Interview Only: #1 Basketball Recruit AJ chose BYU and NIL package close to $7 million.

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Stephen A. Smith Show – "Interview Only: #1 Basketball Recruit AJ Chose BYU and NIL Package Close to $7 Million"

Release Date: December 13, 2024

In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith sits down with top high school basketball recruit AJ Debanza and his father, Anise Debanza Sr. The conversation delves deep into AJ’s decision to commit to Brigham Young University (BYU), his aspirations to the NBA, and the dynamics of his notable Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) package valued at approximately $7 million. This detailed summary captures the essence of their discussions, key insights, and memorable quotes from the interview.

---

1. Celebrating AJ’s Commitment to BYU

The episode kicks off with Stephen A. Smith extending heartfelt congratulations to AJ Debanza and his father for AJ’s decision to attend BYU, a significant move in his burgeoning basketball career.

• Stephen A. Smith [01:03]: "The number one high school player in the nation announcing on ESPN's First Take earlier today that he is indeed going to BYU next season."

2. Choosing BYU Over Other Elite Programs

Stephen probes into why AJ opted for BYU despite considering other powerhouse programs like Alabama, North Carolina, and Kansas. AJ emphasizes the comprehensive support system at BYU, aligning with his NBA ambitions.

• AJ Debanza [01:55]: "BYU has some cons, but their pros just outweighed all the cons. And then that's ultimately why we chose BYU."

• Anise Debanza Sr. [02:39]: "My wife and I went to Provo back in April. ... everything was NBA. I'm like, okay, pay attention to that."

3. The Competitiveness of College Basketball Today

Both AJ and his father discuss the heightened competitiveness of college basketball, comparing it favorably to the NBA regular season and highlighting the enduring appeal of March Madness.

• AJ Debanza [04:28]: "I say competitiveness. I think college games are more competitive than the league regular season."

• Anise Debanza Sr. [05:38]: "Those kids are hungry. They trying to get to the next level. They have to compete."

4. AJ’s Basketball Skills and Defensive Prowess

Stephen delves into AJ’s playing style, particularly his versatile defense and all-around game. AJ confidently outlines his strengths in passing, scoring, rebounding, and defense, showcasing his potential impact on the court.

• AJ Debanza [06:46]: "Just all around game. I think I can bring a lot to the table... impacting winning."

• AJ Debanza [07:08]: "I just take pride in defense. I don't like getting scored on a lot."

5. Parental Guidance and Discipline

Anise Debanza Sr. shares his approach to raising AJ with discipline rooted in his African heritage and complemented by his Jamaican wife’s influence. He discusses the importance of teaching AJ right from wrong and fostering a strong work ethic.

• Anise Debanza Sr. [08:00]: "It was easy. I'm from Africa... Tough love."

• AJ Debanza [09:15]: "We were just disciplined at home, me and my sisters. So we just know right from wrong."

6. Influences from NBA Legends

A highlight of the episode is AJ’s interaction with NBA legends, including Hakeem Olajuwon. AJ recounts a transformative conversation with Olajuwon that significantly improved his rebounding skills.

• AJ Debanza [15:45]: "Always got to take advice from the greats... listen and apply."

• Anise Debanza Sr. [14:02]: "I Met Olajuwon. He didn't know who he was. I introduced him to Olajuwon... Dream talked to him for 12 minutes."

• AJ Debanza [15:55]: "11 a game" (rebounds after Olajuwon's advice).

7. Navigating NBA Challenges and Distractions

Stephen addresses the potential distractions that come with NBA stardom. AJ expresses confidence in his preparation, crediting his parents for instilling resilience and focus.

• AJ Debanza [11:18]: "As a kid, I was still challenged with distractions, but I had my mom, my dad, telling me the right things."

8. Financial Management and NIL Package

A pivotal part of the conversation revolves around AJ’s NIL deal. Anise clarifies misconceptions about the package's size and outlines the family's prudent approach to financial management, including hiring a financial advisor and educating AJ on taxes.

• Anise Debanza Sr. [23:45]: "Three out of the four schools that made the final cut offer the same amount. I call it the minimum wage."

• AJ Debanza [24:38]: "He was shocked."

• Anise Debanza Sr. [24:50]: "He's going to make more money."

