Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR) – May 22, 2025 – Episode Summary

Host: Matt Jones
Co-Hosts: Ryan Lemond, Drew Franklin, Shannon "The Dude"
Release Date: May 22, 2025

1. Welcome and Introduction

[02:02] Shannon The Dude:
"KSR is back, presented by Stockton Mortgage. Now here's Matt Jones."

Matt Jones opens the show, welcoming listeners to this special Thursday episode from the Lexington studios. He introduces the co-hosts—Ryan, Drew, and Shannon—and outlines the day's agenda, which includes an exclusive interview with Kentucky basketball coach Mark Pope.

2. Exclusive Interview with Mark Pope

[02:07] Matt Jones:
"Today is a big day. We have Mark Pope on for an extended interview that will now run an hour and 15 minutes."

Initially planned for an hour, the interview with Mark Pope was extended to cover more ground, offering listeners comprehensive insights into his coaching philosophy and plans for the upcoming season.

[04:19] Drew Franklin:
"He thought Diabate might be the leader of the team, showing confidence in his players' leadership qualities."

[05:19] Ryan Lemond:
"The last seven to ten minutes really humanize Mark Pope. You hear him talk about helping folks in London and his genuine appreciation for KSR."

Throughout the interview, Mark Pope delves into his strategies for recruiting, scheduling, and building a robust team for next season. He emphasizes the importance of depth, comparing the new team's bench strength to that of the renowned 2015 Kentucky team.

Notable Highlights:

• Leadership Insights:
  [07:36] Ryan Lemond:
  "He thinks Diabate might walk into the locker room and immediately take on a leadership role."

• Player Development:
  [08:03] Matt Jones:
  "Jalen Lowe is the most important player, and Diabate is poised to be a sneaky leader, much like Lamont Butler was last year."

• Interview Dynamics:
  [15:00] Matt Jones:
  "Mark Pope takes social cues well during interviews, wrapping up discussions seamlessly without needing interruptions."

Mark Pope's candid responses reveal his sincere dedication to the team and his community, particularly his efforts in assisting hospitals in London, Kentucky.

3. NBA Game Recap: Pacers vs. Knicks Marathon

[19:20] Matt Jones:
"Last night's NBA game was one of the best finishes I've ever seen."

The co-hosts passionately dissect the thrilling game between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks, which featured a dramatic comeback and an unforgettable final shot.

Key Moments Discussed:

• Fourth Quarter Dominance:
  [19:38] Ryan Lemond:
  "The Eastern Conference playoffs have been unbelievable, and last night's game was an all-time favorite."

• Clutch Performance:
  [20:09] Matt Jones:
  "Niece Smith scored 20 points in the last two and a half minutes, outscoring the Knicks 20 to six."

• Dramatic Final Shot:
  [20:06] Ryan Lemond:
  "Niece Smith had 20 alone in the fourth quarter."

The hosts highlight the intense emotions and strategic plays that made the game a standout event, including a controversial three-point shot by Jalen Brunson that resembled Reggie Miller's iconic gesture.

Memorable Quotes:

• Matt Jones on the Shot:
  [20:09]
  "He could have taken a layup to tie but chose to shoot a three, adding unnecessary drama."

• Drew Franklin on the Pacer's Potential:
  [25:56]
  "Only four teams in history have come back from down seven in the playoffs, and the Pacers are showing they might harness some witchcraft."

Despite the Pacers' near-miraculous effort, concerns remain about their chances in the series, with Drew expressing cautious optimism.

4. NBA on TNT Show Discussion

[22:50] Matt Jones:
"I think the NBA Show on TNT is the best sports show ever."

The conversation shifts to the hosts' opinions on the NBA Show on TNT, with Matt praising its innovation while criticizing specific personalities like Draymond Green.

Key Points:

• Chemistry Among Hosts:
  [23:08] Matt Jones:
  "Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith have perfect chemistry, unlike Draymond who feels out of place."

