Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR) – Episode: Hour 1 | April 14, 2025

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

1. Introduction and Crew Updates

The episode kicks off with the return of the KSR crew, featuring Matt Jones, Ryan Lemon, Drew Franklin, and Shan the Dude. Dr. Camellia Clark welcomes back everyone, mentioning the absence of Matt, who is wrapping up his trip in Amsterdam.

Dr. Camellia Clark [02:42]: "Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, Grandpa's grandma's aunts and uncles, welcome back to Kentucky Sports Radio."

2. Drew Palooza Success and Vacation Stories

Drew Franklin shares insights about "Drew Palooza," a successful week-long event he hosted while away. He expresses gratitude towards his team, especially Billy, for their support during his absence.

Dr. Camellia Clark [03:31]: "Drew Palooza. A huge success, Drew. Huge success."

Drew Franklin [03:36]: "We had a blast. Had a lot of fun. Missed you guys. It was a little more work than I'm usually cut out for, but it was a great week."

The crew also discusses their vacation experiences in Amsterdam, with humorous anecdotes about navigating unfamiliar places and enjoying their time off.

3. Kentucky Basketball Roster Developments

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the Kentucky Wildcats basketball roster. Key highlights include:

• Brandon Garrison’s Return: Drew praises Garrison for deciding to stay, emphasizing his potential impact on the team's performance.

  Drew Franklin [08:37]: "He put out a very cool 'I'm coming back' video. That's the attitude they needed to bring back for next season."

• Otega’s Status: Speculation about Otega testing the NBA draft waters, though expectations lean towards his return to Kentucky.

  Drew Franklin [08:47]: "I think Kentucky will keep him, keep him well taken care of here for him to come back."

• Incoming Freshmen and Key Additions: Introduction of freshmen like Colin Chandler, Trent Noah, Travis Perry, and the Croatian sensation, Andrea—expected to bolster the team’s frontcourt.

  Drew Franklin [10:17]: "He and Diabate will play the four... Everyone will get a lot of playing time. There's a lot of depth, especially in the front court."

4. First Anniversary of Mark Pope's Announcement

Mark Pope's one-year milestone as Kentucky’s head coach is commemorated. The crew reflects on the transformation since his appointment, highlighting the significant roster improvements and the positive trajectory of the team.

Drew Franklin [15:48]: "It's been a year since Mark Pope took over, and in just one year, he's built a team that could make a significant run next season."

5. Listener Call Appreciation

A heartfelt segment where the crew acknowledges calls from listeners, particularly praising Drew for holding down the fort during his absence.

Listener [26:13]: "I just want to let Drew know you did absolutely phenomenal, man. Next time, if you want to do it again, we're all for it."

Drew Franklin [27:25]: "Thank you very much. My paycheck will almost buy some beers."

6. Spring Football Recap and Takeaways

Drew and the crew discuss the recent spring football game, noting limited insights due to the abbreviated format. Highlights include standout performances from running back Dante Dowdell and observations about quarterback Zach Calzada.

Drew Franklin [21:22]: "The running back Dante Dowdell from Nebraska broke some big runs... It was hard to form an opinion."

7. Masters Golf Tournament Recap

The group delves into the excitement of the Masters Tournament, focusing on Rory McIlroy's dramatic performance and eventual victory despite a challenging final round.

Drew Franklin [42:35]: "It was one of the best Masters weekends ever. Rory's emotional moment on the green was unforgettable."

Dr. Camellia Clark [44:18]: "You could see the pressure was on him and just that relief that, hey, I finally won the Masters."

8. Rankings and Opinions on College Basketball Programs

A discussion arises about the Wall Street Journal’s ranking of top-valued college basketball programs, with surprising placements for Kentucky.

Shane from Grayson [37:38]: "The list ranks Kentucky ninth, which was shocking."

Dr. Camellia Clark [38:10]: "Wow. That list is trash. How can Indiana and LSU be ahead of Kentucky?"

9. Banter and Personal Stories

The crew engages in light-hearted banter, sharing personal stories and playful critiques about each other's vacations, activities like pickleball, and humorous moments from their trips.

Dr. Camellia Clark [28:05]: "I have entered the pickleball world."

Matt Jones [33:12]: "Ryan sets out there on the beach without an umbrella and doesn’t burn. How?"

10. Upcoming Topics and Closing Remarks

Before the break, the crew hints at upcoming discussions on the Tennessee quarterback situation, the TV series "White Lotus," and other sports topics, encouraging listeners to call in with their thoughts.

Dr. Camellia Clark [48:55]: "Next hour, Tennessee quarterback situation, White Lotus, and more. Don't go away."

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [08:37]: "He did the opposite and stayed home. He put out a very cool 'I'm coming back' video."

• Matt Jones [12:10]: "You got the Croatian sensation? That's going to be his nickname the whole time he's here, right?"

• Drew Franklin [34:00]: "If you add Wilkerson, you look at this roster and say that's a contender."

• Dr. Camellia Clark [35:53]: "He gets the right pieces, you know, okay, like, I need to get a defender. Let's go out and get the best defender we can get."

Conclusion

This episode of Kentucky Sports Radio provided in-depth discussions on the resurgence of the University of Kentucky's basketball program, significant roster changes, and heartfelt reflections on coaching milestones. The KSR crew also shared personal vacation experiences, engaged with listener feedback, and recapped major sports events like the Masters Tournament. With a blend of insightful analysis and relatable banter, the episode offers valuable content for both long-time fans and new listeners eager to stay updated on Kentucky sports.