KSR – Hour 2 Podcast Summary
Release Date: March 26, 2025
Hosts: Matt Jones, Ryan Lemon, Drew Franklin, Evan

Overview

In the second hour of the March 26, 2025 episode of KSR, the Kentucky Sports Radio team delves deep into the ongoing high school basketball tournament, discussing pivotal games, standout players, coaching strategies, and listener interactions. Hosted by Matt Jones and featuring Ryan Lemon, Drew Franklin, and Evan, the show provides insightful analysis and spirited discussions aimed at engaging Kentucky's passionate sports community.

Tournament Highlights and Game Predictions

1. Bowling Green vs. Adair County Showdown ([02:35] – [03:42])

The episode kicks off with excitement surrounding the high-stakes game between Bowling Green and Adair County. Ryan Lemon expresses his enthusiasm:

"...the greatest show in hoops has just tipped off Bowling Green and Adair County." ([02:35])

Matt Jones shares his nerves before the game:

"I tell you what, I would be peeing my pants. I mean I was nervous." ([03:01])

Despite Bowling Green’s solid fan turnout, Adair County's overwhelming support creates a charged atmosphere, leaving listeners eager to see which team will prevail.

2. Kentucky's Recruiting and the Portal ([03:08] – [10:17])

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Kentucky's recruiting efforts and the recent portal openings. Ryan Lemon outlines key players Kentucky is eyeing:

"...the kid from Robert Morris...Sam Houston State that shoots threes averages like 20 a game...Cam Williams is a guard that I know they like." ([03:40])

Evan adds specifics, highlighting Donovan Dent from New Mexico as a top prospect:

"Donovan Dent is the one from New Mexico that everyone wants...He's going to be maybe one of the most expensive players." ([04:37])

Matt Jones emphasizes the potential impact of an international player:

"He's from Malaga, Spain...He's an Andrew Carr 2.0." ([06:03], [06:06])

The hosts discuss the strategic needs for Kentucky, such as securing a ball-handling point guard and a defensive big man, forecasting a hectic offseason as Kentucky maneuvers to strengthen their roster.

3. Player Return Predictions ([07:00] – [10:17])

The team debates which players are likely to remain with Kentucky for the upcoming season. Matt Jones confidently names Colin Chandler as a sure returnee:

"I'd say Chandler." ([08:16])

Ryan Lemon concurs, adding Brandon Garrison and Travis Perry to the list of expected returnees, underscoring the team's core stability.

Listener Interactions and Calls

1. Adair County Game Updates ([11:27] – [19:36])

Listeners like Jerry and Kai call in to provide live updates and seek predictions on ongoing games. For instance, Jerry mentions Adair County leading 13-11:

"He just scored. Adair county leads 13 to 11." ([11:58])

Ryan Lemon engages humorously with callers about local areas like "No Town" in Bell County, blending light-hearted banter with community insights:

"Why don't they do that like it's a big mistake?...Everybody makes mistakes, so. Yes, they do." ([33:00])

2. Personal Stories and Testimonials ([23:08] – [35:18])

Shannon shares a heartfelt story about a former teammate, Tim Sullivan, highlighting personal growth and resilience:

"He did what he's done and then doing what he's done with class." ([23:55])

Listener Kai discusses the impact of leadership changes in teams, prompting a deeper conversation about coaching strategies and player performance.

Coaching Strategies and Team Performances

1. Richard Patino’s Impact on Xavier ([35:00] – [37:09])

The hosts examine Richard Patino's recent takeover at Xavier, evaluating its implications for the team and the broader Big East conference:

"I think it's good for Richard Patino and it might be good for Xavier." ([42:25])

They speculate on future matchups, including potential clashes with established coaches like Rick Pitino, enhancing the anticipation for upcoming games.

2. Cooper’s Coaching Controversy ([37:50] – [41:58])

A heated discussion arises around the firing of Cooper’s coach and the team's subsequent performance surge:

"The principal did not like the coach...they're on a hell of a run since that happened, they've been playing great." ([41:07])

Evan supports Cooper, highlighting player Connor Davenport's prowess and the team's strategic depth:

"But I got to go with region two and the Colonels...I'm pulling for Henderson." ([41:58])

High School Basketball Dynamics ([39:09] – [44:30])

1. Davis County vs. Great Crossing ([39:09] – [40:43])

The conversation shifts to Davis County and Great Crossing, analyzing their strengths and key players. Matt Jones praises Great Crossing's dynasty status and Malachi Marino's commitment to Kentucky:

"Malachi Marino, Mr. Basketball Committed UK." ([39:14])

Ryan Lemon underscores the legacy and continuity of Great Crossing's team, predicting their dominance in the tournament:

"I think I feel like a dynasty has to win something." ([39:30])

2. Regional Rivalries and Player Legacies ([41:35] – [44:30])

The hosts explore familial legacies in coaching, particularly focusing on Henderson County's Connor Davenport, son of former coach Joey Davenport:

"Connor Davenport, his dad was Joey Davenport." ([41:44])

Ryan Lemon injects humor and camaraderie, celebrating long-standing rivalries and player histories that enrich the tournament's narrative.

Community and Cultural Engagement

Throughout the episode, KSR emphasizes the vibrant community spirit surrounding high school sports in Bell County and beyond. From discussing local precincts like "No Town" to celebrating school traditions and community support, the hosts foster a strong connection with their listeners.

Matt Jones highlights local documentaries and historical moments, such as the legendary "Shot heard around the state," enhancing the cultural depth of the sports discussions:

"They're gonna play it over here at lex live at 4:00 tomorrow." ([27:50])

Concluding Remarks

As the hour progresses, the KSR team wraps up with final game picks and promotions for upcoming events, maintaining high energy and enthusiasm. The blend of expert analysis, listener engagement, and community highlights makes this episode a comprehensive resource for Kentucky sports fans navigating the intense March Madness basketball season.

Notable Quotes

• Ryan Lemon ([03:20]): "If I was on that court for a game like this, why do you my pants."

• Matt Jones ([03:23]): "My dad was a high school coach."

• Evan ([04:40]): "Donovan Dent is the one from New Mexico that everyone wants."

• Ryan Lemon ([08:13]): "If I had to say, who's the guy that you would put the most money on is back next year, who would it be? You have to put your life on them coming back. Who is it?"

• Matt Jones ([10:12]): "Richard Patino was hired at Xavier. What do you think about the Louisville to Xavier pipeline continues?"

• Shannon ([23:55]): "He do what he's done with class. And I'm proud of him."

These quotes encapsulate the hosts' perspectives and the passionate discussions that define the KSR’s engaging content.

Conclusion

The KSR – Hour 2 episode on March 26, 2025, offers an in-depth look into Kentucky’s high school basketball landscape, blending strategic insights with community-focused conversations. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the scene, this episode provides valuable takeaways on team dynamics, player potentials, and the enduring spirit of Kentucky sports.