NBA A to Z with Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, we unpack the wild Game 1 of the Finals and what it means for the Warriors and Cavs going forward with USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick, Michael Singer and A.J. Neuharth-Keusch. Will LeBron James ever forgive JR. Smith for his late-game blunder? Was this the Cavs' last, best at challenging the Warriors? So many questions, and we're here for the answers.

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick discuss the Western finals between the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets and Eastern Conference final between the Cleveland Celtics and Boston Celtics. Both series are going at least six games. Also, USA TODAY Sports’ NBA editor Mike Singer joins the pod to discuss the NBA draft combine and its impact on the June draft.

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick discuss the Eastern Conference finals between the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers and Western Conference finals between the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets. With a break between Games 2 and 3 in both series, Jeff and Sam dig deep and break down what’s transpired through two games.

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick talk with Mo Dakhil, a former video coordinator for the Los Angeles Clippers and San Antonio Spurs. Mo goes behind the scenes inside the video room and describes the role and life of a video coordinator during the regular season and playoffs. What do coaches want from the video coordinator? What do players want? Plus, Mo tells us how he found a way to stop of a Los Angeles Lakers play involving Kobe Bryant.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with Larry Coon, the league's preeminent expert on the collective bargaining agreement, a longtime NBA writer and the founder of The Sports Business Classroom event that takes place every July at Las Vegas Summer League. Sam and Larry discuss the story behind his famous CBA FAQ, the behind-the-scenes discussions he frequently has with league executives about key roster moves, and the ways in which he's paying it forward by way of The Sports Business Classroom.

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk to veteran basketball writer Ian Thomsen whose new book ‘The Soul of Basketball: The Epic Showdown Between LeBron, Kobe, Doc, and Dirk That Saved the NBA’ was just released. The book focuses on the 2010-11 season and how it revealed the NBA’s identity and its impact on the future of the league. Thomsen shares stories about LeBron James, Dirk Nowitzki, Pat Riley, Doc Rivers and Gregg Popovich, and he explains why he wanted to write the book.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the early part of the playoffs, from the mysterious Kawhi Leonard situation in San Antonio and what that might mean to the Cavs' struggles, Boston's battle against Milwaukee to the rest of the East and West matchups around the Association.

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk with Portland Trail Blazers star and new podcast host, C.J. McCollum. The 26-year-old whose team is on the verge of the playoffs, and who graduated with a journalism degree from Lehigh University, launched a new show, "Pull Up with C.J. McCollum," to discuss life on and off the court in the NBA. He discusses this season, his new venture and how sharing his opinion stirs emotions from fans. He also talks about the media and how it covers the league.

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick discusses the Wild West playoff race with Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic. They discuss the Minnesota Timberwolves' attempt to end their league-long playoff drought, the San Antonio Spurs' hopes of continuing their two-decade-long playoff streak, and the many other subplots of this race.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with Utah Jazz stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert about their surprise season and their respective candidacies for the Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year awards. Sam and fellow NBA reporter Jeff Zillgitt discuss other storylines as well, from LeBron James' place in the MVP race to the Washington Wizards and why getting John Wall back is such a big deal.

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports Insider Jeff Zillgitt talks with veteran NBA writer Sam Smith, who covered Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls, about Sam’s new book titled Hard Labor: The Battle That Birthed the Billion-Dollar NBA. Sam shares his insights about an era of basketball that was historical – with its share of political, racial and social issues as players fought for their rights on and off the court. He discusses the way the game was played, Oscar Robertson’s lawsuit, along with other players, that led to free agency, Spencer Haywood’s fight to leave college early and the relationships between players that helped make the game what it is today. Smith also talks about the current state of the NBA, including the Bulls’ rebuilding process and the NBA playoff races.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick shares observations from his trip to LA over the weekend to cover LeBron James' one-and-only visit to Laker Land this season. He caught up with Lakers coach Luke Walton during the trip, and discusses his team's turnaround and the integration of Isaiah Thomas into the mix as he enters free agency this summer. This week's episode also focuses on the New Orleans Pelicans, who have survived and thrived without DeMarcus Cousins after his season-ending Achilles tendon tear. Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry talks with Sam about Anthony Davis' MVP-caliber play and other factors in their success. Sam also talks with Pelicans point guard Rajon Rondo about his role in it all and how he sees his free agency future.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the wild playoff races in the East and the West and discuss all the possible ramifications of these final five weeks.

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, Sam Amick shares his Sloan Conference conversations in Boston with Michele Roberts (National Basketball Players Association executive director) and Jalen Rose (ESPN analyst, former NBA players). From the NCAA controversy to the gambling issue that is making its way into the NBA to the question of diversity in NBA front offices, they hit a number of hot topics. Sam breaks down the issues with fellow NBA reporter Jeff Zillgitt as well.

On this edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY basketball insiders Jeff Zillgitt and Mike Singer take a look back at All-Star Weekend, address the workplace turmoil inside the Dallas Mavericks organization and look ahead to the storylines that will dominate the finals weeks of the regular season.

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt are joined by fellow USA TODAY Sports colleagues Michael Singer and AJ Neuharth-Keusch to talk about their forthcoming trip to Los Angeles for All-Star weekend. What to watch, what to know, and why the league's annual affair should be more entertaining than in recent years. Also, the guys look ahead to the home stretch of the season and discuss everything from the new-look Cavs to the Warriors, Rockets, Celtics, Raptors and more.

