Give Me the Ball

Give Me the Ball | Episode 20: "GIANNIS HAS NO IQ?!"

The NBA season is already giving us plenty to talk about, and DJ and Yo are back with another episode full of debates, bold predictions, and a few apologies. The guys kick things off with Stephen Curry, who continues to make the impossible look routine. After dropping 41 points against Orlando, Steph has everyone wondering just how much longer he can keep playing at this level. Is he making a legitimate case for MVP, and can the Warriors put together the right pieces around him to make another run? DJ and Yo discuss Steph's incredible start, his longevity, and what his performance could mean for Golden State.

The conversation then shifts to Los Angeles, where DJ has a confession to make: he might owe Lakers fans an apology. Luka Dončić has been putting up ridiculous numbers, while Austin Reaves is proving that he can be much more than a supporting piece. With the Lakers looking like a serious threat, the guys debate whether they've been underestimated and whether DJ was wrong to doubt them. They also touch on the struggles in Utah and what the Jazz's disappointing start says about where the team is headed.

But things get heated when DJ and Yo get into the Milwaukee Bucks and Doc Rivers' recent comments about Giannis Antetokounmpo. Doc questioned aspects of Giannis' basketball IQ and what it's like to coach him, raising an even bigger conversation about leadership, coaching, and the culture in Milwaukee. Is Doc being honest about a difficult coaching situation, or is he deflecting responsibility for the Bucks' problems? DJ and Yo break down the comments, discuss whether the criticism is fair, and debate what needs to change in Milwaukee.

From there, the guys tackle one of the biggest debates of the season: Who actually deserves to be NBA MVP? With Steph Curry, Luka Dončić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, Victor Wembanyama, Jaylen Brown, and Paolo Banchero all entering the conversation in different ways, what should matter most? Is MVP about individual dominance, team success, or the value a player brings to his team? DJ and Yo aren't exactly seeing eye to eye, and the discussion raises a bigger question: has the way we judge the MVP race become completely broken?

The guys also step outside the NBA for a look at the growing 1v1 basketball scene. With Rob Colon set to face Nasir Core, DJ and Yo make their picks and break down what each player brings to the matchup. DJ is backing Nas, while Yo believes Rob has what it takes to get the job done. They discuss Nasir's winning streak, Rob's shot-making and creativity, and what it takes to win when there's nowhere to hide. The conversation also touches on the ATM 1v1 League and why these matchups continue to bring a different kind of excitement to basketball.

To close things out, DJ and Yo make their predictions for Celtics vs. Sixers. Yo is riding with Philadelphia and believes Jaylen Brown could outscore Jayson Tatum, while DJ is backing Boston and expects a big night from Tatum. It's another opportunity for the guys to put their basketball takes on the line.

From Steph's incredible start and Luka's Lakers takeover to Doc Rivers' comments about Giannis, the wide-open MVP debate, the Rob Colon vs. Nasir Core matchup, and Celtics vs. Sixers predictions, Episode 20 brings plenty of basketball conversation, disagreement, and laughs. DJ and Yo bring their basketball experience, different perspectives, and no shortage of opinions.

Lace up. Let's get into it. 🏀

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @givemetheball.podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 19: "RIM PROTECTOR? PROTECT THE RIM FROM HIM"

The NBA season is already delivering plenty of storylines, and DJ and Yo have no shortage of opinions. The guys kick things off by looking at the early performances of the rookie class, including Darius Acuff and the race for Rookie of the Year. They also get into the situation in Sacramento, where Domantas Sabonis appears frustrated with his role and how the offense is being run. Is there a bigger problem brewing with the Kings, or is this just another case of a star wanting a bigger piece of the action? DJ and Yo break down what they've seen and debate what these early-season developments could mean for the teams involved.

The conversation then turns to some of the NBA's biggest individual storylines. Anthony Davis has his sights set on playing all 82 games, but is that actually realistic in today's NBA? The guys discuss his durability, his future, and whether his contract situation makes the challenge even more interesting. They also take a moment to celebrate Russell Westbrook, as Oklahoma City prepares to honor one of the most important players in franchise history by retiring his jersey. DJ shares his appreciation for Russ and what he means to the city, while the guys reflect on his legacy and the impact he left on the Thunder.

