Open Strive Podcast

The NBA offseason has delivered no shortage of headlines, and Matt Craig is breaking down all of them on this episode of Open Strive.

Matt reacts to the blockbuster Jaylen Brown trade, congratulates the New York Knicks on winning the NBA Championship, and discusses what LeBron James leaving Los Angeles means for the future of the league. He also dives into Paul George’s move to Boston, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s arrival in Miami, and the biggest winners and losers of NBA free agency.

Plus, Matt gives a special shoutout to the newest members of the NBA after the draft and discusses which young stars could make an immediate impact.

From championship celebrations to franchise-changing decisions, this episode covers the biggest stories shaping the NBA and what they mean for the league moving forward.

In this episode, I break down the biggest storylines around the league, including the fallout from Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals, what the future holds for OKC, and why the NBA’s next generation is already taking over. I also discuss the growing excitement around the Spurs and their future with Wemby, react to the latest developments involving Chip, and preview the NBA Finals with my full series prediction.

Outside of basketball, I dive into two major NFL moves—the Miles Garrett trade to the Rams and AJ Brown’s move to the Patriots—and what those deals could mean moving forward.

To close things out, I highlight some positive stories from around the sports world, including Russell Wilson’s next chapter with CBS and Russell Westbrook’s investment in the future of Oklahoma City.

Tune in and let me know where you agree, where you disagree, and who you think is bringing home the championship.

Open Strive Podcast returns with a full breakdown of the NBA playoffs. Matthew is joined by Faiz and KJ to react to the biggest surprises so far, discuss standout performances, and debate which teams are truly built for a championship run. From unexpected outcomes to bold predictions, the crew dives into what’s real—and what’s not—in this year’s postseason.

In this installment of Open Strive, host Matthew Craig teams up again with Xavier McKnight to preview the NFC North for the 2025 NFL season. With the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers all battling for supremacy, the division promises plenty of storylines and surprises. Matthew and Xavier analyze each team’s potential, explore key matchups, and share predictions that may challenge expectations about who will rise to the top of the NFC North.

In this episode of Open Strive, host Matthew Craig dives into the AFC West for the 2025 NFL season alongside guest Xavier McKnight. The division featuring the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders, and Denver Broncos always delivers high drama, and this year is no different. Matthew and Xavier break down each team’s strengths, challenges, and outlook for the season, with a bold prediction from Xavier that may surprise listeners about who will finish ontop.

In this episode, I break down the current NBA MVP ladder and debate whether SGA can truly be the face of the league. Who’s a bigger threat in the playoffs — Jokic or SGA? I also make my NBA Playoff and Conference Finals picks, discuss if the Lakers and Warriors can make a late push, and question whether the Phoenix Suns should blow up their current roster.

On the NFL side, I dive into the most impactful free agency signings, the biggest losers so far, and what it all means for next season.

Quick takes: Best landing spots for Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, will Travis Hunter become a superstar, who should be QB1 for the Steelers, is Coach Thibbs wrong for his minutes management, and a breakdown of the LeBron vs. Stephen A. Smith drama.

In this episode, I dive into the Super Bowl and discuss Jalen Hurts’ trajectory as a top QB. I break down what’s wrong with the NBA All-Star Game and how it can be fixed, plus the big question, who’s the next face of the NBA? I also get into the Cam Ward vs. Shedeur Sanders debate, Kendrick Lamar’s latest takeover, and why Kanye West was way off with his recent Twitter rant. This one’s packed with sports, culture, and everything in between!

In this episode, I’m joined by Xavier McKnight as we break down the chaos of the NBA trade deadline, including the Jimmy Butler trade and whether Luka would fit in Los Angeles. We also dive into Myles Garrett’s trade request, give our Super Bowl predictions, react to the NFL Awards, and discuss the latest Hall of Fame inductees. Don’t miss this action-packed episode filled with hot takes and bold predictions!

In this episode, we break down the massive trade sending Luka Doncic to a new team and what it means for Anthony Davis and the league. Then, we lock in our Super Bowl predictions, who’s taking home the Lombardi? Plus, we dive into the highs and

Join us as we unpack the hottest topics in sports right now! First, we break down the NFL Playoffs - key matchups, underdog stories, and our predictions for who's making it to the Super Bowl. Then, we turn to the NBA, where Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat are making waves. How far can they go this season? Finally, we dive into the NBA MVP race, spotlighting the top contenders and what sets them apart. From bold predictions to in-depth analysis, this episode has it all for sports fans. Don't miss it!