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the trade deal that sent Isaiah Thomas from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Los Angeles Lakers. The guys talk about what this means for both teams. Cleveland re-made its roster, but did it do something that can help it get back to the Finals? Did the Lakers make this move to free up space to go after LeBron James in the offseason? Sam also talks with Lakers beat writer Bill Oram of the Orange County Register, and shares his recent conversation with Oklahoma City Thunder star Paul George.

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt debate what the Blake Griffin trade means for the Los Angeles Clippers and the Detroit Pistons and discuss the fallout of John Wall's knee injury for the Washington Wizards. Sam, in a recent conference call with NBA league officials Byron Spruell, Michelle Johnson and Monty McCutchen, also explores the hot topic of rising tensions between players and officials.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the firing of Milwaukee Bucks coach Jason Kidd, the All-Star reserves and how they see them, and the Feb. 8 trade deadline that is looming large. Sam also talks with Minnesota Timberwolves coach and president of basketball operations Tom Thibodeau, whose team has gone from winning just 31 games in his debut season to legitimate Western Conference contenders.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick talks with Los Angeles Clippers guard Lou Williams about his career year that's coming in Season No. 13, the possibility that he might be traded by next month, the time he talked a would-be robber out of holding him up and much more. With All-Star weekend in Los Angeles coming next month, Sam also chats with former Seattle Supersonics star Gary Payton about his All-Star picks and the major differences between today's NBA and his playing days.

Jeff and Sam sit down with Kara Lawson, the color commentator for the Washington Wizards. They talk about her career in the WNBA and at the University of Tennessee, the play of the Wizards, and what's going on around the league.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the retirement of Kobe Bryant's Los Angeles Lakers jerseys and how the Lakers wish they could concentrate on the future instead of having to celebrate the past. The guys discuss the new arenas being built in San Francisco and Milwaukee and what those will mean to the Warriors and the Bucks. They also break down the compelling Christmas Day games, including Golden State vs. Cleveland and Houston vs. Oklahoma City.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk to the great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar about everything from basketball to social issues to his new book, "Becoming Kareem," and his work with the Coaches v. Cancer organization that is so dear to his heart. Kareem discusses his view of the way in which today's pro athletes have learned to use the power of their voices, and a number of other topics as well.

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with three-time Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford of the Minnesota Timberwolves on the eve of his reunion game against the LA Clippers. Crawford talks about how he wishes he was a bigger part of the rotation, especially since the team has been struggling of late. Crawford goes around the Association, sharing his view of title contenders and even where his own team might fit into that equation. Crawford and Sam chat about Isaiah Thomas working his way back from his hip injury and this season's rookie class and who might be the favorites to win rookie of the year.

On this week's NBA A to Z, USA TODAY Sports' Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the would-be threats to the Golden State Warriors' throne. Can the Houston Rockets, with Chris Paul back in the fold, pose a problem for Golden State? Might San Antonio survive the extended absence of Kawhi Leonard to truly challenge the champs? Jeff breaks down the most familiar foe of all, LeBron James' Cleveland Cavaliers, with beat writer Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with the Cleveland Cavaliers' Isaiah Thomas about his comeback, the trade that brought his time in Boston to a stunning end and the docu-series that he recently launched to document it all. He also talks with Carmelo Anthony about Russell Westbrook, Paul George and the Oklahoma City Thunder's early growing pains as they attempt to become the NBA's newest super team.

Jeff and Sam break down the Boston Celtics, Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, the three best teams in the NBA so far and much more. Then Jeff sits down with NBA Hall of Fame legend Bernard King to discuss his new book, his career, how he came back from a devastating knee injury at a time when that injury ended a player's career and the current state of the NBA. He discusses, as one of the greatest midrange shooters of all time, how would he fit into today's game. It's all here on NBA A to Z.

On this week's NBA A to Z, insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt are joined by our power rankings guru, AJ Neuharth-Keusch, to break down the wild start to this season and why teams are ranked so high -- and the surprising low ranking of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Later in the show, Sam has an exclusive interview with Houston Rockets point guard Chris Paul about his knee injury and what he thinks of his new team. Sam also chats with G League president Malcolm Turner about the NBA's minor league season that comes with many changes.

On this week's NBA A to Z, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the early season struggles of the Cavs and Warriors, Sam talks all things Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo with Milwaukee Journal Sentinel beat writer Matt Velazquez, and Sam also breaks down the Lakers and the Lonzo Ball beat with Tania Ganguli of the LA Times and Bill Oram of the Orange County Register.

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY’s Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss the start of the NBA season, including Golden State’s uneven start, Cleveland’s rotation issues and a deep rookie class led by Ben Simmons and Lonzo Ball. Jeff and Sam also talk early-season injuries with certified athletic trainer Jeff Stotts, who operates the informative site instreetclothes.com.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY's Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk season-openers between Boston-Cleveland, Houston-Golden State and Gordon Hayward's horrific injury to his left ankle and leg. Plus, Sam and Jeff share details of life on the road.

On today's pod, Sam checks in after returning from covering the NBA pre-season action in China and breaks down all your hoops news with Jeff. Then we listen in to an interview Sam did with Steph Curry while in the far east. Lastly, USA TODAY's Mike Singer joins Jeff for a discussion on rookie extensions and more.

On this week’s NBA A to Z podcast, Sam and Jeff talk national anthem and potential issues for the NBA, Russell Westbrook’s long-term deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Dwyane Wade’s decision to join his good friend LeBron James on the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Jeff interviews The Athletic’s Jason Lloyd, who covers the Cavaliers and has a new book out detailing how the Cavs built their championship team.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Sam sits down with the Oklahoma City Thunder's Paul George to talk about his Pacers past, the Thunder present and his free agency future. Jeff and Sam preview this coming season after all the superstar shakeup over the summer.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the free agency period that was highlighted by Gordon Hayward's exit from Utah to Boston, the blockbuster trades of Chris Paul, Jimmy Butler and Paul George, and what's next when it comes to the league-wide attempt to unseat the Golden State Warriors as champs."

On this special edition NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports Insider Sam Amick breaks down the Chris Paul trade with Clippers executive vice president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank. How did the trade with the Houston Rockets go down? What does life look like after Paul for the Clippers? How confident is he that free agent Blake Griffin will re-sign? Frank, who works with Doc Rivers and Jerry West and others in the Clippers' front office, dissects it all. "

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insider Sam Amick talks with Houston Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni about the Chris Paul trade that shook the NBA. The former Clippers star will be joining forces with the Rockets' James Harden next season, and D'Antoni sheds light on how he'll make it all work and how - like so many other teams - Houston plans on gaining ground on the Golden State Warriors.

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick talks with Clippers guard and three-time Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford about the draft (he's close friends with prospective No. 1 pick Markelle Fultz), free agency (his Clippers have some of the biggest in Chris Paul and Blake Griffin) and why he takes so much pride in the Seattle roots that have continued to grow during his career.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the three-match in the Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Sam talks to the longtime trainer for Warriors star Stephen Curry, Brandon Payne of Accelerate Basketball in Charlotte N.C.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, we help pass the pre-Finals time with two very different interviews. NBA Insider Sam Amick talks to Oklahoma City Thunder forward Enes Kanter about his harrowing reality right now. The 25-year-old from Turkey was detained at an airport in Romania recently and held for several hours because of - as he sees it - his outspoken views about Turkish president Recep Erdogan. His situation has shed light on the troubling situation in Turkey, with Kanter having been split from his parents back home for the last two years as a result and facing the constant fear of death threats. On a much lighter note, fellow NBA scribe Jeff Zillgitt talks to Father John Misty drummer/NBA fan Dan Bailey about the playoffs and his addiction to hoops.

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the East and West Conference Finals, discuss what the Wizards do going forward after falling to Boston, and debate the controversial play that put the San Antonio Spurs' Kawhi Leonard on the sideline. Sam also talks with ESPN analyst Jalen Rose, who once infamously admitted to intentionally hurting Kobe Bryant on a similar play in the 2000 Finals.

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt take a break from their playoff travels to break down the postseason to this point. Is this this the best LeBron James has ever played? Can anyone beat the Cavs or Warriors, or are we headed toward an unprecedented third consecutive rematch in the Finals? Which teams pose the biggest threat? What's next for Toronto after they fell to Cleveland, and Utah after losing to the Warriors?

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff ZIllgitt break down the second round of the playoffs. Sam also talks to Golden State Warriors assistant coach Ron Adams, whose team will have to chase another title without Steve Kerr. The Warriors' ailing head coach is out indefinitely because of complications from back surgery he underwent two summers ago, and he isn't expected to return until the agonizing symptoms subside. Adams, who has been an NBA assistant since 1992 and is one of the league's most respected defensive gurus, offers insight on how the Warriors will function without Kerr.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zilgitt talk playoffs with former NBA Commissioner David Stern. He weighs in on the early postseason action, discusses why he doesn't miss the league office after spending more than three decades there, and even admonishes one particular team for resting its players late in the season. Then Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down what's going on in the NBA playoffs as the first round starts to wrap up.

On this week's show, NBA Insiders Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down the early stages of the playoffs with TNT analyst and two-time champion Brent Barry. From the Cavaliers' defensive struggles to Memphis coach David Fizdale's "Take that for data" drop the mic moment and Barry's view of a possible Warriors-Spurs faceoff, they dive deep on the postseason. Barry also pulls the curtain back on his life as a jet-setting broadcaster who is widely respected for his dedication to the craft and the always-insightful research that complements his commentary.

On this special playoff edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Sam Amick has in-depth conversations with Clippers coach and president of basketball operations Doc Rivers, Houston Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni and Portland Trail Blazers star point guard Damian Lillard. They discuss it all heading into the postseason, from the stories of their respective regular seasons to the question of whether anyone will be able to beat the juggernaut Golden State Warriors.

On this week's NBA A to Z pod, USA TODAY Sports reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss their looming votes on regular season awards. Sam chats with the great Oscar Robertson about Russell Westbrook's historic season and how the Oklahoma City Thunder star caught him on the triple-double front. Sam also talks to Brian Kopp of Catapult Sports, an industry leader on the sports science front who has a lot to say about the value of rest and recovery in today's NBA. Lastly, Sam debates the Defensive Player of the Year award with the Utah Jazz big man who believes it should be his, Rudy Gobert.

On this week's edition of the NBA A to Z podcast, Sam talks to Oklahoma City Thunder coach Billy Donovan about Russell Westbrook's special season and the question of how he sizes up against the Houston Rockets' James Harden in the MVP race. Donovan, the former Florida coach who joined the Thunder two summers ago, shares behind-the-scenes stories of Westbrook's winning ways and why his impact goes well beyond his numbers."

In this week's A to Z, Sam sits down with the Warriors' Draymond Green to debate the Defensive Player of the Year award and discuss his well-known prowess on that end of the floor. How would he judge players if he had a vote, and why shouldn't Utah's Rudy Gobert or back-to-back winner Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs win it? The two-time All-Star has been close to winning this honor the past two seasons, only to lose out to Leonard. But this year, with the Warriors again among the top defensive squads in the NBA even after losing Kevin Durant to injury recently, it may finally be Green's year to win it. And as always, the 27-year-old Green isn't afraid to speak his mind.

On this week's episode of A to Z, Sam and Jeff dive deep on the playoff races in the East and the West as the regular season nears an end. Which teams have the toughest schedules? What are the MVP implications? Is an NBA Finals rematch still on tap between the Warriors and Cavs?"

In this episode, the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt discuss who will emerge in this hotly-contested MVP race. They'll break down the top candidates and give their assessment on why each guy has a legit shot. Does Russell Westbrook win it if he averages a triple-double? Can James Harden win because of the Rockets' turnaround? LeBron James has been as good as ever, why not him? The guys also talk about the playoff races, which are tightening up as we begin the final stretch run of the season.

This week on NBA A to Z, Sam Amick sits down with NBA writer Tim Bontemps of the Washington Post to talk about the Warriors' life without Kevin Durant and what it means, the MVP race, whether or not the Cavs are in trouble, and other topics from around the league.

On this week's NBA A to Z podcast, Sam and Jeff go around the league with David Thorpe, an ESPN analyst, longtime coach to NBA players and author of the new book, "Basketball is Jazz: Stories and lessons from a basketball lifer." From his view on the recent DeMarcus Cousins trade to New Orleans and whether it will work to his opinion of the Eastern Conference and whether the Cavs can defend their title, he shares his unique perspective on all things NBA while sharing a few stories along the way.

The tables are turned on USA TODAY’s Sam Amick. On this episode, he is the one aswering the questions instead of asking. USA TODAY’s NBA Editor Kevin Spain comes in to talk to Sam about the Los Angeles Lakers front office shake up. They discuss how this went down, with Magic Johnson taking over as president of basketball operations and Jim Buss and Mitch Kupchak being fired. Sam has interview Lakers owner and governor Jeanie Buss on several occasions and knew this kind of move was in the works. He discusses what went into the decision and who could possibly take over as general manager for Kupchak. Then the guys talk about the DeMarcus Cousins trade that sent him from Sacramento to New Orleans. Sam lives in NoCal and is very familiar with the Kings franchise and has some good insight as to what the team was thinking on this move. Later in the show, USA TODAY’s AJ Neuharth-Keusch talks to former NBA player Grant Hill about how the league is in the middle of a guard revolution and his disdain for players taking games off.

Sam Amick chats with Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas. They talk about Isaiah’s work with the Boy’s and Girl’s Club in Tacoma, Wash. He donated a basketball court and talked to kids about his story, how as a boy growing up he had to fight battles and what he had to overcome to become a professional athlete. They talk about Isaiah’s time in Sacramento and how it all ended there. They also talk about his journey to Boston and how he’s in a perfect situation for him now. Isaiah talks about his relationship with Celtics coach Brad Stevens. They talk about Isaiah’s parents, and how they instilled into him his work ethic. They talk about how Isaiah grew up a Lakers fan and he thought he was going to be drafted by them when he came out of college. They talk about the upcoming All Star weekend and his thoughts on not being a starter.

Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down some of the moves that could happen as we approach the NBA trade deadline. They talk about the possibility of Carmelo Anthony being traded and what it might take. They break down Anthony’s desire to win a title and how some seemed to think he was content with winning Olympic golds. The discussion then turns to what Anthony has had around him so far in his career and how much better he is when he is playing on Team USA as compared to his time with the Nuggets and Knicks. The guys then chat about the talks between the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Orleans Pelicans that center around Jahlil Okafor, the story that Sam broke at USA TODAY and how it could work for both teams. They then talk about the situation with the Chicago Bulls and how there seems to be a little disfunction with the team. They chat about Magic Johnson joining the Lakers as a consultant to Jeanie Buss and how that could affect Jim Buss. They quickly hit on the Cavaliers working out some guards who could be added to help in depth. Then near the end of the show, Sam brings in Bob MacKinnon, who coaches the Texas Legends of the NBA DLeague. They discuss Quincy Acy, who played with Legends for a few weeks. It’s a good story on what Acy did for the members of the team after he was called up to the Brooklyn Nets.

