Mind the Game
UNINTERRUPTED | Wondery
Mind the Game is back for Season 3 — continuing to celebrate this beautiful game of basketball with two of the most hardworking and brilliant minds in the sport, LeBron James and 2X NBA MVP, Steve Nash. Season 3 carries forward the mission of exploring the X’s and O’s, breaking down game plays, strategy, and all the ways basketball continues to evolve into one of the most tactical sports on the planet.Mind the Game cuts through the clutter of highlight reels and hot takes to uncover the nuances that make the game great: schemes and adjustments, preparation and recovery, and the human elements that define competition. Presented by UNINTERRUPTED, LeBron’s athlete storytelling brand, and Wondery, Mind the Game continues to rethink sports media and deliver deeper, more insightful coverage for fans who truly love the game.Check out new episodes every other Tuesday. Follow Mind the Game on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.
Episodes
Mentioned books
39 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 45min
Ring Culture, LeBron’s Toughest Defenders and More Fan Questions
Dive into the fascinating world of basketball as legends share insights on the waning relevance of the triangle offense in today's game. Discover the evolution of defensive strategies and legendary defenders like Tim Duncan. Explore the debate on 'ring culture' and what truly defines a player’s greatness beyond championships. Get an inside look at the crucial role of assistant coaches and their impact on team dynamics. Plus, learn how modern tactics emphasize pace and adaptability, reflecting the game's ever-changing landscape.
23 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 42min
LeBron James Opens Up About the Lakers’ NBA Bubble Championship
Dive into the intense world of the NBA Finals as LeBron James shares his experiences facing heightened media scrutiny and the emotional toll of the competition. Explore the unique challenges of leading the Lakers to victory in the isolated NBA Bubble, where players had to balance focus and family sacrifices. Discover insights into the importance of diversity in the league and how small market teams embody teamwork over star power. The podcast offers a deep look at the intersection of sports, storytelling, and social justice during an unforgettable season.
29 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 36min
The Luka Doncic Interview (Part 2)
Luka Doncic, NBA star for the Dallas Mavericks, dives deep into the state of youth basketball in this enlightening conversation. He shares insights from his foundation's study, highlighting both the commercialization of programs and the importance of fostering joy in the game. The discussion spans cultural differences between European and American training methodologies, emphasizing teamwork and skill development. Luka also reflects on the critical role of community and mentorship in nurturing resilient young athletes.
39 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 52min
NBA Finals Preview: Thunder vs. Pacers
The NBA Finals matchup between the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder is the main focus. The discussion dives into Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's innovative defense and Tyrese Haliburton's offensive prowess. Highlights include the Pacers' dynamic fast-break strategy and the Thunder's adaptability on defense. The speakers analyze how player movement influences game plans and emphasize the importance of team camaraderie. Expect a thrilling showdown with strategic chaos and creative plays defined by both squads!
87 snips
Jun 1, 2025 • 34min
The Luka Doncic Interview (Part 1)
Luka Doncic opens up about his transition to the Lakers and the thrill of playing alongside his idol, LeBron James. He shares his journey from Slovenia to Spain and the love for basketball that fueled it. A significant discussion revolves around youth basketball, highlighting a study on its impact in Europe and the U.S. The podcast dives into the need for fun in youth sports, addressing the decline in participation and advocating for a supportive culture that prioritizes joy and personal growth. Exciting insights all around!
36 snips
May 27, 2025 • 47min
What Have We Learned About the 2025 NBA Playoffs?
The conversation dives into the surprising trends of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, highlighting the impact of role players like Alex Caruso and Aaron Nesmith. Intense 20+ point swings and underdog success are explored, with LeBron reflecting on the playoffs' physicality, including a memorable chest shove from Anthony Edwards. The discussion revisits classic playoff moments, showcasing the strategic importance of momentum, team chemistry, and evolving defensive strategies that shape game outcomes in high-stakes scenarios.
18 snips
May 20, 2025 • 48min
Jalen Brunson, Nikola Jokic and The Evolution of the Playmaker
Explore the fascinating shift in NBA player roles, from traditional scorers and passers to modern hybrids like Jalen Brunson and Nikola Jokic. Discover how superstars like LeBron James influenced this evolution. Hear about the crucial impact of role players during playoffs, revealing how teamwork and adaptability can lead to success. Delve into the increasing importance of versatility and strategic flexibility in gameplay, showcasing how players like Jason Tatum thrive in this dynamic environment.
19 snips
May 13, 2025 • 37min
Why the Midrange Still Matters
Dive into the debate around the midrange shot's relevance in basketball! Explore its evolution in a league dominated by three-pointers and how players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander still make it a weapon. Discover the balance between instinct and analytics in scoring strategies, especially under late-game pressure. Hear about the emotional resilience required in competitive sports and the importance of teamwork over individual accolades in achieving success. It's a deep look at what makes great players great!
26 snips
May 8, 2025 • 39min
Styles Make Fights: Breaking Down Lakers vs. Wolves
The conversation dives deep into the contrasting play styles of the Lakers and Timberwolves. LeBron reflects on his battle with an MCL injury while highlighting Anthony Edwards' emergence as a fierce playmaker. The duo also pays homage to Gregg Popovich, discussing the legendary coach's impact on the sport. They share insights on teamwork, injury management, and the evolution of team dynamics in the playoffs. Personal stories and reflections add a unique touch, blending basketball analysis with life lessons in sports.
15 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 42min
Playoffs
The excitement of NBA Playoffs is here! Hear insights on the intense differences between playoff and regular season basketball. LeBron James and Steve Nash dive into strategic preparations and the mental toughness required during high-pressure moments. Learn how teams adapt their strategies and the importance of collective experiences in overcoming adversity. LeBron reveals his most grueling playoff series, and discussions highlight the significance of player versatility and adaptability for championship success.
