Podcast Summary: Rory & Mal Don't Know Ball | Zach Randolph

Podcast Information:

• Title: New Rory & MAL
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
• Episode: Rory & Mal Don't Know Ball | Zach Randolph
• Release Date: April 17, 2025
• Description: New stories, new laughs, new random hot takes that no one asked for... New Rory & Mal

Introduction

In this engaging episode of "Rory & Mal Don't Know Ball," hosts Daniel Jeremiah and Greg Rosenthal sit down with NBA veteran Zach Randolph, affectionately known as Z-Bo. Randolph delves into his transition from a celebrated basketball career to entrepreneurship in the music industry, shares insights into his experiences with legendary NBA players, discusses current trends in basketball, and reflects on personal milestones.

1. Zach Randolph's Retirement and Business Ventures

Transitioning from the Court to Entrepreneurship

Zach Randolph begins by discussing his smooth transition into retirement, emphasizing that he had his plans set before hanging up his sneakers.

• [03:10] Zach Randolph: “It'd be good, you know, for me, because I had things set up... I got an entertainment company called Endless Entertainment... I had a chance, you know, being blessed to sign Moneybagg Yo, yo, one of the best rappers in the game.”

Founding Endless Entertainment

Randolph co-founded Endless Entertainment in Memphis alongside his best friend, Marcus Howe. The label focuses on nurturing local talent and expanding beyond Memphis.

• [04:03] Zach Randolph: “I started the record label while I was playing in Memphis... It was a smooth transition.”

2. Managing the Label and Signing Moneybagg Yo

Collaborating with Top Artists

Randolph highlights the success of signing Moneybagg Yo and other talented artists, emphasizing the rich musical culture of Memphis.

• [05:24] Zach Randolph: “He wanted to work with me... I saw the talent and it was a perfect fit.”

Building a Diverse Roster

The label boasts a diverse group of artists, including D Moolah, Big Homie G, Big 30, Mud, Brother Bo, Nick Hard Body, and Lonely Girl, each bringing unique sounds to the table.

• [06:15] Zach Randolph: “We got so many artists with so much talent... it’s a blessing.”

3. Insights on the Music Industry

Adapting to Modern Music Trends

Randolph shares his appreciation for various music genres and the importance of adaptability in the evolving music landscape.

• [06:36] Zach Randolph: “I love all music, man. I listen to a lot of R&B, a lot of old R&B, a lot of hip hop... I love music all the way around.”

Supporting Local Talent

He emphasizes the need to keep talent within Memphis and support local artists to maintain the city's vibrant music scene.

• [47:44] Zach Randolph: “Memphis got so much talent... we need to keep all the talent in-house.”

4. Reflections on NBA Career

Early Days in Portland

Randolph reminisces about his rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers, where seasoned players like Damon Stoudemire and Rasheed Wallace mentored him.

• [08:34] Zach Randolph: “All those guys took me under their wings... I learned something from every one of them.”

Challenging Practices and Rivalries

Discussing his competitive nature, Randolph recalls intense practices and rivalries that honed his skills.

• [09:23] Zach Randolph: “It was tough... just competing against them guys every day in practice.”

5. Views on Current NBA Trends

Evolution of the Game

Randolph comments on the shift towards three-point shooting and the decline of physical play, while remaining optimistic about the future balance of the game.

• [15:21] Zach Randolph: “The game has changed... but I think it’s going to always come back around.”

Transfer Portal and NIL Impact

He expresses concerns about the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies potentially disrupting team dynamics and disadvantaging younger players.

• [22:07] Zach Randolph: “A lot of high school players are missing out... we need to put some stipulations on it.”

6. Personal Life and Family

Proud Fatherhood

Randolph shares heartfelt moments about his daughter’s basketball achievements, drawing parallels to his own career.

• [35:00] Zach Randolph: “Seeing my daughter play in the McDonald’s All American game gave me butterflies... I want my kids to be better than me.”

Balancing Fatherhood and Business

He discusses the challenges of balancing his roles as a father and a business owner, emphasizing support for his daughter's athletic pursuits.

• [36:28] Zach Randolph: “I get a trainer and she like, okay. I just let the trainer do the work.”

7. Podcasting Adventures

Founding the Podcast

Randolph talks about his venture into podcasting alongside Tony Allen, highlighting the platform's raw and authentic discussions.

• [30:24] Zach Randolph: “It’s good... we give it to you raw.”

Favorite Guests and Stories

He mentions notable guests like Sasha Vulgic and highlights meaningful conversations that resonate with listeners.

• [31:14] Zach Randolph: “We had some good guests... it’s been great, man.”

8. Interaction with Rappers

Rappers Mentioning His Name

Randolph reflects on various rappers who have referenced him in their lyrics, appreciating the love from the hip-hop community.

• [37:16] Zach Randolph: “Lil Germ was one of the first guys... Peso has a song called 'Zach Randolph.'”

Favorite Memphis Rappers

He lists his top Memphis rappers, showcasing his deep connection to the local music scene.

• [47:09] Zach Randolph: “From Project Pat to Money Bag Yo to Three Six Mafia... Memphis got so much talent.”

9. Thoughts on Current Events in NBA

Nuggets Firing Coach Malone

Randolph expresses surprise at the firing of Coach Malone despite the team's success, praising Malone's dedication and loyalty.

• [43:30] Zach Randolph: “Coach Malone is a great coach... he bled every Nuggets game.”

Luka Doncic Trade

He discusses the unexpected trade of Luka Doncic, viewing it as part of the unpredictable nature of the NBA.

• [45:44] Zach Randolph: “It was God's plan... this is probably what God wanted for Luka.”

Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Zach Randolph provides a multifaceted perspective, blending his basketball legacy with his entrepreneurial spirit in the music industry. His candid reflections on the evolution of basketball, the music scene in Memphis, and personal anecdotes offer listeners a comprehensive look into his life beyond the court. Randolph's passion for supporting local talent and his dedication to family and community shine through, making this episode both insightful and inspiring.

Notable Quotes:

• [03:10] Zach Randolph: “It'd be good, you know, for me, because I had things set up... I got an entertainment company called Endless Entertainment...”

• [06:36] Zach Randolph: “I love all music, man. I listen to a lot of R&B, a lot of old R&B, a lot of hip hop... I love music all the way around.”

• [15:21] Zach Randolph: “The game has changed... but I think it’s going to always come back around.”

• [35:00] Zach Randolph: “Seeing my daughter play in the McDonald’s All American game gave me butterflies... I want my kids to be better than me.”

• [37:16] Zach Randolph: “Lil Germ was one of the first guys... Peso has a song called 'Zach Randolph.'”

• [43:30] Zach Randolph: “Coach Malone is a great coach... he bled every Nuggets game.”

• [47:09] Zach Randolph: “From Project Pat to Money Bag Yo to Three Six Mafia... Memphis got so much talent.”

This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting Zach Randolph's transition from NBA star to music entrepreneur, his insights on basketball and the music industry, and his personal life. The inclusion of notable quotes with timestamps provides authenticity and depth, making the summary valuable for both listeners and those new to the podcast.