9. Future Aspirations and Goals

Looking ahead, AJ outlines his step-by-step roadmap toward NBA stardom, emphasizing his commitment to excelling at BYU before entering the draft and ultimately aiming for the Hall of Fame.

• AJ Debanza [20:13]: "This is only step one. The draft will be step two. And the hall of Fame speech is step three."

10. Closing Remarks and Support

Stephen wraps up the interview by reaffirming his support for AJ, expressing his intention to follow BYU basketball closely, and commending the family's dedication.

• Stephen A. Smith [26:03]: "You got a fan in me."

• AJ Debanza [26:41]: "Thank you."

---

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Stephen A. Smith [01:03]: "The number one high school player in the nation announcing on ESPN's First Take earlier today that he is indeed going to BYU next season."

• Anise Debanza Sr. [02:39]: "Everything was NBA. I'm like, okay, pay attention to that."

• AJ Debanza [06:46]: "I think I can bring a lot to the table... impacting winning."

• Anise Debanza Sr. [14:02]: "I Met Olajuwon... Dream talked to him for 12 minutes."

• AJ Debanza [20:13]: "This is only step one. The draft will be step two. And the hall of Fame speech is step three."

• Anise Debanza Sr. [23:45]: "Three out of the four schools that made the final cut offer the same amount. I call it the minimum wage."

---

Concluding Thoughts

This episode offers an in-depth look into the life and mindset of a top basketball recruit poised for greatness. Through candid discussions with AJ and his father, listeners gain valuable insights into the strategic decisions behind elite athletic commitments, the importance of family guidance, and the realities of managing newfound fame and financial opportunities. Stephen A. Smith masterfully navigates these topics, providing an engaging and informative experience for fans and aspiring athletes alike.

Transcript

[Greg Rosenthal]

Are you still quoting 30 year old movies? Have you said cool beans in the past 90 days? Do you think Discover isn't widely accepted? If this sounds like you, you're stuck in the past. Discover is accepted at 99% of places that take credit cards nationwide. And every time you make a purchase with your card, you automatically earn cash back. Welcome to the now it pays to Discover. Learn [e-mail] credit card based on the February 2024 Nielsen report. What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Here he is, AJ Debanza with us now, and his father, Anise. Thank you both so much for being here with us. AJ Big moment.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

We so appreciate you.

[Stephen A. Smith]

So where are you headed?

[AJ Debanza]

I'll be coming into university.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Brigham Young. Byu.

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Cougars.

[AJ Debanza]

Go Cougs.

[Stephen A. Smith]

There you have it. The number one high school player in the nation announcing on ESPN's First Take earlier today that he is indeed going to BYU next season. And I am lucky to have him and his dad, Anise dibanza Sr. And of course, AJ as in junior. Congratulations on your decision. What. What's going on? Big time. How are you?

[AJ Debanza]

Chilling. Just living.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I appreciate y'all blessing me with y'all presence for this interview. Just to remind the audience here, why.

[AJ Debanza]

Byu, like I said on first take, you know, NBA staff all the way down to the dietician, strength coach, analytics guy. And my ultimate goal is to go to the NBA. So why not surround myself a year earlier?

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm gonna call you Pops. Cause you and I had the pleasure of meeting each other a few weeks ago, and it's a pleasure to get to know you and what have you. And obviously you're the. You're the man that guides this young man.

[AJ Debanza]

Whatever.

[Stephen A. Smith]

He's your proud daddy here. When he says they've got an NBA squad. In terms of the coaching staff and what have you, who did their homework on that, I'm assuming it's you. And how do you know that BYU has what it takes to counsel and tutor Your son and ultimately elevate him to the next level.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

My wife and I went to Provo back in April. That was during the playoffs. Kevin Young flew from Phoenix, Arizona to come and say hello to us. He kind of laid out what he wanted to do, so we listened. And then he continued to have conversation with us, introduce us to his staff. Just like AJ Said, everything was NBA. I'm like, okay, pay attention to that. But I continued to do my recruiting because attention to Alabama, North Carolina, Kansas, Kansas City at the time and at the end, that was his decision. I just supported him.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Now, when you're a kid, because you still are a kid, you're a young man, but you're a kid. And we say that affectionately. You know, when people think about a school that they want to go to, and you saw the four schools there, North Carolina, Alabama, obviously, BYU in Kansas. When you sometimes you're looking at other things, you're looking at the environment, you're looking at how much you're going to enjoy the college experience, et cetera, et cetera. I thought I said, he's gonna go to North Carolina. Cause I was thinking North Carolina, Duke, acc, big time college basketball rivalry, et cetera, et cetera. Talk about how much consideration you really gave those other schools. And what is it that BYU had that the others didn't?

[AJ Debanza]

I mean, all my visits were good. All them four visits were amazing visits. Like, after every visit, I wanted to go to the school. That's how good the visit was. But I mean, I really sat down with my parents and was like, all right, what do we want out of it? And our ultimate goal is the NBA. We sat down pros and cons of each school. Obviously BYU has some cons, but their pros just overweighted all the cons. And then that's ultimately why we chose byu.

[Stephen A. Smith]

When you think about college basketball in this day and age, what do you see?

[AJ Debanza]

I say competitiveness. I think college games are more competitive than the league regular season. So that's like the biggest takeaway that.

[Stephen A. Smith]

College basketball is more competitive during the regular season.

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay, so when we look at college basketball in America right now, and I'll throw this question to both of you, you first. And then, and then, and then, and then pops. When we look at college basketball right now, clearly there's a competitive. The games matter. Nothing's like March Madness. College basketball owns the month of March. Nobody tries to compete with March Madness. And we get that part. But there's still people that look at college basketball in this day and Age. They see the G League, they see competition over in Europe. They see all of these different things and they say college basketball isn't what it used to be. Do you feel that that way, or do you just watch it and find yourself loving it and gravitating to it more and more?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah, I just. I just watch it and just love it. I don't think it's less. I mean, it's still. It's still college basketball.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Right.

[AJ Debanza]

Like you said, it's still March Madness. People don't compete with Marsh Madness, so.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Right. What about you, Pops?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Those kids are hungry. They trying to get to the next level. They have to compete. You know, even though there's only what, 4, 450 players in the league, they're hungry. They want to compete. You know, we watch Mark Maves, we go to the games, you know, we really love it. He wanted to go to college. He made that clear to his mother.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Yeah, he made that clear. And what were the kind of things he would say to you about going to college?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

I want to go to college, Pierre. Because at the time they were talking about the G League, we were talking about Europe. He told his mama, I'm going to college. One and done. Yep.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I got to get back to you because when I look at college basketball, we've seen superstars like back in The Days with LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and others, Kevin Garnett, to a lesser Degree, Jermaine O'Neal, etc. People that went straight from high school to the pros.

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Obviously the rules changed and mandates got to be 19 years of age, serve one year in college, et cetera, et cetera. Before you move on. When you think about your game and you fantasize about what you're going to do on the next level, tell our audience about your game, the kind of game you think you bring to the table.

[AJ Debanza]

Just all around game. I mean, passing, scoring, rebounding, defense. Obviously I can improve on a lot, but, you know, I think I can bring a lot to the table. If I'm having an off scoring night, I'm a defend. If I'm having an off defensive night, I'm a score. Just stuff like that. Just doing a lot of stuff that, you know, impacts winning.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Now, you were talking to me about your defensive prowess. What is it that you love about you yourself as a defender?

[AJ Debanza]

I mean, I just take pride in defense. I don't like getting scored on a lot, so I mean, I just like locking up other defenders. Like, I watch defensive film.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Really?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay. Have you Ever found yourself on the basketball court where somebody was getting the better of you offensively that they were scoring too much on you?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

What was that like?

[AJ Debanza]

Good day. Good offensive day. I mean, I'm.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm.

[AJ Debanza]

I'm guarding the best player on the other team, so I'm gonna get scored on. I know I'm gonna get scored on, but, I mean, I'm just trying to limit field goal percentage, make them take harder shots that I don't wanna take. I mean, I'm gonna get scored on. Those basketball. Everybody get scored on.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I wanna get to you, Pops, in this regard. When we see players in this day and age and a lot of times, we just see their talent. We don't see their discipline. The conversations that you and I had, you've talked a lot about your son. The responsibility that he has to be all he can be. What was it like raising him?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

It was easy. I'm from Africa.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

You know, one way.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Tough love. You know, Olu's gonna be my son. He may be number one in the country. He's number four in my house. Number four?

[Stephen A. Smith]

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. Who's one, two, and three?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

I'm the one. My wife is number two.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Right.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Samara is number three, AJ Is number four, and Jasmine is number five.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Gotcha.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

That's the order. He does the dishes when he comes home. He cleans his house. He does everything he's supposed to do. He's still my son.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And that's always been the case. Has there been any? Because America can be tempting. America. Sometimes one of the things that we lament is that America, it can influence the young minds and get them to deviate from what they're supposed to do. Have you ever had those challenges with juniors?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

His mother from Jamaica, they don't mess around.

[Stephen A. Smith]

So in other words, got you from Africa, got Mama from Jamaica. And he didn't have any rights, so you. You let him know. Is that true?

[AJ Debanza]

I don't cause no problem.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And why is that? How come you didn't cause any problems? Give it to us straight.

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah, we were just disciplined at home, me and my sisters. So we just know right from wrong.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Right. And you know right from wrong. But that doesn't mean you won't try to get away from anything when you're a kid. Kids always try. Their parents stop. You know, that's true.

[AJ Debanza]

Now, I kind of did try it. I kind of did try it, and I got basketball taken away for, like a month.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Really? How old were you?

[AJ Debanza]

Like, sixth grade.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Sixth grade?

[AJ Debanza]

I was like sixth grade, playing on my eighth grade team. I thought it was nice. Nah, a month off. Suspended his choice.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Because you thought, because you thought you was nice, that you had a nice game?

[AJ Debanza]

Nah, I was goofing around in school. Grades wasn't as and Bs month off.

[Stephen A. Smith]

So you gave him a month off from basketball. Is that because you knew that's how much he loved it?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

So you took away. Cause we the parental guidance here, we want strategies. Right. So in other words, you found the thing that he loved most and you took it away from him for four.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Month that he didn't like before. Ask him. He never loved basketball.

[AJ Debanza]

You got to start somewhere.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

I had to force his ass.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Right?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

So when you think about that now and you think about the culture that exists in the NBA today, because everybody, by all accounts, they say that's where you're going. You're going to be one and done. They think that you're, you know, clearly you're the number one player in the nation. Obviously, there's competition out there. You got this cat Peterson that you just went up against. You got the boozer twins, particularly one Booza. Both of them are going to Duke. You've played against them on several occasions as well. People are looking at you and they say it's a given. Health obviously being, you know, paramount. As long as you're healthy, you're definitely going to be one of the top picks in the 2026 NBA Draft. That's how everybody is looking at you when, when you think about it from that standpoint, my question to you would be, the world that we live in, the NBA, all the distractions that come along with it, how prepared are you for those challenges and why?

[AJ Debanza]

I mean, I'm prepared. I mean, as a kid, I was still, you know, challenged with, like, distractions and all that, but I had my mom, my dad, just with me, just telling me the right things. And I think I can still continue that, like the levels I go up.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Do you have two parents that will challenge you? I'm not talking about your game here. I'm talking about your character as you continue to get older and you mature and what have you that'll keep a watchful eye and always remind you of the responsibility that you have to yourself, your family and beyond. Talk about that for a second. And what your parents have meant to you and what you anticipate they will mean to you moving forward.

[AJ Debanza]

I mean, just from a young age, just discipline at all levels. Like he said, discipline starts at home. So that's why I say thank you to everybody I go by. That's why, you know, I opened the door like I just got taught from a young age. And even my sisters, you know, didn't learn manners. They just. We just been growing up a different way because Africa, Jamaican, two different cultures. J. African, just vibes.

[Stephen A. Smith]

That's right.

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Talk about the path that you've taken, because obviously, him working in Boston, you ultimately moving on to Utah to go to go to school out there. Speak about the movement that you've had to experience and how beneficial that has been for you.

