The Best of the Sports Shop

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss if Darryn Peterson is making the right decision, Duke vs Michigan, Reese's latest song and more.

Darryn Peterson has become a major storyline after a recent performance in which he scored 23 points, including 20 in the first half, in a win for the Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball over Oklahoma State, but then barely played in the second half due to cramping and leg issues. Head coach Bill Self indicated that Peterson asked to come out, which sparked conversation about his availability and durability. This isn’t an isolated situation as Peterson has dealt with hamstring tightness, cramping and illness at different points this season, leading to limited minutes despite elite production when he’s on the floor. Because he’s widely viewed as one of the top prospects in the upcoming NBA draft, any questions about conditioning or health are magnified, especially with March approaching. Does Darryn Peterson care about winning a National Championship? Does he want to play, is he genuinely dealing with injuries or just protecting his draft stock as he prepares for the NBA? Is Peterson making the right decision?

Reese, Pam and Alex speak with Johhny Hawkins.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the Pistons’ dominant win over the Knicks, Henri Veesaar’s uncertain return for UNC, Darryn Peterson’s health and draft‑stock questions at Kansas and Duke’s continued dominance over NC State in women’s basketball.

The Detroit Pistons defeated the New York Knicks 126-111 at Madison Square Garden last night, completing a season sweep in the process. Cade Cunningham led the way with a dominant 42-point performance, adding 13 assists and eight rebounds to power Detroit to a victory. How good is Detroit? Is Cade Cunningham a top 5 player in the NBA? Are the Knicks in trouble?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the latest concerns surrounding Darryn Peterson’s health and draft stock, debating whether his limited minutes reflect injury, strategy, or focus on the NBA and whether it’s acceptable for college basketball players to sit out games to protect their NBA draft stock.

Darryn Peterson has become a major storyline after a recent performance in which he scored 23 points, including 20 in the first half, in a win for the Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball over Oklahoma State, but then barely played in the second half due to cramping and leg issues. Head coach Bill Self indicated that Peterson asked to come out, which sparked conversation about his availability and durability. This isn’t an isolated situation as Peterson has dealt with hamstring tightness, cramping and illness at different points this season, leading to limited minutes despite elite production when he’s on the floor. Because he’s widely viewed as one of the top prospects in the upcoming NBA draft, any questions about conditioning or health are magnified, especially with March approaching. Does Darryn Peterson care about winning a National Championship? Does he want to play, is he genuinely dealing with injuries or just protecting his draft stock as he prepares for the NBA?

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

Dr. Stroman discusses Jeffrey Epstein’s connections to the world of sports, including his ties to major athletes, executives and the Olympics, as well as his alleged connection to Chairman and President of the Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Casey Wasserman. She also explores the broader harm caused by Epstein, how his network operated, and the lasting impact of his actions on both individuals and institutions.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex and speak with GameDay Charlie and discuss Duke and UNC Basketball. The Sports Shop crew also explores the latest concerns surrounding Darryn Peterson’s health and draft stock, debating whether his limited minutes reflect injury, strategy, or focus on the NBA.

Dylan Mingo will play basketball for the North Carolina Tar Heels next season. What type of player are the Tar Heels getting?

Darryn Peterson has become a major storyline after a recent performance in which he scored 23 points, including 20 in the first half, in a win for the Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball over Oklahoma State, but then barely played in the second half due to cramping and leg issues. Head coach Bill Self indicated that Peterson asked to come out, which sparked conversation about his availability and durability. This isn’t an isolated situation as Peterson has dealt with hamstring tightness, cramping and illness at different points this season, leading to limited minutes despite elite production when he’s on the floor. Because he’s widely viewed as one of the top prospects in the upcoming NBA draft, any questions about conditioning or health are magnified, especially with March approaching. Does Darryn Peterson care about winning a National Championship? Does he want to play, is he genuinely dealing with injuries or just protecting his draft stock as he prepares for the NBA?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the thrilling Alabama-Arkansas double-overtime showdown, Darius Acuff Jr.’s historic 49-point performance and the latest concerns surrounding Darryn Peterson’s health and draft stock, debating whether his limited minutes reflect injury, strategy, or focus on the NBA.

