Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron: Episode Summary Release Date: April 6, 2025

ESPN Radio’s “Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron” brings listeners an in-depth analysis of the sports world every Sunday morning. In this episode, hosts Matt Jones and Myron Medcalf dive into the latest developments in college basketball, featuring insightful interviews with renowned coaches Jim Boeheim and Chris Collins. The episode navigates through the intricacies of the NCAA tournament, conference performances, coaching strategies, and the evolving landscape of college athletics.

1. Opening and Setting the Stage

The episode kicks off with Matt and Myron setting the context for the upcoming national championship games. They emphasize the anticipation surrounding the women's championship slated for 3:00 PM on ABC, positioning it as a marquee event for listeners.

2. Interview with Coach Chris Collins (Chapters 00:31 - 10:20)

A. Introduction to Coach Collins

Matt introduces Coach Chris Collins, the head basketball coach of Northwestern, highlighting his impressive tenure and recent contract extension. Collins is recognized for his deep ties to Duke University and his significant role in recruiting key players like John Shire.

B. The Significance of March in College Basketball

Matt probes Collins on the importance of March for college basketball coaches. Collins shares his insights:

“The month of March is amazing for our sport with the NCAA tournament and the opportunity to play in postseason. You know, we weren't able to be a part of it this year. So it gets you hungry to kind of get back.” (01:55)

He discusses the challenges of roster management amidst the evolving transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations, emphasizing the critical nature of this period for solidifying team rosters.

C. Reflections on Duke’s Loss to Houston

Matt congratulates Collins on his contract and delves into the heartbreaking loss of Duke to Houston in the Final Four. Collins analyzes the game’s turning points and John Shire’s response:

“John is going to come back better from it. He's still a young coach... an amazing beginning to his career.” (05:35)

D. Leadership and Coaching Philosophy

Discussing Shire’s leadership, Collins praises his composure and ability to rally his team:

“The way he complimented Houston, the way he didn't make excuses, the way he praised his guys for the job they did all year. Just, just incredible leader.” (07:01)

E. Predictions for the National Championship Matchup

Coach Collins shares his thoughts on the upcoming national championship between Florida and Houston, highlighting key players and team strategies:

“Florida is going to try to push tempo and create points... Houston, their toughness... it's going to be a physical, kind of execution-based tough game.” (08:44)

F. Closing Remarks

Matt wraps up the interview by congratulating Collins and wishing him luck in navigating the competitive college basketball landscape.

3. Analysis of ACC Performance and SEC Rise (Chapters 11:07 - 35:56)

A. ACC vs. SEC Dynamics

The hosts delve into the performance disparities between the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the Southeastern Conference (SEC). They discuss how the SEC has risen to prominence, particularly under Commissioner Greg Sankey’s leadership, by enhancing facilities, hiring top-tier coaches, and securing lucrative media contracts.

“The SEC has risen up and they're above everyone else right now. And it's a great platform to look at. It's a great model for the other leagues to say, wait a minute, what are they doing? We've got to follow that lead.” (20:04)

B. Challenges Faced by the ACC

Jim Boeheim elaborates on the ACC’s struggles, attributing them to coaching changes and slow adaptation to NIL regulations. He emphasizes the need for patience in developing coaching talent and investing in infrastructure.

“You can't just flip the switch and expect that the next guy is going to just step into those shoes and fill them at that level.” (15:56)

C. Impact of NIL and Transfer Portal

Both coaches discuss how NIL and the transfer portal have transformed team compositions, making veteran players more valuable and narrowing the chances for mid-major upsets.

“It's going to be an arms race. The mid-majors, if they have a good player, they're losing them and a mid-major may pull an upset, but they're not going to the Final Four anymore like VCU did or George Mason did or Butler did.” (33:58)

D. Future Outlook for the ACC

Despite current setbacks, there is optimism that the ACC will rebound by leveraging its prestigious institutions and adapting to the new collegiate sports environment.

“The ACC will be back. They have too many fine institutions... They need to give him time to grow into the job.” (16:32)

4. Jim Boeheim’s Insights on Duke vs. Houston and College Basketball Evolution (Chapters 23:06 - 38:27)

A. Analysis of Duke’s Final Four Exit

Jim Boeheim provides a heartfelt analysis of Duke’s loss to Houston, attributing the defeat to player execution issues and Houston’s strategic prowess.

