Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Episode Summary: Hour 3 with Larry Johnson

Release Date: April 29, 2025

In Hour 3: Larry Johnson joins the show of the popular podcast Don, Hahn & Rosenberg, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg engage in an insightful and nostalgic conversation with former NBA star Larry Johnson. The episode delves deep into Larry’s illustrious basketball career, his experiences with the New York Knicks, and reflections on the evolution of the game over the decades.

1. Introduction and Setting the Stage (00:00 - 01:29)

The episode kicks off with a brief, energetic exchange promoting Degree Cool Rush deodorant, quickly transitioning to Alan Hahn introducing the live show environment at Stout, near Penn Station and Madison Square Garden. The anticipation is palpable as the hosts prepare for Game 5 between the Knicks and the Pistons, highlighting the Knicks' rare opportunity to clinch a playoff series at home for the first time in 25 years.

Alan Hahn (00:36):

"We got a great crowd in here. Getting you ready for Game 5 of the Knicks and the Pistons tonight."

2. Larry Johnson’s Historic Game Experience (01:29 - 02:25)

Larry Johnson recounts the pivotal game where the Knicks had the chance to clinch the series. Unfortunately, amidst his personal triumph, he sustains an injury, leading to his hospitalization. This anecdote provides listeners with a firsthand account of the pressures and physical toll of high-stakes basketball.

Larry Johnson (01:29):

"When we did clinch, I was in the hospital getting the news from the doctors."

3. Comparing NBA Physicality: Then vs. Now (04:43 - 06:14)

The conversation shifts to the evolution of the NBA's physicality. Alan Hahn expresses concerns about the current trend of looser officiating and increased physical play, questioning if today's game aligns with the gritty, intense style of the 90s. Larry defends the modern playstyle, emphasizing the inherent physical nature of playing for New York and the competitive spirit it fosters.

Alan Hahn (04:47):

"This playoff, the past, the several games, our game, I'll say that, that Golden State game, there's a lot being let go."

Larry Johnson (05:26):

"I love it. I love it. I mean, you play for New York, so physical and grimy. That's what, that's. That was part of our game."

4. Legacy as a New York Knick (03:28 - 04:31)

Don La Greca probes Larry about his enduring legacy with the Knicks, questioning whether he ever anticipated being forever recognized as a legendary Knick. Larry expresses deep gratitude and pride in his association with the team, highlighting the profound connection between players and the passionate New York fanbase.

Don La Greca (03:28):

"Did you ever think when you ended up in New York that you were now probably forever going to be known as a legendary New York Knick?"

Larry Johnson (03:58):

"I thank God for it. And I. I'm appreciative of it because it's been some great, great players that's come through."

5. Coaching Dynamics and Team Strategies (06:32 - 08:37)

The discussion moves to coaching strategies, particularly focusing on Tom Thibodeau’s tenure as an assistant coach. Larry provides candid insights into Thibodeau’s coaching style, critiquing his emphasis on chest strength over leg work and his defensive tactics. They also touch upon the importance of maintaining physicality against formidable opponents like the Celtics.

Larry Johnson (06:32):

"Well, he thought he was stronger than everybody else. All he did was chest."

Don La Greca (07:56):

"What do you think the approach would be?"

Larry Johnson (08:00):

"If we can put a body and keep a body on Porzingis and keep him north the whole game, we Definitely."

6. Reflections on UNLV Days and Cultural Impact (09:16 - 16:33)

Larry delves into his years at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), sharing memorable experiences like the iconic Grandmama advert and the cultural influence of hip-hop legends like Tupac. He discusses the challenges and camaraderie within the team, emphasizing the tight-knit relationships and the focused mindset that kept distractions at bay.

Don La Greca (11:14):

"So how crazy was it at that time?"

Larry Johnson (12:41):

"We were sneaking in the big fights. Yeah, well, you had people looking out."

Larry Johnson (15:14):

"There was a lot being let go. So I listen, do. I think it's that it's embarrassing, right?"

7. The Grandmama Campaign and Its Legacy (14:14 - 23:21)

A significant portion of the conversation centers around the Grandmama commercial, one of the most memorable marketing campaigns of the era. Larry reflects on his initial reservations, the campaign's unexpected success, and its enduring legacy. The hosts reminisce about the cultural intersections with hip-hop and the lasting impact of such branding efforts.

Larry Johnson (14:00):

"We had a spot. It was tough. Super Bowl. And it ran in super Bowl."

Peter Rosenberg (22:46):

"How did it work out in terms of like, that was one of the, maybe the biggest. The Grandmama spot is one of the biggest and most memorable spots of all time."

Don La Greca (23:21):

"It certainly is."

8. Interaction with Legends and Current Team Dynamics (25:06 - 27:48)

Larry shares anecdotes about his interactions with New York legends like Charles Oakley, emphasizing their formidable reputations both on and off the court. The hosts discuss the importance of reconnecting with past players to bolster team morale and fan engagement, proposing ideas like the "Alumni Row" concept to bridge generations of Knicks fans.

Larry Johnson (25:06):

"You know who that was? I know that's, that's, that's a no brainer. And that was Charles Oakley."

Peter Rosenberg (50:18):

"Let’s get him into the building."

9. Playoff Strategies and Team Outlook (07:56 - 08:44)

As the show anticipates Game 5, the conversation turns to tactical approaches the Knicks should adopt against formidable opponents like the Celtics. Larry emphasizes the necessity of maintaining physicality and strategic defense to counteract the Celtics' offensive prowess.

Peter Rosenberg (07:56):

"What do you think the approach would be?"

Larry Johnson (08:00):

"If we can put a body and keep a body on Porzingis and keep him north the whole game, we Definitely."

10. Closing Remarks and Future Highlights (31:01 - 51:37)

The episode winds down with promotional segments and light-hearted interactions with listeners, maintaining the show’s signature blend of sports analysis and engaging banter. The hosts hint at future discussions, potential documentaries, and ongoing support for the Knicks, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating upcoming episodes.

Alan Hahn (43:07):

"If you follow the same plan that we saw with Eli Manning and Kurt Warner..."

Don La Greca (51:43):

"Besides, thanks for listening to the Don, Hahn, and Rosenberg podcast."

Notable Quotes

1. Larry Johnson (01:29):

   "When we did clinch, I was in the hospital getting the news from the doctors."

2. Larry Johnson (05:26):

   "I love it. I love it. I mean, you play for New York, so physical and grimy. That's what, that's."

3. Larry Johnson (07:05):

   "I love it. I love it. I mean, you play for New York, so physical and grimy. That's what, that's."

4. Larry Johnson (16:33):

   "We do have a. A documentary coming out. Documentary coming out. And we was brutally honest."

5. Larry Johnson (24:37):

   "The big contract at mine, which wasn't big. A year later it was worth nothing."

6. Larry Johnson (21:13):

   "A default? Yeah, like one particular story you like."

Conclusion

Hour 3: Larry Johnson joins the show offers a rich tapestry of basketball history, personal anecdotes, and thoughtful analysis of the game's evolution. Larry Johnson’s candid reflections provide fans with a deeper understanding of both his personal journey and the broader dynamics of professional basketball. The hosts skillfully navigate through past and present, delivering an engaging episode that resonates with long-time listeners and newcomers alike.