In this week's episode of Watts Up Wednesdays, hosts Donald Watts, a University of Washington basketball legend, and JB tackle hot topics in sports, community outreach, and family responsibilities. They kick off by discussing the Watts Foundation, which supports over 1,500 youth in the Pacific Northwest. Donald shares the challenge of balancing foundation work, business, and family life, encouraging listeners to get involved in their basketball programs to keep supporting the community.

Shifting to sports, the conversation moves from recent elections, where Donald calls for resilience and unity, to sports highlights. They celebrate the Dodgers' championship win and assess the Seahawks' current struggles, highlighting key players like Geno Smith and DK Metcalf. The University of Washington's upcoming games against teams like Penn State and Oregon also come into focus, with Donald reflecting on how these matchups offer growth for the team.

The episode wraps up with basketball updates, covering WNBA star Kelsey Plum's performance, Juju Watkins' NCAA debut, and Donald's son Isaiah Watts' sophomore season at Washington State, as he navigates team changes and new dynamics. NBA talk includes surprises like the Milwaukee Bucks' rocky start and the Oklahoma City Thunder's strong showing. They end with a shoutout to Memphis's Jaylen Wells, a rising star. This episode combines sports, family stories, and community dedication, capturing the mentorship spirit of the Watts Foundation.

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In this week's episode of Watts Up Wednesdays, hosts Donald Watts, a University of Washington basketball legend, and JB tackle hot topics in sports, community, and family dynamics. Broadcasting every Wednesday, the show offers Donald's unique insights on everything from the current state of youth sports and NBA highlights to his family's journey through concussion recovery with his son.

This episode takes on timely community issues, from the tensions of election season and rising racial insensitivity to how parents can positively impact youth sports. Donald calls for parental involvement that builds up young athletes while encouraging healthy boundaries on and off the field. He even teases the Watts Foundation's plans for future programs to educate parents on supporting their children's development.

In Seattle sports, Donald shares his thoughts on the UW Huskies' struggles in the Big Ten and the Seahawks' bumpy season, recounting how his days on the court and the legacy of Seattle legends like Lenny Wilkins and Gus Williams have shaped his love for the game. With relatable stories, nostalgia, and genuine community passion, this episode is a must for Seattle sports fans and those invested in seeing the next generation of athletes thrive.

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Links you may want to check out:

Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

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In this episode of *Watts Up Wednesdays*, former Washington Husky basketball star Donald Watts dives into a range of topics, starting with his excitement for the return of basketball season at all levels. He stresses the importance of hard work for young athletes who aspire to excel and reach their goals. Watts also touches on the divisive nature of politics, comparing it to sports rivalries, and calls for more unity and constructive dialogue, much like the teamwork needed in successful sports teams.

The conversation shifts to the role of athletes in social and civic matters. Watts reflects on figures like Muhammad Ali, Colin Kaepernick, and Bill Russell, discussing the power of athletes to use their platforms for positive change. He emphasizes that while activism is not a requirement for athletes, those who choose to engage should be well-informed and use their influence responsibly. Watts also praises the NBA's initiative to cancel games on Election Day to encourage voter participation and sees NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals as a way for athletes to impact their communities beyond financial gain.

Watts then shares his excitement for the upcoming World Series between the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers, a historic rivalry that hasn't been seen since 1981. He discusses the East Coast vs. West Coast dynamic and the star power of players like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge. He also reflects on the recent passing of Dodgers legend Fernando Valenzuela, whose legacy in the Mexican-American community adds a poignant element to the series.

The episode wraps up with updates on local sports, including the University of Washington Huskies' football team and the Seattle Seahawks. Watts praises the Huskies' resilience despite challenges and shares thoughts on the Seahawks' recent progress. He also highlights the growth of the WNBA and the excitement surrounding the NBA season tip-off, especially LeBron James' unique opportunity to play alongside his son, Bronny.

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Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

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In this episode of "Watts Up Wednesdays," basketball legend Donald Watts, a University of Washington Husky great, dives into a range of topics from sports development to current events in college and professional athletics. Partnered with Game Time Sports Talk and Watts Basketball, Donald highlights the unique training philosophy of Watts Basketball programs, which focus on instilling habits, routines, and a strong sense of community in young players. He shares his passion for the academy's approach, where the focus is on personal growth and working hard to "shoot for their dreams," rather than simply playing for recognition. Donald also opens up about his recovery journey from a recent stroke and how basketball has been instrumental in helping him regain mental clarity.

