Podcast Summary: KSR - Hour 2
Release Date: April 9, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM)
Introduction of Guest: Josh Hopkins
Timestamp [01:17]
The episode kicks off with hosts Drew Franklin, Jack Pilgrim, and Zach Geagan welcoming Lexington’s own Josh Hopkins, renowned for his roles in ABC’s Cougar Town and Quantico, as well as several Hollywood films including Rust. Josh is highlighted not only for his acting prowess but also for being an avid fan of the University of Kentucky (UK) sports teams.
Drew Franklin:
"Josh, thanks for giving us your time today. How about those Cats lately? You keeping up with the news?"
[01:19]
UK Basketball Insights and Player Focus
Timestamp [01:38] - [03:30]
Josh delves into the current state of UK basketball, expressing both enthusiasm and concern. He praises the team’s performance but voices worries about player injuries, specifically mentioning Jaden Quaintance's recent commitment and potential ACL injury.
Josh Hopkins:
"What a physical, just a menace he is. And to think he's doing it at his age. I do have some worries, though... I worry about his ACL."
[01:59]
The discussion shifts to the team’s shooting capabilities, with Josh concerned about the lack of a stretch big player to support Pope’s offensive strategies.
Josh Hopkins:
"So I'm a little worried about not having a stretch big right now."
[03:27]
Balancing Acting and Fandom
Timestamp [04:24] - [05:53]
Drew probes into how Josh manages his passion for UK sports alongside his demanding acting schedule. Josh shares humorous anecdotes about trying to watch games while shooting, dealing with limited access to sports channels, and occasionally relying on his phone to stay updated.
Josh Hopkins:
"Some of the electricians will set up a TV for me, you know, close by. Usually, like, in my dressing room, something, I'll have a TV, but it's just hard to get me out of there..."
[04:48]
Influence on Media and Pop Culture
Timestamp [07:08] - [08:29]
Josh reveals his subtle influence in incorporating UK elements into his projects. He discusses how his dedication to Kentucky basketball inspired Easter eggs in shows like Quantico, such as wearing Kentucky jackets and displaying related memorabilia on set.
Josh Hopkins:
"I always put or try to put Kentucky stuff, just little Easter eggs into anything I do."
[07:20]
This dedication even extended to influencing co-stars, contributing to a character in a Hulu show consistently wearing Kentucky gear.
Audience Interaction and Acting Tips
Timestamp [08:29] - [10:00]
The hosts engage with Josh by seeking acting advice as Drew mentions his upcoming acting debut. Josh advises Drew to start preparing immediately, emphasizing the importance of script familiarity and projecting confidence on stage.
Josh Hopkins:
"I'd say start looking at the script yesterday. Use your diaphragm. You gotta project."
[08:59]
Drew humorously acknowledges his radio persona's need for a breakout moment on stage, taking Josh’s advice to heart.
Team Performance and Future Prospects
Timestamp [10:00] - [12:05]
Josh expresses confidence in Coach Pope’s leadership and the team’s potential to reclaim their top standing. He highlights the positive changes in team culture and recruiting, despite concerns about rival teams like Louisville making strong moves.
Josh Hopkins:
"I think everybody needed to change, including Cal. I think we're all better for it."
[10:00]
The conversation touches on the heightened rivalry with Louisville, with Josh expressing mixed feelings about their recent improvements.
Listener Calls and Community Engagement
Radio Ron’s Call
Timestamp [24:29] - [27:51]
Radio Ron, a long-time listener, shares his deep-rooted passion for UK basketball, tracing his fandom back to his childhood in 1944. He reminisces about historic moments and expresses excitement for the current season’s successes under Coach Mark Pope.
Radio Ron:
"I am now 90 and Kip is a fiddle. But I'll never forget that one night that we were listening to Alex Groza on the fabulous five..."
[25:18]
Doug’s Call
Timestamp [27:58] - [32:11]
Doug, a recent retiree and new caller, discusses his admiration for players like Danny Wolfe and Kobe Brayer. The hosts engage in a lively conversation about player projections and potential NBA drafts, highlighting the excitement around emerging talents from UK.
