NBA History Conversations: Basketball Record

Kevin Calabro’s voice became inseparable from Seattle SuperSonics basketball - twenty-one seasons of rich baritone, rapid-fire energy and phrases that helped define NBA play-by-play in the 1990s. However, his path to the microphone began in Indiana, where a crystal radio built with his father - a World War II radio operator - sparked a lifelong fascination with broadcasting. Kevin recalls watching Pete Maravich, Spencer Haywood and Jo Jo White at the 1968 Olympic trials, calling minor-league hockey as a one-man operation and landing his first NBA job with the Kansas City Kings at just twenty-six. The conversation moves through his two decades as the voice of the Sonics: Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp, George Karl, the shock of Denver’s 1994 upset and the 1996 Finals against Michael Jordan’s Bulls. He remembers a franchise at the centre of Seattle’s grunge-era culture, the broadcast chemistry he shared with Marques Johnson and the night he called Vince Carter’s legendary dunk over Frédéric Weis at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Kevin also reflects on the Sonics’ departure in 2008, his decision to stay in Seattle rather than move to Oklahoma City, Damian Lillard’s unforgettable series-clinching shot in 2019 and his ongoing hope that the SuperSonics will one day return home. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Fred Roberts’ basketball journey began with back-to-back state titles in high school - setting the tone for his fascinating career. He then starred for the BYU Cougars, began his pro career in Italy and went on to play 13 NBA seasons across seven franchises, while also winning a title overseas with Barcelona. Fred looks back on stops in San Antonio, Utah, Boston, Milwaukee, Cleveland, Los Angeles and Dallas, with each chapter bringing its own cast of teammates and memories. Along the way, Roberts recalls playing with George Gervin and Artis Gilmore, then later John Stockton, Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, among others. The conversation captures the rhythm of an NBA veteran’s career - changing teams, adapting roles and finding a way to contribute wherever he landed. Our discussion also moves beyond basketball, into Roberts’ life after the game and his work in education back in Utah. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

In this special episode, we mark the 50th anniversary of the 1976 ABA All-Star Game - the final showcase of a league that helped reshape modern basketball. Recorded in early 2026, this panel brings together those who lived it: Artis Gilmore, Billy Knight and Brian Taylor, alongside longtime NBA executive Pete Babcock and legendary journalist Peter Vecsey, who covered the ABA firsthand. Also joining is my good friend and longtime basketball fan Adam Beechen. Together, we revisit the league’s most unique All-Star format; the best of the ABA taking on the first-place Denver Nuggets - a sold-out McNichols Arena, a pre-game concert that delayed tip-off and the debut of the first-ever slam dunk contest, won by Julius Erving. The conversation expands into the broader ABA story - its fast, creative style of play, the early adoption of the three-point shot, the physicality of the era and the camaraderie that defined the league . Along the way are firsthand stories, behind-the-scenes moments and reflections on how the ABA’s innovations continue to shape today’s NBA. We also touch on the Soul Power ABA docuseries and the league’s lasting legacy. Special thanks to Pete Babcock and Peter Vecsey for helping bring this panel together. Kevin Loughery, coach of the 1976 All-Stars, had planned to join but was unable due to technical issues. Additional thanks to Eldridge Recasner, Derrick Gervin and Terry Lyons for their efforts to connect us with David Thompson, George Gervin, and Doug Moe. While those appearances didn't come together, the outreach was much appreciated. Sadly, Doug Moe passed away shortly after this conversation was recorded. Postscript: Since recording, Brian Taylor and George Karl - whose rivalry is discussed in this episode - have reconciled, appearing together at the Soul Power premiere in New York. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

This episode is dedicated to the memory of Reece Pedretti - one of the truest friends I've ever known. On February 22, 2025, Reece passed away peacefully at the age of 45, following a courageous, nearly two-year battle with a rare form of cancer. Throughout his illness, he faced major surgeries and numerous treatments with unwavering strength. We first met at work in 2000 and became fast friends, bonding over our shared sense of humour and a deep love for basketball - especially the NBA of the 1990s. Reece had a particular admiration for Shawn Kemp and Jalen Rose; so much so that replica jerseys of both players were displayed at the celebration of his life. Reece had many admirable qualities, but perhaps his greatest gift was his ability to make people feel at ease, regardless of the situation. He cherished his family deeply and had a love for music. A talented guitarist and singer, Reece regularly performed live , both solo and with various bands. My thoughts are with his cherished wife Sian; his sons Huw and Paddy; his stepsons Jasper and Jude; his parents Sherry and Des; and his brother Dallas. Their loss is immeasurable. In August 2013, Reece joined my podcast for a conversation that you're about to hear. I'm grateful to have this recording to remember him by. Knowing Reece for 25 years has made me a better person. I love you, mate, and I always will. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Today’s guest is Mike Riordan . We dive into his incredible journey - from starring in college at Providence to playing a key role on the legendary 1970 New York Knicks championship team - delivering the franchise’s first title. Mike shared the floor with icons like Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, Bill Bradley, and a young Phil Jackson. We talk about how he carved out his role on such a stacked roster, the lessons he carried into his years with the Washington Bullets, and how the era he lived through - including the Vietnam years - shaped his outlook on life. Off the court, Mike built a successful business career, and his reflections are insightful. A special shout-out to my friend and former guest, Rich Rinaldi , for making this connection. Now, let’s drop the needle. My conversation with Mike Riordan. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Pete Babcock is a man deeply woven into the fabric of NBA history. Pete shares the innovative path he took to break into the league, starting as a volunteer scout and rising through the ranks as a regional scout, assistant coach, director of player personnel, VP of basketball operations, general manager, team president, and even minority owner. We explore Pete’s passion for Black history and humanitarian work, and reflect on a remarkable 42-year career that culminated in an NBA championship ring in 2016. This conversation serves as the perfect introduction to Pete’s forthcoming biography, Courts of Justice: A Life in Basketball and Activism . You can preorder the book now at PeteBabcock.com . In our chat, Pete offers a behind-the-scenes look at the art of scouting and drafting, and the complexities of navigating trades - including the high-profile deal that sent franchise favorite Dominique Wilkins from the Atlanta Hawks to the L.A. Clippers. We cover Pete’s tenure with several NBA franchises - including the New Orleans Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks, San Diego Clippers, Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and Cleveland Cavaliers - discussing his roles and impact at each stop. Along the way, we talk about a wide range of players he worked with or observed closely, including Paul Westphal, Alvan Adams, Tom Chambers, Terry Cummings, Fat Lever, Christian Laettner, Dikembe Mutombo, Steve Smith, Isaiah Rider, and many more. Pete will return in a future episode to take us deeper into the making of his book. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