But things get a little disrespectful when DJ and Yo turn their attention to Rudy Gobert. Despite standing seven feet tall, Gobert's struggles finishing around the rim have the guys asking some serious questions about his offensive game. From missed layups to questionable touch, the conversation quickly turns into a full-blown roast—including a comparison to their friend Redo and a debate over who deserves an NBA 10-day contract. How can a player that tall make finishing around the basket look so difficult? Is Gobert really that bad offensively, or are DJ and Yo being too harsh?

Finally, the guys get into the latest Giannis Antetokounmpo and Miami Heat conversation. After leaving Milwaukee for a new opportunity, is Giannis already finding himself in another situation that might not be what he expected? Yo reflects on his preseason prediction that Miami would have the best record in the league, while DJ reminds him that he wasn't exactly convinced. The guys debate whether Miami has the pieces to make things work, what Giannis needs around him, and whether a true point guard could help unlock the team's potential. Is Miami actually a good fit for Giannis, or did Yo get this one completely wrong?

From the rookie race and Sabonis' frustration to Anthony Davis' 82-game challenge, Westbrook's OKC legacy, Rudy Gobert's questionable finishing, and Giannis' new chapter in Miami, Episode 19 is packed with NBA storylines, bold opinions, and plenty of laughs. DJ and Yo bring their basketball experience, different perspectives, and absolutely no mercy when the conversation calls for it.

Lace up. Let's get into it. 🏀

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @givemetheball.podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 18: "NBA IS BACK...SO IS THE CAP"

The NBA season is officially underway, and DJ and Yo are already trying to recover from their questionable opening-week predictions. After getting humbled by their first picks, the guys run it back and predict more NBA matchups, including some early-season games that have already caught their attention. From the Miami Heat struggling to live up to Yo’s preseason expectations to the Lakers, Timberwolves, and Thunder trying to establish themselves, the guys discuss what they’ve seen so far and which teams deserve the hype. It’s still early in the season, but that won’t stop DJ and Yo from making bold predictions—and holding each other accountable when they get them wrong.

The conversation then turns to injuries, team expectations, and one question that could bring a familiar face back to Oklahoma City: should the Thunder consider bringing back Russell Westbrook? With key players dealing with injuries, DJ and Yo debate whether Westbrook could still help his former team or whether a reunion would be a bad idea. They also discuss Westbrook’s legacy, his connection to OKC, and whether the organization has treated him with the respect he deserves. Would returning to the Thunder make sense for Russ, or should he leave that chapter of his career in the past?

From there, DJ and Yo get into one of the NBA’s biggest debates: the MVP race and the way the game is being played. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is putting up big numbers, but DJ questions how enjoyable his style of play is to watch, especially when it comes to drawing fouls. Nikola Jokić’s all-around dominance enters the conversation, too, with the guys debating whether his production deserves more MVP recognition. Is SGA’s ability to get to the free-throw line just smart basketball, or has foul-baiting become too big a part of the NBA? And if Jokić keeps putting up historic numbers, how can he be left out of the MVP conversation?

Finally, the guys break down the ongoing conversation surrounding Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. After Boston’s championship success and the attention surrounding the two stars, DJ and Yo debate who deserves more credit, whether Tatum knew about the situation surrounding Brown, and how much each player contributed to the Celtics’ achievements. Does Tatum’s overall body of work make him Boston’s most valuable player, or did Brown prove he can carry the team when it matters most? The guys bring their own basketball experience to the debate and explain why the situation has fans reading into every comment and reaction.

From NBA predictions and Russell Westbrook rumors to the MVP race, foul-baiting, and Celtics drama, Episode 18 is packed with strong opinions, basketball debates, and a few takes that might not age well. DJ and Yo aren’t always going to agree—but they’re always going to give you a reason to join the conversation.

Lace up. Let’s get into it. 🏀

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @GiveMetheBall.Podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 17: "76ERS CANNOT MESS THIS UP"

The NBA is BACK, and DJ and Yo are already giving fans reasons to be mad. DJ doubles down on his take that the Los Angeles Lakers could miss the playoffs, names the Western Conference teams he expects to finish ahead of them, and explains why Lakers fans might want to sit this season out. Yo has his own opinions, and the guys waste no time getting into the predictions, debates, and questionable takes that make basketball season so entertaining.

From there, the guys turn their attention to the Philadelphia 76ers and the pressure surrounding their championship expectations. With the talent on their roster, are the 76ers finally ready to make a serious run, or are we about to get another season full of excuses? At this point, Philly has no more room for disappointment. They might as well collect all the Infinity Stones and snap their fingers for a championship. Because if this team can't get it done, what exactly are we still trusting the process for?

The conversation then shifts to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. DJ and Yo compare their strengths, debate what makes each player dangerous, and discuss Bam's offensive game, including his unforgettable 83-point performance. Who brings more to the table, and how much does offensive versatility matter when comparing two of the league's most talented big men?

The guys also dive into one of basketball's biggest ongoing debates: foul-baiting. With the NBA and the growing 1v1 scene playing by different rules, DJ and Yo discuss whether the league has become too dependent on free throws. Should the NBA reward physical play more often, or would changing the rules take away an important part of the game? As the 1v1 scene continues to challenge how people think about basketball, the guys debate whether the NBA needs to make a change.

And before wrapping things up, DJ and Yo look ahead to the next generation of basketball stars with their Rookie of the Year predictions. From Darius Acuff and Caleb Wilson to AJ Dybantsa and Cam Boozer, the guys discuss which young players could make the biggest impact and who has the potential to take home the award.

From Lakers slander to Philly's championship pressure, NBA predictions, and debates about how basketball should be played, this episode has no shortage of bold takes and arguments. Agree or disagree, you already know the guys aren't holding back.

Lace up. Let's get into it. 🏀

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @GiveMetheBall.Podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 16: "MIAMI HEAT OR MIAMI HYPE?"

In this episode, DJ and Yo kick things off with a story that probably should've stayed off the podcast — DJ shares an unbelievably embarrassing experience at work that proves being a grown man doesn't mean you've got everything figured out. Yo tries to make sense of the situation, and let's just say things get uncomfortable before the basketball even starts.

From there, the guys dive into the growing world of 1v1 basketball and debate why some professional players struggle to dominate outside the NBA. Is the difference really about talent, or have NBA players become too dependent on foul calls? DJ and Yo break down foul-baiting, physicality, make-it-take-it rules, and why the 1v1 scene might be exposing a different side of the game.

The conversation then shifts to the WNBA, including A'ja Wilson's place among the game's best, before the guys turn their attention to the upcoming NBA season. DJ and Yo share their preseason predictions, debate potential MVP candidates, make their picks for major NBA awards, and argue over which teams have a real shot at reaching the Finals.

And then there's Miami. Yo believes the Heat could finish with the best record in the league, while DJ isn't buying the hype. With Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo, and a revamped supporting cast in the conversation, the guys go back and forth over whether Miami is a legitimate contender or a team being overrated before the season even begins. DJ even predicts the Heat could lose to the Washington Wizards in the play-in tournament. Yes, you read that correctly.

From bold predictions to questionable takes, the guys also debate the Knicks repeating as champions, the Timberwolves making a deep playoff run, and whether Bronny James could surprise people this season.

And, as always, the conversation takes a few turns that probably weren't on the original game plan.

Lace up. Let's get into it. 🏀

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @GiveMetheBall.Podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 15:

How much should a $200 million NBA player actually be expected to produce? DJ and Yo jump into the Jalen Duren contract debate and ask the bigger question: when you're making superstar money, does that automatically mean you need to perform like a superstar?

The guys debate Duren's regular-season production vs. his playoff performance, whether he's actually a superstar, how much he should have been paid, and whether teams should ever put that much money into one player. They also get into Zion Williamson, the pressure that comes with massive contracts, and what it really means to be worth the bag.

Then the conversation shifts to the rapidly changing world of college sports. With NIL turning college athletes into million-dollar athletes, DJ and Yo debate whether college basketball and football are becoming professional sports, how much money is too much for a young athlete, and what happens when teenagers suddenly have more money than they've ever seen in their lives.

And of course, the episode ends with a chaotic round of rapid-fire 1v1 matchups — including some questionable player names, some very questionable answers, and a few matchups that could apparently “feed some families.”

And, as always, the conversation takes a few turns that probably weren't on the original game plan.

Lace up. Let's get into it.

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @GiveMetheBall.Podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 14: "ARE YOUTUBE HOOPERS ACTUALLY PROS?"

