Is Cooper Flagg Worth Tanking for, Can Either of the Rutgers Guys Go No. 1, and Other Players to Watch. Plus, the NYC Basketball Scene With J. Kyle Mann. | Real Ones
Nov 15, 2024
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J. Kyle Mann, a draft expert and writer at The Ringer, joins the discussion to dive into the thriving basketball scene in New York City. He shares his insights on rising star Cooper Flagg and the Rutgers prospects vying for the top pick in the draft. The conversation also highlights unique playing styles and the significance of player versatility. Additionally, Mann reflects on the community aspect of NYC basketball, emphasizing its role in shaping legends and fostering connections among young athletes.
Cooper Flagg is emerging as a top prospect in the 2024 NBA draft, showcasing significant potential for impacting teams immediately.
J. Kyle Mann's 'Home and Away' series emphasizes the unique basketball culture of New York City, highlighting local legends and community engagement.
The discussion on social media's evolution reflects a shift towards friendlier platforms for basketball discourse, reminiscent of early NBA Twitter.
Deep dives
Introduction of The McShay Show
The McShay Show offers year-round insights into NFL draft information, covering big boards, mock drafts, and player movement. Weekly episodes will focus on player rankings, highlighting risers and fallers, and discussing potential targets for NFL teams. The show also reacts to college football playoff polls, providing previews and picks for upcoming college football slates. Todd McShay emphasizes his passion for the college game and influences from reputable football analysts and friends in the industry.
Exploration of Draft Prospects and Player Rankings
The podcast delves into early discussions about 2024 draft prospects, stressing that it's never too early to analyze emerging talents like Cooper Flagg, Ace Bailey, and Dylan Harper. Cooper Flagg is particularly highlighted for his high potential and immediate impact, with scouts suggested to focus on his performance and improvements in his game, especially his shooting and ball handling. The importance of monitoring the draft class is emphasized, as each year's talent pool varies in depth and quality. There’s a notable comparison made between different players, their styles, and how they fit into potential roles in the NBA.
The Home and Away Video Series
Kyle Mann describes 'Home and Away' as a unique basketball travel series aiming to explore regional hoop cultures. Each episode features visits to different locations, finding local players and stories that reflect the area's basketball identity. In New York, the series highlights local legends and park culture, showcasing the vibrancy and competitiveness of basketball in the city. The focus remains on discovering overlooked characters rather than just celebrity, illustrating the communal aspect of basketball.
The Role of Social Media in Basketball Culture
The discussion shifts to the evolving landscape of social media platforms such as Blue Sky, stressing the positive community engagement it fosters among basketball enthusiasts. Notably, there's a nostalgic comparison made to early NBA Twitter, suggesting that platforms like Blue Sky offer a friendlier and more welcoming space for discussions. Information sharing is covered, with excitement surrounding writers and analysts migrating from traditional social media to platforms that prioritize basketball content. This transition hints at a revival of communal discussions about basketball akin to past experiences in different social media eras.
Characteristics of Elite Draft Candidates
Lastly, the podcast outlines key characteristics sought in elite draft prospects, highlighting the balance of scoring ability and team player instincts. The conversation emphasizes the value of players like Cooper Flagg, who not only excel at individual skills but also contribute positively to team dynamics. Comparisons are drawn between various prospects, such as their athleticism and basketball IQ, influencing their draft stock. The focus on blending individual talent with team-playing attributes is posited as essential for success at the professional level.
Howard and Raja are joined by The Ringer’s J. Kyle Mann to discuss the most recent addition to his ‘Home and Away’ series on the Ringer NBA YouTube channel. They talk about Kyle's time in New York City and what makes it a special basketball city (7:10). Then, with college basketball still in its early days, Kyle gives the guys his thoughts on the guys at the top of the draft (26:48).