On The Ball with Ric Bucher

The Chet Holmgren Pile-On Has Gone Too Far | Why OKC Should Ignore the Noise Jun 4, 2026 23:25 Did one bad Game 7 suddenly turn Chet Holmgren into a $240 million mistake?In this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher pushes back against the growing wave of criticism directed at Holmgren after the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder fell to the San Antonio Spurs in seven games. Ric explains why Holmgren's struggles were predictable, why comparing him to Victor Wembanyama misses the point, a

Is Victor Wembanyama Ready to Dethrone OKC? Plus: Why LeBron’s Retirement Could Leave ESPN With a Bigger Problem Than the NBA May 29, 2026 25:25 The Western Conference Finals have become a referendum on two very different paths to greatness. In this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher breaks down why the Oklahoma City Thunder's organizational depth is colliding with Victor Wembanyama’s singular brilliance—and why Game 7 may reveal just how close the Spurs really are to becoming the NBA’s next powerhouse.Ric also tackles the growing outrage

Wembanyama’s Rise, SGA’s Whistle, and ESPN’s Dangerous Line: Ric Bucher on What the NBA Playoffs Are Exposing May 24, 2026 25:41 Ric Bucher checks in from Athens, Greece, where the EuroLeague Final Four is giving him a global view of basketball — while the NBA Conference Finals reveal what truly separates contenders from pretenders. Ric breaks down why the Thunder-Spurs matchup is exposing the value of roster construction, coaching adjustments and Victor Wembanyama’s accelerated greatness, while the Knicks-Cavs series shows

Giannis Trade Noise, LeBron Lakers Drama, Wemby’s Playoff Edge & the SGA Foul-Baiting Myth May 14, 2026 24:01 Ric Bucher breaks down why the latest Giannis Antetokounmpo trade reports may be more manufactured NBA noise than actual movement, what the newest LeBron James-Lakers tension says about his future in Los Angeles, and why the 76ers’ Joel Embiid problem may be impossible to solve.Ric also takes on the outrage over Victor Wembanyama’s flagrant foul, explains why Wemby’s playoff composure is already s

NBA Playoffs Expose the Truth: Ric Bucher on Celtics Collapse, Anthony Edwards’ Maturity, Wemby’s Rise & Why the Lakers Are Done May 7, 2026 38:29 Ric Bucher breaks down why the NBA playoffs are basketball’s ultimate truth serum — exposing flaws, habits, maturity and roster weaknesses that the regular season can hide. Ric dives deep into the shocking Celtics collapse against the 76ers, why Joe Mazzulla actually overachieved with Boston’s roster, and how Philadelphia finally found the formula to weaponize Joel Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese M

NBA Playoff Chaos, LeBron-Bronny Hype & the Ring Culture Problem Apr 30, 2026 26:15 Ric Bucher breaks down a dizzying NBA playoff picture, from the Thunder and Spurs looking like rising Western powers to the Trail Blazers once again appearing trapped behind better-timed contenders. Ric also explains why building around international stars such as Giannis Antetokounmpo may be the safest path for NBA franchises in today’s trade-demand era.Then Ric digs into why ring culture has war

Why Cooper Flagg Should Win Rookie of the Year, Why NBA Threads Gets It Wrong, and Why Steve Kerr Deserves More Respect Apr 23, 2026 31:18 In this episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric takes aim at what he sees as a flawed NBA Rookie of the Year narrative, explaining why Cooper Flagg’s all-around burden and production for the Dallas Mavericks should outweigh the case for Kon Knueppel and Charlotte’s improved record. He then connects that debate to one of the most controversial award decisions in league history: LeBron James vs.

