Inside The 2025–26 NBA: Coaches, Contenders, And Chaos

Send us a textIf you love bold calls and smarter hoops talk, pull up a chair. We’re breaking down the 2025–26 NBA season with a roundtable that isn’t afraid to challenge the consensus: international stars versus U.S. headliners, why culture may beat hype this year, and how one coaching switch could redefine the Knicks’ identity. We get specific on who gains ground in the East, which West team can actually threaten OKC, and whether Denver’s quiet roster shifts leave Jokic carrying too much on his own.We start with the talent map, acknowledging a global top tier—Jokic, Giannis, Luka, SGA—while making the case for American stars who still change series: Edwards, Tatum, Mitchell, Brunson, and a rising Mobley. Then we tackle New York’s pivot from Tom Thibodeau to Mike Brown, exploring how more ball movement, heavy pick-and-roll, and better corner shooting could unlock a top-three seed, even if the defense dips. Across the East, the Cavs’ continuity earns real trust, Miami’s culture lurks, and Boston’s ceiling hangs on Tatum’s timeline. Expect razor-thin margins, ugly wins, and one play-in result that jolts a narrative.Out West, we lay out the case for OKC’s depth and versatility while flirting with Houston as the chaos team nobody wants in a seven-game series. The biggest potential letdown? Denver if injuries and rotation losses stack up, even with a transcendent Jokic. We go deep on MVP odds—Jokic’s inevitability, SGA’s two-way engine, Wembanyama’s leap if San Antonio wins enough, Luka’s best-case scenario with a stronger supporting cast—and we crown the coaches still setting the standard: Erik Spoelstra’s relentless culture and Steve Kerr’s adaptable offense.The fireworks arrive when we ask if LeBron is helping or hurting his legacy by staying this long. Stats say he’s still elite; narratives say endings matter. The truth, as always, lives in the details—and in the way his presence still reshapes every matchup. Come for the hot takes, stay for the nuance,Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Dubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseSweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textThe car is moving, the mics are live, and Big Energy fills the cabin. We welcome Steve from Cleveland’s southeast side—a former class clown turned campus champion—who proves that humor, heart, and hard work can live in the same room. We trade locker room stories and tight five timing, then unpack what makes a great set: reading the crowd, owning the mic, and turning a heckle into momentum. If you’ve ever wondered what the comedy grind really looks like beyond the hour on stage, this conversation pulls the curtain back on writing, booking, producing, and staying sharp when the room gets spicy.The heart of the ride dives into learning differences and inclusive education. We share a visual learner’s path through dyslexia and explore why “instruction” isn’t the same as “education.” Steve brings receipts from his work in multicultural affairs—building community, addressing food insecurity and housing stability, and asking the one question that changes a student’s day: “How are you doing today?” It’s a masterclass in belonging, practical resources, and the kind of care that helps young adults carry on with their studies and their lives.Then the story hits a different gear: performing for 400 incarcerated people and hearing that 20 minutes of jokes bought six months of peace. That moment reframes what “crushing” means and shows how laughter can be a service, not just a show. We wrap with creator ownership and a dream in motion: The Emerald Boot, a comedy club and kitchen blending Irish and Italian comfort with stage time for rising comics. There’s tactical advice on pop-ups, programming, and learning adjacent skills so you can build your own room—and hold the door open for others. Stick around for the Fast Fiddy Five and a final word on kindness, marriage, and money wisdom that actually travels.If this ride moved you, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop a quick review. Your support helps more people find the laughs, the lessons, anSubscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Dubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseSweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textA single visit changed everything. Jaleel Richardson walked Baldwin Wallace with his family on a bright day, talked wrestling with Coach Gibbs, spotted a comic shop across the street, and realized the fit was bigger than a roster spot. That decision took him from injured freshman to culture carrier, from athlete to advisor, and today he’s the first call for students trying to figure out where they belong.We dive into the heart of BW wrestling’s rise and what Jacket Tough Mentality really means when the room is young and the scoreboard is brutal. Jaleel shares how a thin upperclass core, consistent standards, and shared ownership turned losses into leverage, ultimately fueling OAC titles and national relevance. He also breaks down D1 vs D2 vs D3 with blunt respect: Division I depth is real, but the gap between Divisions II and III is thinner than most think—passion, volume, and competition in DIII can match or surpass what people assume. There’s a great story about teammate-turned-pro fighter Blake Perry that shows what relentless work, humility, and quiet confidence look like day to day.Away from the mat, the conversation shifts to life design. Jaleel explains admissions work from the ground level—college fairs, high school visits, and the steady guidance students and families need to turn options into clarity. He spotlights BW’s long-standing commitment to inclusion and belonging—Yellow Jacket for Life—plus outcomes that matter: high placement into jobs or grad school and a strong academic reputation built over decades. We talk about balancing a travel-heavy job with marriage and two small kids, relying on a strong partnership at home, and finishing a master’s degree with faith and focused effort. The throughline is simple and strong: culture beats slogans, consistency compounds, and belonging turns effort into growth.If you’re choosing a college, building a team culture, or trying to juggle ambition with family, this conversation offersSubscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Dubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseSweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textOur annual All Things Fall episode kicks off with our panel of guests representing greater Northeast Ohio while Mike represents Central Ohio in Columbus. This panel of contributors breaks down their opinions of last falls exceptionally warm weather and how nice a warm fall can be. They dive into deep discussions about pumpkin spice, corn fields, and their thoughts on family pictures in the fall!Make sure you get your notebooks out as the guests break it down on the best fall locations to check out and visit. Are you a fan of cold or warm apple cider? This brings a lively debate from our panelists as well.Whether you are a die hard lover of fall or someone who just cherishes cool mornings and autumn leaves, this show is one you want to check out and be sure not to miss! Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textEver wonder how your earliest experiences shape your entire worldview? Steve Scheidt knows firsthand. After spending his first five years in Nairobi, Kenya, his return to the United States came with a startling question at the Chicago Zoo: "Why are all the animals behind bars?" Having only known wildlife in their natural habitat, Steve's perspective was forever changed by these formative experiences.From those unique beginnings, Steve shares his journey through athletics, education, and family life that led him to his current role at Case Western Reserve University's Weatherhead School of Management. His story weaves through college rowing practices at dawn, the warmth of Italian family gatherings centered around food, and the unexpected path from journalism student to education professional.The conversation takes a profound turn when Steve reflects on parenting and the accelerating nature of time as we age. "You don't want to be the person saying 'I wish I would have done that,'" he advises, emphasizing the critical importance of being fully present in each moment with loved ones. His observations about how technology affects today's students compared to previous generations offers thought-provoking insights about connection in the digital age.Throughout the episode, Steve's warmth and wisdom shine through, particularly when discussing the value of meaningful relationships and genuine human connection. His final message about kindness and inclusion serves as a powerful reminder that how we treat others ultimately defines our legacy as we measure our lives not in months, but in decades.Join us for this heartfelt conversation about worldview, presence, and the moments that truly matter. Whether you're navigating career choices, parenting challenges, or simply seeking to live more intentionally, Steve's journey offers valuable perspective that will resonate long after the episode ends.Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Dubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseSweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textEver wondered who orchestrates the complex symphony of college athletics? In this riveting conversation with TJ Shelton, Director of Athletics and Chair of the Physical Education Department at Case Western Reserve University, we pull back the curtain on collegiate sports administration and discover the invisible architecture that supports student-athletes.TJ brings a wealth of experience to our discussion, having spent 15 years at Ohio State University before taking the helm at Case Western in 2022. What makes his perspective particularly valuable is his experience across both Division I and Division III athletics, highlighting the unique aspects of each environment. At Case Western, coaches don't just coach—they teach as faculty members, creating a seamless integration between academics and athletics that defines the Division III experience.The conversation takes us through the daily challenges of athletic administration, from coordinating travel for multiple teams to ensuring proper medical support for student-athletes. "You're kind of like officials," TJ explains. "If you're part of the game, then something went wrong." This insight perfectly captures the essence of effective athletic leadership—creating environments where athletes can focus entirely on performance while administrators handle everything else. We explore how hosting NCAA championships requires meticulous planning, from managing team buses to coordinating facilities, all with the goal of allowing student-athletes to "sleep in their own beds" during important competitions.Beyond the logistics, TJ shares heartfelt reflections on how sports build character and prepare young people for life's challenges. As both an administrator and a father, he's witnessed firsthand how athletics instill accountability, teamwork, and work ethic that translate directly to success in academics and careers. For listeners considering colleges for themselves or their children, TJ offers compelliSubscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Dubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseSweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textFootball season is upon us, and the Ride Home Rants podcast has assembled a passionate panel of fans to break down everything you need to know heading into kickoff. This lively roundtable discussion dives deep into the most compelling storylines across the NFL landscape, from coaching hot seats to championship aspirations.Our panel doesn't hold back when assessing which coaches are feeling the heat this season. Kevin Stefanski finds himself atop the danger list despite his previous Coach of the Year honors, while even Mike Tomlin's remarkable streak of winning seasons doesn't shield him from scrutiny in championship-obsessed Pittsburgh. Meanwhile, Dan Campbell's culture transformation in Detroit has earned him the coolest seat in the coaching fraternity.The quarterback conversation ignites spirited debate as we evaluate the worst QB rooms in football (sorry, Saints and Browns fans) and make bold MVP predictions. Could this be Baker Mayfield's revenge tour in Tampa Bay? Will Joe Burrow return to video-game form? Is rookie Jayden Daniels poised to shock the league? From Aaron Rodgers' Pittsburgh potential to CJ Stroud's continued ascension in Houston, we examine every angle of the league's most important position.Super Bowl predictions range from the heartwarming (Buffalo vs. Detroit, two franchises that have never won it all) to the personal (a Steelers-Buccaneers showdown that would tear our host apart). We also spotlight teams ready to make significant leaps forward, with Jacksonville, New England, Las Vegas, and Chicago earning consideration as this year's surprise packages.Whether you're a die-hard football fanatic or just getting acquainted with the sport, this preview show delivers passionate analysis, friendly banter, and bold predictions that will enhance your enjoyment of the upcoming season. Join us for this annual tradition as we kick off another unforgettable NFL campaign!Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Dubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseSweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textThree seasoned gamblers pull back the velvet rope on what really happens at casinos across America. From the glittering floors of Las Vegas to regional venues like Erie's Presque Isle and Mountaineer in West Virginia, our guests share unfiltered stories from their collective decades at the tables.Blackjack emerges as the unanimous favorite game, though as Bill admits, "they take all my money most of the time I show up there, and I have a blast doing it." The panel doesn't hold back when discussing slot machines, with John calling them "a poor person's game" while explaining why the programmed odds make them a losing proposition long-term – though Mike shares a surprising $150 win from his very first spin.The conversation reveals fascinating insights about casino culture beyond gambling. All three guests appreciate how venues have evolved into complete entertainment destinations featuring everything from comedy shows to MMA fights. John reminisces about seeing George Carlin perform in Vegas, while Bill highlights Turning Stone Casino in upstate New York as the perfect blend of gambling, golf, and fine dining.When the discussion turns to casino cuisine, the recommendations range from Erie's midnight buffet to the steakhouse at Hollywood Casino in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, which Bono declares serves "the best steak I've ever had." Throughout their stories, one truth becomes clear: the real value in casino visits often comes from the overall experience rather than whatever happens at the tables.Whether you're a seasoned gambler or simply curious about what happens behind those flashing lights, this episode offers an entertaining look at casino culture through the eyes of those who've lived it. Ready to hear the real odds on your favorite games and discover which casino might be worth your next visit?Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREESweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Tactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseDeemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textGames reveal who we truly are. In this lively, sometimes heated conversation with guests Matt Landowski and Tony Bogan, we explore the classic pastimes that define our social gatherings and family reunions.The humble board game sparks surprising passion as we debate the merits of simplicity versus strategy. Matt champions tic-tac-toe for its accessibility and Tony confesses his complicated relationship with Monopoly—a game that simultaneously tops his "favorite" and "most hated" lists. We explore how these tabletop classics have evolved over generations, with Monopoly's marketing genius creating everything from NFL editions to electronic banking versions.When the conversation shifts outdoors, volleyball emerges as the unexpected star. Our guests share stories of intense backyard matches complete with celebratory spikes, trash talk, and the occasional bloody nose. The unanimous preference for beach over grass volleyball (despite finding sand in unexpected places months later) reveals how we're willing to sacrifice comfort for the perfect playing experience.Card games provide some of the episode's most revealing moments, especially when discussing Cards Against Humanity's ability to transform gatherings. The shocking revelation about Uno potentially becoming a Vegas casino game prompts predictions of heated confrontations on the gaming floor—highlighting how even the simplest games can ignite our competitive spirits.Whether you're a strategic chess player, a casual cornhole enthusiast, or someone who's flipped a Monopoly board in frustration, this episode celebrates the universal truth that games don't just fill time—they reveal character, create memories, and sometimes even test relationships. Join us for laughs, revelations, and perhaps a new appreciation for the games that bring us together.Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Sweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Send us a textWhat makes a truly great athlete? Is it dominance in a single sport, versatility across multiple disciplines, or possessing physical gifts that defy normal human limitations? In this thought-provoking roundtable, our panel of sports experts – Matt, Mike, and TJ – tackle the fascinating question of who deserves recognition as the greatest athletes of all time.The conversation begins with a surprising debate about which professional sports league features the most athletic players. While the NFL receives its expected praise for specialized athleticism, the panel makes a compelling case for NHL players deserving more recognition. As our host notes, "If you put NFL players in skates, most of them fall on their face," highlighting how the coordination and balance required for hockey represents a unique athletic challenge that's often underappreciated.From Michael Phelps to Wilt Chamberlain, the discussion examines what separates merely excellent athletes from the truly transcendent ones. Chamberlain's case proves particularly fascinating – beyond his NBA dominance, he became a professional volleyball player, marathon runner in his 50s, and was considered stronger than both Andre the Giant and Arnold Schwarzenegger during his Hollywood days. These cross-discipline achievements raise important questions about how we define athletic greatness.The panel also explores the underrated athleticism of professional boxers, Olympic wrestlers, and even WWE performers. As TJ notes about boxers, "The mental toughness it takes to be a boxer, to be able to just do that, to be able to say, 'Hey, my body's on the line here and I'm sitting here trying to defend myself and also knock out the guy that's in front of me'" represents a unique combination of physical and psychological demands that few other sports require.Whether you're passionate about sports history or simply curious about human physical potential, this conversation will challenge your thiSubscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Dubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseSweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy