48 Minutes

0:00 ... Fred hello and welcome to the "Big Red Bus" from the BLEAV Network. 1:07 ... Fred introduces Bruce and shares some background on his NBA credentials. 1:47 ... Bruce shares the three top moments of his career covering the NBA.  Hakeem Olajuwon & Dr. Jack Ramsay 1995 Finals. 3:08 ... 2008 NBA Finals story with Paul Pierce and the first indoor Gatorade shower. 3:45 ... David Stern's final interview on Pure Hoops Media. 4:31 ... Bruce on some of the famous names he's worked with ... Bill Simmons, Zach Lowe, Brian Windhorst, Stephen A. Smith, Jeff Van Gundy, Hubie Brown, JJ Redick. 9:22 ... Bruce's history as a Celtics fan and how he compares the team to his old team at ESPN. 10:34 ... Bruce discusses his friend and former colleague Tim Legler, who has been elevated to the top NBA analyst position at ABC/ESPN. 11:28 ... Other analysts Bruce admired: Doug Collins, Avery Johnson, Will Perdue. 12:54 ... More on Doug Collins and his brilliance at the 2015 NBA Finals. 14:29 ... Bruce's thoughts on how TV now covers the NBA with an extreme emphasis on gambling 15:20 ... Linear TV is dying and Streaming is ascendent.  Bruce was puzzled by Adam Silver's comments on the NBA being a "highlights" league when he was defending all the moves from cable to streaming. 16:50 ... While Bruce disagreed with Adam's streaming comment, bruce feels Adam has done a great job as Commissioner. 18:18 ... Bruce says an "under the radar" storyline this year will be the San Antonio Spurs with Victor Wembanyama winning MVP an Defensive Player of the Year. 20:25 ... How the globalization of the game has impacted the NBA.  Bruce feels the best centers are all from outside the USA and he goes down the list. 21:37 ... How about the Chicago Bulls?  This year's team needs big improvement from their young bigs and the rebounding and defense need much improvement. 25:54 ... The significance of the late '90s Chicago Bulls teams when Michael Jordan was the most famous person on the planet.  Bruce questions why MJ seems to be the "Permanent and Forever GOAT" who can never be surpassed. 27:00 ... Fred and Bruce go back and forth on MJ and LeBron with each making the case for their guy. 30:36 ... Derrick Rose will have his jersey retired by the Bulls and both Fred and Bruce make the case for D-Rose to eventually make it into the Hall of Fame. 33:27 ... Bruce plugs the series of "Two-a-Days" on the 48 Minutes podcast where all 30 teams are previewed over 15 shorter shows. 36:00 ... Fred wraps it up and says goodbye TRT 36:40     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 2:00 Eastern Conference Team Over/Under Predictions 2:04 Boston Celtics 4:45 New York Knicks 6:07 Toronto Raptors 7:54 Brooklyn Nets 9:15 Philadelphia 76ers 10:53 Cleveland Cavaliers 13:01 Indiana Pacers 14:59 Milwaukee Bucks 18:00 Detroit Pistons 20:25 Chicago Bulls 22:25 Orlando Magic 24:57 Atlanta Hawks 26:38 Miami Heat 28:32 Charlotte Hornets 30:26 Washington Wizards 32:58 Western Conference Team Over/Under Predictions 33:04 Oklahoma City Thunder 34:35 Denver Nuggets 35:15 Minnesota Timberwolves 38:07 Portland Trail Blazers 40:24 Utah Jazz 42:19 Los Angeles Lakers 44:05 Los Angeles Clippers 46:16 Golden State Warriors 48:18 Sacramento Kings 50:19 Phoenix Suns 52:47 Houston Rockets 54:05 Memphis Grizzlies 55:45 Dallas Mavericks 57:08 San Antonio Spurs 58:44 New Orleans Pelicans Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:03 Washington Wizards 6:53 Utah Jazz Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:22 Toronto Raptors 9:43 San Antonio Spurs Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:12 Philadelphia 76ers 8:23 Sacramento Kings Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 ... Opening Animation ... Ross hello and introduces the panel ... Show #185 is dedicated to Baron Davis, who wore #85 with two NBA teams. 1:10 ... Bruce introduces "Woj" and pronounces his name correctly ... Bruce runs down some highlights of his legendary career. 3:21 ... Woj shares his thoughts on delivering his acceptance speech at the Hoop Hall of Fame ... he singles out Jackie MacMullan and how other legends of the game sat and listened to his speech. 5:12 ... Woj grew up in Bristol, CT the home of ESPN.  But before joining ESPN in 2017, Woj worked in the newspaper business but took a leap of faith in 2007 and joined Yahoo! Sports.  He shares great memories of pioneering digital media NBA coverage with Yahoo! 10:04 ... On being an underdog at Yahoo and using that to fuel his desire to compete.  Woj loved being an underdog. 11:47 ... ESPN is a machine and no individual person is bigger than "the place."  But that machinery helps to make stars.    But Woj did his best to keep his underdog mentality alive, although at ESPN that was hard to do.  Woj reflects on the journey and the pride he and his crew felt about their work. 15:00 ... World B asks about growing up in Bristol and traveling all over the country before eventually returning to Bristol to work for ESPN.  That's why he didn't pursue ESPN at the start of his career ... he wanted to be a sports writer, which did not exist at ESPN back then. 17:02 ... Woj's elderly Dad lived in Bristol when he joined ESPN in 2017.  It was meaningful to be able to spend some time together. 19:11 ... Woj and Donovan Clingan both went to Bristol Central High School.  Woj knew him from the time he was in 8th grade. 21:13 ... Woj broke so many stories that he made it seem routine ... if there was a big story, he probably broke it.  But there were plenty of challenges ... the demands on his family time were tops on that list.  But there were many others and Woj explains some in vivid detail. 27:30 ... Woj shares his experience doing a Giannis Antetokounmpo Series during COVID that was a three part podcast he did with his editor Cristina Daglas, who is Greek.  Woj was incredibly impressed with Giannis's recall and contributions to the project. 31:32 ... Woj reflects on his first real scoop with Yahoo! on Greg Oden and how it more or less put him on the map. 34:07 ... When LeBron James and Chris Bosh went to Miami, the modern "Insider" position was really created.  It fueled interest in all the "behind the scenes" moves and the fans were hungry for all of it. 35:34 ... Woj runs through his main responsibilities as general manager at St. Bonaventure and the word "general" describes his responsibilities.   He tells a great story about how the new film room at the school was where he met his wife Amy back when the student newspaper office was there and they were both students. 40:44 ... The NIL has changed college sports in a huge way.  Woj explains where a lot of the money comes from and how "Rev Share" is a big part of the University's financial relationship with students. 43:53 ... Bruce asks Woj to explain how he fits into the chain of command between the coach and athletic director. 46:16 ... Woj has an enormous social media following (more than 6 million on Twitter/X and 2 million on Instagram) and he explains how his personal reach benefits the basketball program.  While there are some rules regarding his tweeting, he can still drop a Woj Bomb on behalf of the program. 48:43 ... Ross asks about new recruit Joe Grahovac, a 24 year old sophomore who has an incredible personal story.  There is a lot of NBA interest in seeing Grahovac and the school will have a "Pro Day" to showcase Grahovac and other Bonnies players.  He looks a bit like a red haired hoop legend from UCLA back in the 1970s. 52:58 ... Woj loved pursuing players from around the world and recruiting them to the school.  They've brought in six international players and all have great individual stories and bring different cultures into the program. 57:08 ... Culture is something that has to be worked on every day ... the guys who live that way are the guys they want at St. Bonny. 58:04 ... The "Pro Day" at St. Bonaventure will be a first for a "Mid Major" school.  Woj explains how an event like that can enhance a player's prospects for a pro career. 1:02:00 ... Some of the NBA players Woj knows have helped mentor the St. Bonny players, especially in dealing with injuries.  Woj also tries to connect players with alumni who are business and community leaders. 1:04:46 ... What is Woj's top goal for the upcoming season?  To see the growth of the players and the program is a priority. 1:06:01 ... Ross thanks Woj for his time tonight! TRT 1:06:41                       Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 ... Bruce introduction with his ESPN experiences and NBA background. 2:23 ... What the "48 Minutes" podcast is, who the hosts are, and information on the show's "Two-a-Day" project where all 30 NBA teams are previewed as the season approaches. 5:47 ... Milwaukee Bucks off-season storylines 7:52 ... How do we expect the Bucks to fare in the eastern conference this season? 10:27 ... With Giannis Antetokounmpo acting as the primary ballhandler, is that style detrimental to the development of the team's young guards? 13:40 ... Is Andre Jackson Jr. getting a fair chance to develop and what do we make of the other guards on the team? 17:30 ... Bobby Portis plays with "fire in his belly," and his teammate Kyle Kuzma could use some of that in his game too. 22:28 ... Myles Turner replaces Brook Lopez as a rim protector and "stretch five," but this team will rise or fall with its defense. 23:46 ... If the team stumbles badly, could we be looking at the end of the "Giannis Era" in Milwaukee? 26:57 ... League talk ... Rockets lose Fred Van Vleet, possibly for the whole season. 27:46 ... Orlando looks like a dangerous team in the east with newly acquired Desmond Bane. 29:08 ... Which team in the west can challenge OKC for the top spot? 30:16 ... Will LeBron James and Luka Doncic co-exist with the Lakers and be successful together for a full season? 32:47 ... Are the Clippers too old and is Kawhi Leonard actually holding them back? 34:54 ... Bruce promotes the 48 Minutes podcast and the "Two-a-Day" series of 30 NBA previews.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 ... Opening animation, introduction of the panel, and show #184 dedication to former Knicks great Ron Baker. 1:40 ... Orlando Magic discussion 9:17 ... Portland Trailblazers discussion Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As we get closer to the new-look Boston Celtics beginning their 2025-26 NBA season, there’s no better time to rehash all the moves that were made over the offseason. Four time Emmy-winning ESPN vet and “48 Minutes” Podcast co-host Bruce Bernstein joined Courtney Tate on a special episode of "BLEAV in Celtics."  