The Best of the Sports Shop

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with our sixth Salute To Champion Angelique Stallings.

Angelique Stallings is a 2026 Salute To Champions Recipient! Angelique Stallings is a community leader and business professional based in Durham, North Carolina. She serves as the Vice President of Community Investment at the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, where she focuses on strengthening economic opportunities and partnerships that support local businesses and underrepresented communities. With more than 20 years of experience serving the Durham region, Stallings is known for connecting civic organizations, business leaders, and community initiatives. She is also the founder of Mocha Mind Agency, a consulting and communications strategy firm, and serves on several boards, including the Durham Sports Commission. A graduate of North Carolina Central University and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Stallings remains actively engaged in civic, cultural, and community efforts throughout the Triangle.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Dr. Deborah Stroman.

Dr. Stroman discusses the serious allegations facing University of Pittsburgh women’s basketball coach Tory Verdi and if the idea of restructuring the NBA All Star game as “Black vs. White" would be entertaining.

Tory Verdi, the head women’s basketball coach at the University of Pittsburgh, is currently facing multiple federal lawsuits filed by six former Panthers players who allege he created a hostile and abusive environment during their time on the team. The lawsuits, filed under Title IX, claim Verdi engaged in emotional and psychological mistreatment, pressured players to enter the transfer portal and made threats that jeopardized their scholarships and academic futures . The former players are seeking acknowledgment of alleged Title IX violations, restoration of their reputations, and monetary damages. Pitt and Verdi have denied the allegations, with the university stating it will vigorously defend against the claims. What is going on? If the allegations are true, what should happen?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with CL Brown and GameDay Charlie.

The Louisville Cardinals dominated the NC State Wolfpack just days ago, winning 118-77, snapping the Wolfpack’s six-game ACC winning streak. Louisville freshman Mikel Brown Jr. put on a historic show, scoring 45 points while hitting 10 three-pointers and going a perfect 7-for-7 at the free-throw line, tying a Louisville single-game scoring record and setting an ACC freshman mark. How good is Brown? UNC is in 7th place in the ACC. Can the climb the ladder?

GameDay Charlie discusses the Duke vs UNC game this past weekend and what happened to him at the end of the game.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss how to "fix" the NBA All Star Game.

NBA critics and even many fans have been critical of the All star Game due to lack of effort displayed by the players leading to an underwhelming game that tends not to be entertaining. How should the NBA "fix" the All Star Game? Can it be fixed?

The Hampton Pirates will host the North Carolina A&T Aggies tomorrow night. Will Reese be there? Will you be watching?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss Reese going to NBA All Star Weekend the ACC basketball rankings and more.

NBA All Star Weekend is this weekend and Reese will be there. Is he excited to go?

What's going on in the ACC basketball rankings?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss UNC’s shocking loss to Miami, the Norwegian biathlete’s tearful confession at the Olympics and whether the Steelers should consider drafting Ty Simpson as their future quarterback.

The Miami Hurricanes defeated No. 11 North Carolina 75-66 in ACC play, snapping UNC’s five-game winning streak. The Hurricanes led from start to finish in Coral Gables, using strong interior play and defense to control the game. Malik Reneau recorded 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Ernest Udeh Jr. added 15 points and 10 rebounds, helping Miami dominate the paint and the boards. UNC struggled offensively, particularly in the second half where they shot just 26.5% and were unable to mount a comeback. Miami’s rebounding advantage and defensive intensity proved decisive, and fans stormed the court after the final buzzer. After UNC's win over Duke, and this loss to Miami, should UNC fans be worried about their Tar Heels? What happened?

Norway is at the top of the overall medal table with the most medals and the most golds, maintaining a strong lead as competitions continue in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. But that's not the biggest story. Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid made international headlines not for cheating in competition, but for a deeply personal confession immediately after winning bronze in the men’s 20 km individual biathlon. During a live televised interview, Lægreid broke down in tears and admitted that he had been unfaithful to his girlfriend three months earlier, calling it “the biggest mistake of my life” and describing the past week, after he privately told her, as the worst of his life. Should she take him back?

Ty Simpson is a rising QB prospect entering the 2026 NFL Draft and the Pittsburgh Steelers are frequently linked to him as they look for their quarterback of the future. Should they take former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson in the draft?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss a hot topic in the Olympics regarding a Norweigian Olympian who "made a mistake".