The episode also covers college sports, including the challenges facing the Washington Husky football team and the broader landscape affected by NIL deals and the transfer portal. Donald expresses concern about the widening gap between powerhouse programs and the sustainability of college athletics, emphasizing the need for change to maintain the sport's integrity. He shares his excitement for the return of the Apple Cup to campus in 2025 and the renewed energy it will bring to the rivalry, as well as touching on time zone travel challenges for college football teams and key upcoming SEC matchups.

Donald also dives into professional sports, discussing the Seattle Seahawks' struggles in October, the NFL trade market, and standout moves like Aaron Rodgers' reunion with Davante Adams. He draws parallels between Rodgers and LeBron James, calling Rodgers a "great manipulator" in team-building. The conversation continues with a spotlight on the WNBA Finals and reflections on Seattle SuperSonics legend Sam Perkins in the "Sonic Legends" series. Wrapping up, Donald shares his excitement about the potential return of the Sonics to the NBA and hints at the possibility of his son, Isaiah Watts, being drafted to the team, further adding to the anticipation for Seattle's basketball future.

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Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383

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In this episode of "Watts Up Wednesdays," University of Washington Husky Basketball legend Donald Watts joins JB for an inspiring and reflective conversation. Watts opens up about his personal life, sharing the challenges of caring for his father, navigating his own recovery, and coping with the recent loss of his cousin Nicky. Despite these hurdles, Watts remains determined to push forward in both life and business, especially with his youth development program, Watts Basketball.

Watts delivers a powerful motivational message, emphasizing the importance of "standing out" rather than "fitting in"—a crucial mindset for athletes aspiring to reach the next level. He discusses the evolving basketball landscape, urging young players to prioritize personal growth and intentional decision-making amidst a competitive environment.

The conversation then shifts to sports highlights, including reflections on the University of Washington's big win over Michigan and the Seahawks' upcoming showdown with the San Francisco 49ers. Watts offers his expert analysis on both teams, touching on momentum, discipline, and preparation.

The episode also dives into the excitement surrounding the WNBA Finals, featuring the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx. Watts celebrates the WNBA's growth, praises rising stars like Juju Watkins and Paige Bueckers, and reflects on the importance of continuity between women's college basketball and the WNBA. He shares amusing anecdotes from his time in Seattle, including being mistaken for NBA legend Ray Allen, before wrapping up with a reminder of the upcoming Rain City Classic event.

Tune in for an episode packed with insights on basketball, life, and the lessons that connect both.

Subscribe to Watts Up Wednesdays now!

Links you may want to check out:

Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383

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In this episode of *Watts Up Wednesdays*, University of Washington basketball legend Donald Watts joins host JB to explore a variety of sports topics. They begin by discussing the realignment of the Pac-12 conference and its impact on college sports, focusing on the University of Washington football program's recent struggles and the challenges of rebuilding a winning culture. The conversation also touches on the Seattle Seahawks' defense following Jared Goff's impressive performance and compares DK Metcalf's physical presence to Shaquille O'Neal, highlighting areas where Metcalf can improve.

Shifting to basketball, Watts shares his excitement for the WNBA playoffs, especially the Las Vegas Aces' effort to overcome a 0-2 deficit. He reflects on legendary athletes surpassing their rivals, drawing parallels from Michael Jordan's rivalry with the Detroit Pistons to NFL rivalries like the Seahawks and 49ers. The conversation honors the late Dikembe Mutombo, celebrating his basketball legacy and humanitarian work, while also exploring the idea of a posthumous Hall of Fame induction for Pete Rose.

In the "206 in the Mix Sonics Legend Series," Watts reminisces about Seattle Sonics legends Eddie Johnson and Ricky Pierce, praising their dedication and approach to the game. He also weighs in on Karl-Anthony Towns' trade to the New York Knicks, calling it a win for both the team and the player. The episode concludes with a reminder to check out Watts Basketball programs, offering young athletes opportunities to improve their game and reach their potential.

Subscribe to Watts Up Wednesdays now!

Links you may want to check out:

Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383

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In this episode of Watts Up Wednesdays, former UW Husky basketball star Donald Watts opens up about his remarkable recovery journey following a stroke on Christmas Day 2023. Donald shares how he's been relearning to walk, overcoming physical challenges, and using his athlete's mindset to push through the adversity, recently celebrating a major milestone by returning to play in a men's basketball league.

