Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Episode: Hour 1 - Old vs New
Release Date: March 28, 2025
Host: Doug Gottlieb (filling in for Colin Cowherd)
Platform: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Introduction
In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Doug Gottlieb delves into the evolving landscape of college and professional basketball, juxtaposing traditional styles with modern innovations. The discussion centers around the transformation of the game, the influence of technology and economics, and the challenges faced by coaches in the era of the transfer portal.
1. Changing Dynamics in College Basketball: Old vs New
Doug Gottlieb opens the conversation by expressing frustration with narratives that romanticize the past of basketball while criticizing the current state. He challenges the notion that the game "used to be better," arguing that both past and present hold unique strengths and weaknesses.
“Why do people insist on spreading lies about how things used to be?... Neither of these things are true.” (Doug Gottlieb, 02:45)
Gottlieb highlights the evolution of player roles, using Giannis Antetokounmpo as an example. He contends that modern training and versatility have redefined positions, making direct comparisons across eras misleading.
“Giannis Antetokounmpo would not score 250 points in any sort of NBA game if he played in the 70s or 80s.” (Doug Gottlieb, 03:30)
2. The Evolution of the NBA Game: Efficiency and Shooting Trends
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the shift from mid-range shots to three-pointers, emphasizing the increasing efficiency driven by analytics. Gottlieb critiques the overreliance on three-pointers, citing Alabama's performance where they made 25 of 51 three-pointers in a single game.
“Alabama make 25 of 51 threes... It's actually better to be two or three steps back further.” (Doug Gottlieb, 10:15)
He contrasts this with the classic playing style, reminiscing about players like Larry Bird and J.J. Redick, who excelled in mid-range shooting. Gottlieb argues that while analytics have optimized certain aspects, they have also led to the decline of other fundamental skills.
“The idea that Giannis would have scored 250... The arrogance of LeBron, the arrogance of JJ...” (Doug Gottlieb, 16:00)
3. The Impact of the Transfer Portal on Coaching and Recruiting
Transitioning to college basketball coaching, Doug Gottlieb interviews Richard Patino, the new head coach of Xavier. They explore the complexities introduced by the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, which have transformed recruiting strategies.
“Coaches are being put in a tough spot... it's about continue to grow and invest in your program because if you don't, you're going to get left behind.” (Richard Patino, 30:12)
Patino discusses his journey from New Mexico to Xavier, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges of moving programs amid ongoing negotiations and recruiting dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to new recruiting paradigms and maintaining program stability.
“It's all about Zooms. It's about putting together your staff... just turning over every stone, so to speak, and figuring out.” (Richard Patino, 28:30)
4. Reaction to the Bulls vs Lakers Game: Strategic Decisions and Turnovers
In a dynamic segment, Gottlieb breaks down the Bulls' unexpected victory over the Lakers, focusing on critical late-game decisions and turnovers. He analyzes LeBron James's strategic choices, questioning the effectiveness of not fouling intentionally when leading by six points with under 20 seconds left.
“You're up six, then you foul. That makes it even worse that why would LeBron James leave a shooter in the corner and try and help a teammate out?” (Doug Gottlieb, 47:26)
Gottlieb underscores the importance of maintaining a two-possession game lead and criticizes the Lakers' lackadaisical approach, which ultimately led to their downfall.
“The steal and the layup... that's a miracle... the Bulls are up by one.” (Doug Gottlieb, 38:58)
Concluding Insights
Throughout the episode, Gottlieb emphasizes the importance of embracing both traditional and modern elements to foster a balanced evolution of the game. He advocates for strategic adaptability, whether in coaching practices or player development, to navigate the ever-changing sports landscape effectively.
“Math works. It just does.” (Doug Gottlieb, 29:50)
The episode concludes with a call to appreciate the advancements in efficiency and strategy, while also valuing the foundational skills that have long defined basketball's rich history.
Notable Quotes
- “Why do people insist on spreading lies about how things used to be?... Neither of these things are true.” – Doug Gottlieb (02:45)
- “Giannis Antetokounmpo would not score 250 points in any sort of NBA game if he played in the 70s or 80s.” – Doug Gottlieb (03:30)
- “Alabama make 25 of 51 threes... It's actually better to be two or three steps back further.” – Doug Gottlieb (10:15)
- “The idea that Giannis would have scored 250... The arrogance of LeBron, the arrogance of JJ...” – Doug Gottlieb (16:00)
- “Coaches are being put in a tough spot... it's about continue to grow and invest in your program because if you don't, you're going to get left behind.” – Richard Patino (30:12)
- “You're up six, then you foul. That makes it even worse that why would LeBron James leave a shooter in the corner and try and help a teammate out?” – Doug Gottlieb (47:26)
- “Math works. It just does.” – Doug Gottlieb (29:50)
Conclusion
The Herd with Colin Cowherd episode "Hour 1 - Old vs New" offers a comprehensive examination of the evolving dynamics in basketball. Through insightful discussions and expert interviews, host Doug Gottlieb navigates the tensions between tradition and innovation, providing listeners with a nuanced perspective on the sport's past, present, and future.