Podcast Summary: KSR - Hour 1 (April 7, 2025)

Hosted by iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM)

Introduction: Drew Franklin Takes the Helm

In this episode of KSR, Drew Franklin steps in as the interim host, filling for Matt Jones and the rest of the usual crew who are on vacation. Drew brings a fresh dynamic to the show, expressing his feelings of flying solo while assuring listeners of a fun and engaging week ahead.

[01:00] Drew Franklin: "This is Drew Franklin filling in for Matt Jones... All four of them took vacation at the same time this week, leaving me to fly solo."

Final Four Frenzy: Houston's Stunning Upset Over Duke

The conversation kicks off with an in-depth analysis of the recent Final Four games, highlighting Houston's unexpected victory over Duke. Drew and Billy Rutledge dissect key moments, including the controversial over-the-back foul call that likely altered the game's outcome.

[04:05] Drew Franklin: "They tried to tell us Zion Was better than Anthony Davis. Neither one of them got a ring."

Billy recounts his initial skepticism during the game, admitting he was ready to switch his attention away from the Duke spectacle.

[04:54] Billy Rutledge: "I was stunned... Duke, I think one field goal in the final 10 minutes of the game."

The hosts also discuss the statistical anomalies from Duke's performance, particularly Mal's rebounding woes.

[07:01] Drew Franklin: "He got zero rebounds in the national championship and an even better statistic. He was a minus 20 in 21 minutes of basketball."

Pop Culture Meets Sports: 'White Lotus' and the Duke Connection

Transitioning from sports to pop culture, Drew and Billy draw parallels between Houston's game and a subplot from the popular series White Lotus. They note the timing of Duke's loss mirroring a scene from the show, adding a layer of entertainment to their sports commentary.

[08:58] Billy Rutledge: "They gave us another meme last night, but just great to see Duke lose."

Transfer Portal Insights: Kentucky's Strategic Moves

A significant portion of the episode delves into the NCAA transfer portal, focusing on Kentucky Wildcats' recent acquisition of point guard Jalen Lowe from Pittsburgh. Drew and Jacob from KSR Plus evaluate Lowe's potential impact, citing his clutch performances and compatibility with Coach Mark Pope's system.

[19:05] Jacob: "I think it's a really good pickup for Kentucky... He's an exciting player."

The discussion also touches on fan reactions, roster needs—particularly in the frontcourt—and other potential transfer targets like Wesley Yates from USC and Alvaro Folk Juarez from Robert Morris.

[35:35] Drew Franklin: "He's a foodie favorite, Alvaro Folk Juarez... a stretch forward that can shoot."

Additionally, the team addresses the unexpected transfer of Kirk Risa to Cincinnati, weighing its implications for Kentucky's lineup.

[26:11] Billy Rutledge: "You feel like I'm defending him. He doesn't know any better, Drew."

Listener Engagement: Call-Ins and Community Voices

Interactive segments feature listener calls, where fans like LL Cool Tay voice their concerns about Kentucky's roster balance, advocating for more big men to complement the current guard-heavy lineup.

[32:47] LL Cool Tay: "Seems like we need to add a big man down below."

Lori Kilmartin also shares her enthusiasm for SEC basketball, praising Kentucky's recent performances and the competitive landscape.

[36:50] Lori Kilmartin: "I think the SEC basketball is better than football."

Upcoming Segment: Celebrating Kentucky's Eight National Championships

Wrapping up the first hour, Drew introduces the next segment—a deep dive into Kentucky Wildcats' eight national championships. Joined by Corey Price, the hosts aim to educate listeners on the rich history and memorable moments that have defined Kentucky basketball.

[41:48] Drew Franklin: "Let's get right to our history. You know, Kentucky's got eight national championships."

They briefly recap the inaugural 1948 championship, highlighting key players and the team's Olympic success that summer.

[43:51] Corey Price: "They defeated France in the gold medal game. Of 65 to 21."

Notable Quotes

• Drew Franklin: "[...] I want to make sure I get this right. First of all, the Clark's Pumping shop phone line. 280228. Wait. Already messed it up."

  Timestamp: [02:03]

• Billy Rutledge: "At the end of the day, I'm literally the son of a killer."

  Timestamp: [00:09]

• Jacob: "I think he's a good piece. I think a lot of that is everyone wanted Dent."

  Timestamp: [20:52]

• Corey Price: "Kentucky was the first college program to have five Olympic gold medals."

  Timestamp: [42:26]

Conclusion

This episode of KSR offers a comprehensive look at the current landscape of Kentucky basketball, from pivotal game analyses and strategic roster moves to engaging listener interactions. Drew Franklin adeptly navigates through each topic, providing insights and fostering a sense of community among listeners. As the show progresses into the history of Kentucky's national championships, fans are treated to a nostalgic yet informative journey through the team's storied past.

Tune in next week for more in-depth discussions, historical retrospectives, and all things Kentucky sports, exclusively on KSR.