The Best of the Sports Shop

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss Easter speeches and their significance, share personal experiences with giving them and give their predictions for the upcoming men’s and women’s Final Four matchups.

Apparently, an Easter speech is a spoken message, often delivered by children or leaders in a church setting that celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and the themes of hope, renewal and victory over death. These speeches range from short, memorized Bible verses or poems by children to formal sermons or public addresses regarding the spiritual significance of the holiday. Did you ever give Easter speeches?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss if UNC firing Hubert Davis was a knee-jerk response to Duke's success.

Following the departure of Hubert Davis, UNC launched a high-profile search for its next men’s basketball head coach, aiming to continue the program’s tradition of excellence. The search has focused on candidates with proven NCAA Tournament experience, strong recruiting ties and the ability to maintain the Tar Heels’ winning culture. Who will be the next UNC men's basketball coach? Is this a good thing or bad thing UNC hasn't hired a coach yet? Was firing Hubert Davis a knee-jerk reaction in response to Duke’s success?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss if it is a good thing or bad thing that UNC has not hired a coach yet and they preview tonight’s women’s Final Four matchups, including UConn vs. South Carolina and the impact a win by Dawn Staley’s team would have on her legacy.

Following the departure of Hubert Davis, UNC launched a high-profile search for its next men’s basketball head coach, aiming to continue the program’s tradition of excellence. The search has focused on candidates with proven NCAA Tournament experience, strong recruiting ties and the ability to maintain the Tar Heels’ winning culture. If you're Billy Donovan, do you leave the NBA for the UNC job? Who will be the next UNC men's basketball coach? Is this a good thing or bad thing UNC hasn't hired a coach yet?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Wade Harris, Bob MacKinnon and Ian Parks.

Wade Harris is the CEO, Director of Player Development and the Managing Partner of the Raleigh Firebirds. Bob MacKinnon is the former Firebirds coach and is now serving the Firebirds as an advisor. Bob MacKinnon began his coaching career in 1982 and served as a Coach in the NCAA ranks for 25 years as an Assistant, Associate Head Coach, and Head Coach at several prestigious institutions including George Washington University, Marshall University, Niagara University, Notre Dame University and the University of North Carolina. The duo join the Sports Shop and talk about Raleigh Firebirds basketball and the state of UNC Basketball. To buy tickets visit: raleighfirebirds.net.

Ian Parks from Always Bet On Black w/ Ian Parks joins the Sports Shop to share his picks for this weekend in the Final Four of the men's and women's NCAA Tournaments. Who will win this weekend: South Carolina Gamecocks or UConn Huskies? UCLA Bruins or Texas Longhorns? Illinois Fighting Illini or UConn Huskies? Michigan Wolverines or Arizona Wildcats? Michigan and Arizona play tomorrow night in a highly anticipated Final Four matchup. Will Arizona Wildcats' guard Jaden Bradley record more than 21.5 combined points, rebounds and assists against Michigan?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the upcoming Final Four matchups, Kirk Cousins signing with the Raiders and analyze how Cousins has amassed over $330M in his NFL career through strategic contracts and guaranteed earnings.

Kirk Cousins recently signed a deal with the Las Vegas Raiders that’s officially listed as five years for $172M, but it’s really a short-term, low-risk contract with about $20M guaranteed this season and team-friendly options afterward. He’s still being paid by the Atlanta Falcons, giving him income from two teams at once. At 37, Cousins serves as a gap quarterback, providing veteran stability and experience while the Raiders prepare for a younger long-term option, and with this deal, his career earnings rise to around $330M, placing him among the top five all-time and projected to become the second-highest paid player in NFL history. How has Cousins amassed this much money in his NFL career?

Following the departure of Hubert Davis, UNC launched a high-profile search for its next men’s basketball head coach, aiming to continue the program’s tradition of excellence. The search has focused on candidates with proven NCAA Tournament experience, strong recruiting ties and the ability to maintain the Tar Heels’ winning culture. There are several candidates UNC is looking at. Some of those candidates are NBA coaches while two are coaching Final Four teams. If you're Billy Donovan, do you leave the NBA for the UNC job? Who will be the next UNC men's basketball coach?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Brant Fowler II.

Brant joins the Sports Shop to talk about Southern University sports.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss if Justin Gainey is the right hire for NC State.