LaMelo Crossed the Line, and Kobe Is Being Erased? Ric Bucher on the NBA’s Replay Failure and the False Revision of Bryant’s Legacy Apr 16, 2026 25:11 In this episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric takes aim at two issues he believes reveal everything wrong with today’s NBA conversation. First, he breaks down the Charlotte Hornets’ controversial overtime win over the Miami Heat and why LaMelo Ball’s takedown of Bam Adebayo should have led to an ejection, not a postgame review. Ric explains why the NBA’s obsession with protocol over fairness

Has American Basketball Lost Its Edge? Why the NBA’s Best Players Aren’t American Anymore | On The Ball with Ric Bucher Apr 9, 2026 32:09 Has the NBA quietly stopped being an American-dominated league? In this episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric dives into a provocative question that cuts to the heart of modern basketball: why are the league’s most dominant, most disciplined and most impactful stars now coming from everywhere but the United States?From Dirk Nowitzki breaking the Heatles, to Luka Doncic humiliating Phoenix,

Breaking Down the NBA MVP Race Chaos — and Why Billy Donovan to UNC Makes No Sense Apr 2, 2026 24:39 With the NBA regular season winding down, Ric Bucher dives into the most complicated MVP ballot he can remember — and explains why this year’s race is far messier than a simple Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Nikola Jokic debate. Ric makes the case for why voters are facing a legitimate five-name traffic jam, with Victor Wembanyama, Jaylen Brown, Cade Cunningham and Luka Doncic all forcing their way i

March Madness’s Most Insulting Tradition? Ric Bucher Says Coaches Have Lost the Plot Mar 26, 2026 29:21 On this episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric briefly touches on LeBron James, the Lakers’ playoff positioning, Cade Cunningham’s award eligibility, and the chaos brewing in the final stretch of the NBA season — but then takes a hard turn into a bigger issue exposed by March Madness.Ric argues that one of college basketball’s most celebrated traditions — emptying the bench in the final secon

The NBA Whistle Ric Wants Abolished — And Why Lu Dort Isn’t the Real Problem Mar 19, 2026 31:36 On this episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric dives into two things he’d love to see abolished from today’s NBA: the whistle-hunting blocking foul and the blind loyalty that turns every fan debate into tribal warfare.Ric opens by saluting the WNBA players’ new CBA breakthrough, explaining why tying salaries to gross revenue instead of net revenue could be a game-changing template for all pro

Bam Adebayo’s 83-Point Circus EXPOSED: Why NBA Stats Don’t Tell the Truth | On The Ball with Ric Bucher Mar 12, 2026 32:48 On this episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric digs into the fallout from Bam Adebayo’s shocking 83-point explosion against the Washington Wizards — and explains why the number itself is far less important than how it happened.Ric argues that the game was less a historic masterpiece than a glaring example of how stat-chasing, context-free analysis, and modern NBA narratives can distort realit

The NBA's Tanking Problem Has a Mathematical Solution — But Owners Won't Like It | On The Ball with Ric Bucher Mar 5, 2026 45:58 Is the NBA draft lottery rigged to reward losing? Veteran NBA insider Ric Bucher sits down with Dr. TJ Highley, Associate Professor of Math & Computer Science at LaSalle University, who has developed a groundbreaking anti-tanking formula that could change the NBA forever — and it doesn't involve eliminating the draft.Highley's COLA (Carryover Lottery Allocation) system strips tanking of its in

You Want Fair? That’s Not How Pro Sports Works Feb 26, 2026 26:50 Fans don’t just want their teams to win anymore — they want the sport itself to be flawless: perfect coaching, perfect officiating, perfect behavior, perfect “fairness,” perfect outcomes. In this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher explains why that expectation is a fantasy… and why technology, replay, and analytics have actually expanded the outrage economy instead of eliminating “human error.”Ric

Did Victor Wembanyama Save the NBA All-Star Game… While Adam Silver Looks Weak on Tanking? | On The Ball with Ric Bucher Feb 19, 2026 29:26 NBA All-Star Weekend was this close to being declared dead—until Victor Wembanyama flipped the entire vibe, shamed everybody into competing, and turned a “jumped-the-shark” event into must-watch hoops. On this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher breaks down why the All-Star turnaround matters, what it revealed about the league’s real hierarchy, and why Adam Silver’s public tough talk (including the

NBA Tanking Panic Is Fake? The Truth Teams Don’t Want You to Hear Feb 12, 2026 23:32 Is NBA tanking really ruining basketball — or is the outrage just noise?In this solo episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric dismantles the modern hysteria around tanking and explains why what fans think is a crisis is actually a decades-old strategy baked into the league’s business model.Drawing on 30+ years covering the NBA, Ric reveals:Why tanking isn’t new — and never stoppedHow the media

NBA “Player Media” Is Loud… and Often Wrong — Plus the Cooper Flagg Pile-On, Mavs Fallout & Trade Deadline Truths | On The Ball Feb 5, 2026 29:04 Everyone says sports coverage is too negative — and the “fix” was supposed to be ex-players taking over the microphone. So why does it feel like the takes are hotter, harsher, and sloppier than ever?In this episode, Ric digs into the hypocrisy of modern sports debate culture: endless era wars, manufactured arguments that can’t be settled, and the engagement-driven “hamster wheel” that turns player

Toronto’s Secret Weapon Isn’t Talent — It’s Trust Jan 29, 2026 30:30 Toronto just did something that should scare the league: they’re winning big without a single “ball-stopper,” and the vibes aren’t a gimmick — they’re the engine. On this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher breaks down why the Raptors’ pregame “house party” bench routine and locker-room freedom aren’t cute… they’re culture, and culture becomes chemistry, and chemistry becomes wins.Ric contrasts tha

NBA = IBA? All-Star Voting Exposes a Global League — and an American Backlash Jan 22, 2026 28:46 The NBA isn’t “American property” anymore — and this year’s All-Star voting made that impossible to ignore. Ric Bucher breaks down why the top fan vote-getters being international stars isn’t a problem… it’s the point. But there’s a twist: the players’ vote tells a very different story than the fans and media, raising an uncomfortable question about who the league’s real hierarchy respects.Then: R

All-Star Voting Is About to Expose the LeBron Reality + Why the Jaguars Presser Blew Up | On The Ball Jan 15, 2026 29:56 This episode of On The Ball hits two hot-button topics with one throughline: who gets to shape the story—players, fans, media… or the loudest clip on social media.First, Ric breaks down his NBA All-Star starting fives and why this year’s ballot was shockingly simple—while the bigger question looms: what happens if LeBron James doesn’t “make it” the traditional way? Ric digs into the realities of f

Trae Young to the Wizards?! Why the Hawks “Supermax No” Says Everything About Today’s NBA + Kerr, LeBron, and the Next Face of the League Jan 9, 2026 38:37 In this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher unloads on the NBA’s most uncomfortable truths: why “tanking” is getting harder to justify, why a rumored Trae Young-to-Washington deal would be less about basketball and more about money + leverage, and why the supermax era is changing (maybe forever). Ric also tackles the loudest Warriors debate—why fans coming for Steve Kerr are missing the point—and e

The NBA’s 65-Game Rule Is Doing Its Job — Stop Trying to Save Stars Jan 2, 2026 27:12 Nikola Jokic goes down with a knee injury — and suddenly the volume spikes to kill the NBA’s 65-game minimum for MVP and All-NBA eligibility. Coincidence? Or the latest example of the league (and its loudest voices) trying to rewrite the definition of greatness in real time?In the first On The Ball episode of 2026, Ric Bucher explains why the 65-game rule shouldn’t be rescinded just because a supe

The Poison Pill of Aging Champions: Why the Lakers & Warriors Can’t Quit Their Cores Dec 27, 2025 27:36 The NBA loves a fairytale ending — legends riding off into the sunset with one last ring. But the reality is harsher: aging championship stars can become a “poison pill” for franchises, locking teams into oversized salaries, outdated roster-building, and stalled player development.In this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher breaks down why it’s so difficult to break up a title-winning core — and wh

When Championships Become the Only Measure: Steve Kerr, Steph Curry & NBA Expectations Gone Wrong Dec 19, 2025 31:11 In this double-shot episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric takes on two of the NBA’s most emotionally charged debates: Is Steve Kerr really holding the Golden State Warriors back — and why has championship-or-bust become the only standard by which star players are judged?With Warriors fans calling for Steve Kerr’s firing, Ric breaks down why blaming the coach misses the bigger picture. From l