Before he calls the Detroit Pistons at Boston Celtics game, TNT analyst Kevin McHale joins Sam Amick to talk about the hot topics around the league. They talk about the internal strife with the Chicago Bulls and McHale discusses his thoughts from a coach’s perspective and some of that might surprise you. They then talk about the Cleveland situation that LeBron James says he needs a playmaker. McHale said that he would’ve loved to play with a guy like LeBron and goes on to say that LeBron isn’t necessarily hitting on the correct problem for the Cavaliers. They talk about the Celtics and how they’re a scrapping team. McHale gives his thoughts on how good Isaiah Thomas has been this season and the coaching job Brad Stevens is doing. They go out west and talk about the Houston Rockets, the team Kevin used to coach. They hit on the job that Mike D’Antoni is doing with the team. He gives his opinion on what chances the Rockets have to go deep in the playoffs. They talk about Kevin’s time in Houston and how it ended. They talk about how good Russell Westbrook has been this season and how Kevin didn’t think someone could average a triple-double and is amazed at what Westbrook is doing.

Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt talk about who should be on the Eastern and Western Conference All-Star rosters. The guys start out with who should’ve been starting, but didn’t get the nod. They then break down who should be on the reserves on the East and West teams. They start with the East and an obvious pick in Kyle Lowry. They then look at some who should be in and some who are long shots. Does the poor season in New York hurt the chances of Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis? They go out west and discuss some difficult picks into guys who should be on the team but might not make it. They discuss if Portland’s step back this season hurts Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum’s chances. After they talk All-Stars, they discuss the state of the top of the league coming out of the big San Antonio Spurs win against the Cleveland Cavaliers. They talk about what we learned about those teams coming out of that game.

Live from Oakland, Cal., Sam Amick is joined by Washington Post reporter Tim Bontemps to break down the Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers game. They talk about how great Stephen Curry was in the game and how good he has been all season. They talk about LeBron James and Kevin Durant and how they played and have been playing. They talk about how good the Warriors are if they’re focused, but question their effort sometimes. They discuss the Draymond Green/LeBron incident and what they think of the play. Then they break down both teams and what they are moving forward. Later in the show, Sam is joined by Steph Curry to talk about President Barack Obama as his term is ending. They discuss Steph’s relationship with him and what his being president meant to Steph.

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson sits down with USA TODAY’s Sam Amick to go behind the scenes with him and the team. They begin with how he’s not as quiet as some might think and how his father Mychal - a member of the 1980’s Showtime Lakers - is a man who loves to talk (as well he should be, hosting a radio show). They talk about Thompson’s accomplishments so far in his young career and how he’s working to sustain it. Thompson talks about how tough the loss was to Cleveland on Christmas and they’re looking forward to the next game between the two. He talks a little about the rivalry between the two teams and some of the off court antics. They talk about adding Kevin Durant to the team and how he has fit in with a group that has been so good for the past few seasons. Thompson talks about changing agents and how he’s trying to take advantage of his opportunities as far as marketing. They talk about how Thompson sees his future. Thompson is a fan of Harry Potter and they talk about if he has seen the new movie that’s a prequel of the series.

Former NBA coach George Karl, whose book “Furious George” is out, joins Sam and Jeff to talk about the reaction to excerpts that have been released in the past few weeks. The guys ask him to talk about regrets he might have with how he said something in the book. Karl talks about how important he believes family is for the players and for himself. They talk about Kenyon Martin, who took the most exception to what was written in Karl’s book, and if the two have connected. Karl talks about some of his favorite parts of the book, and how he grew and changed as a coach. He talks about some of his favorite seasons in coaching and what he felt like was his worst season. They talk about Karl’s assertion that HGH could be a problem in the NBA and why he thinks that. Then he and Jeff talk about going through cancer treatments. They finish up with talk about Karl’s plans for the future and if he wants to coach again.

Houston Rockets guard James Harden sits down with USA TODAY’s Sam Amick to discuss his amazing season and the success of the team. They talk about how Harden knew something good might be coming up with this team as far back as the preseason. Harden talks about how difficult his decision was to skip the Rio Olympics in the summer coming off a difficult year with the Rockets last season. He talks about some of the new players with the team and how quickly they have fit in with the team. Sam and James then talk about the MVP race. They then talk about the Rockets season this year compared to last year.

Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt go around the league, hitting on some of the big performances. They start off talking about the Rookie of the Year race and the surprising entry that is Malcolm Brogdon of the Milwaukee Bucks. Brogdon was a second round pick who has quickly become an invaluable member of a young, up-and-coming team. Jeff chats with Brogdon from a recent trip to Milwaukee. The guys then talk about the Russell Westbrook vs. James Harden for MVP race and how great those two guys have been. Then again, they warn to not forget about LeBron James, who in most observations, is right behind Westbrook and Harden in the race. The guys then talk about the Memphis Grizzlies, a surprise team that has dealt with major injuries.

Memphis Grizzlies general manager Chris Wallace joins Sam Amick to discuss his unorthodox rise to NBA executive. They talk about how the Grizzlies have dealt with injuries and have still made the playoffs in each of the past six seasons. They talk about Wallace’s career path, from humble beginnings working in a casino in Reno, Nev. to starting a basketball magazine at age 23. That led to getting a job in the NBA. They discuss the growth of international players getting to the league. They talk about Wallace’s relationship with one of the guru of analytics, John Hollinger, with the Grizzlies. Wallace also tells Sam about how he helped get Erik Spoelstra into the league as a video coordinator. They talk about how Wallace ended up with the Boston Celtics (hint, it involves a trade). Wallace recalls getting to work with Red Auerbach and how memorable that experience was. Then they talk about how the Grizzlies were built and some of the moves that were made that set the team up for longterm success.

On this episode, Sam Amick talks with Golden State Warriors beat reporter Marcus Thompson about how the team rose from being one of worst teams in the league to the current dynasty. They talk about covering the team in those early days. It was a team with humble beginnings, poor play and a fan base that wasn’t enamored with the future. Then they built the base that led to the great team they have today. They discuss how Steph Curry is having a great season, but not an MVP-type season, and how that has changed since Kevin Durant joined the team. Then Sam and Jeff talk about Blake Griffin’s surgery and how it changes the Clippers in his absence. They talk about the unfortunate situation of DeMarcus Cousins attack on a Sacramento-area columnist who wrote about a legal issue involving Cousins and his brother. The guys close with the sad news of the death of TNT sideline reporter Craig Sager. Jeff, who has had his own battles with cancer, discusses what Sager went through from perspective of someone who has gone through it himself.

Sam and Jeff break down the league at the quarter point in the season. They talk about how great Russell Westbrook has been so far and the amazing numbers he has been putting up. They discuss the New York Knicks and how they’re starting to play good ball. A quick chat with Jeff Hornacek on being caught in between the Carmelo Anthony/Phil Jackson drama and his reaction to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ “water-bottle challenge” during their recent game. They also talk about the hot Memphis Grizzlies and Utah Jazz and why those teams have been so good. They then have a quick conversation about the Toronto Raptors and how all signs are pointing to another showdown with them and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference. They talk about LeBron James and how he isn’t slowing down at all this season, putting up some outstanding numbers in several categories. They finish up with a little CBA talk and what the changes are that there could be a lockout.

Sam Sits down with Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni to discuss James Harden and the state of the team, while Jeff has a lengthy discussion with Dr. David Bearman, one of the most clinically knowledgeable physicians in the U.S. in the field of medicinal marijuana.

Sam and Jeff take an inside look at the power rankings procedure and bring in an expert to break it all down. What goes into the weekly rankings and who votes. USA TODAY's AJ Neuhart-Keusch joins to throw one of the voters under the bus. Then Sam and Jeff take their weekly run through the NBA's top headlines. The Warriors are rolling, the Spurs look like the Spurs again. What's up in the East?

Not only is Los Angeles Clippers star Blake Griffin a great basketball player, but he is also a stand up comedian. USA TODAY's Sam Amick sat down with Griffin to talk about his comedy and the Clippers, who are off to a great start. Jeff Zillgitt then caught up with DeMar DeRozan of the Toronto Raptors, who is one of the leading scorers in the league and has his team near the top of the Eastern Conference.

NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt chat about the bogus rumor that Klay Thompson was going to be traded by the Golden State Warriors to the Boston Celtics. They talk about how important Thompson is to the team and why they have no plans to trade him. They also talk about the streaking Los Angeles Clippers and why things are going well early on for them, but can this team advance in the playoffs? That’s the big question for them. Sam and Jeff also talk about DeMar DeRozan who is off to a start that puts him into company of legends. He and the Toronto Raptors are playing well and if he continues to play the way he is, they could be a serious threat to the Cleveland Cavaliers. They also talk about how the New York Knicks are struggling early on, especially on defense.

One of the surprise teams early on in the NBA season is the Los Angeles Lakers. USA TODAY's Sam Amick caught up with first-year coach Luke Walton about the good start and the outlook. Walton talks about how the team has belief that they can compete, something they haven't done in a few seasons. One of the reasons, they discuss, is how he relates to a young group of players. They talk about the energy at Staples Center as Lakers fans are excited for this team.

NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt give their analysis of the early days of the NBA season. Are the Golden State Warriors overrated? Are the San Antonio Spurs underrated? What to make about the furious start to Russell Westbrook’s season? For the first time in a long time, there is a reason to watch the Philadelphia 76ers. Then, the Chicago Bulls, are they for real? They talk about everyone from LeBron James to Dwight Howard and what we could expect from some of the top players in the league moving forward.

Minnesota Timberwolves coach Tom Thibodeau joins Sam Amick to talk about his new team. They discuss how talented the young T'Wolves are, led by Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins and the outlook for their development. The coach tells Sam that he has mapped out the entire season's worth of practices and days off. A notorious workaholic and hard-driving coach, Thibodeau has apparently mellowed since his days in Chicago. They talk about what the coach did in his year off and how that helped him in this new season. Later in the show, Sam catches up with Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns to talk about how things have changed for the team since Thibodeau's arrival.

Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley joins USA TODAY's Sam Amick at a recent workout to talk about being the highest paid player in the NBA. They also talk about how strong the Western Conference has become and the changes in the Grizzlies for this season. Sam then chats with Brad Allen, executive chair of Next VR, a company that will be working with the NBA to show games in virtual reality this season.

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down who they think will win the individual awards. Names like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard are out there for most valuable player going into the season, and the guys give their pick on who takes it. They break down who wins coach of the year, there are a lot of good candidates for this award as well -- Brad Stevens, Steve Kerr, Gregg Popovich, Ty Lue ... but who wins? They also chat about defensive player of the year, sixth man and rookie of the year. Let us know if you agree.

You've done your homework, studied all the analytics and are ready for your fantasy basketball draft. But all things being equal, who should you take No. 1? Josh Lloyd from Basketball Monster and the Locked on Fantasy Basketball podcast joins USA TODAY's Kevin Spain to tell you. They break down the top five players, go over some positions, give you the sleepers and where you take them, and tell you some guys to avoid.