The 1995 season opener will likely never be forgotten. A pregame fireworks display triggered a fire-prevention mechanism that dumped 12,000 gallons of water inside the Alamodome. Would Golden State make a big splash in San Antonio? Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Welcome writer Jack Danilewicz to the show. We discuss his 2019 book The Greatest Upset Never Seen: Virginia, Chaminade, and the Game That Changed College Basketball . Future Hall of Famer 7’4” Ralph Sampson and his Virginia Cavaliers – the #1-ranked team in the nation – flew to Hawaii for a game that neither school would ever forget. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Welcome writer Jake Uitti to the show. He co-authored a newly-released book with NBA and European star, Michael Ray Richardson . Jake also released books with Muggsy Bogues and Earl Cureton . Next year, he has two more NBA memoirs set for release, which we also discuss in this conversation. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Part two of our 1994 NBA Finals rundown. We continue discussing the battle between the New York Knicks and the Houston Rockets. In part one, we covered through Game 4 of the series. Now, it’s essentially a best two-of-three scenario. As with part one, this episode contains added audio snippets for greater context. Thanks again, Jarrod Prosser , for a great conversation. Basketball Reference is Adam's primary source for research. He is a brand ambassador. Enter promo code 𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗜𝗥𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦 for 20% off a yearly Stathead subscription. Pay monthly (plans from $9) and get your first month free! Cancel anytime. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Let's welcome long-time broadcaster, Jim Brinson , to the show. We dive into Jim's journey through radio and TV over the years. A highlight of our chat is Jim's experience covering Michael Jordan’s NBA regular-season debut on October 26, 1984. Jim has some fantastic stories to share. One involves the legendary Wes Unseld (RIP) and Danny Ainge, while the other takes us to a hilarious moment during Jim’s unforgettable visit to Wilt Chamberlain’s (RIP) bathroom. You won’t want to miss it! Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Part one of our discussion of the 1994 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and Houston Rockets. We dissect the history between Patrick Ewing and Hakeem Olajuwon, comment on the 1994 regular season and much more. The episode features audio snippets to add even greater context. Thanks to a new friend of the show, Jarrod Prosser , for a great conversation. Basketball Reference is Adam's primary source for research. He is a brand ambassador. Enter promo code 𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗜𝗥𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦 for 20% off a yearly Stathead subscription. Pay monthly (plans from $9) and get your first month free! Cancel anytime. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Part two of my extended conversation with Rich Rinaldi. We now focus on Rico's - he shares the origins of his nickname - professional career. Rich offers fascinating insights into the ups and downs of his NBA and ABA tenure. Aged just 26 and his hoops life at a crossroads, Rinaldi traded the hardwood for a chalkboard. He worked as a physical education teacher before an offer to play basketball overseas rejuvenated his life. Rico's talents flourished in Europe. After an initial stumbling block, he starred in Switzerland for five years. At age 50, Rinaldi began working with the National Basketball Players Association. A position he relished and was arguably tailor-made for. Rich details the highlights of his almost 20 years at the NBPA. If you can't identify with the highs and lows of Rich's life story, I'm not sure what to tell you. This conversation is why I love producing my podcast. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Welcome Rich Rinaldi to the show. Part one of our extended conversation about his life. We recorded this on Rich’s 75th birthday (an added treat). A wide-ranging discussion and perfect example of why I love creating my podcast. We talk baseball - Rich’s first sporting love - and what led to his switch to basketball at age 14. Rinaldi became a hoops standout in high school and a star in college, amid the real possibility of being drafted for military service in the Vietnam War. Our chat covers through early 1971 – just before the ABA and NBA drafts (March). Keep an ear out for part two where we’ll delve into Rich’s pro career; the NBA, ABA and overseas (where he starred for six seasons). Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

My recap of the final stop on the No Bull Tour (Sydney). Australian legend, Luc Longley, invited his former Chicago Bulls teammates, Scottie Pippen and Horace Grant, to our friendly shores. The show was even better than I could have imagined. For greater context, I created this YouTube video to accompany the audio. It features a wide range of photos spanning the players' careers. There's also brief footage from the end of the show, when we were able to record video of the Bulls trio. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Let's welcome the legendary Tom Chambers to the show. A massive thanks to our mutual friend, Jeff Wells . Jeff was my guest on episode 128 . We detailed his campaign for Tom to enter the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame . We also spoke at length about Jeff’s awesome YouTube channel, TC24 , devoted to the life of Tommy C. Without Jeff, today’s episode would simply not be possible. I strongly encourage you to subscribe to TC24 – it features a wealth of excellent clips and features on Mr. Chambers. This episode is sprinkled with audio snippets that add more context to my conversation with Tom. In some instances, the audio is edited for brevity. Where applicable, most clips are available to watch – or listen to - in full on TC24 . Please note that our conversation was recorded on January 21, 2024. As of that date, the stats I discuss with Tom - re the number of 60-plus point scorers - are correct. In recent weeks, remarkably, an additional five such games have been added to that exclusive list. TC discusses a wealth of topics in this episode. From a personal point of view, it may be the most enjoyable conversation in the history of my podcast. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

