KSR Podcast Episode Summary: January 14, 2025 – Hour 1

Hosted by Matt Jones and the KSR Crew from iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM)

1. Introduction and Game Preview

Timestamp: [02:52]

Matt Jones kicks off the episode from the KS Bar and Grill, highlighting the upcoming clash between Kentucky and Texas A&M. He emphasizes the significance of this game in SEC play, noting that Texas A&M enters the match as a six-point favorite. The team’s robust performance is under scrutiny, especially with key player Wade Taylor sidelined for the evening.

Matt Jones:
"Kentucky and A&M tonight Cats are a six-point favorite. Actually a pretty significant favorite tonight at home."
[02:52]

2. Impact of Wade Taylor’s Absence

Timestamp: [06:23]

The hosts delve into the implications of Wade Taylor not playing, discussing how his absence might influence Texas A&M’s gameplay. They highlight A&M’s offensive rebounding prowess, considering them the best offensive rebounding team in the country as per Mark Pope.

Matt Jones:
"Well, I mean hold serve would be pretty impressive... these are two back-to-back home games."
[05:50]

Ryan Lemond:
"Tom this morning said they're number one in the country or number one in the SEC. And offensive rebounding is their forte right now."
[16:13]

3. Team Dynamics and Coaching Strategies

Timestamp: [12:07]

The conversation shifts to Buzz Williams, the team’s coach, focusing on his meticulous time blocking strategy. The hosts discuss whether this approach is a sign of discipline or “neurotic and kind of weird,” reflecting on how it correlates with his coaching success.

Matt Jones:
"What Buzz Williams does is called time blocking or diagramming your day. It is supposedly correlated with being highly successful."
[19:12]

4. Willie’s Memorable Visit and Fan Interaction

Timestamp: [24:40]

A standout segment features the recent visit of Willie, a notable player, who left a lasting impression on both fans and the crew. The hosts share anecdotes about Willie’s genuine interactions, such as taking pictures with every attendee and his respectful demeanor towards opposing teams.

Matt Jones:
"You see a lot of like the talking heads... he is a really, really good dude who is different than other basketball players."
[23:42]

Ryan Lemond:
"He made her feel like she was the only person here."
[25:02]

5. Listener Questions and Feedback

Timestamp: [25:29]

Listeners engage with the hosts, posing questions about Buzz Williams’ personal style and the potential for coaches to transition into media roles. The discussion touches on the necessity for a Kentucky representative in SEC networks and reflects on past attempts like Antoine Walker and Tony Dill.

Listener David:
"Do you think Mark Pope can grow hair?"
[25:40]

Matt Jones:
"We need to find a Kentucky person for the SEC network."
[47:08]

6. Exclusive Interview with Georgia Amore

Timestamp: [29:02]

In a historic first, Georgia Amore, a standout women’s basketball star from Australia, joins the show live. Her presence marks a new milestone for KSR, being the first live in-season presentation of a player.

Matt Jones:
"Happy to be joined by, I believe the first time we've ever had a player here during the season live. Georgia Amore."
[29:02]

Key Discussion Points with Georgia Amore:

• Team Performance:
  Georgia discusses the team's impressive 14-1 record, dominating the SEC with wins margin of at least 16 points.

  Georgia Amore:
  "It's been so much fun... we're 12th in the nation right now."
  [32:27]

• Experience in Lexington:
  Coming from Melbourne, Australia, Georgia shares her cultural adjustments and the vibrant atmosphere at Historic Memorial Coliseum.

  Georgia Amore:
  "The atmosphere, everyone in their brother, sister, Auntie turned up, and it was loud and it was hot."
  [30:44]

• Coaching and Recruitment:
  She praises Coach Kenny Brooks for his authentic approach and effective recruitment strategies that have attracted top talent to the program.

  Georgia Amore:
  "He's just easy to. None of it feels fake... he connects with different personalities."
  [36:40]

• Draft Aspirations and Future:
  Georgia touches on the challenges of the women’s draft process, emphasizing the limited opportunities compared to the men's league.

  Georgia Amore:
  "It's very different to men's in terms of the draft process and obviously the money."
  [38:33]

7. Team Strategies and Player Highlights

Timestamp: [34:01]

The hosts analyze various team strategies, highlighting players like Deja Lawrence and the challenges posed by tall opponents. They discuss the importance of energy and versatility on the court, as demonstrated by Georgia’s relentless play style.

Matt Jones:
"You are so... you never stop moving. Is that like your style?"
[34:15]

Georgia Amore:
"If teams are going to try and take away one thing, then I'm going to try and make their life miserable in another aspect."
[34:45]

8. Closing Remarks and Future Episodes

Timestamp: [41:58]

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the team’s momentum and upcoming high-stakes games. They express optimism for Kentucky’s performance and tease future discussions on playoff implications and potential media roles for Kentucky coaches.

Matt Jones:
"Kentucky doesn’t have a game during the week, so we'll probably bring him on and bring him on then."
[47:08]

Notable Quotes

• Matt Jones:
  "She is a really, really good dude who is different than other basketball players."
  [23:42]

• Georgia Amore:
  "It's been so much fun... we're 12th in the nation right now."
  [32:27]

• Ryan Lemond:
  "He's number one in the country or number one in the SEC. And offensive rebounding is their forte right now."
  [16:13]

Conclusion

This episode of Kentucky Sports Radio offers an in-depth look into the Kentucky vs Texas A&M game, insights into the team's strategies, and an exclusive interview with Georgia Amore. The hosts provide comprehensive analysis on team dynamics, coaching styles, and player performances, all while engaging with listeners and addressing their questions. The episode underscores the excitement surrounding Kentucky’s basketball season and sets the stage for upcoming high-profile matches.

For more insights and live discussions, tune into KSR Mon.-Fri. from 10 AM to Noon on Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM).