The Best of the Sports Shop

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Ekene Ogboko.

Four-star offensive tackle Ekene Ogboko is a four-star offensive tackle from Durham, North Carolina. Ogboko is ranked No. 50 in the 2026 ESPN 300 and is the nation's eighth-ranked offensive tackle prospect in 2026. Ogboko committed to Georgia recently, deciding to be a Bulldog and turning down offers from Clemson, Florida, Notre Dame and more schools. Ogboko also has a brother who is a second-year defensive lineman named Nnamdi Ogboko, a former three-star prospect who redshirted during his freshman season last fall for Georgia. Why did Ekene choose Georgia over the other schools?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Ian Parks.

Ian Parks from Always Bet On Black w/ Ian Parks shares his pick for Game 7 of the NBA Finals and defends LeBron James from the hate that Reese and Kmac disseminate.

Who will win the NBA Finals: Indiana Pacers or Oklahoma City Thunder?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the Pacers win in Game 6 of the NBA Finals last night and if LeBron James made the greatest block in NBA History.

LeBron James made one of the greatest blocks in NBA history when he blocked Andre Iguadola with less than 2 minutes left in Game 7 of the NBA Finals 9 years ago yesterday (June 19, 2016). Is LeBron's block the greatest block in NBA History?

The Indiana Pacers delivered a dominant performance in Game 6 of the NBA Finals last night, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 108–91 and forcing a decisive Game 7. Pascal Siakam contributed a key double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds, responding strongly after a slow start. Tyrese Haliburton, still nursing a calf strain, played limited minutes but made an impact with 14 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals. "Reese's guy," T.J. McConnell also came up big off the bench with 12 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.

For OKC, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 21 points but struggled with 8 turnovers. OKC as a team committed total turnovers, which proved costly. Last night, Indiana overwhelmed the Thunder, who now face a do-or-die Game 7 on Sunday night in Oklahoma City. With the series tied 3–3, all eyes will be on this highly anticipated finale to determine the 2025 NBA champion. Who will win Game 7 and become the 2025 NBA Champion?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex speak with Greear Webb.

Greear Webb joins the Sports Shop to discuss Juneteenth.

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

It is Juneteenth! Dr. Stroman joins the Sports Shop to discuss the history, meaning and origin of Juneteenth. What is Juneteenth?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the Buss Family agreeing to sell the Lakers and if Tyrese Haliburton should play tonight.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 120–109 victory, taking a 3–2 series lead in Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Monday night.  Tyrese Haliburton struggled significantly playing through a sore right calf that he re-aggravated during the game. He finished with just 4 points, all coming from free throws, as he went 0-for-6 from the field and 0-for-4 from three-point range in 34 minutes of play.

With the Pacers now trailing the series 3–2, Haliburton’s health and ability to bounce back will be crucial if Indiana hopes to force a Game 7. The next game is scheduled for tonight in Indiana. Can the Pacers force a Game 7? Will Haliburton be back tonight for Game 6? Should Tyrese Haliburton play tonight? Reese said the Pacers should just tape up Haliburton’s achilles and he should be okay to play. Do you agree?

Yesterday, a landmark deal was reached in which Jeanie Buss and the Buss Family sold approximately 66% ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers franchise to Mark Walter — the owner of the Dodgers — valuing the Lakers around $10 billion, setting a new record for an American professional sports sale.

Jeanie Buss retains her role as team governor and president, continuing to oversee Lakers operations. The Buss family will hold onto a minority stake — around 15%, maintaining a lasting presence. While Jeanie Buss did sell majority control, she's still at the helm of the organization. Will this deal change anything for the Lakers? How do Lakers fans feel about the deal? How much would the Dallas Cowboys sell for?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the sale of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Yesterday, a landmark deal was reached in which Jeanie Buss and the Buss Family sold approximately 66% ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers franchise to Mark Walter — the owner of the Dodgers — valuing the Lakers around $10 billion, setting a new record for an American professional sports sale.

Jeanie Buss retains her role as team governor and president, continuing to oversee Lakers operations. The Buss family will hold onto a minority stake — around 15%, maintaining a lasting presence. While Jeanie Buss did sell majority control, she's still at the helm of the organization. Will this deal change anything for the Lakers? How do Lakers fans feel about the deal?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the meaning, history and origin of Juneteenth.

It's Juneteenth! But what is it? How can we honor it?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss where Kevin Durant will play next season and Caitlin Clark. 

As the offseason approaches, Durant's future remains uncertain. While the Suns are reportedly in active discussions with Durant’s agent, Rich Kleiman, to facilitate a trade, a deal may not be finalized until after the NBA Finals conclude. Durant’s top 3 choices are the San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat and Houston Rockets. Where will KD go? Where should he want to go? How much would you give up for KD?

The Indiana Fever defeated the Connecticut Sun 88–71 last night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The game was marked by heightened tensions and physical play. A notable incident occurred when Clark was poked in the eye by Jacy Sheldon, leading to a confrontation that escalated into a shoving match involving Marina Mabrey, resulting in technical fouls for Clark, Mabrey, and Tina Charles, and a flagrant foul for Sheldon. Also, in the final minute, Sophie Cunningham committed a hard foul on Sheldon, prompting ejections of Cunningham, Sheldon, and Lindsay Allen. Is Caitlin Clark treated unfairly or does she get special treatment? Is the WNBA officiated correctly?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss if  Aaron Rodgers is really married. 

During a press conference with the Pittsburgh Steelers on June 10, 2025, Aaron Rodgers revealed that he married a woman named Brittani "a couple of months ago" and acknowledged that the ring he was wearing was a wedding ring.

However, his family has expressed skepticism about the marriage. Reports indicate that his brother Jordan Rodgers and sister-in-law JoJo Fletcher were unaware of the wedding and only learned about it through media reports . Additionally, public records do not show any legal documentation of a marriage in Pennsylvania or Las Vegas, leading some to question the authenticity of the claim. Is Rodgers really married? Do you care? Should we care?

Reese, Pam and Alex speak with Julian Gamble.

Julian Gamble is a player on the Raleigh Firebirds. Gamble joins the Sports Shop to discuss his basketball playing career. 

Follow Julian on Instagram: @therealjg45

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Caitlin Clark's performance last night and the player conduct last night. 

The Indiana Fever defeated the  Connecticut Sun 88–71 last night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Caitlin Clark led the team with 20 points, six assists, and four three-pointers and with the win, the Fever advanced to the WNBA Commissioner's Cup Final.

The game was marked by heightened tensions and physical play. A notable incident occurred when Clark was poked in the eye by Jacy Sheldon, leading to a confrontation that escalated into a shoving match involving Marina Mabrey, resulting in technical fouls for Clark, Mabrey, and Tina Charles, and a flagrant foul for Sheldon.Also, in the final minute, Sophie Cunningham committed a hard foul on Sheldon, prompting ejections of Cunningham, Sheldon, and Lindsay Allen.

Fever head coach Stephanie White expressed frustration with the officiating, criticizing the inconsistent control and physical play throughout the season The Fever will face the Minnesota Lynx in the Commissioner's Cup Final on July 1, 2025, at Target Center in Minneapolis.

Reese, Kmac and Alex discuss the how Kevin Durant compares to great players like LEBron James, Steph Curry, Kobe Bryant, etc. and where KD could play next season.

Kevin Durant is expected to be one of the most sought-after players in the 2025 NBA offseason. Currently under contract with the Phoenix Suns for the 2025–26 season, Durant is eligible to sign a two-year, $120 million extension starting July 6, 2025. However, Durant has expressed interest in joining several teams, including the Miami Heat, Houston Rockets, and San Antonio Spurs.

As the offseason approaches, Durant's future remains uncertain. While the Suns are reportedly in active discussions with Durant’s agent, Rich Kleiman, to facilitate a trade, a deal may not be finalized until after the NBA Finals conclude. Where will KD go?

Kevin Durant is an all-time great player. However, Reese and Kmac just might not agree. Why? Listen and find out.

Reese, Kmac and Alex discuss if the Pacers can force a Game 7 in the NBA Finals.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 120–109 victory, taking a 3–2 series lead in Game 5 of the NBA Finals last night. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with a career-high 40 points, while MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 31 points.

The Pacers' Pascal Siakam recorded 28 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals in the loss. Tyrese Haliburton struggled significantly playing through a sore right calf that he re-aggravated during the game. He finished with just 4 points, all coming from free throws, as he went 0-for-6 from the field and 0-for-4 from three-point range in 34 minutes of play.

T.J. McConnell delivered a standout performance for the Indiana Pacers, contributing significantly off the bench in their 120–109 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. McConnell played just under 21 minutes, scoring 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including a perfect 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. He also recorded 5 rebounds, 10 assists, 1 steal, and 2 turnovers, finishing with a team-high +22 plus-minus rating during his time on the court. His dynamic playmaking and scoring were crucial in keeping the Pacers competitive, especially as they mounted a fourth-quarter comeback.

Should Haliburton have rerturned to play or let TJ MConnell continue? Is Haliburton a superstar? With the Pacers now trailing the series 3–2, Haliburton’s health and ability to bounce back will be crucial if Indiana hopes to force a Game 7. The next game is scheduled for Thursday night. Can the Pacers force a Game 7? Will Haliburton be back for Game 6? Did Rick Carlisle cost the Pacers?

Reese, Kmac and Alex discuss if Rick Carlisle cost the Pacers the game last night.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 120–109 victory, taking a 3–2 series lead in Game 5 of the NBA Finals last night. 

Tyrese Haliburton struggled significantly playing through a sore right calf that he re-aggravated during the game. He finished with just 4 points, all coming from free throws, as he went 0-for-6 from the field and 0-for-4 from three-point range in 34 minutes of play. 

T.J. McConnell delivered a standout performance for the Indiana Pacers, contributing significantly off the bench in their 120–109 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. McConnell played just under 21 minutes, scoring 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including a perfect 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. He also recorded 5 rebounds, 10 assists, 1 steal, and 2 turnovers, finishing with a team-high +22 plus-minus rating during his time on the court. His dynamic playmaking and scoring were crucial in keeping the Pacers competitive, especially as they mounted a fourth-quarter comeback.

Should Haliburton have rerturned to play or let TJ MConnell continue? Is Haliburton a superstar? With the Pacers now trailing the series 3–2, Haliburton’s health and ability to bounce back will be crucial if Indiana hopes to force a Game 7. The next game is scheduled for Thursday night. Can the Pacers force a Game 7? Will Haliburton be back for Game 6? Did Rick Carlisle cost the Pacers?

Reese, Kmac and Alex discuss if Tyrese Haliburton should have sat out and if he is a superstar.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 120–109 victory, taking a 3–2 series lead in Game 5 of the NBA Finals last night. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with a career-high 40 points, while MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 31 points.

The Pacers' Pascal Siakam recorded 28 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals in the loss. Tyrese Haliburton struggled significantly playing through a sore right calf that he re-aggravated during the game. He finished with just 4 points, all coming from free throws, as he went 0-for-6 from the field and 0-for-4 from three-point range in 34 minutes of play.

T.J. McConnell delivered a standout performance for the Indiana Pacers, contributing significantly off the bench in their 120–109 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. McConnell played just under 21 minutes, scoring 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including a perfect 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. He also recorded 5 rebounds, 10 assists, 1 steal, and 2 turnovers, finishing with a team-high +22 plus-minus rating during his time on the court. His dynamic playmaking and scoring were crucial in keeping the Pacers competitive, especially as they mounted a fourth-quarter comeback.

Should Haliburton have rerturned to play or let TJ MConnell continue? Is Haliburton a superstar? With the Pacers now trailing the series 3–2, Haliburton’s health and ability to bounce back will be crucial if Indiana hopes to force a Game 7. The next game is scheduled for Thursday night. Can the Pacers force a Game 7? Will Haliburton be back for Game 6? Did Rick Carlisle cost the Pacers?

Reese and Alex discuss the OKC Thunder's win over the Pacers last night.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 120–109 victory, taking a 3–2 series lead in Game 5 of the NBA Finals last night. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with a career-high 40 points, while MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 31 points.

The Pacers' Pascal Siakam recorded 28 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals in the loss. Tyrese Haliburton struggled significantly playing through a sore right calf that he re-aggravated during the game. He finished with just 4 points, all coming from free throws, as he went 0-for-6 from the field and 0-for-4 from three-point range in 34 minutes of play.

T.J. McConnell delivered a standout performance for the Indiana Pacers, contributing significantly off the bench in their 120–109 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. McConnell played just under 21 minutes, scoring 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including a perfect 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. He also recorded 5 rebounds, 10 assists, 1 steal, and 2 turnovers, finishing with a team-high +22 plus-minus rating during his time on the court. His dynamic playmaking and scoring were crucial in keeping the Pacers competitive, especially as they mounted a fourth-quarter comeback.

Should Haliburton have rerturned to play or let TJ MConnell continue? Is Haliburton a superstar? With the Pacers now trailing the series 3–2, Haliburton’s health and ability to bounce back will be crucial if Indiana hopes to force a Game 7. The next game is scheduled for Thursday night. Can the Pacers force a Game 7? Will Haliburton be back for Game 6? Did Rick Carlisle cost the Pacers?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss why Mark Jackson is not an NBA head coach and the Knicks head coach search.

The New York Knicks are actively seeking a new head coach following the unexpected dismissal of Tom Thibodeau on June 3, 2025, despite the team's strong performance in the Eastern Conference Finals.

The Knicks have faced difficulties in obtaining interviews with several current head coaches. Requests to interview Ime Udoka (Rockets), Chris Finch (Timberwolves), and Jason Kidd (Mavericks) were denied. Additionally, Jay Wright and Dan Hurley have declined interest in the position.

The Knicks are set to interview former Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins and former Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown this coming week. Jenkins, 40, had a 250-214 record over six seasons in Memphis but was dismissed late last season. Brown, 55, holds a career record of 454-304 and previously coached the Cavaliers, Lakers, and Kings, leading Cleveland to the NBA Finals in 2006–07. Former Knicks assistant coach Johnnie Bryant is also considered a strong internal candidate. The Knicks are not under immediate pressure to make a hire, allowing them the time needed to thoroughly evaluate candidates.

Who should the Knicks hire? Why don’t people hire Mark Jackson?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the U.S. Open.

Over the weekend, the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club experienced significant developments, including weather disruptions and player withdrawals, shaping the tournament's progression.

The final round was delayed by a 96-minute weather interruption due to heavy rain, leading to water accumulation on greens and fairways. J.J. Spaun won the U.S. Open clinching his first major victory. Despite a challenging start with five bogeys in the first six holes, Spaun rallied to finish with a two-over-par 72, securing a one-stroke lead at one under par for the tournament. His victory was highlighted by a dramatic 64-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole, the longest putt made during the tournament. Spaun's triumph marks a significant milestone in his career potentially solidifying his status as a rising star in professional golf.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss Magic Johnson's comments about NBA superstars and Tyrese Haliburton's performance in the NBA Finals.  

The NBA Finals series is tied at 2-2. Tyrese Haliburton has averaged 17.8 points per game in the NBA Finals through 4 games. Magic Johnson said that Haliburton needs to score more for the Pacers to win this series. Is Magic Johnson right about Haliburton? How does Magic Johnson define a superstar in the NBA?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss if the Magic traded too much to acquire Desmond Bane and if Tyrese Haliburton is overrated. 

The 2025 NBA offseason is already making waves with significant trades and rumors shaping the league's future.

The Orlando Magic made a bold move by trading for sharpshooter Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies. In exchange, the Magic sent Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and 4 first-round draft picks and a pick swap, including the 16th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, to Memphis. This trade aims to bolster Orlando's offense, which ranked 27th last season, by adding Bane's elite three-point shooting and defensive prowess alongside emerging stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Did the Magic overpay for Bane?

Stars like LaMelo Ball and Trae Young who have been in lukewarm trade rumors over the past few seasons. Will LaMelo be traded? What about Young?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss speak with Steve Rao.

Steve Rao joins the Sports Shop to discuss the growth of cricket, tennis, pickleball, soccer and other sports in North Carolina.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss their Father's Day weekend and the officiating of the NBA Finals.

How was your Father’s Day weekend?

In Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Finals on Friday, June 13, the Oklahoma City Thunder secured a pivotal 111–104 victory over the Indiana Pacers, evening the series at 2-2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 35 points, including 15 in the final 4:38, leading a 12-1 closing run that erased a 10-point deficit.

Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 18 points and 7 assists but faced challenges in the fourth quarter, where Indiana shot only 27.8% from the field and missed all eight three-point attempts. Pascal Siakam scored 20 points but was limited to just one shot attempt in the fourth quarter. Bennedict Mathurin missed 3 of 4 free throws and committed two fouls away from the play in the final 23.1 seconds, hindering the Pacers' comeback efforts.

The series shifts back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 tonight at 8:30 PM ET. With the series tied, both teams are poised for a decisive matchup. Who wins tonight?

Reese, Kmac and Alex speak with Lauren E. Banks.

Lauren E. Banks is at the 2025 Triangle Golf Challenge! Lauren E. Banks is an American actress, producer, and director known for her compelling performances in both television and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Siobhan Quays in Showtime’s crime drama City on a Hill and as Jennie Reeves in Paramount+’s Lawmen: Bass Reeves. Lauren joins the Sports Shop to discuss the Triangle Golf Challenge and her past projects and what is upcoming.