• Dislike for Draymond Green:
  [24:21] Matt Jones:
  "Draymond is the least likable sports personality to me."

• Comparison to Charles Barkley:
  [24:49] Drew Franklin:
  "No one else could get away with certain comments, but Charles Barkley can, making him more endearing to audiences."

The hosts lament the inclusion of certain players on sports shows, advocating for more authentic and entertaining personalities that resonate better with viewers.

5. Upcoming Events and Promotions

[28:50] Matt Jones:
"Tomorrow we're at the Mountain Laurel Festival, Bell Theater in Pineville."

The team discusses various Kentucky festivals, highlighting the Mountain Laurel Festival's unique traditions, including the humorous custom of tossing the event's escort into a lake.

Promotional Highlights:

• Cornbread Hemp Seltzers:
  [25:56] Matt Jones:
  "Cornbread Hemp Seltzers are the rage! Get them during Rail Bird day in our parking lot."

• Commonwealth Horse Ownership:
  [35:06] Matt Jones:
  "Join Commonwealth.com to own a share of So Jaded, our new two-year-old colt making its way to the races."

These segments showcase the show's blend of sports, local culture, and promotional content, offering listeners opportunities to engage with community events and sponsors.

6. Public Health Issue: Threat to Rural Hospitals

[32:07] Matt Jones:
"I want to highlight the budget bill impacting rural hospitals in Kentucky."

In a poignant segment, Matt Jones addresses the impending budget bill in Washington that threatens the viability of rural hospitals in Kentucky. He emphasizes the critical role Medicaid plays in keeping these hospitals operational, particularly in underserved areas like Pineville.

Key Statements:

• Impact of Medicaid Cuts:
  [32:25] Matt Jones:
  "If the budget bill passes, Pineville Hospital could shut down, severely affecting healthcare access in small towns."

• Call to Action:
  [34:07] Matt Jones:
  "Folks need to follow what's happening with this budget bill. Five of the six Kentucky representatives voted for it, and it could have devastating effects on rural healthcare."

The hosts express personal concern, highlighting the disconnect between benefits some individuals might receive and the dire consequences for vulnerable communities dependent on these hospitals.

[33:56] Ryan Lemond:
"Just hearing you say that makes it sound a little scary."

This segment underscores the show's commitment to addressing serious local issues, urging listeners to stay informed and advocate for their communities.

7. Closing Remarks and Final Advertisements

Matt Jones wraps up the episode by reminding listeners of the upcoming Mark Pope interview on the podcast and teasing future content related to Memorial Day activities and local festivals.

Final Promotions:

• Sherwin Williams Memorial Day Sale:
  [18:45] Ryan Lemond:
  "Get 30% off paints and stains from May 16th through the 26th."

• Bluegrass Roofing:
  [26:36] Matt Jones:
  "After recent storms, get your roof inspected by Bluegrass Roofing. Use code KSR for 5% off your project."

The episode concludes with a mix of enthusiastic previews for upcoming shows and essential sponsor messages, maintaining the station's blend of sports commentary, community engagement, and local business support.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones on Rural Hospitals:
  *"[33:53] 'When you hear them talk about cutting Medicaid, it sounds good, but the reality is it's going to kill our rural hospitals.'"

• Ryan Lemond on the NBA Game:
  *"[19:38] 'The Eastern Conference playoffs this year have been unbelievable... one of the best finishes I've ever seen.'"

• Drew Franklin on Team Depth:
  *"[13:38] 'It's crazy what they have from one through... the depth is right there with these guys.'"

Conclusion:

This episode of Kentucky Sports Radio offers a comprehensive look into Kentucky basketball's future with Mark Pope, an unforgettable NBA game recap, candid discussions on sports media personalities, and a heartfelt plea to protect vital rural healthcare facilities. Matt Jones and his co-hosts deliver engaging content that resonates with sports enthusiasts and community-minded listeners alike.