The conversation transitions to the Seattle sports scene, where Watts discusses the Mariners' season and his hopes for the team to build on their core, comparing their potential growth to the Seahawks' evolution after tough losses. Donald also comments on the Seattle Storm's transition, highlighting the need for a new leader in the post-Sue Bird era.

Watts dives deep into the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly focusing on NIL deals, conference realignment, and the University of Washington's move to the Big Ten. He shares his mixed feelings about the changes and raises concerns about the potential financial disparities and impact on team loyalty in the NIL era. As always, the episode touches on both personal growth and broader sports developments, providing a unique perspective on the intersection of athletics, community, and business.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with resilience, insights into the future of Seattle's teams, and thought-provoking commentary on the changing world of college sports.

Subscribe to Watts Up Wednesdays now!

Links you may want to check out:

Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383

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In this episode of *Watts Up Wednesdays*, basketball legend Donald Watts shares his remarkable journey of returning to competitive basketball after suffering a stroke nine months earlier. Now playing in a B-division men's league, Watts opens up about the challenges he's faced in regaining his skills, particularly ball handling, and reflects on the emotional and spiritual benefits of being back on the court. He highlights the importance of perseverance and pushing personal limits in order to rediscover strengths.

The conversation also explores the changing landscape of college athletics, specifically the role of general managers in managing NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and athlete retention. Watts offers insights into how this shift is turning college sports into more franchise-like operations and discusses the potential benefits of a return to regional divisions to reduce costs for non-revenue sports. He also hints at exciting future announcements regarding his basketball programs.

In addition to basketball, Watts shares his thoughts on attending the Apple Cup football game between the University of Washington and Washington State, noting the contrasting conditions of the two programs. He emphasizes the importance of preserving this historic rivalry, despite the changing dynamics of college football, such as Washington's move to the Big Ten. The episode rounds out with discussions on the Seattle Seahawks, Geno Smith's development, Tua Tagovailoa's concussion concerns, and the excitement surrounding the WNBA playoffs.

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Links you may want to check out:

Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383

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If you want to know more about Watts Basketball, give us a like or follow on your fav social platform:

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In this episode of *Watts Up Wednesdays*, host JB interviews University of Washington basketball legend Donald Watts. They reflect on the anniversary of 9/11, with Watts recalling the confusion of that day and drawing parallels to the isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, both events halting sports and impacting daily life. Watts shares how the return of sports helped heal communities after these crises.

The conversation shifts to the Seattle Mariners and college football. Watts expresses disappointment with the Mariners' season, criticizing the team's management decisions and the dismissal of coach Scott Servais. He also discusses the fading significance of the Apple Cup rivalry, attributing it to conference realignments and the transfer portal, which have eroded the traditional passion for the game.

Watts also shares insights on the Seattle Seahawks' season opener, praising their resilience after a rough start. The discussion touches on NFL star Tyreek Hill's detainment, prompting a conversation about racial profiling, law enforcement, and the need for stronger community relationships. Watts closes with personal stories about NBA legend Shawn Kemp, reflecting on Kemp's peak performance and the challenges he faced later in his career.

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Links you may want to check out:

Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383

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If you want to know more about Watts Basketball, give us a like or follow on your fav social platform:

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In this episode of Watts Up Wednesdays, basketball legend Donald Watts joins host JB for an insightful discussion on a wide range of sports topics. Presented by Game Time Sports Talk in collaboration with Watts Basketball, this show aims to inspire young athletes while exploring key issues in the sports world.

Watts shares his disappointment with the Seattle Mariners' struggles, discussing the imbalance between their strong pitching and underperforming offense. He also provides a unique perspective on team dynamics and locker room culture in professional sports. The conversation shifts to college sports, with Watts reflecting on the University of Washington football program's future and the impact of the transfer portal and NIL deals on the authenticity of college athletics.

The episode also dives into the Seattle Storm's playoff push and rookie star Caitlin Clark's breakout season, underscoring the WNBA's focus on basketball quality over external drama. Watts shares personal stories about NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton, recalling how playing against the legendary guard shaped his own career and offering insights into Payton's tenacity and unorthodox playing style.

Tune in for a mix of sports analysis, personal anecdotes, and thoughtful reflections on the evolving nature of athletics.

Subscribe to Watts Up Wednesdays now!

Links you may want to check out:

Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/

Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383

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If you want to know more about Watts Basketball, give us a like or follow on your fav social platform:

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