Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary Episode: Hour 4: Knicks Pre Show
Release Date: May 1, 2025

1. Episode Kickoff and Concert Promotions

The episode begins with a brief introduction from Don Hahn, setting the stage for a lively discussion centered around Knicks basketball and various sports topics. Although the transcript includes advertisements for brands like Chevy Silverado, LinkedIn, Shopify, McDonald's, State Farm, Priceline, and New Balance, these segments are acknowledged but skipped in this summary to focus on the core content.

2. Discussing Concert Promotions and Genre Representation

Alan Hahn raises concerns about the disproportionate promotion of country concerts compared to other genres on their station.
[00:03]
"The percentage of country concerts that we promote on this station versus other concerts is the dumbest thing ever," remarks Hahn, expressing frustration over the lack of diversity in music genres promoted, especially in a market that historically hasn't focused on country music.

Don Hahn responds by highlighting the variety of artists they promote:
[00:05]
"Kendrick Lamar is at MetLife next week, for God's sake. With SZA... Stevie Wonder in October."
He emphasizes the need to balance different music genres to cater to their diverse audience.

3. Listener Interactions: Knicks Positivity

The hosts transition to taking calls from listeners, starting with Brian from New Jersey, who urges fans to maintain a positive outlook on the Knicks:
[04:37]
"The percentage of country concerts that we promote… They need to embrace the power of positivity. Let's go, Knicks."
Brian shares detailed predictions for the Knicks' performance, highlighting key players like Miles McBride, OG Anunoby, and Julius Randle, and stresses the importance of a positive fan base despite recent struggles.

Don Hahn acknowledges Brian's sentiment but notes the challenge in maintaining such optimism:
[05:00]
"That's not easy to feel that way. I totally understand being completely fed up."

4. Knicks Playoffs and Coaching Decisions

Gabriel from Farmingdale calls in to discuss coaching decisions and the potential future of the Knicks:
[07:15]
"If he loses to Detroit… this will be a problem for Tibbs."
He debates the possibility of replacing Coach Tibbs if the Knicks fail to advance, suggesting that a deeper playoff run might necessitate coaching changes.

Alan Hahn counters by questioning the fan appetite for change:
[07:40]
"If you lose, you're going to be hungry… there is no appetite when you're not hungry."
Hahn points out that a significant loss could reignite the desire for coaching adjustments within the organization.

5. Sports News Briefs: NHL and NBA Updates

The conversation shifts to broader sports topics, including surprising outcomes in the NHL and NBA:

Don Hahn expresses surprise over Winnipeg's struggles against St. Louis and Florida's swift victory over Tampa:
[06:37]
"I'm a little surprised if Florida finished off Tampa as quickly as they did."

Peter Rosenberg shares his thoughts on unexpected NBA series outcomes, particularly the Minnesota versus Louisiana series, challenging the anticipated performance of teams like the Lakers.

6. Tribute and Corrections on Sports Figures

The hosts pay tribute to Stan Love, Kevin Love's father and an NBA player from the 1970s, highlighting his contributions to the league and his connection to the Beach Boys through his brother, Mike Love.

Alan Hahn corrects a factual error made by Peter regarding John Elway's age and past activities:
[09:55]
"Don, Elway is 64. He was playing for the Yankees and Oneonta in the summer of '82."

They also reminisce about past NFL events, including Gary Jeter's impactful games with the LA Rams.

7. Listener Calls: Team Loyalty and Concert Experiences

Jonathan from LA discusses his shifting team loyalty from the Lakers to the Knicks, expressing uncertainty about his allegiance:
[10:30]
"In my heart, I'm a Lakers fan, but I'm a root for the Knicks."
He questions whether this shift makes him a "fraud" and shares insights about managing fan loyalty.

Dennis from North Carolina brings up the lack of hip-hop concert tickets promotion, critiquing the station's ticket allocation strategy:
[12:15]
"Whenever I go to a hip hop or rap concert, there's like a 70% chance that it's not going to be that great."
Peter Rosenberg rebuffs Dennis's reasoning, arguing that their approach to concert promotions is outdated and lacks consideration for their diverse audience.

8. Emotional Segment: Frustration with the Lakers

A particularly emotional segment features Don Hahn, who vents his frustration with the Lakers' performance and coaching decisions:
[14:00]
"I can't be professional. I'm salty, bitter, deflated."
He criticizes coach J.J. Barea's decisions during the playoffs and expresses disappointment over the team's exit, questioning the Lakers' championship viability.

Peter Rosenberg engages in the debate, discussing LeBron James's impact and the comparison to Michael Jordan, concluding that LeBron remains an exceptional player despite his age:
[15:20]
"He's like a really, really good player. And that's kind of it. Which is incredibly impressive at 41."
He reflects on how age affects the legacy of great players without diminishing their contributions.

9. Final Listener Call and Episode Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Jonathan defending team loyalty and discussing Paul Heyman's professional relationship, while Dennis reiterates his concerns about concert promotions. The hosts reaffirm their commitment to promoting a diverse range of events and express gratitude to their listeners:
[16:45]
"We have a very diverse audience. We'd also like these tickets."

Don Hahn concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to catch future shows on various platforms:
"Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts."

Notable Quotes

• Alan Hahn on Concert Promotions:
  "The percentage of country concerts that we promote on this station versus other concerts is the dumbest thing ever."
  [00:03]

• Brian on Knicks Positivity:
  "This fan base needs to embrace the power of positivity. Let's go, Knicks."
  [04:37]

• Don Hahn on LeBron vs. Jordan:
  "He's like a really, really good player. And that's kind of it. Which is incredibly impressive at 41."
  [15:20]

Conclusion

This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" offers a comprehensive discussion on Knicks basketball prospects, listener interactions about team loyalty, critiques of concert promotion strategies, and passionate debates about NBA team performances. The hosts blend sports analysis with personal reflections, providing an engaging experience for both dedicated fans and casual listeners.