Norway is at the top of the overall medal table with the most medals and the most golds, maintaining a strong lead as competitions continue in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. But that's not the biggest story. Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid made international headlines not for cheating in competition, but for a deeply personal confession immediately after winning bronze in the men’s 20 km individual biathlon. During a live televised interview, Lægreid broke down in tears and admitted that he had been unfaithful to his girlfriend three months earlier, calling it “the biggest mistake of my life” and describing the past week, after he privately told her, as the worst of his life. He said he cared deeply about her and suggested that publicly expressing his remorse was part of trying to win her back, even acknowledging that many people would now see him differently. In the days that followed, his former girlfriend, who has remained anonymous, spoke through Norwegian media and said that forgiveness has been difficult and that she did not choose to have her private life exposed so publicly. Should she take him back?

It is Black History Month! What does that mean to the Sports Shop?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Duke’s strong bounce-back win over Pittsburgh, UNC’s surprising loss to Miami and what these results mean for the Tar Heels’ season moving forward.

The Miami Hurricanes defeated No. 11 North Carolina 75-66 in ACC play, snapping UNC’s five-game winning streak. The Hurricanes led from start to finish in Coral Gables, using strong interior play and defense to control the game. Malik Reneau recorded 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Ernest Udeh Jr. added 15 points and 10 rebounds, helping Miami dominate the paint and the boards. UNC struggled offensively, particularly in the second half where they shot just 26.5% and were unable to mount a comeback. Miami’s rebounding advantage and defensive intensity proved decisive, and fans stormed the court after the final buzzer. After UNC's win over Duke, and this loss to Miami, should UNC fans be worried about their Tar Heels? What happened?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss UNC's loss to Miami last night.

The Miami Hurricanes defeated No. 11 North Carolina 75-66 in ACC play, snapping UNC’s five-game winning streak. The Hurricanes led from start to finish in Coral Gables, using strong interior play and defense to control the game. Malik Reneau recorded 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Ernest Udeh Jr. added 15 points and 10 rebounds, helping Miami dominate the paint and the boards. UNC struggled offensively, particularly in the second half where they shot just 26.5% and were unable to mount a comeback. Miami’s rebounding advantage and defensive intensity proved decisive, and fans stormed the court after the final buzzer. After UNC's win over Duke, and this loss to Miami, should UNC fans be worried about their Tar Heels? What happened?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Reese, Pam, and Alex discuss whether Norway Olympian Sturla Holm Lægreid’s public apology was appropriate and whether his ex-girlfriend should forgive him.

Norway is at the top of the overall medal table with the most medals and the most golds, maintaining a strong lead as competitions continue in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. But that's not the biggest story. Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid made international headlines not for cheating in competition, but for a deeply personal confession immediately after winning bronze in the men’s 20 km individual biathlon. During a live televised interview, Lægreid broke down in tears and admitted that he had been unfaithful to his girlfriend three months earlier, calling it “the biggest mistake of my life” and describing the past week, after he privately told her, as the worst of his life. He said he cared deeply about her and suggested that publicly expressing his remorse was part of trying to win her back, even acknowledging that many people would now see him differently. In the days that followed, his former girlfriend, who has remained anonymous, spoke through Norwegian media and said that forgiveness has been difficult and that she did not choose to have her private life exposed so publicly. Should she take him back?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss Kansas upsetting Arizona without Darryn Peterson last night, NC State's blowout loss and who should be the halftime performer at next year's Super Bowl.

Bad Bunny was a controversial selction as a Super Bowl Half Performer this year. However, Bad Bunny's performance broke all-time records. Who should be the Super Bowl Halftime Performer next year? 

The Louisville Cardinals dominated the NC State Wolfpack last night, winning 118-77, snapping the Wolfpack’s six-game ACC winning streak in emphatic fashion. The game was basically over early, as Louisville jumped out fast, led 56-36 at halftime and never let NC State get any traction. Freshman Mikel Brown Jr. put on a historic show, scoring 45 points while hitting 10 three-pointers and going a perfect 7-for-7 at the free-throw line, tying a Louisville single-game scoring record and setting an ACC freshman mark. The blowout win strengthened Louisville’s position in ACC play, while NC State heads back home looking to regroup after a rough road loss. Is this a big deal for State or just a forgettable game? Last night's blowout of NC State by Louisville tells us more about NC State or Louisville?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with our fifth Salute To Champion Demetris Faison.

Demetris Faison is a 2026 Salute To Champions Recipient! Demetris Faison is a designer and luxury event planner based in North Carolina best known as the lead planner and designer of De’Veilope Events. He has worked in the event consulting and design industry for over 18 years, creating more than 1,000 luxury events including weddings, corporate galas and high-profile social experiences that have attracted wide attention online. Faison was born and raised in North Carolina and began designing events while still in high school, eventually turning that passion into his own successful business. His work spans event design, floral production, and creative direction for celebrations that blend elegance with personal style.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the Seahawks’ Super Bowl LX win over the Patriots and whether Sam Darnold, now on his fifth NFL team, can truly be considered a top-10 quarterback in the NFC.

In Super Bowl LX, the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29-13, capturing the franchise’s second Super Bowl title. Seattle controlled the game with a dominant defensive performance, consistently pressuring Patriots quarterback Drake Maye and forcing key stops that stalled New England’s offense. Offensively, the Seahawks leaned on a balanced attack, with Kenneth Walker III rushing for 135 yards and earning Super Bowl MVP honors, while kicker Jason Myers connected on five field goals, a Super Bowl record. Sam Darnold has now been on 5 NFL teams, the Seahawks being the fifth but, is Sam Darnold even a top 10 quarterback in the NFC?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss NC State's blowout loss to Louisville, the brawl in last night's Hornets game and more.

The Louisville Cardinals dominated the NC State Wolfpack last night, winning 118-77, snapping the Wolfpack’s six-game ACC winning streak in emphatic fashion. The game was basically over early, as Louisville jumped out fast, led 56-36 at halftime and never let NC State get any traction. Freshman Mikel Brown Jr. put on a historic show, scoring 45 points while hitting 10 three-pointers and going a perfect 7-for-7 at the free-throw line, tying a Louisville single-game scoring record and setting an ACC freshman mark. Ryan Conwell added 31 points, and Louisville shot around 60% from the field, repeatedly torching NC State’s defense. For the Wolfpack, Ven-Allen Lubin led the way with 20 points and Tre Holloman chipped in 19, but NC State struggled badly from deep and simply couldn’t keep up with Louisville’s pace or shot-making. The blowout win strengthened Louisville’s position in ACC play, while NC State heads back home looking to regroup after a rough road loss. Is this a big deal for State or just a forgettable game?

Last night, during the Charlotte Hornets game against the Detroit Pistons, there was a brawl that ended up overshadowing much of the action on the court. The benches-clearing fight broke out in the third quarter after a hard foul led to a heated exchange between Pistons center Jalen Duren and Hornets forward Moussa Diabaté, with tensions quickly escalating. Hornets guard Miles Bridges and Pistons forward Isaiah Stewart then became involved, with Stewart coming off the bench during the altercation, adding to the chaos. Officials ultimately ejected four players: Diabaté and Bridges for Charlotte and Duren and Stewart for Detroit. Hornets head coach Charles Lee was also ejected later in the game after arguing with referees. Detroit went on to win 110-104, snapping Charlotte’s winning streak, but the fight and multiple ejections became the defining storyline of the night.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss NC State's loss to Lousiville.

The Louisville Cardinals dominated the NC State Wolfpack last night, winning 118-77, snapping the Wolfpack’s six-game ACC winning streak in emphatic fashion. The game was basically over early, as Louisville jumped out fast, led 56-36 at halftime and never let NC State get any traction. Freshman Mikel Brown Jr. put on a historic show, scoring 45 points while hitting 10 three-pointers and going a perfect 7-for-7 at the free-throw line, tying a Louisville single-game scoring record and setting an ACC freshman mark. Ryan Conwell added 31 points, and Louisville shot around 60% from the field, repeatedly torching NC State’s defense. For the Wolfpack, Ven-Allen Lubin led the way with 20 points and Tre Holloman chipped in 19, but NC State struggled badly from deep and simply couldn’t keep up with Louisville’s pace or shot-making. The blowout win strengthened Louisville’s position in ACC play, while NC State heads back home looking to regroup after a rough road loss. Is this a big deal for State or just a forgettable game?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Phil Ford on his birthday.

Happy 70th Birthday to UNC Legend Phil Ford!

Saturday night’s Duke vs UNC game turned into an instant classic, with North Carolina stunning Duke 71-68 in Chapel Hill on a dramatic, last-second shot. Duke controlled most of the night, building a lead that reached double digits and taking a 41-29 advantage into halftime behind strong scoring and efficient shooting. UNC struggled early to find rhythm but stayed close enough to keep pressure on the Blue Devils as the second half wore on.

The game flipped late when UNC tightened its defense and started hitting timely shots, slowly chipping away at Duke’s lead. With just 0.4 seconds left, Seth Trimble drilled a corner three-pointer, UNC’s first lead of the entire game, to put the Tar Heels ahead for good. The win snapped Duke’s winning streak and immediately joined the long list of unforgettable moments in the rivalry. How good is Caleb Wilson?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with our fourth Salute To Champion William Hairston.

