The Dunker Spot

For the first time this NBA season, Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones go to the Dunker Spot mailbag!They answer questions about league-wide defensive trends, potential shifts to the Heat's offense, Michael Porter Jr. trade destinations and much more.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(1:27) — Common themes for teams that have made leaps this year(8:41) — Will we see more zone and/or college-style press defenses?(18:05) — Who are we most excited to see explore and develop during the Unrivaled season?(24:20) — How do we judge (good) defense + potential Michael Porter Jr. trade destinations(35:43) — Building defensive chemistry + potential tweaks to Miami's offense moving forward(45:48) — How will young role players fill in for key rotation pieces across the league?(49:46) — What makes the Cade Cunningham/Jalen Duren partnership effective + a Jaden Ivey trade idea(56:52) — Who could use Trendon Watford?(59:09) — Is it time for NBA realignment?(01:02:22) — An All-Star game format suggestion(01:06:23) — Does LeBron, Luka, and Austin Reaves make up the best passing trio EVER?(01:12:52) — Gary Payton II conversation 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones salute the streaking Pistons, Heat, and Raptors, then talk about teams, players and other things they're grateful for this season. From Chris Paul, to absurd Thunder runs, to alternate courts, to broadcast gimmicks. Basketball is awesome and we're glad we have it.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(1:24) — Detroit Pistons(9:29) — Miami Heat(18:35) — Toronto Raptors(25:20) — Teams (and things) we're grateful for(41:41) — Players we're grateful for 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones break down the season debut of LeBron James, discussing the positives, growth areas, and things to keep track of as the sample grows.Then, they react to the recent reporting surrounding LaMelo Ball and the Charlotte Hornets. How did we get here, how solvable is it, and who are some potential fits for LaMelo if the plug is pulled?Finally, the guys check in on the Sacramento Kings. The vibes are bad and the record is worse; they discuss the current state and how they should move forward.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(1:20) — LeBron James' debut(22:51) — LaMelo Ball discussion(43:13) — Should the Sacramento Kings blow this up? 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones roam the baseline with praise for the Oklahoma City Thunder and surprisingly-feisty Atlanta Hawks.Then, they check in on the Minnesota Timberwolves, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Milwaukee Bucks as they deal with teams working to take away their strengths.Finally, the guys do their first All-Star check-in of the season. Who's in? Who's close? What will the US-based teams look like?If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(1:27) — Oklahoma City Thunder(20:42) — Atlanta Hawks(36:35) — Minnesota Timberwolves(51:01) — Cleveland Cavaliers(01:03:34) — Milwaukee Bucks(01:08:42) — All-Star check-in 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones are joined by Stephen PridGeon-Garner (PHNX Sports) to discuss the surprisingly hot start of the Phoenix Suns.Then, the guys break down the recent play of Nikola Jokic, who's setting the world on fire with an unrivaled blend of scoring efficiency and playmaking.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(2:23) — Similarities between the Suns and the Phoenix Mercury(4:03) — Early expectations & results of new head coach Jordan Ott(12:19) — Devin Booker's growth and usage(28:46) — Complementary play of Grayson Allen, Dillon Brooks and Royce O'Neale(37:08) — Suns defense(53:43) — Rapid fire questions (Jalen Green, Ryan Dunn, Oso Ighodaro, Collin Gillespie, best lineup)(01:06:03) — Nikola Jokic breakdown 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones roam the baseline with some Western Conference love (Nuggets, Rockets) and some surging teams in the East (top-seeded Pistons, rising Raptors).Then, they react to the breaking news out of Dallas — bye-bye, Nico Harrison — before diving into an odd Memphis Grizzlies season. Finally, they close with some well-deserved player shoutouts.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(1:58) — Denver Nuggets(19:45) — Houston Rockets(34:50) — Detroit Pistons(44:02) — Toronto Raptors(47:27) — Mavericks to fire Nico Harrison(51:23) — Memphis Grizzlies(01:11:06) — Los Angeles Clippers(01:14:39) — Player Shoutouts 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

It's time to check on the rookies!Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones give their early impression on 10 of the top rookies from this year's class, digging into what they like and some things they'll be keeping an eye on. The plan is to do a rookie-centric episode at the beginning of each month, with a rotating cast of names to discuss.After that, the guys give their early impressions of each of the eight Unrivaled rosters and discuss their early favorites.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(1:59) — VJ Edgecombe (Sixers)(13:58) — Cedric Coward (Grizzlies)(21:53) — Cooper Flagg (Mavs)(32:29) — Dylan Harper (Spurs)(40:09) — Kon Knueppel (Hornets)(47:00) — Jeremiah Fears (Pelicans)(52:34) — Collin Murray-Boyles (Raptors)(01:00:20) — Tre Johnson (Wizards)(01:07:13) — Ryan Kalkbrenner (Hornets)(01:11:52) — Derik Queen (Pelicans)(01:17:56) — Quick shoutouts (Sion James, Will Richard, Hugo Gonzalez, Jazz)(01:19:27) — Early thoughts on Unrivaled, Season 2(01:27:28) — Free Throws 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

We're bouncing around the league again!Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones "Roam the Baseline" with a few Western Conference shoutouts — and a hat tip to a hot start out East. Then, it's time for an identity check for a few teams looking to find themselves. The show closes with player shoutouts, free throws, and an apology to Saints fans.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(1:15) — Lakers(12:25) — Thunder(19:27) — Blazers(25:32) — Bulls(34:39) — Mavericks(49:27) — Spurs(52:07) — Knicks(54:12) — Suns(56:46) — Making us sad (Pelicans, Grizzlies, Nets)(59:45) — Hawks(01:01:03) — Jazz(01:03:02) — Player shoutouts(01:16:43) — Free Throws 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

We've got a Halloween-themed episode of the Dunker Spot today!Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones check in on a few Western conference teams, then have some fun as they bounce around the league. They discuss what's spooking them — good or bad — in the early portion of the season. Then, they close with a round of Trick or Treat, a game where they discuss some interesting early trends and decide if it's unsustainable (trick) or something they believe in (treat).If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(1:09) — Lakers/Blazers League Pass Strategy Stream announcement(2:00) — Lakers(8:59) — Wolves(21:32) — Rockets(23:55) — Clippers(29:49) — What's Spooking You? (Steph, SGA, KAT, Pelicans, Cavs, Celtics and more)(50:47) — Trick or Treat (Bucks, Bulls, Nuggets, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and more)(1:04:46) — Free Throws 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

We're roughly a week into the 2025-26 regular season, and the guys have you covered with analysis! Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones give more of their early takeaways and questions from the season, including: the early dominance of Wemby and Giannis, the Heat pressing the turbo button, the Magic's shaky offense, the Raptors shaky defense, and much more.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(:32) Introduction(1:25) Teams Impressing Us: San Antonio Spurs(14:31) Teams Impressing Us: Miami Heat(21:44) Teams Impressing Us: Milwaukee Bucks(28:52) Teams Impressing Us: Denver Nuggets(34:15) Teams Impressing Us: Philadelphia 76ers(41:07) Teams making us think: New York Knicks(45:51) Teams making us think: Orlando Magic(49:42) Teams making us think: Houston Rockets(51:36) Teams making us think: Detroit Pistons(55:13) Teams making us think: Toronto Raptors(1:00:06) Teams making us think: Utah Jazz(1:04:18) Player Shoutouts(1:17:34) Free Throws 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

The NBA regular season is underway, and the guys have you covered with analysis! Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones break down some of their early takeaways from the first few days of the season. You'll get thoughts on contenders like the Thunder and Warriors, superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama, and much more.The show closes with WNBA news, as three head coaching jobs are slated to be filled soon. You'll get our quick thoughts on the Toronto Tempo, Portland Fire and Dallas Wings.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(:33) Introduction(1:28) Warriors vs. Nuggets recap(17:58) Thunder vs Pacers recap(34:01) Bounce around the NBA(45:09) More teams using full court pressure(47:06) Raptors vs. Hawks recap(51:23) Heat vs. Magic recap(55:32) Hornets vs. Nets recap(59:50) Lakers defense(1:03:26) DeAndre Jordan signs with Pelicans(1:04:02) WNBA coaching hires 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones kick off the episode with their final preview: the Pacific division. They discuss what they're excited about, key questions they have, potential breakout candidates, and the lineups that intrigue them the most.Then, they get into some way-too-early award talk: who are the names you should keep an eye on for MVP, DPOY, and Rookie of the Year?If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.(:25) Introduction(1:07) Los Angeles Lakers Preview(18:08) Los Angeles Clippers Preview(32:57) Golden State Warriors Preview(50:46) Sacramento Kings Preview(1:03:01) Phoenix Suns Preview(1:14:24) MVP Predictions(1:21:18) DPOY Predictions(1:27:55) Rookie of the Year Predictions(1:30:55) Free Throws 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