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is NOT a “Free-Throw Merchant” | Thunder 23–1 Start, MVP Race & Why the Jordan vs LeBron Debate is Broken Dec 11, 2025 25:39 Welcome back to On The Ball with Ric Bucher on the United Wecast Network.In this episode, Ric dives deep into why calling Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a “free-throw merchant” is one of the dumbest narratives in the league right now — and how it’s overshadowing a potentially historic season from both SGA and the 23–1 Oklahoma City Thunder.🔥 In this episode:How the Thunder’s 23–1 start (at time of record

Why the Lakers Are On Thin Ice: LeBron’s Disconnect, Luka’s Usage Problem & the Trade Value Collapse of Ja/LaMelo/Trae Dec 4, 2025 29:27 In this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher delivers one of his most detailed breakdowns yet on the state of the Los Angeles Lakers, the viral moment that exposed LeBron James’ disconnect, and why their chemistry is quietly fraying beneath the surface.Ric walks through the full context behind the clip of LeBron ignoring a play call, Luka Doncic’s confusion, and JJ Redick’s stunned timeout. He expla

A Warriors-Kings Trade That Makes Sense and Payback In Effect Nov 26, 2025 25:13 In this episode of On The Ball with Ric Bucher, Ric dissects the rumor of renewed future trade talks between two struggling teams, the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings, that would involve Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield and Moses Moody for Kings All-Star forward Domantas Sabonis and promising young guard Keon Ellis. Ric explains why the deal would be a slam dunk for the Warriors but makes

What LeBron's Return Means for the Lakers & an Anthony Davis Reality Check Nov 20, 2025 29:35 In this episode of On The Ball, Ric Bucher breaks down LeBron James’ long-awaited season debut—and why the box score doesn’t tell the truth about how the 40-year-old superstar actually looked against the Utah Jazz. Bucher digs deep into what LeBron’s return means for the Lakers’ chemistry, the Luka-LeBron power shift, and why L.A.’s defensive issues may only get tougher to solve.Ric also revisits

Nico Harrison -- Culprit or Fall Guy? Nov 13, 2025 30:15 🎧 In this On The Ball episode, Ric Bucher breaks down the full story behind the Dallas Mavericks’ shocking trade of Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers — and the firing of GM Nico Harrison that followed.Bucher exposes the real dynamics inside the Mavericks front office, from owner Patrick Dumont’s reactionary leadership to how Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi ended up sharing power after Harris

Ja Morant's Future, Zion's Stagnation & Wemby's Rise: It's Time For A MAGPA Movement Nov 6, 2025 31:19 In this episode of On The Ball (United WeCast Network), Ric Bucher breaks down the widening gap between American-born NBA stars and their international counterparts — and what it says about player development, discipline, and leadership in today’s game.Bucher dives into the latest around Ja Morant, including front-office chatter about his trade value, locker-room issues, and whether the Memphis Gr

Riley Goes Euro, Ant's Missing Ingredient, Odd Lineups Explained Oct 30, 2025 32:55 On The Ball with Ric Bucher delivers sharp, no-nonsense NBA analysis from veteran insider Ric Bucher (FS1, Fox Sports Radio) on the United WeCast Network. In this episode, Ric examines how the NBA’s entertainment engine shapes today’s game and player development, contrasting it with EuroLeague and international club systems. He spotlights Pat Riley’s shift toward international talent with the Miam

NBA Opening Night Torch Passing & The Mindset That Is Killing American Talent Oct 22, 2025 36:16 Ric opens On the Ball by introducing his upcoming book, The Value of Being Coachable, which highlights lessons from legends like Steph Curry and Brandi Chastain, and outlines his three weekly shows—Full Court Passport (international hoops), On the Ball (solo NBA analysis), and Finding the Seams (with Brendan Haywood on college-to-pro transitions). He recaps the NBA’s opening games, noting Oklahoma

Warriors' Dilemma: Small Ball Has Become Tall Ball Oct 15, 2025 25:45 Ric dives into an in-depth analysis of why the Golden State Warriors may struggle to match last season’s success despite Steph Curry’s brilliance and Jimmy Butler’s leadership. He argues that the NBA’s evolution toward “tall ball”—skilled, athletic bigs replacing traditional small-ball lineups—has neutralized the Warriors’ once-revolutionary style. Buecher also explores how aging stars like Draymo