Last night, the Alabama Crimson Tide men's basketball team defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks men's basketball team 117‑115 in a thrilling double‑overtime SEC matchup in Tuscaloosa. On the Arkansas side, freshman Darius Acuff Jr. scored 49 points, playing all 50 minutes and hitting a game‑tying three-pointer to force overtime. The game was ultimately decided by a crucial three-pointer from Houston Mallette late in the second overtime, giving Alabama the lead they held to the final buzzer.

Darryn Peterson has become a major storyline after a recent performance in which he scored 23 points, including 20 in the first half, in a win for the Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball over Oklahoma State, but then barely played in the second half due to cramping and leg issues. Head coach Bill Self indicated that Peterson asked to come out, which sparked conversation about his availability and durability. This isn’t an isolated situation as Peterson has dealt with hamstring tightness, cramping and illness at different points this season, leading to limited minutes despite elite production when he’s on the floor. Because he’s widely viewed as one of the top prospects in the upcoming NBA draft, any questions about conditioning or health are magnified, especially with March approaching. Does Darryn Peterson care about winning a National Championship? Does he want to play, is he genuinely dealing with injuries or just protecting his draft stock as he prepares for the NBA?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss yesterday's Salute To Champions event.

The Sports Shop Radio show recognizes, honors and highlights African American individuals who have achieved in their respective fields and or paved the way for others during our Salute To Champions Program in the month of February. The individual areas that are recognized are in the areas of Education/Business, Politics/Community, Sports & Entertainment. Individuals recognized have some association with the state of North Carolina. How was yesterday's event?

Reese, Kmac and Alex discuss NC State’s dominant win over UNC, the significance of it as a potential statement game and the broader trends in college sports, including the transfer portal and NIL.

The NC State Wolfpack men's basketball defeated the North Carolina Tar Heels men's basketball 82-58 last night in a dominant rivalry matchup in Raleigh. UNC struggled offensively throughout the night, shooting just over 31% from the field and 15% from three-point range and was without key players due to injury (Caleb Wilson, Henri Veesaar). The victory served as a major win for NC State as they continue to build momentum late in the season. Was NC State’s win last night a statement win or just one great night?

The transfer portal, NIL and other evolving aspects of college sports will always be hot topics for debate and discussion. Based on the current state of college athletics, how would you grade the impact of NIL so far? Has it truly leveled the playing field for student-athletes, or has it created more challenges for programs trying to maintain balance and competitive integrity?

Reese, Kmac and Alex discuss NC State’s dominant 82-58 win over UNC and whether the coaching change from Kevin Keatts to Will Wade was the right move for the Wolfpack’s resurgence.

The NC State Wolfpack men's basketball defeated the North Carolina Tar Heels men's basketball 82-58 last night in a dominant rivalry matchup in Raleigh. The Wolfpack jumped out to an early lead and controlled the game from start to finish, earning their largest win over UNC since 1962 with a 24-point margin. UNC struggled offensively throughout the night, shooting just over 31% from the field and 15% from three-point range and was without key players due to injury (Caleb Wilson, Henri Veesaar). The victory served as a major statement win for NC State as they continue to build momentum late in the season. Can the Heels bounce back from this loss? Fair or Foul: NC State made the right decision firing Kevin Keatts and hiring Will Wade? Why couldn't NC State attract the caliber of players it has now, when they had Keatts?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss NC State's dominant win over the UNC Tar Heels.

 The NC State Wolfpack men's basketball defeated the North Carolina Tar Heels men's basketball 82-58 last night in a dominant rivalry matchup in Raleigh. The Wolfpack jumped out to an early lead and controlled the game from start to finish, earning their largest win over UNC since 1962 with a 24-point margin. UNC struggled offensively throughout the night, shooting just over 31% from the field and 15% from three-point range and was without key players due to injury (Caleb Wilson, Henri Veesaar). The victory served as a major statement win for NC State as they continue to build momentum late in the season. Can the Heels bounce back from this loss?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss NC State's win over UNC last night.

The NC State Wolfpack men's basketball defeated the North Carolina Tar Heels men's basketball 82-58 last night in a dominant rivalry matchup in Raleigh. The Wolfpack jumped out to an early lead and controlled the game from start to finish, earning their largest win over UNC since 1962 with a 24-point margin. UNC struggled offensively throughout the night, shooting just over 31% from the field and 15% from three-point range and was without key players due to injury (Caleb Wilson, Henri Veesaar). The victory served as a major statement win for NC State as they continue to build momentum late in the season. Can the Heels bounce back from this loss?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the latest information regarding Jerome Tang’s firing from Kansas State.

Jerome Tang was fired as head men’s basketball coach at Kansas State University following a difficult 2025-26 season in which the Wildcats struggled to a 10-5 overall record and 1-11 mark in Big 12 Conference play. The dismissal came shortly after Tang made a viral postgame rant criticizing his players after a lopsided home loss, comments the university said did not meet its standards for representing the program. Kansas State is reportedly attempting to terminate his contract “for cause,” which could void his buyout, while Tang has disputed that characterization and plans to challenge the decision. Is Tang's firing justified? What's the latest?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex preview tonight's UNC vs NC State macthup and and also analyze the lingering controversy from Duke coach Jon Scheyer’s comments about the UNC court-storming incident.

Tonight, the North Carolina Tar Heels will take on the NC State Wolfpack at 7:00 p.m. ET in Raleigh’s PNC Arena in their only ACC matchup of the season. UNC will likely be without both Henri Veesaar and Caleb Wilson. Who will win the game? Is this a season-defining game for The Pack?

On February 7, 2026, the North Carolina Tar Heels upset the No. 4 Duke Blue Devils 71‑68 at the Dean Smith Center, capped by a game‑winning three-pointer from Seth Trimble with 0.4 seconds left. The excitement led to fans storming the court twice, first prematurely, and again after the game officially ended. Duke coach Jon Scheyer stated that some of his staff members were injured during the second storming, including one staffer who sustained a bloody lip, though he later confirmed that the individual is now fine. The Orange County district attorney disputed Scheyer’s claim that anyone had been punched, citing no evidence from video or other sources, while Scheyer maintained that he stood by his account. Recently WRAL reporter Chris Lea asked Scheyer about the court-storming and Scheyer doubled down stating, "I know what I saw." What do Reese and Kmac think about Scheyer's comments?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss tonight’s UNC vs. NC State matchup, reflect on the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson examining his legacy, the challenges that remain in today’s social and political climate and Jon Scheyer's comments about the UNC court-storming.

Tonight, the North Carolina Tar Heels will take on the NC State Wolfpack at 7:00 p.m. ET in Raleigh’s PNC Arena in their only ACC matchup of the season. Who will win tonight?

The Rev. Jesse Jackson has died at the age of 84. His family announced that the longtime civil rights leader, Baptist minister and two-time U.S. presidential candidate passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. Jackson was a towering figure in the American civil rights movement, working closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., founding the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and advocating for social justice and equality for decades. He also made history with his presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, expanding political participation and representation. What is his legacy? What is the current climate in America? What has changed?

On February 7, 2026, the North Carolina Tar Heels upset the No. 4 Duke Blue Devils 71‑68 at the Dean Smith Center, capped by a game‑winning three-pointer from Seth Trimble with 0.4 seconds left. The excitement led to fans storming the court twice, first prematurely, and again after the game officially ended. Duke coach Jon Scheyer stated that some of his staff members were injured during the second storming, including one staffer who sustained a bloody lip, though he later confirmed that the individual is now fine. The Orange County district attorney disputed Scheyer’s claim that anyone had been punched, citing no evidence from video or other sources, while Scheyer maintained that he stood by his account. Recently WRAL reporter Chris Lea asked Scheyer about the court-storming and Scheyer doubled down stating, "I know what I saw." What do Reese and Kmac think about Scheyer's comments?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Coach D. Curtis Lawson of NCCU.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss Duke's blowout win over Syracuse last night, the impact of Cameron Boozer and Isaiah Evans, how the Blue Devils will prepare for the upcoming matchup against No. 1 Michigan and they debate and analyze Jon Scheyer’s comments about the court-storming incident at UNC and whether his account of staff being injured was accurate. 