We have a mega episode for you!Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones kick off the episode with the latest news, covering the Kings’ latest news and ending with a salute to Malcolm Brogdon.Then, the guys continue their NBA season preview series with both the Atlantic and Central divisions. They discuss what they're excited about, key questions they have, potential breakout candidates, and the lineups that intrigue them the most.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.(:29) Introduction(1:10) Kings sign Russell Westbrook, re-sign Keegan Murray(5:14) Malcolm Brogdon retires(7:09) Boston Celtics preview(18:42) New York Knicks preview(34:18) Toronto Raptors preview(46:05) Brooklyn Nets preview(53:20) Philadelphia 76ers preview(100:35) Cleveland Cavaliers preview(110:09) Indiana Pacers preview(118:04) Milwaukee Bucks preview(127:12) Detroit Pistons preview(134:37) Chicago Bulls preview 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan & Steve Jones dive into the Tuesday podcast by taking a look at a Southwest Division stacked with talent, starting with the Houston Rockets, who feature a potentially strong combo of Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson causing havoc for opposing teams.Later in the show, Nekias & Steve share their thoughts on the Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs, with Ja Morant and Victor Wembanyama returning and looking to make an impact for their squads after last season was largely a lost one for both. They then discuss how the addition of Cooper Flagg to the Mavericks could potentially be a game-changer for the division and help elevate the Mavs to a higher level.The guys wrap the episode by talking about the possible impact of having a fully healthy Zion Williamson for the New Orleans Pelicans, as well as naming their X-factors for the team this season. Finally, Nekias & Steve examine the Las Vegas Aces’ sweep of the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA Finals, securing their third title in four years. 1:41 – Houston Rockets preview24:46 – Memphis Grizzlies preview40:28 – Dallas Mavericks preview57:20 – San Antonio Spurs preview1:14:54 – New Orleans Pelicans preview1:25:03 – Aces win WNBA title 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan & Steve Jones kick off this Friday podcast reacting to the Las Vegas Aces' 90-88 last second win over the Phoenix Mercury to go up 3-0 in a WNBA Finals series that may end tonight in Arizona. The guys break down A'ja Wilson's impressive 34 point performance and what the Mercury can do to avoid a sweep on Friday night. They also break down the recently announced WNBA All-Defensive Teams which A’ja Wilson, Alanna Smith, Alyssa Thomas, Napheesa Collier & Gabby Williams nominated to the first team.Later in the show, Nekias & Steve break down the NBA's Southeast division heading into the 2025-2026 season. Will the Orlando Magic take advantage of a wounded Eastern Conference and elevate deeper into the playoffs with Desmond Bane joining Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and company? Are the Miami Heat able to get out of the muddled middle or will they be a trade deadline seller?Finally, the guys break down some injury news affecting both conferences. First and foremost, LeBron James will miss at least the first 2-3 weeks of the season with a right sciatica. For the first time ever, LeBron will miss a season opener, which will just feel strange all around. How will Lakers fans and the league as a whole react?Also, the hits just keep on coming for the Indiana Pacers as T.J. McConnell will also miss at least 4 weeks to start the season with a right hamstring injury. With Tyrese Haliburton already out with an Achilles injury suffered in last June's Finals Game 7, can the Pacers backcourt catch a break?(0:00) - Aces take Finals Game 3, what will happen in Game 4?(23:45) - Orlando Magic season preview(39:05) - Atlanta Hawks season preview(50:40) - Miami Heat season preview(1:03:00) - Charlotte Hornets season preview(1:11:10) - Washington Wizards season preview(1:18:50) - LeBron James to miss opening 2-3 weeks of season(1:23:10) - Indiana Pacers injuries keep stacking upIf you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties -- they're free, and easy to sign up for -- you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot  🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