The State of Kuminga and LeBron's Decision of All Decisions Oct 6, 2025 41:28 Ric discusses how restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga looked in his first appearance since ending a summer-long stalemate on a two-year deal with the Golden State Warriors and LeBron James announcing that he has a forthcoming "Decision of All Decisions" to make. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Is Dennis Schröder an NBA Journeyman But International Superstar? Sep 17, 2025 40:23 Ric provides a recap of the EuroBasket 2025 championship and examines why point guard Dennis Schröder has had so much recent success with the German national team -- MVP of the 2023 World Cup and EuroBasket 2025 -- yet has been an NBA journeyman, holding the record for most NBA teams played for by a foreign player. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. S

Slovenia Cries Foul and the NBA Rolls Over Sep 12, 2025 24:31 Ric discusses Slovenia's complaints after its loss to Germany in the EuroBasket 2025 quarterfinals and the NBA altering its rules to encourage more last-second heaves at the end of quarters.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Micky's Jab and the Anatomy of EuroBasket 2025 Upsets Sep 9, 2025 31:20 Ric discusses recent events at the James Naismith Hall of Fame induction ceremony, including Miami Heat owner Micky Arison making fun of LeBron James falling five championships short of his promise to Heat fans. Also covered: upset wins by Finland over Serbia and Georgia over France to open the round of 16 in the current EuroBasket 2025 competition. (Here is the link to the Acast show survey menti

What the Ballmer-Kawhi Bombshell Proves Sep 5, 2025 37:03 Ric discusses the evidence tracked down by journalist and podcaster Pablo Torre that suggests the Los Angeles Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer may have circumvented the NBA salary cap by providing star forward Kawhi Leonard additional payment for a no-show role with an outside company, as well as updates on performances by NBA players currently competing in EuroBasket 2025, including the Portland

Luka Doncic Vs. Random Guy In A Suit Sep 1, 2025 30:14 Ric discusses the performance of Los Angeles Lakers' star Luka Doncic for the Slovenian National Team in EuroBasket competition vs. Poland and France, and what it portends for the upcoming NBA season. (Also, a request to listeners: please fill out this survey so that Acast and On The Ball can better serve you: http://bit.ly/ontheballwithricbucher-survey)Support this show http://supporter.acast.com

The Kuminga Conundrum and Wemby Gets Ahead of the Game Aug 23, 2025 32:11 In a double-shot episode, Ric discusses the stand-off between the Golden State Warriors and restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga and the dynamics that have created it; and San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama describing his pre-game routine and why it bodes well for both him and the Spurs. (Also, a request to listeners: please fill out this survey so that Acast and On The Ball can better ser

Over-Under Win Total Locks, Clark-Bueckers Comp Aug 18, 2025 28:12 Ric discusses the most obvious ways to play several preseason win total over-under lines for the upcoming NBA season and whether or not Dallas Wings' No. 1 pick Paige Bueckers should be considered a better player than the Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Blazers' Future, Lakers' Power Shift, Top 5 Offseason Moves Aug 14, 2025 26:48 Ric discusses why it may be too early to assume prospective new owner Tom Dundon will not move the Portland Trail Blazers, a change in the power paradigm inside the Los Angeles Lakers and names the five teams who had the most impactful offseason moves.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

LeBron-Jokic-Euro Rumors and the NBA's Prop Bet Dilemma Aug 1, 2025 27:41 Ric discusses the Instagram post that revealed a meeting between LeBron James, his business manager Maverick Carter and Misko Raznatovic, the agent for Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic and one of the most powerful basketball agents in Europe. Part II of the podcast looks at the federal investigations into several NBA players and their part in suspicious activity involving prop bets that hinged on

Figuring Out What WNBA Players Are Worth Jul 24, 2025 31:35 Ric discusses the recent WNBA All-Star Game protest that consisted of players wearing t-shirts that read "Pay Us What You Owe Us" as they collectively bargain for a new contract and a bigger percentage of league revenue. Included is a look at how NBA players successfully used the All-Star Game in 1964 to persuade the league to establish a pension program.Support this show http://supporter.acast.co