The No. 3 Duke Blue Devils dominated the Syracuse Orange last night, winning 101-64 in a lopsided matchup. Duke jumped out early and never looked back, closing the first half strong and extending their lead through superior shooting and defensive pressure. Freshman Cameron Boozer led the team with 22 points and 12 rebounds, while Isaiah Evans added 21 points, including multiple three‑pointers. Duke shot very efficiently as a team (over 60 % overall), and their bench production was a big factor. Duke’s next focus is a high‑profile upcoming game against No. 1 Michigan.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the passing of Jesse Jackson and tomorrow's Salute To Champions Event.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with our seventh Salute To Champion Allen Mason.

Allen Mason is a 2026 Salute To Champions Recipient! Mason is a development and business professional based in Durham, North Carolina, with more than 20 years of experience in leadership, sales and marketing. A graduate of Elizabeth City State University, he has been affiliated with Dynasty5, LLC and has remained actively engaged with his alma mater through career and community initiatives. In addition to his business work, Mason has served as an Account Manager with the American Red Cross North Carolina Region, where he has supported community outreach efforts, including initiatives focused on sickle cell awareness.

For more information: redcrossblood.org or email Allen @allen.mason@redcross.org or call: 9842149709

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss tomorrow's UNC vs NC State showdown, reactions to the new NBA All Star Game format and more.

Tomorrow, the North Carolina Tar Heels will take on the NC State Wolfpack at 7:00 p.m. ET in Raleigh’s PNC Arena in their only ACC matchup of the season. Who will win?

Last night's NBA All-Star Game took place at the Intuit Dome and featured a new three-team mini-tournament format with USA Stars, USA Stripes and Team World playing short round-robin games to determine a champion. In the opener, USA Stars defeated Team World in overtime on a walk-off three from Scottie Barnes. USA Stripes then beat USA Stars and later eliminated Team World to reach the final, where USA Stars dominated USA Stripes 47-21 to claim the title. Anthony Edwards was named MVP after leading USA Stars throughout the tournament. Did you enjoy the new All Star Game format?

During the second half of the St. John's University vs Providence college basketball matchup, a hard foul by Providence forward Duncan Powell on Bryce Hopkins ignited a brawl on the court. The foul occurred as Hopkins drove for a layup and brought intense reaction from both teams, resulting in a scuffle that lasted nearly 20 minutes as officials worked to restore order. In total, six players were ejected (two from Providence and four from St. John’s) after shoving and altercations broke out, and play was paused while referees sorted out the chaos. Despite the disruption, St. John’s capitalized with an 8‑0 run after play resumed and went on to win 79‑69. The Big East Conference later announced that Powell would be suspended for three games. What is going on?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss Jerome Tang’s controversial firing at Kansas State, the impact of NIL rules on coaching and the excitement of the new NBA All-Star Game format.

Jerome Tang was fired as head men’s basketball coach at Kansas State University following a difficult 2025-26 season in which the Wildcats struggled to a 10-5 overall record and 1-11 mark in Big 12 Conference play. The dismissal came shortly after Tang made a viral postgame rant criticizing his players after a lopsided home loss, comments the university said did not meet its standards for representing the program. Kansas State is reportedly attempting to terminate his contract “for cause,” which could void his buyout, while Tang has disputed that characterization and plans to challenge the decision. Tang was hired in 2022 after a successful run as an assistant at Baylor University and led Kansas State to an Elite Eight appearance in his first season before the program’s performance declined. Is Tang's firing justified? Does NIL restrict coaches from being able to coach?

Last night's NBA All-Star Game took place at the Intuit Dome and featured a new three-team mini-tournament format with USA Stars, USA Stripes and Team World playing short round-robin games to determine a champion. In the opener, USA Stars defeated Team World in overtime on a walk-off three from Scottie Barnes. USA Stripes then beat USA Stars and later eliminated Team World to reach the final, where USA Stars dominated USA Stripes 47-21 to claim the title. Anthony Edwards was named MVP after leading USA Stars throughout the tournament. Was the new NBA All Star Game format enjoyable?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discusss Duke and UNC’s ACC wins, reactions to the new NBA All-Star Game format and whether Jerome Tang’s firing at Kansas State was justified.

Last night's NBA All-Star Game took place at the Intuit Dome and featured a new three-team mini-tournament format with USA Stars, USA Stripes and Team World playing short round-robin games to determine a champion. Anthony Edwards was named MVP after leading USA Stars throughout the tournament Did you enjoy the new NBA All Star Game format?