the most likely successor to the current greats..."

• Peter Rosenberg [06:55]: "Giannis wants out. So this leads to now more of a guy like that becomes available in a trade where he's made it clear he doesn't want to be there anymore."

• Alan Hahn [13:12]: "The 49ers are selling 10% of their franchise... it's almost a billion dollars."

• Peter Rosenberg [14:20]: "We're talking about the 1%, there's so few of them... They talk down."

• Alan Hahn [21:07]: "It's only an exhibition or it's made up."

• Peter Rosenberg [26:03]: "Raza, because we'll hear this again tonight, so we don't need to hear the whole thing..."

Conclusion: In "Watch Giannis," the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast offers a comprehensive analysis of current NBA dynamics, spotlighting critical issues like Victor Wembanyama's injury and Giannis Antetokounmpo's uncertain tenure with the Bucks. The discussion extends to the complexities of multi-sport ownership through Stan Kroenke's empire and delves into the fervent USA-Canada hockey rivalry, enriched by personal anecdotes and listener interaction. The episode provides listeners with insightful commentary, diverse perspectives, and engaging debates on the evolving landscape of professional sports.