The Sports Bubble with Jensen Karp

From the makers of THE SPORTS BUBBLE comes DRAFTED, a new podcast series hosted by Keegan-Michael Key that offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at eight college football players as they enter the NFL draft. We hear their hopes, dreams, and fears during the most exciting time in their young lives. DRAFTED premieres September 21st, and is a production of Treefort Media, Klutch Sports Agency, and iHeart Media. Listen now on iHeart, Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2019, three-time Olympian swimmer Nathan Adrian was diagnosed and treated for testicular cancer - setting him up for a difficult road to recovery in time for Tokyo 2020, hopefully to be his fourth Olympic Games. Then the global pandemic rescheduled all of 2020. The five-time Olympic gold medalist talks about how the postponement may have helped him, the difficult task of finding Olympic-sized pools in a global crisis, and how his public health degree keeps him up at night these days. Jensen and Nathan also come up with things to balance on his head while swimming, in hopes of leaving that warlock Katie Ledecky in his viral wake. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're all in need of a little inspiration these days, which makes Sean Elliott the perfect athlete for The Sports Bubble. Not only is the Spurs legend an NBA champion and two-time All-Star, he's also one of the greatest college basketball players of his generation - and he did it all while battling a crippling kidney disease that resulted in a transplant. Now, as the long-time, and healthy, San Antonio Spurs broadcast analyst, Sean talks about his heightened health concerns during the pandemic, the difficulties with announcing NBA games from home, and his terrifying experiences with racism growing up and playing in Arizona. This is an episode not to be missed. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While the return of most sports leagues remains shaky at best, NASCAR has returned at full speed. Leading the way is driver Aric Almirola who found himself on a hot streak - whether as the only driver that has finished in the top 10 at every race since the stopdown or by crossing the finish line in third place at Geico 500… backwards. The driver of the No. 10 Smithfield Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing shares how he’s turned this strange season into the best of his career, why he sent a text to Bubba Wallace, and why he’s ready to capture the W at New Hampshire Motor Speedway this weekend. There’s also a delicious moment that will have you lining up at the polls for bacon. This episode proudly supports The Almirola Family Fund, to positively impact children and families being treated at Atrium Health’s Levine Children’s Hospital in North Carolina. To donate and learn more, visit atriumhealthfoundation.org/almirolafamilyfund. Please also support FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first sports league in the United States to return to “normalcy” was the NWSL – no small feat accomplished without the brave women who first experienced it like Utah Royals FC star Kelley O’Hara. The two-time FIFA World Cup champion talks about the “summer camp” vibe of the Challenge Cup, the social landscape of America, and if the internet trolls she’s dealt with in her life and career still allow her to think this world can be saved. They also get into why there’s really no good soccer movies (seriously, Hollywood, what gives!). Then, Jensen talks to former WBC super welterweight champion and current DAZN boxing analyst, Sergio Mora, about entering the bubble to cover the fight between Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Samuel Vargas this week and why legends like Mike Tyson should stay retired. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kenny "The Jet" Smith went from playing alongside Michael Jordan on a North Carolina NCAA team to ten seasons in the NBA where he helped lead the Houston Rockets to back-to-back championships. Since then, The Jet has brought his expertise on the court to the always entertaining & award-winning Inside the NBA on TNT, where he's delivered enough classic TV moments to rival his extensive on-court highlight reel. With the NBA Bubble ramping up, Kenny joins Jensen to talk about the Woj email, LeBron's decision to keep his name on his jersey and Kenny's upcoming virtual basketball camp, The Jet Academy (jetacademycamp.com). Jensen also breaks the news to Kenny about Russell Westbrook's positive test in a jam packed episode. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s official, the MLS is Back…in a bubble. For stars like midfielder Sebastian Lletget of the powerhouse LA Galaxy, the results of this tournament mean more than just a win, draw, or loss… it’s an attempt at playing for normalcy. In this episode, Jensen talks to Sebastian about the latest in the MLS quarantined version of “the happiest place on earth,” the racism he’s seen in the sport while playing for West Ham United, and whether anyone has heard from Zlatan Ibrahimović since he left LA. They also play a game to test just how well he knows his girlfriend Becky G.’s music - it’s a contest that will really make or break her new song, “My Man.” Plus, in another installment of FANDEMIC, Jensen talks to his friend, former wrestler and AEW announcer Excalibur, to see how the virus and recent outings of wrestling’s sexual abusers has affected his experience at work. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To be an elite striker, you have to be fearless. As the fastest player in Major League Soccer history to reach 100 goals, Bradley Wright-Phillips has shown he’s as fearless as they come. But the current world we’re living in even has him worried. In an open and raw conversation, recorded just before the MLS is Back Tournament in Orlando, the two-time Golden Boot winner reveals his deep concerns about the “tough ask” to leave his family behind, the long-standing racism in soccer, and whether activism has become a “trend.” Bradley also shares how leaving the New York Red Bulls and being written off after an injury has him energized and excited to prove himself with his new club, LAFC. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Andrew McCutchen is not only one of baseball’s best all-around players, he’s also a fun guy off the field, which can’t be said about everyone in the league. The 2015 NL MVP and five-time All-Star talks to Jensen about his hilarious quarantine alter-ego “Uncle Larry,” how that epic Topps trading card came to be, and his recent viral “Fresh Prince” moment in an empty Philly rental. They also chat about Andrew’s return from injury, the game’s need for black community outreach, and how - or if - MLB locker rooms can actually adapt to today’s Black Lives Matter movement. Check out this episode or expect an earful from “Uncle Larry.” This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When your gamer handle is “MamaImDatMan,” you better mean business. As the reigning MVP of the NBA 2K League and its first individual player to sign an endorsement deal, Nidal “MamaImDatMan” Nasser has proven he deserves the moniker. Nidal joins Jensen to talk about the skills and training it takes to be WAY better than you at video games, how the 2K League travels just like their NBA counterparts, and why the community of eSports is growing in popularity. He also helps pick Jensen’s future online handle. Then, in a new installment of FANDEMIC, Jensen chats with YouTube pioneer Kassem G. to breakdown the current controversies and questionable content surrounding creators on YouTube and Twitch that's costing them millions. He also talks about how his own current podcast, Pajama Pants, reunited both the kids from The Sopranos…that has absolutely nothing to do with The Sopranos. All of this and more on a special internet heavy episode of The Sports Bubble. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The name Jerry Stackhouse is synonymous with basketball. One of the greatest players to ever wear the North Carolina Tar Heels jersey, he went on to play 18 seasons in the NBA - yes, 18! With a resume that’s parallel to none, it's easy to see why he was recently chosen to be the head coach of the Vanderbilt Men’s Basketball team. Coach Stackhouse talks to Jensen about leading an impressive young roster during these challenging times and what recruiting is like in a socially distanced world. They also talk about the possible racial bias he saw against teammate Allen Iverson, the difference between LeBron James and Michael Jordan’s leadership approach, and why the De La Soul music video for “Stakes Is High” was the real sign he “made it”. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As soon as we’re allowed to give hugs again, it’s hard to imagine not having WWE Superstar Big E at the top of your list. The teddy bear masquerading as the current WWE SmackDown! Tag Team Champion has proven himself in the ring for years now, but it’s his ability to see the larger picture that will make you a fan for life. Big E talks to Jensen about the racial divide dominating our culture, the history of the black performer in wrestling, and what the industry is facing in the form of sexual assault and harassment outed online by the #SpeakingOut movement. They also talk about The New Day: Feel The Power podcast, why Big E doesn’t miss an opportunity to speak the truth and whether The Undertaker’s retirement is like, for real for real. Oh, and look, we’ve got a brand new name – goodbye No-Sports Report, and welcome to The Sports Bubble! This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The Sports Bubble, visit treefort.fm/the-sports-bubble Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amongst his numerous achievements, tennis legend Patrick McEnroe never intended to add being the first No-Sports Report guest to be diagnosed with Coronavirus to the list. The ESPN broadcaster shares his COVID-19 story - from the symptoms he experienced to what it was like to be quarantined in his basement for two weeks - and gets into the challenges ahead for the planned U.S. Open, amidst all the positive tests last week. Patrick and Jensen also talk about diversity in tennis and how the sport can do better in the future. Oh, and their top three favorite Ben Stiller movies because, why not? This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julie Foudy is an absolute legend. The soccer icon and two-time World Cup champion has fought for human and civil rights her entire career – exemplifying what it means to be a captain on and off the field. In this chat, Foudy discusses the difficult decisions that athletes will make as they return to their sports, why athletes like Colin Kaepernick and Megan Rapinoe are the leaders we need, and her thoughts on racial bias, social injustice, and player protest. Julie and Jensen also get into who should play her in the upcoming Netflix movie about the iconic ’99 U.S. Women’s National team, her ESPN podcast, Laughter Permitted and some deliciously controversial donut debate you can't pass up. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The No-Sports Report, visit treefort.fm/the-no-sports-report Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming off an impressive season in 2019, pitcher Keone Kela had even bigger plans for this season - set on proving he’s the Pittsburgh Pirates opening day closer while exhibiting his personal growth on, and off, the mound. Now, with the MLB season in limbo, Keone has all the time in the world to continue to mature… and reflect on how he was probably sick with the Coronavirus during Spring Training. Keone and Jensen talk about fatherhood, what his new walk-up song should be, and why you want to be invited to a barbeque at the Kela household. Plus, in another installment of FANDEMIC, Jensen calls up comedy star, Taran Killam, from SNL and ABC’s Single Parents, to hear how he’s itching to get off his couch and into his seat at the new LA Rams stadium this season… whenever that’ll be. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The No-Sports Report, visit treefort.fm/the-no-sports-report Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sports have always been about breaking records and the athletes who make history. As a black woman on a NASCAR pit crew, everything Brehanna Daniels does smashes through a glass ceiling and sets a record - and she’s proud to be doing it. The NASCAR tire changer talks about the groundbreaking changes in her sport and how, seemingly overnight, she went from being a college basketball player to a rising star in the revolutionary Drive for Diversity program. Brehanna shares her experience with racism growing up in the South, how it felt to see Confederate flags at events, and why that idiot who took his truck and went home - can stay home. Then, Jensen catches up with comedian friend and co-host of “The Greatest” podcast, Megan Gailey, about the health of returning players and her hard to hide enthusiasm for Peyton Manning. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The No-Sports Report, visit treefort.fm/the-no-sports-report Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since 1896, the modern Olympics have only been canceled four times - thanks to World War and now the COVID-19 pandemic. And Molly Solomon, the executive producer and president of NBC Olympics and the Golf Channel, now has the difficult task of overseeing the world’s biggest competition’s broadcast move from 2020 to 2021. Add in the fact that she’s raising 16 year-old triplets in a pandemic and you can’t help but feel like Solomon should just get all the gold medals NOW. Molly talks with Jensen about all the changes happening with moving the Olympics, what it means for the athletes competing, and how the PGA is returning with safety protocols (but minus heckling). Plus, in the latest installment of FANDEMIC, Jensen checks in with actor Luka Jones, from Hulu’s Shrill, about if KU would’ve won it all and why he’ll never give up on Andrew Wiggins. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The No-Sports Report, visit treefort.fm/the-no-sports-report Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last year, starting pitcher Zach Plesac had one of the most impressive debuts in Cleveland Indians history, taking the mound in a rainy Fenway Park against David Price. Now, instead of following up that fairytale start in what was to be his impressive rookie season, he’s moving from city to city as a young contract signee without his own house yet. Zach talks to Jensen about the eerie drive across the country during a pandemic, why he’s already got the best pickoff move in the majors, and how his incredible first game was made even more memorable thanks to a letter from David Price. Then, Jensen chats with director Michael Jacobs about his new Quibi docu-series, BLACKBALLED, following the controversy over former Clippers owner Donald Sterling. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The No-Sports Report, visit treefort.fm/the-no-sports-report Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maybe it’s just the Hawaiian way, but nothing really rattles Jordan Yamamoto. Need proof? How about starting his major league career last season by setting a Miami Marlins franchise record of 14 scoreless innings over two starts. Oh, and a rotation best WHIP of 1.144 and 82 strikeouts in under 79 innings to finish the season. Now, that’s Aloha. The Marlins pitcher talks to Jensen about how he maintains a positive mindset during slumps, his growing relationship with Marlins CEO Derek Jeter and why in the end, Christian Yelich won’t be the only name you remember from that trade. They also talk about Jordan’s skills with a shaver, a Rubik’s Cube and just about anything else you throw his way. Then, Jensen chats with Barstool Sports’ funnyman and battle rap champion, Adam “Rone” Ferrone about making sports content in a pandemic and breaking down the drama over at “Call Me Daddy”. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The No-Sports Report, visit treefort.fm/the-no-sports-report Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“The Toddfather,” Todd Frazier, is the kind of Major Leaguer you can’t help but love, even when he’s not on your team. The beloved little league superstar turned All-Star third baseman talks to Jensen about fitting in with his new team, the Texas Rangers, during quarantine, the difficulties of MLB’s return, and how the pandemic is letting the Astros get away with cheating “scot-free.” Todd also talks about looking up to Charles Barkley, feeling blessed to live out his childhood dreams with TWO NY teams, and why he’ll still be happy to win a World Series, even if it’s in an empty stadium. This episode and series supports FeedingAmerica.org. For more of The No-Sports Report, visit treefort.fm/the-no-sports-report Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.