They'll discuss what C's fans have to look forward to this coming season. Bernstein spent over 30 years at ESPN, including 15 years leading the network’s NBA studio programming. He brings deep behind-the-scenes insight, high-performance leadership stories, and sharp NBA analysis to every conversation. Some topics include: Opening Music Courtney welcome and introduces her guest. Bruce opening comments Is there hope in Boston this season? Reaction to the Kristaps Porzingis trade Can Jaylen Brown lead the team to success without Jayson Tatum? Brown will play with a chip on his shoulder How well have Brown and Tatum learned to work together? Courtney and Bruce discuss Boston's likely opening night lineup and expected rotation. How role players like Payton Pritchard achieve their success. Rookies and young guys on the team ... will they see much action? Bruce feels Neemias Queta will have a breakout year. Can the team exceed its modest expectations? Rapid Fire Questions Best Celtics play ever? Bruce's "Mount Rushmore" of C's greats. Best single season Celtics team? Bruce's favorite Celtics memory (2008 Game 6 vs Lakers) Bigger Celtics Rival: Lakers or 76ers? Pat Riley Statue Story Bruce's favorite NBA era? Will there ever be a "Four Point Shot" in the NBA? Discussion of new Celtics "City" uniform that has no green on it. Bruce promotes the "Two-a-Day" season previews on his 48 Minutes podcast. Courtney wraps things up and says goodbye.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 ... Animation, hello and welcome , and introduction of the panel.  Episode #183 is dedicated to Craig Smith, who wore #83 as a member of the Portland Trailblazers. 1:07 ... New York Knicks discussion 8:48 ... Phoenix Suns discussion     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 .... Opening Theme and Hello ... intro panel and dedication of show #18 in honor of Nets legend Buck Williams. 1:23 .... Bucks discussion ... 12:56 .... Thunder discussion   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:08 Miami Heat 7:17 New Orleans Pelicans Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:18 Indiana Pacers 8:23 Minnesota Timberwolves Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:23 Detroit Pistons 7:42 Memphis Grizzlies Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:16 Cleveland Cavaliers 8:21 Los Angeles Lakers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As we get closer to the new-look Dallas Mavericks beginning their 2025-26 NBA season, there’s no better time to rehash all the moves that were made over the offseason. On Wednesday, 4-time Emmy-winning ESPN vet and “48 Minutes” Podcast co-host Bruce Bernstein joined us on a special episode of our Mavs Step Back Podcast to discuss what Mavs fans have to look forward to this coming season. Bernstein spent over 30 years at ESPN, including 15 years leading the network’s NBA studio programming. He brings deep behind-the-scenes insight, high-performance leadership stories, and sharp NBA analysis to every conversation. In this episode, we also discuss the Kawhi Leonard / Los Angeles Clippers scandal while also scouting some Mavs’ rivals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:34 Chicago Bulls 7:45 Los Angeles Clippers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Among our topics: -The standoff between Golden State's management and Jonathan Kuminga over his next contract -The story behind Giannis Antetoknoumpo and why he appeared on the 48 Minutes podcast two years ago. -The new broadcast and streaming deals between the NBA and its partners. -The implications of "Inside The NBA" and its move to ESPN. -And SO MUCH more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 Intro 1:03 Charlotte Hornets 8:01 Houston Rockets Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 ... Show open, introduction of the panel, and explanation of the "Two-a-Day" series. 1:10 ... Brooklyn Nets discussion ... The good news for the lowly Nets is that this will be their 50th NBA season after joining the league as one of the former ABA teams who joined the NBA for the 1976-'77 season.  But that may be it for good news this season in Brooklyn. 2:37 ... World B feels the Nets are not "tanking," they're "rebuilding." 4:06 ... Cam Thomas returns to the team on a "lowball" qualifying deal after averaging 24 points last season.  Will he be a problem as he looks to score a lot in hopes of being paid next season?  Nic Claxton is one of the few players on the team with trade value, so perhaps he may be moved to a good team before the trade deadline. 6:06 ... There should be plenty of good seats available at Barclays Center this season for fans whose favorite teams are playing the Nets! 6:41 ... Golden State Warriors discussion ... this could be their last chance to make noise out west as they have an aging team with key players like Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green in their late 30s.  Butler will need to score more consistently to help Curry with the scoring load if the team is to approach 50 wins. 9:02 ... Bruce feels the Warriors are the most "unsettled" team in the league, mainly because of the Jonathan Kuminga free agency standoff.  Bruce feels that Kuminga may be risking alienating his teammates since the Warriors can't move forward to fill out their roster until he makes a decision on how much money he'll be willing to accept this season.  This is affecting players like Al Horford and De'Anthony Melton whose personal situations are impacted by Kuminga's saga. 10:38 ... Ross feels Kuminga may be traded (before the February deadline) once his contract is settled.   Bruce feels like the age of the Warriors increases the potential for injuries. 13:19 ... World B feels like the Dubs really need Kuminga because he is a young player with talent. 14:54 ... Ross wraps up the show and teases the next show. TRT 15:21     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.