Williams Hairston is a 2026 Salute To Champions Recipient! William Hairston is a noted entrepreneur and civic leader from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, best known as the driving force behind the HBCU Living Legends initiative. He and a group of volunteers created the HBCU Living Legends Scholarship Gala to showcase and celebrate the legacy of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) by honoring selected alumni as “living legends” and raising scholarship funds for high-achieving students attending those schools.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss UNC's comeback win over Duke and debate if UNC is the better team.

Saturday night’s Duke vs UNC game turned into an instant classic, with North Carolina stunning Duke 71-68 in Chapel Hill on a dramatic, last-second shot. Duke controlled most of the night, building a lead that reached double digits and taking a 41-29 advantage into halftime behind strong scoring and efficient shooting. UNC struggled early to find rhythm but stayed close enough to keep pressure on the Blue Devils as the second half wore on.

The game flipped late when UNC tightened its defense and started hitting timely shots, slowly chipping away at Duke’s lead. In the final minutes, the Tar Heels closed on a 9-0 run, setting up a wild finish. With just 0.4 seconds left, Seth Trimble drilled a corner three-pointer, UNC’s first lead of the entire game, to put the Tar Heels ahead for good. Duke had a final inbound opportunity but couldn’t get off a tying shot.

The win snapped Duke’s winning streak and immediately joined the long list of unforgettable moments in the rivalry. The ending sparked a court storming and an electric atmosphere inside the Dean Dome, underscoring just how much the result meant. For UNC, it was a statement comeback; for Duke, a painful reminder that no lead is ever safe in this rivalry. Is UNC better than Duke?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with lawyer Gregory Reynald Williams.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss last night's Super Bowl game, Bad Bunny's halftime show and more.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss UNC's win over Duke and NC State basketball.

What is going on with NC State basketball?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with our third Salute To Champion, author, CEO and  Antonio McBroom.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Ian Parks to discuss his Super Bowl picks, NBA picks and discuss Duke vs UNC tomorrow night.

Ian Parks from Always Bet On Black w/ Ian Parks joins the Sports Shop to share his picks in the NBA and college basketball. Who will win this weekend: Seattle Seahawks or New England Patriots? The Super Bowl is this weekend at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Will Drake Maye rush for more than 39.5 yards? New York Knicks or Detroit Pistons? Does Ian believe in the Charlotte Hornets?

The Duke Blue Devils vs. North Carolina Tar Heels matchup takes place this weekend, Saturday, February 7, 2026 and is one of the most anticipated games of the college basketball season. It’ll take place at 6:30 p.m. ET at the Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill. Duke enters the game as one of the nation’s elite teams, ranked No. 4 with a strong ACC record and a long winning streak behind them led by standout freshman Cameron Boozer. UNC, ranked around No. 14, has been playing well too, winning several straight and featuring key contributors like Caleb Wilson, Henri Veesaar and Seth Trimble. How will this matchup go? Who will win Satruday night? Will Boozer and Wilson guard one another?

Reese, Pam and Alex speak with our second Salute To Champion Devin Brown.

Devin Brown is a 2026 Salute To Champions Recipient! Brown is the Polemarch (chapter president) of the Cary, North Carolina, Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., where he provides leadership for local initiatives focused on service, mentorship and community impact. In this role, he plays a key part in organizing events like the annual 'Shop With a Kappa' event, partnering with organizations like the Kappa Foundation of Cary to provide underprivileged children with a holiday shopping experience. Brown also mentors youth throughout the year, supports educational programs, and works to strengthen community engagement across the Raleigh area.

Reese, Pam and Alex speak with Wade Harris and Shema Carraway.

It is Firebirds Friday! Wade Harris is the CEO, Director of Player Development and the Managing Partner of the Raleigh Firebirds. Shema Carraway is a community leader based in Raleigh, North Carolina. She serves as the President of the Pearls in Partnership Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to scholarships and community service initiatives in the North Raleigh and Franklin County area. In addition, she is active in local organizational leadership, including roles with the Omega Lambda Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where she has held positions such as Assistant Treasurer and leadership committee member.

Harris and Carraway discuss a STEM and health fair event titled, "Annual Community 5K, STEM & Health Fair." The event features a 5K walk/run, STEM demonstrations and health-focused resources, providing educational and wellness opportunities for the local community. You can register on Eventbrite.