Doug:
"Did we ever hear, is he gonna go into the portal? Really enjoyed watching his game."
[28:16]
Sports Rivalries and Team Updates
Timestamp [15:15] - [22:34]
The hosts delve into the intense rivalry between Kentucky and Louisville across various sports. They discuss recent losses to Louisville's teams, the impact of these rivalries on team morale, and upcoming games that could reignite the competitive spirit.
Drew Franklin:
"It stinks losing the Cards in any sport. I don't want our rowing team to lose to Louisville."
[16:39]
Mock Drafts and NBA Projections
Timestamp [28:16] - [34:47]
In an engaging segment, Zach Geagan and Jack Pilgrim analyze potential UK players entering the NBA draft. Discussions focus on Kobe Brayer’s development and Amari Williams’ shooting prowess, debating their prospects and how they might fit into NBA teams.
Zach Geagan:
"He really proved that he can be a 6 foot 7 scoring or a sharpshooting wing in the NBA."
[29:28]
National Sports Events and Updates
Timestamp [34:25] - [38:00]
The conversation shifts to national sports events, including the Denver Nuggets' surprising decision to fire their coach despite a strong season. The hosts speculate on internal team dynamics leading to this outcome and its implications for the playoffs.
Jack Pilgrim:
"Something like infighting with the locker room. And Michael Malone went on a press conference..."
[34:04]
Spring Sports and Upcoming Events
Timestamp [37:20] - [39:35]
As spring approaches, the hosts talk about upcoming sports events, including golf tournaments like the Masters and local football developments. They highlight the excitement around Kentucky football, mentioning new recruits and the buzz surrounding potential games.
Jack Pilgrim:
"We do have a Champions Classic in New York against Michigan State. CBS Classic hasn't been announced yet."
[32:21]
Controversies and Fan Engagement
Timestamp [40:24] - [42:02]
The hosts address recent controversies involving fan behavior on press rows, emphasizing their commitment to authentic fan engagement. Zach Geagan discusses the backlash and defends their enthusiastic support for UK teams.
Zach Geagan:
"A lot of it is like wearing Kentucky gear on press row and potentially cheering on press row."
[40:36]
Closing Remarks and Future Episodes
Timestamp [38:29] - [42:02]
As the episode winds down, Drew Franklin teases upcoming segments focused on Kentucky football and hints at future interactions with sports experts. The hosts express gratitude to their guests and listeners, promising more in-depth coverage and lively discussions in upcoming episodes.
Drew Franklin:
"Tomorrow we're going to change gears and we're going to get excited about spring football."
[38:33]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Josh Hopkins:
"I'd say start looking at the script yesterday. Use your diaphragm. You gotta project."
[08:59] -
Josh Hopkins:
"What a physical, just a menace he is. And to think he's doing it at his age."
[01:59] -
Radio Ron:
"Being a UK basketball fan at the tender age of 10 years old, I..."
[25:30] -
Drew Franklin:
"I have committed to being Romeo and Juliet here in Lexington. It is my acting debut."
[08:29] -
Zach Geagan:
"Kobe Bray really proved that he can be a 6 foot 7 scoring or a sharpshooting wing in the NBA."
[29:28] -
Jack Pilgrim:
"They voted up to my cousin Sheldon, who's a Louisville fan, who listens in and he's a big Louisville fan. I know he's excited, but it worries me a little."
[10:54]
Conclusion
This episode of KSR - Hour 2 offers a comprehensive dive into the vibrant world of UK sports, enriched by insights from guest Josh Hopkins. From team dynamics and player prospects to the fervent rivalries that fuel fan passion, the discussion provides both depth and entertainment. Listener interactions add a personal touch, showcasing the enduring community spirit surrounding Kentucky sports. As the hosts navigate through various topics with enthusiasm and expertise, they set the stage for future episodes that promise to keep listeners informed and engaged.