From SuperSonics to SportsCenter: Kenny Mayne & Linda Cohn talk NBA in Seattle, ESPN and Their Start in the PNW

On this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny Ball sits down with former NBA players Antonio Davis and Eldridge Recasner to talk about their connections to Seattle, the legacy of the Sonics, Gary Payton, Green Lake, and their work with Legends of Basketball. Eldridge shares stories from his time at the University of Washington, playing pickup basketball at Green Lake and the people and places that helped shape his connection to Seattle. Antonio talks about growing up in Oakland, his lifelong connection with Gary Payton, and how that relationship helped shape his own basketball journey. The conversation also touches on the Legends of Basketball organization, the importance of giving former players opportunities to stay connected to the game and their communities, the Seattle Storm and WNBA, and passing the love of basketball down to the next generation. And, of course, we talk about the Sonics coming back. Antonio shares what he's hearing about a potential 2028-29 return, while both guys imagine what that first game back in Seattle could look and feel like. Plus, Eldridge gives a special shoutout to Dale Ellis, Xavier McDaniel and Tom Chambers, and makes the case for bringing some of those Sonics legends back to Seattle when the team returns. Subscribe to Iconic Sonics for more Seattle basketball stories, Sonics history and NBA expansion updates. On this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny Ball sits down with former NBA players Antonio Davis and Eldridge Recasner to talk about their connections to Seattle, the legacy of the Sonics, Gary Payton, Green Lake, and their work with Legends of Basketball. Eldridge shares stories from his time at the University of Washington, playing pickup basketball at Green Lake and the people and places that helped shape his connection to Seattle. Antonio talks about growing up in Oakland, his lifelong connection with Gary Payton, and how that relationship helped shape his own basketball journey. The conversation also touches on the Legends of Basketball organization, the importance of giving former players opportunities to stay connected to the game and their communities, the Seattle Storm and WNBA, and passing the love of basketball down to the next generation. And, of course, we talk about the Sonics coming back. Antonio shares what he's hearing about a potential 2028-29 return, while both guys imagine what that first game back in Seattle could look and feel like. Plus, Eldridge gives a special shoutout to Dale Ellis, Xavier McDaniel and Tom Chambers, and makes the case for bringing some of those Sonics legends back to Seattle when the team returns. Subscribe to Iconic Sonics for more Seattle basketball stories, Sonics history and NBA expansion updates. Follow us: Instagram: @iconics_sonics  https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ TikTok: @iconics_sonics https://www.tiktok.com/@iconic_sonics Presented by Rise Above and The Edgewater Hotel. Music by Oble Reed https://www.instagram.com/oblereed/ 00:00 Intro + NBA Expansion Update 03:29 Antonio Davis & Eldridge Recasner Join the Show 04:34 What Does Seattle Basketball Mean to You? 08:27 Finding a Home in Seattle 11:31 Green Lake, Shawn Kemp & Seattle Pickup Basketball 13:28 Antonio Davis' Oakland Connection to Gary Payton 20:30 Eldridge Recasner's First Impressions of Gary Payton 23:00 The Oakland-to-Seattle Basketball Connection 24:30 Basketball Legends Who Inspired Them 27:00 From NBA Players to Legends of Basketball 30:30 Keeping the Sonics Spirit Alive 31:31 Antonio Davis' 2028-29 Sonics Prediction 33:31 Seattle Storm, WNBA & Passing the Torch 37:10 Who Should Be Courtside at the First Sonics Game? 38:18 Dale Ellis, Sonics Legends & the Return to Seattle 44:31 Xavier McDaniel, Tom Chambers & the Sonics' 1980s Era 45:52 The Mission of Legends of Basketball 47:12 Green Lake, Seattle & What's Next 48:43 Outro

Shawn Kemp sits down with Iconic Sonics for a conversation filled with stories from his playing days that you've probably never heard before. We talk about Shawn's case for the Basketball Hall of Fame, the story behind his iconic sneaker deal, some of his favorite memories from his career, his life in Seattle, and plenty more. We also brought in fans who had their own Shawn Kemp stories to share, making this a special celebration of one of the most beloved players in Seattle sports history. A huge thank you to Swinomish Casino & Lodge for hosting us and for the incredible hospitality. CREDITS Wesley Holboy, owner of Holboy Entertainment Amirah Holboy, lead photographer for Holboy Entertainment Madeline Down, editing and production Michael Chang, production assistant and BTS footage Brett Goldberg, executive producer Mike Gastineau, guest host Danny Ball, host And, of course, Shawn Kemp. Thank you to everyone who helped make this episode happen, and to all the fans who came through and shared their stories. Follow Iconic Sonics for more conversations, stories and memories from Seattle basketball: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iconic_sonics  

Two of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting are together on Iconic Sonics. Kenny Mayne and Linda Cohn join Danny Ball for one of the funniest episodes we've ever recorded, sharing unforgettable stories from their journeys from Seattle to SportsCenter. From Linda's first live TV shot at a Seattle SuperSonics game to Kenny's signature humor, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and incredible behind-the-scenes stories. The conversation covers the magic of the SuperSonics, why Climate Pledge Arena is one of the NBA's premier venues, their favorite Sonics of all time, classic SportsCenter moments, what it would mean to bring the Sonics back to Seattle, and an entertaining fantasy draft where they build the ultimate 3-on-3 basketball team using ESPN, NBA, and WNBA personalities. If you love Seattle sports, SportsCenter memories, or simply want to hear Kenny Mayne keep everyone laughing, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Be sure to check out Hoops on the Pier presented by Rise Above from July 31st to Aug. 2nd! Hosted by Danny Ball (@itsdannyball) Edited by @pnw_rollers Produced by Brett Goldberg Guests: Linda Cohn & Kenny Mayne Follow Iconic Sonics: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iconic_sonics

Former Seahawk, CBS host, lifelong Sonics fan and Seattle native Nate Burleson joins Iconic Sonics to relive some incredible Seattle sports memories. Danny Ball is joined by special guest co-host West Coast Willie, whose deep knowledge of Seattle sports helps bring out some unbelievable stories from Nate. Nate shares stories about growing up as a diehard Sonics fan, meeting Xavier McDaniel and Dale Ellis as a kid, buying season tickets after signing with the Seahawks, watching Kevin Durant's rookie season from just a few rows off the court, and why Gary Payton remains one of his all-time favorite athletes. He also takes us behind the scenes of the Seahawks with stories about Mike Holmgren, Dion Branch, Randy Moss, Mike Tice, Walter Jones, Brett Favre, and the motivation that fueled one of the best seasons of his NFL career. Plus: Why LeBron James is his GOAT The 1996 NBA Finals Seattle's underrated sports culture His dream of becoming part of the Sonics ownership group Why he believes Seattle never gets the respect it deserves Presented by Everett 3 on 3.

Presented by Everett 3 on 3 Seattle basketball reporter Percy Allen joins the Iconic Sonics Podcast for a conversation that spans the past, present and future of hoops in the Pacific Northwest. We look back at the 2008 NBA Draft, the final draft in SuperSonics history, and revisit the selection of Russell Westbrook with the fourth overall pick. Percy also shares his perspective on the Sonics leaving Seattle 18 years ago, what that moment was like to cover and how the city has continued to rally around basketball ever since. We also dive into the latest around the Seattle Storm, the local basketball scene and where Seattle hoops stands today. This episode is presented by Everett 3 on 3, one of the Northwest's premier basketball tournaments. Grab your friends, build your squad and sign up to compete! Follow us on social: Instagram: @iconic_sonics X: @iconic_sonics TikTok: @iconic_sonics  

On this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny Ball sits down with longtime NBA executive, agent, and Summer League pioneer Warren LeGarie for an unforgettable conversation packed with Seattle basketball history. Before the interview, Danny reacts to Adam Silver's comments on expansion before the start of the NBA Finals and discusses why Melinda French Gates joining One Roof Sports & Entertainment could be a major step toward NBA expansion returning to Seattle. Then Warren shares stories from across his legendary career, including how George Karl unexpectedly became head coach of the Seattle SuperSonics, why Shawn Kemp lived with him before entering the NBA, the culture that made Seattle one of the league's favorite cities, and how NBA Summer League grew into one of basketball's biggest annual events. Plus, Warren weighs in on NBA expansion, Las Vegas vs. Seattle, what makes a great owner, and why the Sonics still belong in the NBA. Follow us on social: X: https://x.com/Iconic_sonics IG: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/

Danny Ball is joined by Alex and Ciara from Flagrant Magazine for one of the most fun episodes of Iconic Sonics yet. Before getting into WNBA predictions and storylines, Danny highlights a cool Seattle basketball connection: both teams in the NBA Finals feature former Seattle SuperSonics players on their coaching staffs, proving the Sonics legacy continues to show up throughout the league. The crew previews the WNBA season with early predictions and hot takes, debates MVP and Rookie of the Year races, talks Paige Bueckers, expansion teams, tunnel fits, and the latest from Flagrant Magazine. Expect hoops takes, social media nonsense, WNBA discourse and plenty of moments that completely go off the rails. Subscribe to Flagrant Mag: https://www.flagrantmag.com/ Subscribe to Iconic Sonics for more Sonics content, Seattle basketball stories and interviews. Follow us on social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ X: https://x.com/Iconic_sonics

On this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny Ball is joined by Jason Quick and Seattle NBA fan leader Cedric Walker for a powerful conversation about ownership, history, and the ongoing fight to bring basketball back to Seattle. The episode dives into the controversial comparison between Tom Dundon and Clay Bennett, unpacking what it means for fans when ownership decisions clash with community loyalty and an update on the current NBA playoffs. Jason Quick brings a seasoned journalist's perspective and has idea about Dame Lillard's return. Then Cedric Walker speaks to the passion and mission of Seattle NBA Fans. This is more than just a conversation about the past. It is about accountability, the future of the NBA, and why Seattle continues to push for the return of the Sonics. Be sure to like, comment and subscribe! Follow Iconic Sonics for more updates on NBA expansion, the Sonics return and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconics_sonics/ X: https://x.com/iconics_sonics

On this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny Ball sits down with former Seattle SuperSonics guard Damien Wilkins for a deep dive into one of the most emotional eras in Seattle basketball history and what could come next. Damien reflects on his time in Seattle, including unforgettable moments in the green and gold, playing alongside a young Kevin Durant, and what made the Sonics culture so special. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his career, including his 41-point performance and life as an NBA player in the city. The conversation also turns to the future. With NBA expansion rumors heating up, Damien gives his perspective on Seattle's chances of landing a team, how he would build a roster, and why the city is more than ready for the league's return. Plus, insight into today's NBA, player development, and what makes the modern game so different from the Sonics era. Follow Iconic Sonics for more updates: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconics_sonics/ X: https://x.com/iconics_sonics

In this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny sits down with former Sonics GM Bob Whitsitt for a rare, in-depth conversation about one of the most important eras in Seattle basketball history. Bob breaks down the news around expansion, how to an expansion team can contdend for a title very quickly and more. He also details building one of the first NBA practice facilities while he was in Seattle, building competitive teams and the realities of running an NBA franchise. Bob shares firsthand insight into the decisions, challenges, and moments that shaped the Sonics. This episode also comes at a pivotal time, with the NBA expected to vote on expansion just days after this recording. As Seattle moves closer to potentially getting a team again, understanding the past has never been more important. Danny also notes that earlier this week, Brad Townsend joined the show ahead of All-Star Weekend with breaking news on expansion momentum, making this moment feel bigger than ever for Sonics fans. 0:00 – Intro + Why This Is a Huge Moment for Sonics Fans 0:30 – Upcoming NBA Expansion Vote (March 24–25) 1:00 – Introducing Bob Whitsitt (Former Sonics GM) 2:30 – Building the Sonics: Front Office Perspective 6:00 – What It Was Like Running an NBA Team 10:00 – Key Decisions That Shaped the Franchise 14:00 – The Business Side of Basketball 18:00 – Challenges the Sonics Faced in Seattle 22:00 – Looking Back on the Sonics Era 26:00 – Lessons From the NBA Front Office 30:00 – What Seattle Needs for an NBA Return 34:00 – Final Thoughts + Legacy of the Sonics If you care about the return of the Sonics, this is essential listening because the future of Seattle basketball starts with understanding its past, present and future. Follow Iconic Sonics for more updates: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconics_sonics/ X: https://x.com/iconics_sonics