The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down each conference, looking at what teams win the divisions and who emerges to make it to the Finals. The guys then pick who they think will win the NBA Finals. Before they get into that, they discuss Jeff's upcoming cancer surgery, something he has talked about on a personal blog and one that folks around the NBA have heard about.

The A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt look ahead to some of the issues that could define the 2016-17 season, starting off with the dominance of the Golden State Warriors in a preseason game against the Los Angeles Clippers. They talk about how the NBA will be involved in some of the social issues and Sam’s interview with Andre Iguodala. They also hit some of the early injuries to Ben Simmons and the sad situation that is Chris Bosh and his blood clots.

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry sits down with USA TODAY’s Sam Amick to discuss how that Game 7 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals will drive him this season. He recalls what it was like after losing that final game and how he tries to keep from taking it home. He talks about what he thinks of his team’s signing of Kevin Durant.

Now that the Olympics are over, where do guys who have been successful in international play but not in the NBA go from here? USA TODAY's Sam Amick, who covered the games, discusses what's next for DeMarcus Cousins of the Sacramento Kings and Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks with USA TODAY's Kevin Spain. They talk about how USA Basketball performed in the run up to the gold medal. They also discuss how Kevin Durant got some quality time with new teammates Klay Thompson and Draymond Green.

With the Olympics underway, USA TODAY NBA reporters Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt take a look at USA Basketball and how they were pushed to the limit by Australia. The guys discuss how that game will be important to the Americans as they try to win another gold medal. They discuss the situation in Rio, trying to get to the various events and practices. They talk a little about the Olympics experience and the USA TODAY coverage of the games. Then they talk about some of the other sports they’ve been able to check out while they’re in Rio and how the USA Basketball team is just as star struck with some of the other super athletes as folks are to them. Sam and Jeff pull back the curtain a little and talk about what it’s like to cover these games, from the accommodations to the food. The guys then share a conversation with Kevin Durant and DeMar DeRozan.

Grant Hill and Melissa Proctor of the Atlanta Hawks join AJ Neuharth-Keusch of USA TODAY to talk about a project the team is doing to better connect with the community. Hill chats about what he has always thought being an owner would be and what is reality. With all the big money available, Neuharth-Keusch asks Hill if theres any chance of a comeback.

As much as any of the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson could feel the effect of Kevin Durant joining the team. USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick and Kevin Spain discuss how those two players' games can co-exist. Amick caught up with Thompson at a recent Team USA practice to get his thoughts on Durant joining the Warriors, how his game will be affected and how Durant's agent grilled guys before the signing.

Jerry Colangelo, director of USA Basketball joins A to Z guys Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick in Las Vegas to talk about the U.S. team as we get closer to the Rio Olympics. Colangelo breaks down the team, discussing the defensive ability and scoring. They talk about Carmelo Anthony’s decision to rejoin the team and how important it was to him. They talk about what it’s like trying to put the team together as some of the players dropped out. They discuss the Zika virus and other issues that Olympians have had to face and Colangelo talks about some issues they’ve faced in the past and how that was dealt with. They then break down the competition, looking at what countries might challenge USA in the tournament. They talk about how Draymond Green talked to the team about his incident in Michigan. They talk about how important it is for high profile athletes speaking out on social issues.

Nancy Armour, USA TODAY columnist, guest hosts and sits down with New Orleans Pelicans player Anthony Davis. They're at a Red Bull tournament and dunk contest event and Davis talks about how NBA players have the power to make a difference in their communities. He said it’s important for him to come back to his hometown of Chicago to work with some kids. They talk about the New Orleans Pelicans signing Terrence Jones during free agency that Davis had a hand in bringing in. They talk about the Pelicans’ first-round draft pick Buddy Hield, who Davis said that once he saw play at Oklahoma, told team officials they needed to draft Hield. They discuss the outlook for a Pelicans team that missed the playoffs a year after getting there in 2015. Davis talks about what he thinks of New Orleans. They discuss the Olympic team — a team Davis will miss because of injury — about how several guys have dropped off. He talks about how good the team can be.

Now that Kevin Durant has left Oklahoma City and joined the Golden State Warriors, where does that leave his former running mate Russell Westbrook? USA TODAY Sports Sam Amick breaks it all down with Anthony Slater, Thunder beat reporter for the Oklahoman. They discuss how Westbrook's role with the team might change and how Westbrook has told kids at a camp that he plans to be back next season. They discuss if the Thunder might decide to make a trade or if they're with him long term.

How did the Golden State Warriors land Kevin Durant in free agency? Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt, USA TODAY NBA reporters walk you through the behind the scenes and discuss the meetings that were had that led to his decision. They also discuss what backlash Durant might experience for leaving the Thunder, comparing it to what LeBron James went through when he left Cleveland to join the Miami Heat. They then talk about how the Warriors with Durant will play. They also discuss how things will be different for the Oklahoma City Thunder this season and how they will have some decisions to make for the future as well.

Los Angeles Clippers' Jamal Crawford joins NBA A to Z guy Sam Amick to break down free agency. As a player, Crawford has a unique perspective on where guys might go and what the market is for other players. They discuss Kevin Durant’s situation and how Durant will be talking to Crawford’s team. They break down some of the younger players and Crawford gives his list of guys he’d pursue if he was a general manager. Then they talk about how Crawford, a free agent himself, stays in playing shape even in his late 30s. They also talk about other guys, in particular Dwyane Wade, who is in Crawford’s age bracket and how he might fit in with the Miami Heat’s plans.

The Kevin Durant sweepstakes is on. Where will this summer's top free agent going to sign? The NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt take a deep dive into what the Oklahoma City Thunder star’s options are and when he might do. A team that could lose some players is the Toronto Raptors. What will they do? The guys discuss players like DeMar DeRozan and Bismarck Biyombo and what they might do. The discussion turns to some restricted free agents like Andre Drummond and Bradley Beal. What will Mike Conley do? He has been a perfect fit in Memphis, he helped create the style of play and the culture there with the Grizzlies, but does he like what he is seeing in terms of the future? Will Charlotte keep Nic Batum, a sneaky good player they picked up in a trade with Portland before last season. They get around to Miami to talk about Dwyane Wade and the businessman Hassan Whiteside. They break down how the Derrick Rose trade could help the New York Knicks in free agency. The chat about J.R. Smith and the fact that he is now, in fact, wearing a shirt.

The NBA A to Z guys wrap up the NBA season in the wee hours following Game 7 of the Finals. They break down how the Cleveland Cavaliers won an improbable title, coming from a 3-1 series deficit to beat the Warriors 4-3. They hit on the surprising good game from Kevin Love and how much Kyrie Irving came through for the Cavs. A big discussion is how LeBron James reasserted himself as the best player in the game, whereas Steph Curry had been the guy during the regular season. The are joined by SB Nation’s Paul Flannery to discuss Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue and how when he was with the Boston Celtics, everyone - included then head coach Doc Rivers - thought Lue was going to be a great coach. Then ESPN’s Rachel Nichols joins to talk about LeBron and how great this championship was for him.

In the late hours following Game 6, NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down what happened in the Cavaliers’ big win. The guys assess the problems the Warriors ran into and what they’ll need to address as the series heads back to Oakland for Game 7. LeBron James was again outstanding, getting 41 points for the second game in a row, but was equally good on the boards and as a passer. They break down the fact that the Warriors haven’t lost three games in a row since Steve Kerr took over as coach. For Cleveland to win the title, it’ll have to do that. The guys also discuss the Steph Curry incident at the end of the game where he threw his mouthpiece and hit a fan and whether he’ll be suspended. The guys make their prediction for Game 7.

From the parking lot of Oracle Arena, NBA A to Z's Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt breakdown the 41 point performances from Kyrie Irving and LeBron James. It was the first time teammates scored more than 40 points in an NBA Finals game. By winning Game 5, the Cavaliers send the series back to Cleveland for Game 6. Amick and Zillgitt make their picks for that game.

Remember Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson? Yeah, we do too. Especially after they broke out of their slump to lead the Golden State Warriors to an NBA Finals Game 4 win against the Cleveland Cavaliers. NBA A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break down this game and look ahead to Game 5 in Oakland. They also explore what might happen to Draymond Green after his scuffle with LeBron James.

So where did this Cleveland Cavaliers team come from? After looking overmatched in the first two games of the NBA Finals, the Cavs come alive and blow out the Golden State Warriors. A to Z guys Jeff Zillgitt and Sam Amick break it down from an empty Quicken Loans Arena. They also look ahead to Game 4 and explore how Cleveland can keep this run going.

Mychal Thompson, member of the Los Angeles Lakers in the Showtime era and father of Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors, agrees with his son that this Warriors team would beat his. Mychal Thompson joined Sam Amick for a quick chat about why and about how good this team is. Kevin Spain and Amick set it up on how good the Warriors have been and they discuss the travel woes of USA TODAY's Jeff Zillgitt.

Now that the Golden State Warriors are up 2-0 in the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt ask if the series is over. They discuss how poorly the Cavs have played in the series so far, how good the Warriors have been all season, and ponder how this series can be salvaged. They break down the matchups, look ahead to Game 3 in Cleveland and make their picks.

Game 1 of the NBA Finals goes to the Golden State Warriors in convincing fashion and the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break it down with USA TODAY's Kevin Spain. While the guys are talking, they are joined by ESPN's Amin Elhassan, who gives his opinion on why Cleveland just can't expect to win because Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving are back in the lineup. Then Amick, Zillgitt and Spain give their pick for Game 2.

The Cleveland Cavaliers get another shot at the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals and the A to Z guys Sam Amick and Jeff Zillgitt break it down. The guys look at the how the two teams got there and their season matchups. They make their predictions on who will win.

USA TODAY’s Michael Singer and draft guru Derek Bodner break down why the Philadelphia 76ers could very well take LSU’s Ben Simmons with the top pick in the upcoming NBA draft. They also break down the game of Duke’s Brandon Ingram and why he has an outside chance of moving ahead of Simmons. Looking at the Boston Celtics, they chat about what staying where they are could do for the team and the possibility of moving out and how that might work. They look back at the NBA combine and how it’s conducted and how team executives and scouts were able to see players in game action, measurables and interviews. They also hear from Henry Ellenson, Thon Maker and Jakob Poetl and break down their games and who’s game they to which they might compare.