The Bar for Steph Curry and the Warriors, Mocking Jordan's Grief For Clout Jul 13, 2025 26:46 In a two-part podcast, Ric discusses the complaint by some Golden State Warriors' fans that the franchise is doing a disservice to superstar Steph Curry with their lack of offseason moves. Also discussed: comments by LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Steve Nash about Michael Jordan's mid-career retirement following the murder of his father.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-frien

Finding The Right Comp For Cooper Flagg Jun 30, 2025 32:30 Ric discusses the 2025 NBA Draft's No. 1 pick, Cooper Flagg, the long list of players to whom he has been compared, his strengths and weaknesses, and Ric's method -- and struggle -- to identify the current player he sees as Cooper's ideal comparison.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NBA Finals Game 7 Preview, Latest Caitlin Drama Jun 22, 2025 36:12 Ric discusses the events leading up to Game 7 of the NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers and what could determine who is the next champion. He also dives into the controversy surrounding Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and whether or not the WNBA needs to implement more protective measures to address how opponents play her.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/

NBA Finals 2025: What Happened In G4, What Has To Happen In G5 Jun 17, 2025 26:19 Ric discusses the factors that led to the Oklahoma City Thunder tying their best-of-seven NBA Finals series with the Indiana Pacers at two wins apiece and what will decide who wins the supremely pivotal Game 5 in Oklahoma City.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mastermind Behind The Pacers' Success Jun 13, 2025 28:01 Ric discusses the moves that Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle made to win Game 3 and shares how he came to know Carlisle both as a person (and pianist) and coach.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Beauty and Intrigue of the 2025 NBA Finals Jun 11, 2025 29:09 Ric discusses why the NBA Finals could prove to be transformative for the league and the blueprint for building championship teams.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why The Pacers' Game 1 Win Wasn't A Fluke, What It Means For The Series Jun 7, 2025 23:29 Ric discusses the shocking last-second win by the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals over the heavily favored Oklahoma City Thunder -- why it happened and whether or not the Pacers' chance of winning the series should be re-evaluated. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Triple Shot: Why Pacers Have A Chance, SGA Is In Top 5 PG Convo, Bronny Has To Play Next Season Jun 6, 2025 29:18 Ric discusses why the Indiana Pacers could make the NBA Finals vs. the heavily favored Oklahoma City Thunder more competitive than expected, why Thunder point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander could be in the conversation for top 5 point guards of all-time if he wins this year's title and Finals MVP, and why rumors that the Lakers are hoping guard Bronny James -- son of LeBron -- can be in their playi

Ant Edwards is Being Robbed of What He Needs Most Jun 2, 2025 22:21 Ric discusses the danger of anointing young NBA stars as can't-miss future champions or league MVPs as illustrated by the current projections for, and analysis of, Anthony Edwards with the Minnesota Timberwolves.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quad Shot: New vs. Old Media, The Real Overrated Player, The Real Foul Merchant & Malone on the Mike May 28, 2025 30:09 Ric discusses four topics: the differences between new and old media; what Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has that Anthony Edwards doesn't; Gilgeous-Alexander's label as a foul hunter; and former Nuggets head coach Mike Malone's prospects of landing another head-coaching job.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quad Shot: The False Ant Narrative, Unfounded Jimmy Criticism, Caitlin-Angel Misappropriation, Crushed Conspiracy Theory May 20, 2025 29:03 In this four-topic episode, Ric discusses a manufactured story line for Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, the unrealistic expectations Warriors fans had for Jimmy Butler, the misappropriation of the latest Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese conflict and the kibosh on small-market fans complaining the NBA favors big stars and big markets. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hos

Triple Shot: Pop's Farewell, Giannis' Identity, Luka's Motivation May 7, 2025 31:27 Ric dives into three current topics on the NBA landscape: remembrance of his personal experiences with Gregg Popovich, recently forced to step down after an extraordinary run as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs because of health issues; the debate over whether Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks would be best served continuing to join forces, and a disturbing secondary debate inspired

