Podcast Summary: KSR - Hour 2 (March 20, 2025)

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

In the second hour of the March 20, 2025, episode of KSR, Matt Jones and the KSR crew delve deep into the excitement of the 2025 NCAA March Madness Men's Tournament, share behind-the-scenes insights from their live broadcast in Milwaukee, discuss a viral goose-related controversy, and engage with passionate listener calls. This comprehensive episode offers a blend of sports analysis, team dynamics, and lighthearted banter, making it a must-listen for Kentucky sports enthusiasts.

1. March Madness 2025 Preview

The episode kicks off with the hosts expressing their enthusiasm for the ongoing 2025 NCAA March Madness Men's Tournament, highlighting the relentless action and unpredictability that March Madness is renowned for.

• Ryan Lemond (00:03): "The biggest event in college sports is here with games happening all day long and you don't want to miss a second of the heart pumping action."

• Matt Jones (00:14): "Catch all the clutch shots, big time plays, upsets, Cinderellas, Blue Bloods and more."

The hosts discuss key matchups, potential upsets, and the journey of favored teams like Kentucky (UK) as they navigate through the brackets. They analyze recent performances, player form, and strategic plays that could influence the tournament's outcome.

2. Behind the Scenes: Live from Milwaukee

Recording live from Milwaukee at their Embassy Airbnb, Matt and the crew provide a unique glimpse into their broadcast environment. A significant portion of their discussion revolves around their accommodations and its impact on their focus and performance.

• Ryan Lemond (02:21): "We just saw a picture the St. Kate's Hotel. Let me give you Some facts. First of all, when you walk into the St. Kate's Hotel and you check in in Milwaukee, they give you a glass of champagne."

The conversation shifts to the St. Kate's Arts Hotel, emphasizing its vibrant and eclectic decor. The hosts humorously debate whether such an environment is conducive to maintaining a competitive edge for the players.

• Drew Franklin (03:00): "Looks like a teenage girl designed it with all the patterns."

• Ryan Lemond (04:04): "It's like bright Colors, leopard print, but like eight different prints. One on the ceiling, one on the wall, one on the floor, one on the table."

Despite their reservations, the hosts acknowledge the aesthetic appeal of the hotel, contemplating how it affects the players' mindset before crucial games.

3. The Goose Controversy at Canes

A caller named Jimmy introduces the segment on a peculiar incident involving geese at Canes in Nicholasville.

• Jimmy (05:33): "But I want to ask you, do you know about the goose controversy at Canes and Nicholasville?"

The hosts unfold the story of a man who allegedly hit a goose with a pillow in the parking lot of Canes, sparking outrage and debate on social media.

• Ryan Lemond (06:00): "He just hits the goose with the pillow. Oh, why did he do that?"

• Matt Jones (24:19): "It is illegal federally to harm Canadian geese because they're federally protected."

The segment evolves into a humorous yet serious discussion about animal protection laws, the absurdity of the act, and the community's reaction to the incident.

4. Listener Engagement

Throughout the episode, the KSR crew actively interacts with their listeners, addressing their questions, comments, and feedback. Notable interactions include:

• Sparky's Call (11:00): Sparky expresses concerns about how NPR's Morning Edition compares UK to other teams like Purdue, advocating for Kentucky's unique standing in the tournament.

  • Sparky (11:00): "I really don't want our team to go down in history feeling compared to Purdue."

• David's Call (28:00): David reminisces about past March Madness experiences and shares optimism about Kentucky's potential to reach the Final Four.

  • David (28:00): "I think we can make a run to the Final Four. I like that confidence."

These interactions not only provide diverse perspectives but also reinforce the strong community around Kentucky sports.

5. Betting Insights and Game Predictions

The hosts delve into DraftKings selections, offering their predictions for upcoming games in Lexington. They analyze team strengths, underdog potentials, and key player performances to guide listeners on their betting decisions.

• Matt Jones (21:05): "The first bet I placed in March Madness was Creighton plus two and a half. So I like them to cover and I think they win today."

• Shannon The Dude (21:57): "I'm going all Creighton. I don't think anybody in red should be allowed to win in Rupp arena."

Their strategic insights provide valuable information for listeners looking to engage in the excitement of betting during the tournament.

6. Stephon Marbury's Starberries and Sneaker Culture

A nostalgic segment revisits Stephon Marbury's iconic Starberries sneakers, celebrating their re-release and impact on basketball culture.

• Ryan Lemond (17:53): "Somebody will know. 772-77-45254. He sold them for like $8 or $10. It was like some insanely small amount."

• Matt Jones (19:10): "I think it's very cool too. I remember him doing that. I even wanted a pair."

The discussion highlights the blend of fashion and sports, emphasizing how such collaborations resonate with fans and players alike.

7. Coaching Moves and Team Dynamics

The crew addresses recent coaching changes within the NCAA landscape, focusing on how these shifts could influence team performances and future strategies.

• Bill's Call (40:55): "I've got a quick question about Delilah."

• Ryan Lemond (40:16): "The hard thing is for a lot of those schools is that now the assistant jobs at places like UK pay more than those schools can pay."

They speculate on the stability of their coaching staff, with particular attention to Will Wade's potential move to NC State, and discuss the broader implications for team morale and performance.

8. Honoring Coach Kenny Brooks

The episode concludes by celebrating Kenny Brooks receiving recognition as the Sporting News National Coach of the Year in women's basketball.

• Shannon The Dude (36:28): "Congrats, Kenny Brooks. He deserves it."

The hosts commend Brooks' remarkable turnaround of the Kentucky women's basketball team, praising his recruiting prowess and strategic acumen that led to significant improvements and achievements.

9. Technical Insights and Broadcast Tips

In a lighthearted segment, the hosts critique Rick Casey's explanation of navigating NBA game channels, humorously pointing out his outdated tech tips.

• Ryan Lemond (36:10): "He said 246. He's on there telling you how a television works."

This playful banter underscores the hosts' camaraderie and their commitment to keeping the conversation engaging and entertaining.

Conclusion

Hour 2 of the KSR podcast masterfully balances in-depth sports analysis with entertaining anecdotes and listener interactions. Matt Jones and the KSR crew offer valuable insights into March Madness, team strategies, and the vibrant culture surrounding Kentucky sports. Their personable approach and comprehensive coverage ensure listeners are both informed and entertained, reinforcing KSR’s reputation as a leading voice in sports radio.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Lemond (02:21): "When you walk into the St. Kate's Hotel and you check in in Milwaukee, they give you a glass of champagne."

• Sparky (11:00): "We just can't let that happen [referring to Purdue]."

• David (28:00): "Part of me thinks that we can make a run to the Final Four. I like that confidence."

• Matt Jones (19:10): "I hope they rock them too [referring to Stephon Marbury's Starberries]."

For more insights and live updates, tune in to KSR Monday through Friday from 10 AM to Noon on Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM).