Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 4: Pop Retiring & Jalen Baby Names

Podcast Information:

• Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
• Hosts: Don Hahn, Alan Rosenberg, Peter Rosenberg
• Episode: Hour 4: Pop Retiring & Jalen Baby Names
• Release Date: May 2, 2025
• Description: The first voice of ESPN New York and New Jersey legend Don La Greca, long-time sportswriter and handsome New York Knick broadcaster Alan Hahn, and highly opinionated Hip Hop vet and WWE personality Peter Rosenberg delve into New York sports and beyond.

1. Knicks’ Prospects and Team Dynamics

Timestamp: [01:05] – [02:27]

The episode kicks off with a caller, Carl from Queens, expressing enthusiasm about a recent Knicks game. He highlights the impressive performance of Jalen Brunson and the potential impact of bench players like Deuce and Achua on the team's chances in the next playoff round.

• Carl: “That game last night was awesome. Like it was scary but it was awesome. That shot was unbelievable. … the only way that we might even a slight chance is if the bench itself Deuce has to definitely he has to step up.” ([01:05])

Don Hahn responds by acknowledging the importance of Achua and the size factor against teams like the Boston Celtics. He emphasizes the necessity for bench players to stay ready for different game plans series by series.

• Don Hahn: “I am curious to see if, because Boston does play a lot bigger … so bench players have to know like in this series you might not play at all because it's not a good matchup.” ([01:53])

2. Gregg Popovich’s Retirement and Legacy

Timestamp: [02:27] – [12:09]

Alan Rosenberg introduces a significant topic: the retirement of Gregg Popovich, the winningest NBA coach. Despite his health struggles, including a stroke earlier in the year, Popovich is set to transition to a role as President of Basketball Operations with the Spurs.

• Alan Rosenberg: “Earlier today we found out Gregg Popovich is going to call it and move on from his coaching duties in San Antonio … he could be the greatest to ever do it.” ([02:27])

Don Hahn and Alan Rosenberg engage in an in-depth discussion about Popovich’s unparalleled career, comparing him to other legendary coaches like Red Auerbach, Phil Jackson, and Pat Riley. They praise his ability to blend old-school coaching with modern strategies, his handling of player dynamics, and his advocacy for player rest and health.

• Alan Rosenberg: “It's an unbelievable run after 29 seasons and big salute to Gregg Popovich on one of the greatest coaching careers you will ever see in professional sports.” ([12:09])

Personal Anecdotes: Don shares personal experiences of interacting with Popovich, highlighting his softer side and immense respect from players and peers alike.

• Don Hahn: “I called a game there a couple of years ago and, you know, pre-game chatted with him and just realized just this guy seen so much and done so much …” ([06:35])

3. The Jalen Baby Name Trend

Timestamp: [13:28] – [16:15]

The conversation shifts to a lighter topic sparked by a tweet following Jalen Brunson’s impressive performance. Don Hahn recounts making a pledge to name his next child "Jalen" if the Knicks won a championship, highlighting the cultural impact of the player.

• Don Hahn: “...if the Knicks won a championship with Jalen Brunson, that I would tell Stephanie we have to have another kid. And boy or girl, it's being that that child will be named Jalen.” ([14:11])

Alan Rosenberg and Don Hahn discuss the popularity of the name "Jalen," noting its cultural significance and potential rise in usage.

• Alan Rosenberg: “There's an article on ESPN.com on how that name …” ([15:09])

Don humorously notes the spelling variations and questions how many "white Jalens" might emerge in the future, reflecting on the name's predominantly Black association.

• Don Hahn: “...you see in New York, you know, whatever it is, 20. How many white Jalens will there be?” ([15:34])

4. Caller Interactions and Additional Discussions

Timestamp: [16:15] – [21:38]

The hosts engage with more callers, delving into various topics:

• Javier in Williamsburg: Ryan Reynolds shares his excitement about DJing a vinyl set, connecting it to the Knicks' current momentum.

  • Ryan Reynolds: “I'll shout out to Mikel Bridges. He stepped up. …” ([16:38])

• Griffin in Connecticut: Batista praises Mikel Bridges for his performance, celebrating his predictions.

  • Griffin: “I called yesterday that Mikel Bridges was gonna have a day. …” ([18:54])

• Jonathan in LA: Discusses his admiration for the Yankees’ lineup, requesting its continuation on the show.

  • Jonathan: “That was the best Yankees lineup I ever heard. …” ([19:55])

Key Discussions:

• Mikel Bridges’ Performance: Multiple callers commend Bridges for stepping up, reflecting on his significant role in the Knicks' success.

• Boxing and Other Sports Updates: Brief mentions of upcoming boxing matches, including Garcia vs. Canelo, and updates on other sports events.

• Player Critiques: The hosts analyze and critique player performances, such as Luca's fitness and defensive skills, advocating for improvement.

  • Don Hahn: “Grow up and get your ass in shape.” ([21:20])

5. Conclusion and Final Remarks

Timestamp: [21:38] – End

As the episode wraps up, Don Hahn reiterates the show's availability on various platforms, encouraging listeners to subscribe and catch up on episodes.

• Don Hahn: “Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast …” ([21:42])

Final Thoughts: The hosts maintain a balance between in-depth sports analysis and lighthearted, relatable banter, ensuring the episode is both informative and entertaining for listeners.

Notable Quotes:

• Carl on Knicks' Chances: “… the only way that we might even a slight chance is if the bench itself Deuce has to definitely he has to step up.” ([01:05])

• Alan on Popovich’s Legacy: “It's an unbelievable run after 29 seasons and big salute to Gregg Popovich on one of the greatest coaching careers you will ever see in professional sports.” ([12:09])

• Don on Naming a Child Jalen: “...the child will be named Jalen.” ([14:11])

• Don on Luca’s Fitness: “Grow up and get your ass in shape.” ([21:20])

This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg masterfully blends passionate sports discourse with personal anecdotes and humorous exchanges, offering listeners a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the Knicks’ prospects, the impactful retirement of Gregg Popovich, and the cultural phenomenon surrounding the name "Jalen."