Quad Shot: Why Jimmy is Indispensable, Paolo is Unappreciated, LeBron-Ant Laugh-fest was Confusing, Adam Silver Deserves Thanks Apr 27, 2025 36:09 Ric discusses four hot topics involving the NBA playoffs: the many ways Jimmy Butler is indispensable for the Golden State Warriors, the overlooked excellence of the Orlando Magic's Paolo Banchero, the quizzically friendly banter between LeBron James and Anthony Edwards in the final minutes of a closely contested Game 3 and how a change in officiating has contributed to the most highly competitiv

The Latest Klutch Campaign and Assessing Nico's Press Conference Apr 18, 2025 29:59 Ric discusses recent comments by members of LeBron James' circle that devalue his supporting casts and examines Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison's responses in a recent no-camera, closed-door press conference to questions concerning the team's decision to deal franchise superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers at the February trade deadline. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bu

The Mike Malone Firing: Why and Why Now Apr 9, 2025 28:16 Ric discusses the behind-the-scenes events that led to yet another NBA head coach, Mike Malone of the Denver Nuggets, unexpectedly being fired by a team on the cusp of going to the playoffs. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quad Shot: Jokic Deserves Better, Suns At Their Worst, Kerr The Maestro, Request for LeBron Fans Apr 6, 2025 39:06 In this latest edition of the Quad Shot, Ric presents why Denver Nuggets' center Nikola Jokic has less talent around him than LeBron James or Steph Curry; the astonishing lack of competitive fire being displayed by the Phoenix Suns; the process through which Golden State Warriors' coach Steve Kerr has built an undefeated starting lineup (and quieted his critics); and his request for help in reconc

The Man Behind The Shooting Prowess of Every Final Four Team Mar 31, 2025 42:37 Ric interviews John Carter, CEO of Noah Basketball Technology, about the shooting technology used by 28 NBA teams and hundreds of college and university programs, including all four men's Final Four teams. The two discover that they have a host of similar connections in the basketball world and that Bucher -- and his collegiate basketball-playing daughter -- used prototype versions of Carter's tec

Digging Deeper into the AD-Doncic Trade and the SGA-Joker MVP Debate Mar 27, 2025 29:34 Ric digs into the reports detailing the Los Angeles Lakers' disenchantment with, and willingness to trade, Anthony Davis, as well as the arguments being made for and against the NBA's top two candidates for Most Valuable Player, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic and Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted o

Resting Stars to Lose: Legit Concern or Crazed Conspiracy Talk? Mar 20, 2025 27:03 Ric discusses the heated reaction to NBA teams resting their star players against certain opponents and whether there is merit to believing teams are intentionally trying to lose specific games against particular opponents. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quad Shot: Wobbly Celtics, Flat-lining Nuggets, Same Ol' Luka, Stubborn Thibs Mar 15, 2025 27:29 Ric discusses the state of the defending champion Boston Celtics and the importance of Kristaps Porzingis, indications that Nikola Jokic's supporting cast with the Denver Nuggets has plateaued, new Los Angeles Laker Luka Doncic assuming the same form he had in Dallas and why the squabble between the Knicks swingman Mikal Bridges and coach Tom Thibodeau is not the mark of championship-caliber teams

Takeaways from Lakers-Celtics Tilt and SAS-LeBron Squabble Mar 10, 2025 23:05 Ric discusses what the recent battle between the Celtics and Lakers revealed about the two teams and weighs in on the soap opera involving ESPN host Stephen A. Smith, LeBron James and his son and teammate, Bronny James.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why The NBA Inspires So Many Debates Mar 4, 2025 25:40 Ric discusses the multitude of disagreements over the NBA currently in vogue: who the greatest player is, the quality of the league and the way in which the league is covered.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quad Shot: Why Jimmy Buckets is a Great Fit, Nostalgia Catches a Stray, Lakers-Nuggets Takeaway, Knicks' Fatal Flaw Feb 25, 2025 33:47 Ric covers four of the NBA's hottest current storylines: why Jimmy Butler has had such a profound effect on the Warriors since being acquired from the Miami Heat; former NBA forward Channing Frye's assertion that nostalgia is why today's stars are viewed as inferior to their predecessors; how to view the Los Angeles Lakers' surprising, and dominating, win over the Denver Nuggets; and why the Knick

A Much Bigger Concern than the NBA All-Star Game Feb 21, 2025 35:35 Ric discusses -- and challenges -- the criticism heaped upon last week's NBA All-Star Game and points to a much more glaring issue the league faces.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What the NBA and its Partners Say They Want (But Do They Really?) Feb 17, 2025 33:28 Ric discusses what he learned about the focus and ambition of the NBA's newest media partners over All-Star Weekend and whether or not their actions reflect their proposed intentions.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theories On Why The Mark Williams Trade Failed Feb 12, 2025 42:40 Ric shares with his son, Mat, what league sources are saying about the Lakers rescinding their trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams after team doctors flagged his physical. Also discussed: the mindset of rookie Dalton Knecht returning to the Lakers after they were prepared to send him to Charlotte and how the winner of the Dallas Mavericks-Lakers trade involving Luka Doncic and Anthony

The Second-Most Shocking Trade at the NBA Deadline Feb 9, 2025 32:39 Ric examines trades made at the NBA deadline that involved the Cavs, Bucks, Lakers, Clippers and Warriors and breaks down the one that was second only to the Dallas Mavericks dealing Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for shock value. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Luka-AD Trade: Why It Happened, What It Means Feb 3, 2025 33:39 Ric discusses why the Dallas Mavericks traded their 25-year-old Slovenian superstar, Luka Doncic, to the Los Angeles Lakers for All-Star center, Anthony Davis, without putting Doncic on the open market and the message that the Lakers sent their incumbent star, LeBron James, by making the deal. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy f

Word to My Media Brethren: You Missed the Boat on Bronny Jan 31, 2025 16:20 Ric discusses the backlash from the media after rookie guard Bronny James, son of Lakers' star LeBron James, had a poor performance in his most extended playing time for the Lakers in a 118-104 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Biggest Fix Left for the NBA All-Star Game Jan 28, 2025 28:58 Ric discusses the history of the NBA All-Star Game selection process, offers a way to ensure the most worthy players are chosen, gives the list of players he would invite to this year's All-Star Game and identifies the player he would be sorely disappointed if given All-Star recognition for a second time.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.co

Time for the 76ers to Find an Embiid Exit Strategy Jan 22, 2025 27:41 Ric discusses Lakers coach JJ Redick's heartfelt account of his family's ordeal with the wildfire that turned their home and all of the Pacific Palisades to ashes and makes a compelling case as to why both the Philadelphia 76ers and their chronically injured center, Joel Embiid, would be best served by parting ways.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. S

Why Steph and the Warriors Are Where They Are Jan 19, 2025 30:39 Ric discusses the current state of the Golden State Warriors, his history with the franchise and the forces that have ended the Warriors', and their transcendent guard, Stephen Curry's, run as a perennial title contender.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quad Shot: Melo's Value, Kings' Surge, Wemby's Defense, Cade's Ascension Jan 14, 2025 33:22 Ric discusses four hot NBA topics: LaMelo Ball's entertainment value vs. his effectiveness for an 8-28 Charlotte Hornets' team; what is behind the Sacramento Kings' 7-1 record since firing head coach Mike Brown; Cade Cunningham showing that he deserves to be in the conversation of top point guards in the league; and whether or not Victor Wembanyama is living up to being cast as a runaway favorite

Quad Shot: PG Exorcising, JJ-Barkley Beefing, Kings Surging, Cavs-Thunder Entertaining Jan 10, 2025 32:24 Ric discusses four topics: Paul George's unfathomable explanation for a recent fourth-quarter meltdown; JJ Redick taking a novel approach to being a first-time NBA head coach; the source of the Sacramento Kings' 5-1 record since replacing head coach Mike Brown with Doug Christie; and takeaways from the recent battle between the conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers.Suppo

Jimmy Butler and the Heat: Why We're Here, What It Means Jan 7, 2025 31:24 Ric discusses the circumstances that have driven a wedge between star forward Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat and why it signals NBA owners have achieved their goal of putting a crimp in, or even potential end to, the player empowerment era.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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