In this episode, DJ and Yo open the show by talking about their recent experiences playing basketball at the Y and in open gyms — and how different the game feels when you're not playing organized basketball anymore.

From there, they get into a bigger question: what actually makes someone a professional basketball player?

DJ and Yo debate the gap between regular hoopers, high-level amateurs, NBA players, and the growing world of basketball YouTubers. Could some of these YouTube hoopers actually compete with professional players? And just how big is the difference between being really good at basketball and being an actual pro?

Then things get even more interesting when they dive into Shaquille O'Neal and today's NBA big men. DJ and Yo debate how Shaq would match up against today's centers, including players like Victor Wembanyama, Nikola Jokić, and Joel Embiid.

They also talk about the development of young NBA players, the pressure that comes with huge contracts, and what it really means when a player goes from being a promising prospect to getting paid like a franchise player.

And, as always, the conversation takes a few turns that probably weren't on the original game plan.

Lace up. Let's get into it.

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @GiveMetheBall.Podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 13: "THE LOWRY-SAURUS REX"

In this episode, DJ and Yo open the show by reading through listener responses to their questions of the week.

Question 1: "Should a player who is caught flopping have to publicly apologize? If so, why?"

Question 2: "Is a players legacy more affected by 'ring chasing' or by never leaving a bad situation?"

The takes come in hot.

From there, they break down the Toronto Raptors' new Kyle Lowry dinosaur statue — and let's just say Lowry isn't the first legend to get immortalized in a way nobody asked for. DJ and Yo run through some of the most infamous statue disasters in sports history and debate where this one lands on the scale.

Next up, Allen Iverson's recent top-5-players-of-all-time list has the internet in shambles, and DJ and Yo weigh in on who they'd swap in, who got snubbed, and whether AI just did it for the reactions.

They also dig into the new deals for Keyonte George and Ausar Thompson, breaking down what the money means for both guys' futures and whether the teams got it right.

They close it out with DJ putting Yo through a pop quiz on the NBA bubble — and it goes...somewhat smoothly.

Lace up. Let's get into it.

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @GiveMetheBall.Podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 12: "But He Has More Rings!"

In this episode, DJ and Yo dive headfirst into the Clippers scandal rocking the league. They quickly jump into the franchise's disrespect toward Chris Paul and his legacy. The two don't hold back on how the organization has handled the situation.

From there, the conversation shifts to Kawhi Leonard's role in it all — and Yo and DJ debate whether Kawhi is walking away from this way too clean while everyone else takes the heat.

Next, the guys get into Kyrie Irving's future in Dallas, weighing what's next for him and whether the fit still makes sense long-term. That leads into a bigger conversation about mentorship around the league, as DJ and Yo break down the roles Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook, and Kyle Lowry are playing for their respective teams — and yeah, they had to bring up the fact that Lowry's got more rings than CP3 and Russ combined...

They keep the hot takes coming with a segment on players they believe have officially fallen off, before hyping up Mac McClung's absurd G-League domination and what it says about his game.

They close things out looking ahead — breaking down why the NBA's upcoming season might be the most exciting one yet.

Lace up. Let's get into it.

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @GiveMetheBall.Podcast

Give Me the Ball | Episode 11: "PASSPORT BEN"

In this episode, Yo and DJ kick things off with Ben Simmons' return to the NBA, breaking down what a fresh chance means for a guy who's spent the last few years as the league's favorite punchline. Naturally, things take a detour when DJ puts Yo on the spot and asks if he actually thinks he could beat Ben 1v1 — Yo's answer (and the confidence behind it) has DJ cracking up the whole time.

From there, the guys segue into the growing beef in the 1v1 league, with Nasir Cole calling out TJ McConnell for a matchup. Yo and DJ break down whether Nasir's got the confidence to back it up, or if he's about to learn a hard lesson about underestimating a savvy vet.

Then it's personal — Yo takes us through his own 1v1 tournament run, complete with the highs, the lows, and probably a story or two he wishes he could take back.

They wrap things up answering a listener question that has them going back and forth til the very end.

Lace up. Let's get into it.

📲 Follow & Subscribe:

📸 Instagram → @givemetheball.podcast
🎵 TikTok → @givemetheball.podcast
▶️ YouTube → @GiveMetheBall.Podcast