MVP Cast: Recent Episodes
Britball Media
Mark Woods presents your regular British basketball podcast, covering the game in the UK and elsewhere, brought to you by the folks at MVP247.com.
With European youth tournaments in progress, The MVP Cast looks at our next generation of talented males.
US-based Brit, coach and scout Chris Mayes, and stats guru / talent spotter Dave Owen join Mark Woods to go over the names on a trajectory to the top and we assess how the forecasting progress works and who is flagged up as ones to watch.
More at MVP247.com
The MVP Cast looks ahead to EuroBasket Women 2023 and examines Great Britain's chances.
We get the thoughts of head coach Chema Buceta and new captain Temi Fagbenle - plus Hannah Robb and Erin McGarrachan go deep on their pathways to Slovenia and the expectations from within the camp. More at mvp247.com
Great Britain centre Kirsty Brown joins the MVP Cast.
With less than a week before FIBA EuroBasket Women 2023 begins, we catch up with the Leicester Riders star on progress on the road to Slovenia. She tells us about the long round trip from Edinburgh to California and back to these shores, her drive to turn pro and the hopes of a new generation of GB prospects to make a mark. More at mvp247.com
A rough and ready episode of the MVP Cast from The 02 as London Lions make it a double over Leicester Riders in the BBL and WBBL Playoff Finals - as we hear from Ryan Schmidt, Darien Nelson-Henry, Krumesh Patel, Azania Stewart and Stella Kaltsidou.
London Lions men's head coach Ryan Schmidt joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about the learning curve undertaken last season and in mixing with old hands in the EuroCup and the opportunities it has afforded him. We head back to the start of his love affair with basketball in Portland and how injuries took him from playing in the minor leagues towards a career on the sidelines. And we look back on a season in the BBL that could take a route towards three trophies - but with no driving time behind the wheel. More at mvp247.com
MCing legend Simon Hosannah joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about how he fell into announcing basketball, the big names and big games where he's been the man on the mic, and the work it takes to put on a show. But he also reveals the mammoth change in his life that's put him in a contest of his own - and why it's led him to retire from courtside next month. More at MVP247.com.
WBBL chair Jim Saker joins the MVP Cast to talk State of the League.
Plus reaction following the 2023 BBL and WBBL Trophy finals. Hannah Robb tells us why Leicester Riders will be back, Shanice Beckford-Norton looks inside London Lions win, Azania Stewart explains her retirement - and why she may not be quite ready to finish up.
And following Caledonia Gladiators jinx-breaking victory, David Sloan reveals the emotion behind his game-winner, and Gareth Murray tells us what the win means to him. More at mvp247.com
Caledonia Gladiators and Ivory Coast big Patrick Tapé joins the MVP Cast.----more----
Amid March Madness, he tells us about his own college days which began with combining books and basketball at Ivy League Columbia University, ended with a stint off the streets of San Francisco, and crammed in a spell under Coach K at Duke University. He recounts the impact of his first trip to the homeland of his father Denis to represent his country in the FIBA World Cup. And we look ahead to the BBL Trophy final against Cheshire Phoenix. More at mvp247.com.
A Communicated production.
Bristol Flyers guard Jelani Watson-Gayle joins the MVP Cast.
He tells us about his transformation from being a footballing hopeful with Leyton Orient to throwing his all into basketball - with huge assists from his mother and older brother. We talk the learnings to becoming a leader, the confidence he gained from going to the States at age 15 that's now being put to good effect in the British Basketball League - and the potential for a call-up from Great Britain. More at mvp247.com
Durham Palatinates centre Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby joins the MVP Cast.
She tells Mark Woods about the globetrotting odyssey that saw her grow up across Europe but left her hunting for proper roots in this post-Brexit time.
She reveals the rationale behind her decision to return to the Women's British Basketball League, her early leap into the game in Loughborough and what we might learn from hoops in Germany. And she talks her time in Philly - and her Super Bowl picks. More at mvp247.com
Manchester Giants wing Dirk Williams joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about combining fatherhood with basketball and the life lessons learnt while growing up in Alabama with hoop dreams. We relive the dunks that won him trans-Atlantic fame and the move he has in mind next. And why a players-only meeting in Manchester can be the spark for the second half of the British Basketball League season. More at mvp247.com
British basketball's numbers guru Dave Owen joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about his drive to chronicle the stats of all our players at home and abroad to give them the recognition they deserve. We talk about his tech development and a push to provide insights that complement what we watch on screen - and how the numbers define our (unsung) heroes on the global basketball stage. More at daveowenbasketball.co.uk.
Kofi Josephs and Oliver Lawrie join the MVP Cast to discuss their new Mental Health Charter for Basketball.----more----
Kofi tells Mark Woods about how his own lived experience left him to set up his 'Why Not I?' organisation to raise awareness of the issues and how talking about it openly has led to other players and basketball staff talking to him about what they are facing. Oli tells us about how the Charter came into being and the crisis that it wants to help address. And we look at the resources and steps forward required to make the sport a safe space for those involved without fear of falling short. Read the charter here.
