The Shooter's Corner Podcast

In Episode 6 of The Shooter’s Corner Podcast, we sit down with Peoria, Illinois standout Jamar Smith, a former Peoria Richwoods High School star whose basketball journey took unexpected turns — and ultimately became a global success story.

Once one of the top players in the state, Jamar earned a scholarship to the University of Illinois, positioning himself on a direct path toward his lifelong dream of playing in the NBA. But one decision — choosing to drink and drive — cost him his scholarship and dramatically altered the trajectory of his career.

In this raw and honest conversation, Jamar takes full accountability as he opens up about losing everything he worked for, the mental battle that followed, and the moment many believed his basketball dreams were over.

Just when the door seemed closed, Wayne McClain offered Jamar a lifeline — giving him a second chance at the University of Southern Indiana, where Jamar rebuilt his game, his discipline, and his belief. That second chance turned into a 15-year professional career in Europe, proving that redemption, growth, and perseverance can rewrite any story.

This episode goes beyond basketball. It’s about choices, consequences, second chances, and resilience — and why the love of the game never left Jamar Smith.

No hype. No excuses. Just real life, real hoops, and real lessons.

In this episode of The Shooter’s Corner Podcast, we sit down with Illinois basketball legend Kiwane Garris for a deep dive into his unforgettable journey. From his rise as one of the most electric guards in Illini history to classic Big Ten battles, locker room stories, and the moments fans never got to hear — Kiwane keeps it real, raw, and unfiltered.

If you’re a fan of Illinois hoops, Chicago basketball, or 90s college basketball greatness, this episode is a must-listen.

🎙️ Episode: Mike Robinson Jr. — From Peoria to Purdue and Beyond

In this powerful and nostalgic episode of The Shooter’s Corner Podcast, we sit down with Mike Robinson Jr., a true Peoria basketball legend whose game and grit left a mark from Richwoods High School all the way to the Big Ten and beyond.

Mike opens up about growing up in a competitive basketball family, the lessons learned on the courts of Peoria, and the unforgettable moments of squaring off against icons like Kobe Bryant. He takes us behind the scenes of his recruitment journey, his time at Purdue University, and the challenges of adjusting to life as a college athlete.

From the intensity of Big Ten rivalries to his professional career in Argentina, Mike shares the highs, the hurdles, and the heart behind his story. He talks about finding a second home overseas, his transition into coaching, and his vision for fixing today’s AAU basketball system to truly benefit young players.

The conversation closes on a powerful note — Mike reflecting on his legacy in Peoria, and the dream team of legends he’d put together from his era.

🔥 It’s passion, perspective, and pure Peoria pride — all in one episode.

🎙️ New Episode: From Minneapolis to March Madness Glory – A Conversation with Khalid El-Amin 🏀🔥

In this electrifying episode, we sit down with Minnesota's own Khalid El-Amin, the legendary point guard who helped lead the UConn Huskies to their first-ever NCAA National Championship in 1999.

From the hardwood of North High School in Minneapolis to the bright lights of college basketball's biggest stage, El-Amin shares his incredible journey — raw, real, and full of passion. We dive deep into:

✅ Growing up in the heart of Minnesota and building his game on local courts
✅ The mindset that powered UConn's historic title run
✅ What it meant to bring swagger, confidence, and heart to every game
✅ Life after college hoops — pro ball overseas, challenges, and wisdom gained
✅ Reflections on leadership, legacy, and inspiring the next generation

Whether you're a die-hard hoops fan or just love a great underdog story, this interview brings the energy, the nostalgia, and the game. 💯

🎧 Tap in now — you don’t want to miss this championship-caliber conversation.

College basketball star Adam Miller joined the Shooter's Corner podcast to share his journey—from growing up in Peoria, to playing high school basketball in Chicago, and navigating the world of today’s NCAA.

In this episode, Adam takes a deep dive into each of these formative experiences, reflecting on how they shaped him both on and off the court. He opens up about the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and how those moments helped him grow into the player and person he is today.

In this engaging conversation, A.J. Guyton interviews Quentin Richardson, a Chicago basketball legend, discussing his early life, family influences, and the impact of unorganized basketball on his development. They delve into Richardson's high school journey at Whitney Young, the 1998 state championship run, and his decision to stay at DePaul University. The discussion also highlights the importance of mentorship in sports and the role of AAU basketball in shaping young athletes' careers. In this engaging conversation, Q Richardson shares his journey from college basketball to the NBA, discussing the dynamics of team play, the emotional rollercoaster of draft day, and the evolution of the Clippers during his time. He reflects on the importance of adaptability in the league, his experiences with legendary players like Steve Nash, and the significance of family and personal growth. The discussion also touches on the impact of the Jordan Brand and the lessons learned from Michael Jordan, emphasizing gratitude and the importance of treating others well.