On this episode of The Dunker Spot, Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones examine how the Las Vegas Aces have taken a 2-0 lead over the Phoenix Mercury, and discuss potential adjustments ahead of Game 3 and beyond.On the NBA side, the guys begin their NBA season preview series with the Northwest division. They discuss what they're excited about, key questions, potential breakout candidates, and the lineups that intrigue them the most.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(:47) Introduction(1:04) WNBA Finals Game 2 recap(11:06) Did the Aces find something with A’ja Wilson’s pick and roll?(19:06) Mercury in a must-win situation(22:39) Thunder season preview(38:18) Nuggets season preview(50:30) Timberwolves season preview(101:09) Trail Blazers season preview(1:10:29) Jazz season preview 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

On this episode of The Dunker Spot, Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones preview this year's WNBA Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury, discussing key matchups, schemes, lineups, X-Factors and more.On the NBA side, the guys give their opening preseason takeaways for the New York Knicks under Mike Brown, 76ers and Pelicans — with some Melbourne United love sprinkled in. Then, they discuss the supposed end of the Jonathan Kuminga saga, the Warriors filling out their roster, and the recent deals of Nikola Jovic with the Heat and Quentin Grimes with the Sixers.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties — they're free, and easy to sign up for — you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(:32) Introduction(1:04) WNBA Finals Preview(14:34) Most interesting matchups between Aces and Mercury(27:35) WNBA Finals X-Factors(44:05) NBA Preseason: Knicks vs. Sixers(57:23) NBA Preseason: Pelicans vs. Melbourne United(106:46) Restricted Free Agency signings 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

On this episode of The Dunker Spot, Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones discuss the upcoming Game 5 between the Aces and Fever, put a bow on an awesome Mercury-Lynx series, then react to the All-Rookie team.On the NBA side, the guys break down the quotes and updates that intrigue them the most from this year's Media Days.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties -- they're free, and easy to sign up for -- you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspot(:43) Introduction(2:22) WNBA Playoffs: Aces vs. Fever Game 5(15:10) Mercury defeat Lynx to advance to WNBA Finals(27:10) Lynx season shouldn’t be forgotten(30:51) WNBA All-Rookie Team(40:27) NBA Media Day headlines(43:03) Excitement for the Atlanta Hawks(46:54) Will the Thompson twins take another leap?(102:31) Anthony Edward’s offseason improvements(106:06) Victor Wembanyama primed for a big season 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. are joined by Stephen Pridgeon-Garner (PHNX Sports) for an incredibly deep dive into the Phoenix Mercury.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties -- they're free, and easy to sign up for -- you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspotTIME STAMPS1:10 -- Brief introduction5:00 -- Preseason expectations vs. reality11:15 -- How head coach Nate Tibbetts has evolved14:15 -- Mercury offense33:15 -- Mercury defense1:07:45 -- Alyssa Thomas + MVP/DPOY award races1:33:15 -- Satou Sabally1:47:45 -- Rookie thoughts (Monique Akoa-Makani, Kathryn Westbeld)1:54:30 -- DeWanna Bonner's fit1:57:50 -- Rotation questions2:09:15 -- Emptying the notes + Storm aside 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. react to the latest trades around the WNBA, bounce around the league with observations, then catch. up on the latest NBA news.If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.If you’d like to join our Dunker Spot Playoff watch parties -- they're free, and easy to sign up for -- you can do so here: https://www.playback.tv/thedunkerspotTIME STAMPS1:45 -- Storm/Mystics trade (Brittney Sykes)15:00 -- Sun/Mystics trade (Aaliyah Edwards/Jacy Sheldon)23:40 -- Lynx/Wings trade (DiJonai Carrington/Diamond Miller)44:40 -- Other news (7-day contracts, Connecticut Sun sale*, Napheesa Collier)47:45 -- A quick standings check49:30 -- Aces rolling since the lineup change1:03:30 -- Fever finding answers on both ends while Caitlin Clark is out1:12:35 -- Rickea Jackson's growing comfort + general Sparks thoughts1:27:35 -- NBA extension news (De'Aaron Fox, Luka Doncic)1:32:30 -- NBA transactions (Boston Celtics, Ricky Council IV) 🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv