Podcast Summary: KSR - Hour 2 | March 5, 2025

Podcast Information:

• Title: KSR
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM)
• Description: Matt Jones and the KSR crew bring you the latest in UK news and views Mon.-Fri. from 10 to noon.
• Episode: 2025-03-05- KSR - Hour 2
• Release Date: March 5, 2025

1. UK Baseball Team Performance

The episode kicks off with Drew Franklin providing an update on the University of Kentucky's baseball team. The team showcased a dominant performance by defeating Eastern 16-0, marking an impressive season record of 11-1. However, an upcoming game against Monmouth was canceled due to anticipated bad weather. Ryan Lemond praises the team's offensive prowess, stating, "Well I went to the two games where they scored like a combined 30 something runs so in my eyes they're the best team to ever play baseball. [02:20]"

2. State of the Union Critique

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the hosts' critical views on recent State of the Union addresses. Drew Franklin expresses frustration over the increasingly political nature of the event, lamenting, "It's just... it's become like a political rally where the other side has to sit there and you all just end up yelling at each other. And I just think it's stupid. [04:58]" The hosts argue that the event has lost its original purpose of being a non-partisan showcase of the nation's status, instead turning into a platform for political theatrics and confrontations.

3. High School Basketball and Recruiting News

The conversation shifts to high school basketball, with a focus on standout coach Kevin Boyle from Monte Verde Academy. Drew Franklin highlights Boyle's success in developing players who advance to the NBA and major college programs. Stockton Mortgage Representative adds, "There is a seat open in, you know, here in Kentucky that maybe you might be interested in. Go make a run at Mitch McConnell's place? [07:35]" The team discusses the strategic advantage of Boyle relocating his program near Cincinnati, which could bolster Kentucky's recruitment efforts by attracting top talent from the region.

4. SEC Play Schedule and Coaching Insights

The hosts delve into the Southeastern Conference (SEC) play schedule, discussing potential impacts on Kentucky's chances in the playoffs. Drew Franklin mentions upcoming interviews with key figures like Mark Stoops, the head coach, anticipating questions from fans about team performance and future strategies. Ryan Lemond emphasizes the importance of Stoops' communication, stating, "He just did a press conference last week. So he's starting to get back in the flow and doing media interviews, which I think he really needs to do for spring ball starts here in a few weeks. [11:57]"

5. Listener Interactions and Coaching Discussions

Throughout the episode, the hosts engage with listeners through live calls, addressing topics such as assistant coaching changes and player performances. A notable discussion revolves around Alvin Brooks, a reputed recruiter, with Drew Franklin predicting his eventual departure: "Alvin Brooks will leave when he gets a good job. [20:13]" The conversation also touches on the integration of new players from the transfer portal and the potential impact on team dynamics.

6. Critique of Local Journalism and Herald Leader

Drew Franklin voices strong opinions about the Herald Leader's shift in journalistic quality, criticizing a recent headline: "At least we have Duke" in reference to Kentucky's basketball performance against LSU. He expresses concern over the decline of local journalism's integrity and its impact on the community: "It's fascinating to watch that times have changed so much. [27:15]" The hosts argue that local journalism plays a crucial role in holding government accountable and lament the newspaper's move away from genuine local coverage.

7. Coaching Strategies and Defensive Concerns

The discussion returns to coaching strategies, specifically focusing on Mark Pope's lineup decisions. Ryan Lemond critiques Pope's substitutions, questioning his adherence to analytics versus in-game situation awareness: "Sometimes you just gotta read the situation. [32:18]" Drew Franklin adds frustration over defensive weaknesses in certain lineups, suggesting that Pope may need to reconsider his strategies to enhance team defense: "He had that lineup of Perry, Brea, Noah Almanore and Garrison is the worst group of five we can play together because none of them can guard anybody. [33:36]"

8. Upcoming Events and Final Remarks

As the episode nears its end, the hosts promote upcoming events and initiatives, including the NCAA tournament and regional high school basketball tournaments. They also engage in light-hearted banter and humorous listener stories, maintaining an engaging and community-focused atmosphere. The episode concludes with enthusiasm for future broadcasts and appreciation for the live audience.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Lemond [02:20]: "Well I went to the two games where they scored like a combined 30 something runs so in my eyes they're the best team to ever play baseball."

• Drew Franklin [04:58]: "It's just... it's become like a political rally where the other side has to sit there and you all just end up yelling at each other. And I just think it's stupid."

• Drew Franklin [07:35]: "You need a good five or a good point guard. And if one of those guys are available, you think you got to get that guy."

• Drew Franklin [20:13]: "Alvin Brooks will leave when he gets a good job."

• Drew Franklin [27:15]: "It's fascinating to watch that times have changed so much."

• Ryan Lemond [32:18]: "Sometimes you just gotta read the situation."

• Drew Franklin [33:36]: "He had that lineup of Perry, Brea, Noah Almanore and Garrison is the worst group of five we can play together because none of them can guard anybody."

Conclusion: This episode of KSR - Hour 2 offers a comprehensive dive into University of Kentucky's sports landscape, critical perspectives on national political events, and insightful discussions on coaching strategies and local journalism. The hosts maintain an engaging dialogue with listeners, providing both expert analysis and relatable commentary, making it a valuable listen for those interested in UK sports and related topics.