The NC State Wolfpack  moved quickly to stabilize its men’s basketball program after Will Wade’s sudden departure by hiring Justin Gainey as the 22nd head coach. Gainey, a 49‑year‑old NC State alumnus and former Wolfpack guard (1996-2000), spent the past five seasons as an assistant and associate head coach under Rick Barnes at Tennessee, where he helped the Volunteers reach multiple deep NCAA Tournament runs. Gainey’s deep ties to the school, as a player, early‑career coach and respected recruiter, made him an attractive choice to lead the team into a new era and bring continuity and enthusiasm after a turbulent coaching change.  Is Gainey the right choice? Was there a better option?

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

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss UNC's search for a new head men's basketball coach and they react to Justin Gainey's press conference.

Following the departure of Hubert Davis, UNC launched a high-profile search for its next men’s basketball head coach, aiming to continue the program’s tradition of excellence. The search has focused on candidates with proven NCAA Tournament experience, strong recruiting ties and the ability to maintain the Tar Heels’ winning culture. If you're Billy Donovan, do you leave the NBA for the UNC job? Who will be the next UNC men's basketball coach?

The NC State Wolfpack moved quickly to stabilize its men’s basketball program after Will Wade’s sudden departure by hiring Justin Gainey as the 22nd head coach. Gainey, a 49‑year‑old NC State alumnus and former Wolfpack guard (1996-2000), spent the past five seasons as an assistant and associate head coach under Rick Barnes at Tennessee, where he helped the Volunteers reach multiple deep NCAA Tournament runs. Gainey’s deep ties to the school, as a player, early‑career coach and respected recruiter, made him an attractive choice to lead the team into a new era and bring continuity and enthusiasm after a turbulent coaching change.  Yesterday, NC State held an introductory press conference for Gainey. What did he say? Is Gainey the right choice? Was there a better option? Are NC State fans excited?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Justin Gainey's introductory press conference.

The NC State Wolfpack moved quickly to stabilize its men’s basketball program after Will Wade’s sudden departure by hiring Justin Gainey as the 22nd head coach. Gainey, a 49‑year‑old NC State alumnus and former Wolfpack guard (1996-2000), spent the past five seasons as an assistant and associate head coach under Rick Barnes at Tennessee, where he helped the Volunteers reach multiple deep NCAA Tournament runs. Gainey’s deep ties to the school, as a player, early‑career coach and respected recruiter, made him an attractive choice to lead the team into a new era and bring continuity and enthusiasm after a turbulent coaching change.  Yesterday, NC State held an introductory press conference for Gainey. What did he say? Is Gainey the right choice? Was there a better option?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Comedian CP and Herman Wrice.

This weekend at Goodnights Comedy Club in Raleigh, two standout comics are taking the stage with very different but equally entertaining styles. On Saturday, April 4, Comedian CP, a writer/performer whose comedy special Sunday After Six debuted on VEEPS and who has written and appeared on multiple TV and streaming comedy projects, will bring his sharp, character‑driven humor to the showroom with showtimes at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM. Then on Sunday, April 5, Herman Wrice, the Los Angeles–based stand‑up comic and co‑host of the wildly popular Kevin Langue Show with millions of online followers, will headline a special event, blending personal storytelling and cultural commentary in a set that reflects both his East Coast roots and West Coast comedy experience. Both shows take place at Goodnights Comedy Club, 401 Woodburn Rd., Raleigh, NC 27605, and are 18+ events with food and drink available.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the details of Tiger Woods’ 2026 rollover crash, including the circumstances of the accident, the sheriff’s report and Woods’ plans to step away from golf to focus on his health.

On March 27, 2026, Tiger Woods was involved in a rollover crash near his home on Jupiter Island, Florida, after attempting to pass a truck pulling a trailer and clipping it, which caused his vehicle to flip onto its side. He was not seriously injured, and no one else was hurt in the incident. According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Woods showed signs of impairment at the scene and failed field sobriety tests, though a breathalyzer registered 0.00, leading authorities to suspect prescription medication rather than alcohol. Investigators say Woods told officers he was distracted by his phone and adjusting the radio before the crash. He was arrested and charged with DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, before being released hours later. In a written statement, Woods said he plans to step away from golf and focus on his health.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the controversy surrounding the Rooney Rule, weighing James Uthmeier’s criticisms against Roger Goodell’s defense of the policy and debating its impact on diversity and hiring practices in the NFL.

The NFL’s Rooney Rule, which requires teams to interview minority candidates for key leadership positions, has recently come under renewed scrutiny after criticism from James Uthmeier, who questioned its legality and fairness amid broader political debates. In response, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has made it clear the league is not backing away, emphasizing that the policy has evolved over time and will continue to be adjusted rather than eliminated. The exchange highlights a growing tension between the league’s diversity initiatives and outside political pressure, putting the Rooney Rule back at the center of conversation around hiring practices in professional sports.

Last night’s 2026 McDonald’s All-American Game showcased the next generation of elite high school basketball talent in Glendale, Arizona, with both the boys and girls games highlighting future college stars. On the girls side, the East pulled away for a 91-71 win behind a dominant MVP performance from Saniyah Hall, who led all scorers and showed why she’s considered the top recruit in the class, while players like Kate Harpring also stood out despite battling through injury. On the boys side, the game featured a deep, balanced group of prospects rather than a single headline star, with top recruits like Tyran Stokes and Caleb Holt flashing their all-around ability in a showcase of the sport’s future at the college level. Did you watch? Were Reese and Pam impressed?

Tommy Lloyd is the head basketball coach of the Arizona Wildcats who are currently in the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament set to face the Michigan Wolverines. Lloyd is also allegedly in the running for the head coaching job at UNC. Should Tommy Lloyd want the UNC job?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss last night's McDonald's All-American Basketball Games.

Last night’s 2026 McDonald’s All-American Game showcased the next generation of elite high school basketball talent in Glendale, Arizona, with both the boys and girls games highlighting future college stars. On the girls side, the East pulled away for a 91-71 win behind a dominant MVP performance from Saniyah Hall, who led all scorers and showed why she’s considered the top recruit in the class, while players like Kate Harpring also stood out despite battling through injury. On the boys side, the game featured a deep, balanced group of prospects rather than a single headline star, with top recruits like Tyran Stokes and Caleb Holt flashing their all-around ability in a showcase of the sport’s future at the college level. Did you watch? Were Reese and Pam impressed?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the UNC men’s basketball coaching search, the hiring of Justin Gainey at NC State and whether he’s the right fit to lead the Wolfpack and the debate over Jon Scheyer’s “choker” label versus Jay Williams’ defense of his record and March Tournament performance.

Following the departure of Hubert Davis, UNC launched a high-profile search for its next men’s basketball head coach, aiming to continue the program’s tradition of excellence. The search has focused on candidates with proven NCAA Tournament experience, strong recruiting ties and the ability to maintain the Tar Heels’ winning culture. If you're Billy Donovan, do you leave the NBA for the UNC job? Who will be the next UNC men's basketball coach?

NC State moved quickly to stabilize its men’s basketball program after Will Wade’s sudden departure by hiring Justin Gainey as the 22nd head coach. Gainey, a 49‑year‑old NC State alumnus and former Wolfpack guard (1996-2000), spent the past five seasons as an assistant and associate head coach under Rick Barnes at Tennessee, where he helped the Volunteers reach multiple deep NCAA Tournament runs. Gainey’s deep ties to the school—as a player, early‑career coach, and respected recruiter—made him an attractive choice to lead the team into a new era and bring continuity and enthusiasm after a turbulent coaching change.  Is Gainey the right choice? Was there a better option?

Many college basketball fans have labeled Jon Scheyer, head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, a “choker” after a couple of high‑profile NCAA Tournament collapses — most recently blowing a large lead late in an Elite Eight loss to UConn. Critics argue that repeated near‑misses in March feed a narrative that his teams falter under pressure despite strong regular seasons and talent. In response to that chatter, former Duke star and ESPN analyst Jay Williams pushed back strongly on social media and video, calling the “choker” label laughable, noting Scheyer’s excellent overall record, multiple Elite Eight/Four runs, ACC titles, and the difficulty of winning a national championship — and said equating success solely with cutting down the nets ignores context and history in coaching careers. Jay Williams says Jon Scheyer is not a choker. Is he right?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss last night’s women’s Elite Eight performances, the impact of Dawn Staley’s transfers on South Carolina’s success, whether USC can challenge UConn in the Final Four and the high-stakes decisions facing UNC as it searches for a new men’s basketball head coach, including whether a high-profile name like Billy Donovan would leave the NBA for the storied college program.

The Texas Longhorns dominated in Fort Worth, rolling past Michigan 77-41 to secure their spot in the Final Four for the second straight season. In Sacramento, the South Carolina Gamecocks advanced with a 78-52 win over TCU. South Carolina’s experience and depth showed as they pulled away comfortably in the second half, punching their ticket to the Final Four and setting up a potential marquee matchup with UConn. These wins completed an all‑No. 1‑seed Final Four featuring UConn, UCLA, Texas and South Carolina—only the second time in NCAA women’s history that all four top seeds have made the national semifinals, and for the second consecutive year with the same quartet advancing. How important were Dawn Staley's transfers? Can USC take down UConn?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss if Justin Gainey is the right coach for NC State and the history of UNC head men's basketball coaches. 

NC State moved quickly to stabilize its men’s basketball program after Will Wade’s sudden departure by hiring Justin Gainey as the 22nd head coach. Gainey, a 49‑year‑old NC State alumnus and former Wolfpack guard (1996-2000), spent the past five seasons as an assistant and associate head coach under Rick Barnes at Tennessee, where he helped the Volunteers reach multiple deep NCAA Tournament runs. Gainey’s deep ties to the school—as a player, early‑career coach, and respected recruiter—made him an attractive choice to lead the team into a new era and bring continuity and enthusiasm after a turbulent coaching change.  Is Gainey the right choice? Was there a better option?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Louisiana sports.

Will Wade abruptly left his one‑year head coaching job at NC State to return to LSU—where he coached from 2017-22. Wade rejoined LSU after LSU fired Matt McMahon and negotiated a buyout with NC State to bring him back. Wade called the move a “chance to go home,” but his departure drew swift criticism from Wolfpack fans and media for abandoning a six‑year contract after just one season and how he informed the school. NC State Athletic Director Boo Corrigan publicly criticized Wade’s exit as a poor look and said he felt misled, while social media reactions ranged from outrage and disappointment to ridicule; some analysts also highlighted lingering concerns about Wade’s controversial past and the optics of the return. Will Wade addressed NC State during his introductory press conference with LSU. What did Will Wade say?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Will Wade’s controversial departure from NC State, his remarks at the LSU press conference and debate over whether Jon Scheyer deserves the “choker” label and Jay Williams’ defense of him.

Will Wade abruptly left his one‑year head coaching job at NC State to return to LSU—where he coached from 2017-22. Wade rejoined LSU after LSU fired Matt McMahon and negotiated a buyout with NC State to bring him back. Wade called the move a “chance to go home,” but his departure drew swift criticism from Wolfpack fans and media for abandoning a six‑year contract after just one season and how he informed the school. NC State Athletic Director Boo Corrigan publicly criticized Wade’s exit as a poor look and said he felt misled, while social media reactions ranged from outrage and disappointment to ridicule; some analysts also highlighted lingering concerns about Wade’s controversial past and the optics of the return. Will Wade addressed NC State during his introductory press conference with LSU. What did Will Wade say?

Many college basketball fans have labeled Jon Scheyer, head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, a “choker” after a couple of high‑profile NCAA Tournament collapses — most recently blowing a large lead late in an Elite Eight loss to UConn. Critics argue that repeated near‑misses in March feed a narrative that his teams falter under pressure despite strong regular seasons and talent. In response to that chatter, former Duke star and ESPN analyst Jay Williams pushed back strongly on social media and video, calling the “choker” label laughable, noting Scheyer’s excellent overall record, multiple Elite Eight/Four runs, ACC titles, and the difficulty of winning a national championship — and said equating success solely with cutting down the nets ignores context and history in coaching careers. Jay Williams says Jon Scheyer is not a choker. Is he right?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the shocking finish between Duke and UConn, breaking down who is at fault for Duke’s collapse, why late-game turnovers keep haunting the Blue Devils, and what this has to do with Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels.

The game between the Duke Blue Devils men's basketball and the UConn Huskies men's basketball turned into one of the wildest finishes of the NCAA March Madness. Duke controlled most of the game and built a lead as large as 19 points, looking firmly in command well into the second half. However, UConn mounted a steady comeback, taking advantage of turnovers and missed opportunities to chip away at the deficit. In the final seconds, Duke still held a narrow lead but turned the ball over, giving UConn one last chance. The Huskies pushed the ball up the court, and Braylon Mullins hit a deep, buzzer-beating shot with just 0.4 seconds left to give UConn a stunning 73–72 victory. Tarris Reed Jr. led UConn with 26 points, while Cameron Boozer scored 27 for Duke. The win sends UConn to the Final Four, while Duke’s season ends in heartbreaking fashion after a game they had largely controlled. Who is at fault for Duke? How can Duke stop this pattern? Was this more about Duke collapsing or UConn taking the game? Is Kmac here?