[AJ Debanza]

I mean, it was good. I mean, Boston, nothing wrong with Boston. But competition wise, I think I needed a little bit more challenge. So I moved out to California, Played with prolific prep, national schedule. That's what we really got tested. We lost first round to Chipotle Nationals, then made a decision to go to Utah, play another national schedule. Still getting tested. So, I mean, it was just, you know, testing myself early before I get to college. So it was nothing new.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Pops, how does he handle losing?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Not good. He doesn't like to lose. I tell him all the time, fix it. It's that simple.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And when you say, fix it, what does that mean? Because sometimes it could be the people around you. It might not be you, but you seem like the kind of father that says, nah, I'm not gonna go that route. Cause that'll be an extra. So I'm gonna blame you even when it ain't your fault. So you. You will embrace that responsibility. You seem to be that kind of guy always.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

You know, I tell him all the time, start with you. You got to lead. Say he has nine. Rebound. Why don't you get 10? I always want more. Yep.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Define your definition of a great leader, sir.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Lead by example. You know, he's not a type of get in your face type of guy. That's not him. I wish he was sometimes, you know, but lead by example. You know, aj, You're a great defender. You got to rebound. You know, he bird watch all the time. I shouldn't say all the time. Sometime I met the dream a couple months ago.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Hakeem Olaju.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Hakeem Olaju. My second favorite player of all time. Mine.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Second.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Mine.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Who's first?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Mj.

[AJ Debanza]

Okay.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Just want to make sure. Okay, go ahead. See the wise man.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Listen to your camera.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Listen to your dad right there. Keep going, keep going. MJ, he's the GOAT, not LeBron. Michael Jordan.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

I didn't mention his name. Okay, Michael Jeffrey Jordan. All right, so I met. I Met Olajuwon. I mentioned his name. He didn't know who he was. I introduced him to Olajuwon. He said, I'm gonna watch him play. Watch him play. One half he went home, came back the next day, looked me up. Where's your son? Hold on. Hey, Jay, get over here. He got here. Dream talked to him for 12 minutes. First thing he said, you bird watch too much. Swear to God.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And by bird watching, he meant what? Just spectating.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

He doesn't rebound.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Wow.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Yep. He say, you bird watch too much. You such a good athlete, you great in transition. Grab the rebound and go. No one can stop you. That's what he's here.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Hakeem the Dream Olaju, one of the greatest centers. A two time NBA champion, although he won both years when Michael Jordan retired. Hey, hey, hey. I'm just giving facts. I'm just giving facts. I think Michael Jordan would have beat him, but the point is, is that he won one championship. When Michael Jordan retired the second year, Michael Jordan came back with 17 games left in the regular season, lost in the playoffs to Orlando, and ultimately he beat them as well. My question to you is, when Akeem the Dream Olaj won you, you realized who he was and he was talking to you, what was that like?

[AJ Debanza]

I mean, it was just. You always got to take advice from the greats. I mean, they've been there, done that. So whatever he's saying, you better listen and apply.

[Stephen A. Smith]

So how has your rebounding improved since that conversation?

[AJ Debanza]

11 a game.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And what was it before that, like?

[AJ Debanza]

5.

[Stephen A. Smith]

So you averaged six more rebounds a game after your conversation with Akeem of the Dream Olajuwon?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Any other players you've been speaking to?

[AJ Debanza]

I have a pretty good relationship with Kevin Durant.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay.

[AJ Debanza]

Paul George, Paula Bancaro, Jason Tatum, Jaylen Brown. Celtics guys. Spoke to LeBron once, CP3. A lot of guys.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Right.

[AJ Debanza]

Trying to get a connection.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And Kevin Durant is your favorite player?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Why?

[AJ Debanza]

Certified bucket. Simplicity. Efficient.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay. Do you think that's somebody your game will be modeled after?

[AJ Debanza]

I don't think I model my game after him, but I do take a lot of his things. That's why I shoot the mid range so much.

[Stephen A. Smith]

By the way, getting back to that conversation with your dad, you heard what he said about Michael Jordan, right?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Is that your belief?

[AJ Debanza]

That is my belief.

[Stephen A. Smith]

That what? Say it, say it, say it proud.

[AJ Debanza]

Michael Jordan is the best player of all time.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And why do you come to that conclusion? Is it because your pop said so?

[AJ Debanza]

No.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Or what? You Watch.

[AJ Debanza]

We used to argue. Then I watched the last dance. Changed my whole mind.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Why?

[AJ Debanza]

If you watch the last dance, you know why? Like, he's just crazy. Like I never. I wasn't alive to watch him. So I was like, LeBron, LeBron, LeBron. Now LeBron's second in my opinion.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Same here. Same here.

[AJ Debanza]

But I just watched six in a row. Like two three peats.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Yes, right.

[AJ Debanza]

Crazy.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Two three peats, six championships, six NBA Finals MVPs. Ten time scoring champion, nine time all NBA first team defensive player, that is the goat. Just so we know, Stephen A. Stephen A.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Somebody asked Michael Jordan, would you have won eight in a row? You know, what was his answer?

[Stephen A. Smith]

What?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

I don't know about the big African.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Excuse me?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

You heard what I said?

[Stephen A. Smith]

He doesn't know about the big Africa.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Yeah. So in other words, he's not sure if Ura won eight in a row because of Hakeem.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Well, I agree with that. It's not a certainty, I don't think. I think Hakeem and the Dream was phenomenal. But when I look and listen, Kenny Smith, his son kj, Y'all know very, very well I got a lot of love for the Jet. I remember Robert Ory on those squads, I remember Otis Thorpe, the whole bit. What I'm thinking about is the three headed monster at the big man spot that they had in terms of the Luke Longleys of the world and stuff like that. Not to mention the Tony KU coaches, the Dennis Rodmans, I think the collection of individuals. Scottie Pippen, one of the elite defenders the game has ever seen, the combination, they could sit up there and pressure you 94ft, that could really derail you. I don't see that level of defense in the NBA today. When you look at defenders in the NBA today and the way that they defend, how do you think you'll fare against them?

[AJ Debanza]

What you mean like how my offensive.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Yes, what you bring to the game offensively compared to what they're showing you in the NBA today was what do you see?

[AJ Debanza]

Now since I watch defensive clips, I know defensive tendencies and I'm a defender myself, so I know defensive tendencies. So that's why I think I will be able to like break it down a little bit more. Now if you do decide to pressure me and double team and help side, you're leaving two of my shooters open. Don't let me get 10 assist because then they'll start getting hot and you'll lose a game.

[Stephen A. Smith]

But you're assuming you're gonna be playing.

[AJ Debanza]

With shooters Everybody named me.

[Stephen A. Smith]

You're not taped. Everybody in the NBA. That is not true.

[AJ Debanza]

90 of people in NBA, AJ that is not true. Every NBA can shoot.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Everybody in the NBA cannot shoot. I can. I can get a boy.

[AJ Debanza]

He's gonna name a whole bunch of bigs. If I knew you're name a whole bunch of bigs.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I mean, I don't. I just don't want to throw anybody on front street.

[AJ Debanza]

Okay?

[Stephen A. Smith]

I can name a whole bunch of people that are not bigs, that can't.

[AJ Debanza]

Shoot right after the show.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay, we can do that. We do that for the show. Because I'm not gonna put it on camera. Look, man, before I let you get on out of here, I just want you to speak to what this whole process has meant to you as a young man. Being in a position where you're on national television announcing to the world where you're going to go with everybody interested in it because you're that guy. What has this whole process meant to you and what have you learned from it?

[AJ Debanza]

I mean, it's just a blessing, but it's only one step closer. I mean, I told my dad it's a three step process. This is only step one. The draft will be step two. And the hall of Fame speech is step three.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And the hall of Fame speech is three. If, if I may say respectfully, I think you missed a step.

[AJ Debanza]

What's that step?

[Stephen A. Smith]

How about a Final Four appearance for byu?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

You going to play there?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Or competed for a national championship. That's the NCAA tournament birth. A Final Four appearance. You ain't just bypassing byu? No, I'm not playing.

[AJ Debanza]

Bypassing.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Exactly.

[AJ Debanza]

Then that means there'll be more step. Them that'll be Rookie of the Year, first all Star.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay.

[AJ Debanza]

Defensive team.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay.

[AJ Debanza]

There'll be more steps, but just the Overall goal.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Olympics.

[AJ Debanza]

2028 Olympics.

[Stephen A. Smith]

2028 Olympics. Really? I didn't even think about that one. I'm still salty about that. Cause I don't like the fact that Steve Kerr benched my man Jayson Tatum like that. That. That really bothered me. That really bothered me. He's too great to not find a spot for a few minutes for one of the great players in the NBA. That's just me. But I digress. 2028 Olympics. I think the coach will be either Eric Spoelstra or Ty Lue. One of the two is gonna be coaching that team. But there's a lot of people that's ahead of you for 2028.

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

You gonna bypass those folks?

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Really yeah. Cooper Flagg is somebody that's in college basketball right now at Duke. Everybody's been talking about him. How do you feel about his game and head compares to yours?

[AJ Debanza]

We've known each other since seventh grade. He from New England, he from Maine. So, I mean, I support his game, always respected his game. We've been playing in terms of each other, so, I mean, he gonna be great.

[Stephen A. Smith]

You think he's gonna play? You think he's gonna be great? Yeah, I like him. I watch the skillset.

[AJ Debanza]

Plays the right way.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Yeah. And for me, personally, I don't want to use the word pressure. You gonna have pressure anyway, that's gonna be on you, which I'm sure you'll embrace. No problem. But when we look at him and then we look at you as the number one guy, we're saying, wait a minute now, what's up? You gonna have to answer that call. You prepare for that.

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah. Because I'm my own player. Like, you can compare me who you want. We two different players, right?

[Stephen A. Smith]

I got you. Okay. First take, your father made it clear. College is one and done. And there are two NBA teams you're most interested in. You said it yourself, the Orlando Magic and the San Antonio Spurs. Shocked the living hell out of me. You picked those two teams?

[AJ Debanza]

Wow.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I ain't expect the Santa. I mean, what did you think? I just did it.

[AJ Debanza]

What did you think?

[Stephen A. Smith]

Me, personally? I was thinking you were gonna say somebody like Golden State in Boston.

[AJ Debanza]

I don't wanna play for Boston because. Cause I'm from Boston. I wanna get out of Boston.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay.

[AJ Debanza]

That's the only reason.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Why? Well, you know, that you ain't gonna have. I mean, I would say you ain't gonna have a choice, but, I mean.

[AJ Debanza]

Oh, yeah, you don't have a choice. I'll be. If I get drafted to the Celtics, I'm blessed. But if it was an option, I wouldn't want to go.

[Stephen A. Smith]

What's the problem with playing in the place you grew up in?

[AJ Debanza]

I just want to get out and move.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Right.

[AJ Debanza]

I don't want to raise my family in Boston. I want to be somewhere else.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Got you. Just because you want to move, you want to find someplace different.

[AJ Debanza]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

All right. Playing with a shooter like Steph Curry, now, see, that's where you'd average 12, 15.

[AJ Debanza]

See? And a great vet with Draymond Green.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Yes, he is a great vet. He is a great vet. He gets emotional, you understand? But he's old, phenomenal teammate. And he's a champion stuff. Pops, as we get ready to end this talk this conversation. By the way, before I get to my last question, your son made history. 4 and a half million dollar nil deal. What kind of financial advice have you.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Given him before we start making money? I don't know where that figure came from.

[Stephen A. Smith]

First of all, that's what they told. That's what was reported. I'm not. I don't know if it's accurate. And that's your business. Y'all tell her if you want to. If you don't, it's no big deal. But that's what they're saying.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Well, they were saying we were going to the biggest bidder. That's. That's not true. Three out of the four school that made the final cut offer the same amount. I call it the minimum wage.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

And he had no idea what it was because we chose not to tell him because we didn't want money. Me and my wife didn't want money to affect his decision. Once he told us where he wants, where he wanted to go, we told him, you see what you got? And we told him to manage the money. We got him a financial advisor. We told him about taxes. You know, he was shocked when he got a bill the other day.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Yes.

[AJ Debanza]

Oh, my God.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Welcome to the real world.

[AJ Debanza]

Welcome to the real world.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

He was shocked.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Keep saying your money going.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

He was shocked.

[AJ Debanza]

I say, Asia, you pay your taxes today?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Yeah. I say that amount going to triple next year. That why? Well, you're going to make more money.

[Stephen A. Smith]

So is the tax. Tax is going to triple, too.