New British Basketball League CEO Aaron Radin joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about a strategy to transform the BBL into a "premier content and entertainment organisation" through raising the standards of teams, game night experience, and its broadcast product. He talks us through the learnings from his previous roles, why expansion is unlikely for 2023 and whether the likes of Cheshire and Plymouth will still fit into an upsized BBL in the future.
Follow the podcast @mvp_247 or get past episodes at mvp247.com
A Communicated production
Great Britain forward Jordan Williams joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He dishes all on his current posting with Hungarian side Hubner, the local cuisine and attractions, and the art of packing light and quick when a new overseas basketball assignment comes up. He tells Mark Woods of the influence of his mother in taking life choices that saw him head to Belgium at the age of 17 in the pursuit of knowledge and the adjustment from going from London Lions and the BBL to overseas. Plus he reveals his shock parallel sporting talent. More at MVP247.com
A Communicated production @itscommunicated
Newcastle Eagles guard Denzel Ubiaro joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about his big screen stunt role as the double of Thanasis Antetokounmpo in the Disney movie 'Rise' - and the route that took him from random message to filming in Athens inside a few days. We talk about his globetrotting life as a kid to the collapse of his own American dream, bouncing back from injury to make it in the BBL, and why a players-only meeting can put the Eagles on the road to recovery. More at mvp247.com
A Communicated production. @itscommunicated
Sheffield Hatters and Great Britain guard Georgia Gayle joins the MVP Cast.----more----
She tells Mark Woods about the passing off the torch to a new generation of homespun heroines and we discuss GB's recent EuroBasket Women qualifiers. We explore her family tree at the Hatters from her late grandmother Betty to her parents and aunt, to her cousin now making his own waves - and the challenges confronting such WBBL clubs. She reveals the growing-up that was needed when she went to America and then career path that might take her back. More at mvp247.com - follow @mvp_247 or search 'The MVP Cast'.
Leicester Riders and Great Britain guard Patrick Whelan joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about the brotherly battles that have driven him to succeed, the tragedy that shaped his approach to life and the secret basketball accomplishment within his own family.
He details the learning curve that transported him from Warrington to Spain via the USA and the tough roads followed that took to become a part of GB's rebuild - and the type of head coach the national team needs next.
More at mvp247.com - Follow the podcast @mvp_247
Sheffield Sharks guard Rodney Glasgow Jr joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about his upbringing as a child of two distinct American cities, the choices he made, and the influences that brought to bear. We discuss society on both sides of the Atlantic and its attitude to racism, the military discipline that helped him shine on the court, his push to be more self-aware, and his new responsibility as captain of the Sheffield Sharks in their quest for British Basketball League success.
More at mvp247.com
Cheshire Phoenix centre Mike Ochereobia joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about his late start in basketball that followed a teenage stint in the boxing ring that knocked him into shape. He reveals his creative side and the release it gives him away from the court, and the secret passion from his youth. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by oddsindex.com
EuroLeague and BBL referee Ed Udyanskyy joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about the 36-hour bus journey that took him from Kiev to London and diverted him on a path towards refereeing - and his progression to become our top export into the officiating ranks. And he shares the trials and tribulations of watching a war unfold in his native Ukraine and the personal heartache it has brought.
Harlem Globetrotters legend Sweet Lou Dunbar joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about the impact that the team has made globally on the sport and the importance it has had for African-American basketballers in particular. We chat on the DNA of the Globetrotter that mashes entertainment and hoops and he reels off his perfect five recruits from the pool of NBA legends. More info on their UK tour is available at https://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/world-tour/
Martin Ford joins the MVP Cast.----more----
He tells Mark Woods about the life of being a leading FIBA Commissioner and his summer ride to the EuroBasket final. We learn about his journey from being Nick Nurse's minibus driver and an England international to overseeing officiating in the British Basketball League and how the bar can now be raised for refereeing at home and abroad.
Mark Woods is joined by Dan Routledge to preview the new British Basketball League season.----more----We assess the upswing of the BBL with new investment taking shape - and new investors coming in - and cast an eye over each of ten teams. And ask the question: can anyone stop London Lions from a domestic clean sweep?
Mark Woods and guests preview FIBA EuroBasket 2022 on the MVP Cast.
We chat to Great Britain coach Nate Reinking, and co-captains Dan Clark and Myles Hesson, about their hopes for the group stages in Milan and examine GB's opponents. And we look at the other sides hoping to make an impact in the tournament.
More at MVP247.com
Mark Woods is joined by four of the home stars prepping for 3x3 basketball at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Scotland women's Claire Paxton, England men's Kayne Henry, England women's Chantelle Handy tell us about their journey to Brum while Scotland men's player-coach Gareth Murray reveals that this is his last stop.
More at mvp247.com
Newly-retired Janice Monakana joins the MVP Cast.
She tells Mark Woods about the emotions in playing her final game in Sevenoaks Suns' defeat in the WBBL Playoff final and why the inadequate salaries in British basketball contributed to her decision to call time and plot a radical career change.