On November 2nd, 2023, six-time NBA All-Star Walter Davis died of natural causes while visiting family in Charlotte. Today, I welcome back Adam Beechen - a great friend of the show. We discuss Walter’s life on-and-off the basketball court. Amidst his innumerable accomplishments, Davis was certainly no stranger to adversity. Despite battling substance abuse for the majority of his Phoenix Suns tenure, Walter averaged 20-or-more points per season in six of his 11 campaigns in the Valley of the Sun. A quick sidebar. Per Basketball Reference.com , on July 6, 1988, Walter Davis was the second player in NBA history to sign as an unrestricted free agent. He joined the Denver Nuggets one day after another would-be Suns legend, Tom Chambers , signed w/ Phoenix. In the lead-up to recording this conversation, I put out a call for listener contributions. Tim Gallagher kindly answered the bell. Tim has collected sports autographs for more than 50 years and is a Consignment Director for Robert Edward Auctions. You’ll hear Tim’s reflections on Walter Davis as an interlude within the episode. Tim will also feature as a future guest on my podcast. He has a wealth of incredible stories to tell. RIP, Walter Davis. The Man with the Velvet Touch. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Reggie Lewis tragically passed away 30 years ago (1993) at the age of just 27. This is an updated re-release of episode 27 with my great mate, Todd Spehr . We recorded our chat ten years ago to mark the 20th anniversary of Lewis' sudden passing. I’ve added numerous audio clips for greater context, edited our original conversation and improved its sound quality. We discussed the life and times of Reggie - from his days at Dunbar High School, to his tenure at Northeastern University and ultimately, rise from seldom-used NBA rookie to captain of the famed Boston Celtics. Todd mentioned the poem that Reggie’s widow, Donna Harris-Lewis, read to the Boston Garden faithful on Reggie Lewis Night in 1995. Audio of that poignant moment also now features. This is a fresh listening experience even for the most-diehard fan clamoring for a new episode – of which, to be sure – many more are planned for release throughout the rest of 2023. Most of the additional audio in this episode was sourced from TV broadcasts aired at the time of Lewis’ passing. They were thankfully preserved by Tim Theriault . Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

The legendary Beef Brothers ( Rick Mahorn and Jeff Ruland ) return for episode six. 01:49 2023 NBA Draft Lottery - Wemby to San Antonio Spurs 06:21 Ralph Sampson (and Bill Walton) - similarities to Victor? 07:16 Manute Bol was how old when he joined NBA?! Chuck Nevitt mention! 08:37 Bill Garnett ('82 Draft - pick #4) and Jeff Ruland have beef! 09:09 Rick offers Jeff tissues to get over the incident! 09:33 Ja Morant brandishing a weapon (again) on social media 13:27 Lakers and Nuggets - West Finals discussion 15:03 Mile-high (in Denver) or just high? 16:28 76ers' woes - fallout from Embiid's comments after ECSF G7 18:21 Heat and Celtics - East Finals breakdown (Beef Brothers masterclass) 20:12 Do the Heat need a Herro? 20:42 Coach Erik Spoelstra's impact 21:22 Setting Suns? 21:58 Rick and Jeff's on documentaries (don't ask Horn about The Last Dance!) 24:01 Adam looks like Andy Cohen?! It's an Aussie roast! 24:20 Listener question: Rick's opinion of Isiah Thomas (after The Last Dance) 25:38 Listener question: Jeff on battling Darryl Dawkins and Buck Williams 26:45 Rick's a big Chocolate Thunder fan. Buck Williams? Not so much! 27:50 Horn does his best impression of the Aussie accent! Watch conversations online - episodes live on the Beef Brothers' YouTube channel . Here's episode six . We encourage your interaction - ask questions or add comments on YouTube and the Beef Brothers will respond in future episodes. If you prefer e-mail, reach Rick and Jeff by e-mailing Adam: inallairness@gmail.com - he'll collate your submissions to read out to the guys. A quick warning that ocassional language during this series is not safe for young ears. Follow: Instagram [ Rick / Jeff / Adam ] | YouTube [ Beef Brothers / Adam ] Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee

Let's welcome Bill Willoughby to the show. There are many more strings to his bow – as you’ll hear in my introduction - however, Bill rose to national awareness during the 1981 NBA Playoffs, by virtue of his excellent defense against the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Willoughby is one of only a few to ever reject The Captain’s iconic skyhook. A topic we certainly cover in this refreshingly open and honest conversation. Send Adam a text message or voicemail. Support the show Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast Follow: Instagram | X | YouTube | Facebook Adam's free Substack newsletter | Buy Adam a coffee