Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – The Draymond Green Show w/ Baron Davis: Penny Hardaway on Michael Jordan & Steph Curry, Shaq-Magic Split, Coaching Memphis

Episode Overview

In this compelling episode of The Draymond Green Show, hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, Draymond Green sits down with former NBA stars Baron Davis and Penny Hardaway. The trio delves deep into basketball legacies, the evolution of the game, and the intricate dynamics of coaching at the collegiate level. Key discussions revolve around legendary figures like Michael Jordan and Steph Curry, the significant split between Shaquille O'Neal and the Orlando Magic, and Penny Hardaway's current role coaching the Memphis basketball team.

Guest Introduction

The episode kicks off with Draymond Green expressing his admiration for Penny Hardaway, highlighting their shared history and mutual respect. Green enthuses, “[04:52] I just want you to understand, man, my love that I have for you, my appreciation for your career, for who you are as a person…”

Penny Hardaway reciprocates the sentiment, stating, “[05:37] I appreciate that. It’s the same here, man. It’s just one of those situations where just watching you just grow through the game…”

Mutual Respect and Personal Stories

The conversation quickly establishes the strong bond between the hosts and guests. Baron Davis shares nostalgic memories of playing against Hardaway, emphasizing the latter's superior skills and influence on his own game. “[06:20] I have to echo, you know, obviously, my looking up to you, bro. I got an opportunity… I was trying to pile up moves against you, man…”

Hardaway reminisces about his early encounters, highlighting Green's basketball IQ and toughness. “[07:30] I remember that day, bro. Bd, you were different, man. I ain’t gonna lie. From the very beginning…”

Discussing Legends: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) debate. Penny Hardaway categorizes the GOAT contenders based on their unique strengths:

• LeBron James as the “numbers guy” due to his statistical prowess.
• Michael Jordan for his undefeated Finals record and defensive excellence.
• Kobe Bryant for his mimicry of MJ’s skills, shot-making ability, and championship successes.

Hardaway articulates, “[20:55] … MJ being a Guy. Undefeated in the finals. A guy that was, you know, first team, all defense. I can’t remember how many times…”

Baron Davis echoes the sentiment, reflecting on Kobe’s relentless drive and how he mirrored Jordan’s greatness, stating, “[22:01] …hope your game is respected even though you’re a bit away from the original legends.”

Steph Curry and Modern Point Guards

The episode notably explores Steph Curry’s revolutionary impact on the point guard position. Hardaway praises Curry’s unique skill set, emphasizing his ability to handle the ball, shoot from unprecedented distances, and read defensive coverages akin to a quarterback in football.

Penny explains, “[27:38] …Steph is Steph, because he was able to push through that window when he got the opportunity in year five. You start looking at guys who did it and pushed through their windows. They probably had some great vests around them…”

Draymond Green adds depth to the conversation by analyzing Curry's decision-making and synergy with teammates, remarking, “[57:08] …no question he’s a point guard, but it’s the ultimate compliment because you’re so great at a thing that they want to make you that other thing.”

Coaching Memphis and NBA Aspirations

Transitioning into coaching, Penny Hardaway shares his experiences and aspirations in leading the Memphis basketball team. He emphasizes building relationships with players, fostering a culture of hard work, and implementing pro-level concepts.

Hardaway states, “[38:04] …we play out of concepts. We try to do everything Golden State does… so I think that gives me an edge as well.”

When discussing his coaching philosophy, he highlights the importance of growth and adaptability: “[43:52] …I want to be the best team playing in March. You know, I’ve never really said that. I’ve said I want to make the NCAA tournament. We want to win a championship…”

Impact of NIL in College Basketball

A critical segment addresses the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) policy and its repercussions on college basketball. Hardaway critiques the unregulated influx of money, suggesting it may detract from players' dedication to the sport.

He comments, “[35:34] …it also, it’s… it’s being taken out. It’s getting a little out of hand, and we just got to get some guardrails.”

Draymond Green concurs, discussing the NCAA’s perceived lack of oversight and the potential pitfalls of unsupervised financial gains for athletes.

Shaquille O'Neal and the Orlando Magic Split

The episode touches upon the legendary split between Shaquille O'Neal and the Orlando Magic, a pivotal moment in both players' careers. Hardaway recounts the emotional impact of Shaq’s departure, emphasizing the strategic decisions behind the move.

He reflects, “[42:24] …Shaq never told me he was leaving…I knew the magnitude of that, bro… He was like, what about Penny?…”

Baron Davis adds perspective on the broader implications for the franchise and player relationships, stating, “[44:27] …They need some blue guys…you need somebody that can get down there and kind of recruit vets in there…Ya can’t go all young. It’s not gonna work.”

Closing Thoughts

As the episode concludes, Penny Hardaway expresses his desire to transition into an NBA coaching role, leveraging his extensive experience and passion for the game. He shares his vision for integrating veteran knowledge with young talent to foster winning teams.

Hardaway asserts, “[69:23] …I definitely want to coach in the NBA. Man, I get my juices flowing when I sit in the arena… I want to help somebody win. I want to help players get better…”

Draymond Green and Baron Davis echo their support, underscoring Hardaway’s potential impact on the professional coaching landscape.

Notable Quotes

• Penny Hardaway on Coaching Philosophy: “[38:04] …we play out of concepts. We try to do everything Golden State does…”

• Baron Davis on Penny’s Influence: “[06:20] …we just gotta play our matchup every possession. So you really had to bring it now, having the five man switch out.”

• Penny Hardaway on Michael Jordan: “[17:54] …we were the dudes in the league. So when MJ came back, I said, oh, okay. All right. I know what I got to do because at this point, this is my second year…”

• Draymond Green on Steph Curry’s IQ: “[55:08] …the amount of coverages that Steph Curry has seen and being guarded… He’s navigating that…”

• Penny Hardaway on NIL: “[32:20] …NIL has changed the whole demographics in a major way… we need some guardrails on this thing…”

Conclusion

This episode of The Draymond Green Show provides an insightful exploration of basketball legends, the evolution of gameplay, and the challenges and aspirations within coaching. With rich anecdotes and thoughtful analysis, Draymond Green, Baron Davis, and Penny Hardaway offer listeners a deep dive into the heart of the game, honoring its past while navigating its present complexities.