Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Jay Bilas & Brunson

Release Date: March 31, 2025
Hosts: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Guest: Jay Bilas (ESPN)

1. Final Four Tournament Update

Timestamp: 00:00 – 01:29

The episode kicks off with Alan Hahn providing an update on the NCAA Final Four, highlighting that it consists exclusively of number one seeds: Florida, Auburn, Houston, and Duke. He shares promotional segments briefly but swiftly transitions to the main discussion, ensuring listeners are immediately engaged with the primary content.

2. Interview with Jay Bilas on March Madness and Cooper Flag

Timestamp: 01:28 – 08:33

Alan Hahn welcomes Jay Bilas, a renowned voice in March Madness, to discuss the significance of having all top seeds in the Final Four. Jay expresses a positive outlook, emphasizing the historical strength of the selected teams:

Jay Bilas [02:06]: "These four teams are some of the top 10 most efficient teams ever over that 30-year period. That's extraordinary."

The conversation delves into the prowess of Duke's Cooper Flag, comparing him to Zion Williamson. Jay praises Flag's versatility and concludes that while Zion is a phenomenal athlete, Cooper offers a more well-rounded skill set:

Jay Bilas [06:01]: "He's a better all-around player. Zion's just a phenomenon."

3. Impact of Transfer Portal and NIL on College Basketball

Timestamp: 10:04 – 15:04

The hosts and Jay Bilas explore how the Transfer Portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations have reshaped college basketball dynamics. Jay argues that these changes have both positive and negative impacts, particularly on mid-major programs:

Jay Bilas [11:07]: "The Portal works both ways. You have players moving up and down, creating a more dynamic competitive landscape."

Alan and Don discuss examples like St. John's, illustrating how financial investments and strategic recruiting are transforming traditional basketball powerhouses.

4. Yankees' Torpedo Bats and Home Run Controversy

Timestamp: 15:04 – 23:07

A heated discussion ensues about the New York Yankees' recent surge in home runs, attributed to their use of "torpedo bats." Don LaGreca defends the Yankees, asserting that they operated within the rules:

Don LaGreca [19:04]: "The Yankees did not cheat. They found something within the margins, and it worked spectacularly."

Alan Hahn echoes this sentiment, pointing out the Yankees' strategic advantage without violating regulations. The conversation also touches on the Brewers' struggles, suggesting that the Yankees' success is a combination of skill and equipment optimization.

5. Caller Segment on Yankees' Cheating Allegations

Timestamp: 27:17 – 32:21

A caller from Connecticut shares frustrations about hearsay accusations against the Yankees, specifically targeting Aaron Judge's performance:

Caller [27:18]: "How do you explain Judge hitting three home runs without using a bat?"

Don and Alan rebut these claims by highlighting the Yankees' adherence to MLB rules and the effectiveness of their strategies. They emphasize the importance of evidence over fan bias:

Don LaGreca [29:08]: "The Yankees are really good at what they do, and they work within the margins."

6. Update on Jalen Brunson's Ankle Injury

Timestamp: 34:45 – 38:47

The hosts provide an update on Jalen Brunson's recovery from an ankle injury. According to Alan Hahn:

Jalen Brunson [35:35]: "Feeling better, progressing every day... I hope to be back for the end of the regular season."

The discussion focuses on Brunson's pivotal role in the team and the potential impact of his return on their playoff aspirations. Don and Peter express optimism about his recovery and the team's prospects.

7. Mets' Performance and Player Updates

Timestamp: 41:24 – 47:27

Shifting to baseball, the hosts analyze the New York Mets' recent performance. Don highlights the team's strong pitching despite the offensive challenges:

Don LaGreca [41:26]: "The pitching was a pleasant surprise... The Mets just did not get a big hit when they needed it."

Additionally, they discuss Francisco Lindor's recent addition to his family and his commitment to the team:

Francisco Lindor [42:51]: "I want to be there for my team... I'll be there tomorrow."

8. Humorous Anecdotes about Dogs

Timestamp: 43:27 – 47:38

In a lighthearted segment, Don and Peter share stories about naming their dogs after sports figures. They humorously debate the authenticity and correctness of the names, showcasing the camaraderie and playful banter that characterize the show.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jay Bilas [02:06]: "These four teams are some of the top 10 most efficient teams ever over that 30-year period. That's extraordinary."

• Jay Bilas [06:01]: "He's a better all-around player. Zion's just a phenomenon."

• Don LaGreca [19:04]: "The Yankees did not cheat. They found something within the margins, and it worked spectacularly."

• Don LaGreca [29:08]: "The Yankees are really good at what they do, and they work within the margins."

• Jalen Brunson [35:35]: "Feeling better, progressing every day... I hope to be back for the end of the regular season."

Conclusion

In this episode, "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" provides an in-depth analysis of the current NCAA Final Four, the evolving landscape of college basketball influenced by the Transfer Portal and NIL, and the New York Yankees' controversial use of torpedo bats. The hosts engage in thoughtful discussions with Jay Bilas, addressing both the strategic and ethical dimensions of modern sports. Additionally, lighter moments with humorous anecdotes and updates on key players like Jalen Brunson and Francisco Lindor add a well-rounded dimension to the conversation, making it valuable for listeners keen on sports insights and lively banter.