“It was heartbreaking... Duke had the lead and then kind of basketball happened.” (03:26)

He commends Houston’s defense and crucial plays that overturned the game’s outcome, highlighting the psychological and emotional toll of such high-stakes matches.

B. Reflections on Coaching and Team Dynamics

Bo emphasises the resilience of coaches compared to players, noting that coaches often internalize losses more deeply.

“When you're a coach, you lose a game like that, it stings and it hurts. But that's kind of what makes Jon who he is.” (05:12)

C. Perspectives on Veteran Players vs. Freshmen

Boeschscuholen discusses the evolving importance of veteran players in the college game, arguing that experienced players are now pivotal in securing tournament victories.

“A freshman can fit in maybe here and there, but it's going to be veteran players and the big teams are only going to get stronger as we move forward.” (33:58)

D. Impact of Carmelo Anthony and Olympic Experience

Boeschscuholen reflects on his time coaching Carmelo Anthony and the Olympic team, underscoring the blend of talent and coaching that leads to success.

“Jim and Mike, what a great combination. Three gold medals for those two guys and, and now another hall of Fame nod.” (37:12)

5. Women’s NCAA Championship Preview (Chapters 24:08 - 45:58)

A. Matchup: UConn vs. South Carolina

The hosts shift focus to the women’s national championship, spotlighting the clash between UConn and South Carolina. They discuss the strategic elements each team brings to the table and key players to watch.

B. Player Highlights: Paige Beckers and Sarah Strong

Matt and Chris Collins analyze standout players like Paige Beckers and Sarah Strong, debating their impact and potential to influence the game’s outcome.

“She’s no one’s better in the game than her at that mid-range jump shot. And I think the only problem Gino has with her is that sometimes she’s too unselfish.” (42:21)

C. Strategic Expectations and Team Performance

Discussion centers around the tactical approaches of both teams, including South Carolina’s intent to control the tempo and slow down UConn’s fast-paced offense.

“Don Staley tries to slow down that UConn offense, which UCLA had no chance against.” (43:30)

D. Comparative Analysis with Past Generations

The conversation touches on the evolution of the women’s game, comparing current players to legends like Taurasi and Rebecca Lobo, and debating the necessity of national championships for legacy building.

“If you compare her to Caitlin Clark... it would put her amongst the best of the best ever in the sport.” (44:37)

6. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Segments (Chapters 37:54 - End)

As the episode nears its conclusion, Matt and Myron tease upcoming interviews and discussions, including insights from legendary coach Jim Boeheim and previews of the women's championship game. The hosts maintain a dynamic and engaging dialogue, ensuring listeners are well-informed and entertained.

Notable Quotes:

1. Jim Boeheim on March Madness and Rosters:

   “The month of March is amazing for our sport with the NCAA tournament and opportunity to play in postseason... the month of March and April, actually, guys, kind of becomes the busiest time for us of the year.” (02:54)

2. Coach Chris Collins on Coaching John Shire:

   “He's still a young coach... an amazing beginning to his career.” (05:35)

3. Jim Boeheim on Duke’s Loss:

   “It was heartbreaking... the beauty of the tournament, but also the agony of it when it happens so quickly.” (03:26)

4. ACC’s Future and Adaptation:

   “The ACC will be back. They have too many fine institutions... They need to give him time to grow into the job.” (16:32)

5. Women's Championship Star Power:

   “She's a must-watch because of the fact of how they play the game. They move the ball... She’s a terrific passer.” (42:21)

Conclusion

This episode of “Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron” offers a comprehensive exploration of the current state of college basketball, enriched by expert opinions from coaches Chris Collins and Jim Boeheim. From dissecting high-stakes tournament games to analyzing the shifting dynamics of college conferences, the hosts provide listeners with a thorough understanding of the sport's evolving landscape. Additionally, the preview of the women’s NCAA championship underscores the depth and competitiveness of college athletics, ensuring fans are well-prepared for the exciting conclusions of the season.