[AJ Debanza]

And that's another reason why Boston is one of the highest tax rates.

[Stephen A. Smith]

It's not New York or la, though.

[AJ Debanza]

La?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Yep.

[AJ Debanza]

Texas and Florida. No state tax.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm aware of this. I'm aware of this. I'm aware of this. You know, Pac, what's it going to be like for an agent to be representing him having to deal with you? Cause, you know, I've listened to you, you know a thing or two about your basketball now. You know they ain't gonna be able to just pull one over on you. And like you said, African pops, Jamaican mama, y'all on play. What's it gonna be like? What do they need to know about representing your son?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Who say I'm gonna have an agent?

[Stephen A. Smith]

I don't know.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

So far, so good. I have an advisor.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay, an advisor, but. So you plan on being the dude sitting across from the team negotiating with him?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

No, the advisor. So far, our advisor, Leonard Amato, is taking care of it.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Okay, gotcha.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

We work together. And when the time comes, if he needs an agent, he has to be my price.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Your price?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Yes.

[Stephen A. Smith]

What does that mean?

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

My rates.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Your rate? Yeah. Excuse me, A.J. bops. Appreciate y'all, man. Congratulations on everything. All the best. I'm gonna watch BYU basketball for the first time, man.

[AJ Debanza]

You're not watching this year?

[Stephen A. Smith]

No.

[AJ Debanza]

You don't know who they got coming out this year?

[Stephen A. Smith]

No, I'm not watching that much this year. I will be watching them next year. I will. I will watch practically everyone. If you're round, I'm going to watch.

[AJ Debanza]

All right.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm not going to have you on the show and then ignore you. You know, first of all, you got a fan in me.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

He's not going to watch this year.

[Stephen A. Smith]

No, no, I watched him this year. I mean, I watch him. As the season progresses, I really listen. Between football and professional basketball, I'm inundated with a lot of stuff. As March Madness approaches, then I really, really pay attention to who's in the mix and what they're going to do. I don't miss March Madness game, so I'll definitely be watching that. But what I'm saying is, even with North Carolina and Duke, I really don't watch much of them unless they playing, playing each other. Kentucky, Louisville, stuff like that. I'm watching sec. I'm watching Florida State from Tom's, because, you know the coach, Leonard. I'm watching a few of these programs. Calipari, I know very well. Obviously, I've lost faith. I remember. I see. I grew up in the days of the Big east, where you had St. John's Ewing and the boys at Georgetown. Dwayne Pearl, Washington. Don't let anybody tell you differently. The greatest show in the history of college basketball.

[AJ Debanza]

What's who.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Dwayne Pearl Washington out of Syracuse, God rest his soul. Special. I'm talking about a better show than Chris Jackson at LSU before he became Abdul Mahmoud Raoul when he was playing with Shaq and Stanley Robertson. I'm talking about Kenny Anderson. Lethal Weapon 3 at Georgia Tech with Dennis Scott and Brian Oliver. I talking about UNLV with Larry Johnson and Greg Anthony and Stacey Altman and Anderson Hunt and the crew. That's how I go back. And I'm telling you, despite all of that, even with Michael Jordan at North Carolina. Michael Jordan at North Carolina, the greatest showman on the basketball court in the history of college basketball was Dwayne Pearl Washington. Ask your coach. I bet you he'll agree with me.

[AJ Debanza]

I'll ask him.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Ask him. Ask him. Good Luck to you.

[AJ Debanza]

Thank you.

[Stephen A. Smith]

All the best to you.

[Anise Debanza Sr.]

Thank you, Pops.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Appreciate you. Thanks for having us right here. Really, really honored to have both of y'all. Wish you nothing but the best. You're going to be all right, man. You got your pops with you. You're good. You good to go. You're good to go.

[Greg Rosenthal]

What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal, and I'm teaming up with the king of spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you, with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Stephen A. Smith]

What's up, everyone? Julie Swerbinks here along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.

[Greg Rosenthal]

We're doing a new podcast together.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Here we go. The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.

[AJ Debanza]

Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life.

[Greg Rosenthal]

All topics are fair game, right?

[Stephen A. Smith]

Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us. Julie is pretty well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe. Listen to EnergyLine with Nate and JSB on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.