We look back on her journey and how the death of her father when she was 14 shaped her in deciding her hoops pathway. And we relive some of the highs and lows with Great Britain and beyond - and find out what she'll miss most. More at mvp247.com.
We preview the 2022 BBL and WBBL Playoff Finals on the MVP Cast.
Mark Woods is joined by Leicester Riders head coach Rob Paternostro and London Lions boss Nikhil Lawry to look ahead to their duel at London's The 02 Arena - and Lions' Kennedy Leonard and Sevenoaks Suns' Cat Carr give us their insights on Sunday's WBBL finale. More at mvp247.com
Leicester Riders' newly-crowned BBL Player of the Year Geno Crandall joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods the secret behind his team's success this term and the decision process that will determine whether he stays or moves on.
We explore the different dynamic between his time at North Dakota and NCAA powerhouse Gonzaga University and how it's shaped him as a player.
And he reveals why his upbringing in Minneapolis has instilled a drive to fight for social justice and use his voice for good. More at mvp247.com
Loughborough's Carl Ntifo joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about opting to tell his story as an openly gay basketballer and the differences he wants to see to make the sport a safer place for the LGBT community. We talk about his experiences on both sides of the Atlantic, his aspirations now he's ending his student days - and what, as a teccie, his dream app to build would be. More at mvp247.com
London Lions guard Shanice Beckford-Norton joins the MVP Cast.
She tells Mark Woods about the culture of the WBBL leaders as they chase a domestic clean sweep and her relentless drive for self-improvement. The Great Britain international reveals the importance of family influences amid her journey through basketball and talks about her role as a coach and the impact it has. More at mvp247.com
Surrey Scorchers guard Caylin Raftopoulos joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about his dual identity as a Zimbabwean-Brit and the complications he found in trying his luck in the USA as a teen.
He reveals his plans to retire from playing to focus fully on building a basketball academy and dealing with Surrey's struggles in the BBL this season.
And he talks us through how he dealt with depression that put on the floor - and the importance of talking out when he was struggling. More at mvp247.com
Ex-BBL player turned Sky Sports analyst Anthony Rowe joins the MVP Cast.
He tells us about his transition from title-winning player at Leicester Riders to broadcasting, and now a career as a wealth management consultant and preparing to make a successful switch when injuries began to mount. He details his love of hometown club Plymouth Raiders and why he'd love one last call at the Pavilions. Plus we preview this weekend's BBL Trophy final. More at MVP247.com.
Gloucester City Queens guard Claire Abbott joins the MVP Cast.
She tells Mark Woods about life, basketball and work in Yukon, the remotest part of Canada where her alternative mission was to address society's problems there as a social worker. Claire reveals why she had an itch to scratch to play pro hoops, being part of a WBBL start-up ... and how she wants to read minds. More at MVP247.com.
Great Britain forward Carl Wheatle joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about how he was forced to grow up early after the death of his father and moving to Italy but how choosing to make his life abroad gave him a head start. He reveals the secrets of success of the Italian system, his feelings about being tabbed as a future GB captain, and what it would take to lure him home to the BBL. More at mvp247.com
Conor Meany joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about his new book - Hoops Across The Ocean: The Rise and Fall of the Irish basketball team - which chronicles the era where Ireland was transformed by the arrival of Irish-Americans and NBA-calibre talent but conflicted by the impact it had on homegrown players. We assess the long-term implications that transpired, the pitch of hoops to today's generation - and whether Dublin and Belfast are ripe for BBL expansion franchise. More at mvp247.com.
Caledonia Pride guard Maud Ranger joins the MVP Cast.
She tells Mark Woods about opting out of the French basketball system and testing herself in a smaller college in the USA, being inspired by the successes of her compatriots, her entrepreneurial streak and wanting to make it big in the music industry - and pushing for improvement in the WBBL. More at mvp247.com
Manchester Giants guard Josh Steel joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about just why he created a video to look at solutions to the problems in British basketball and how to use social media to promote his brand - and that of the sport. We talk about his choices in quitting college early in the USA to pursue a pro career in Europe, how he plans his next move and improving his game. And we look ahead to the BBL Cup final that pits Giants against Leicester Riders. More at mvp247.com
Durham Palatinates forward Abby Lowe joins the MVP Cast.
She tells Mark Woods about growing up in France and a journey that's led her from Britain to the USA and to parts in between. She describes the mental health issues that came from an unhappy collegiate spell, re-discovering her love for basketball in the WBBL, her 3x3 experiences and those with GB, and the reasons behind her switch from Newcastle Eagles. More at mvp247.com
Plymouth City Patriots guard Joe Hart joins the MVP Cast.
He talks to Mark Woods about his famous namesake, his international basketball days, the twists and turns of building a career in Europe after passing up US colleges, and how he is planning to bed down in the BBL. More at mvp247.com
Bristol Flyers centre Shane Walker joins the MVP Cast.
He tells about his first forays into coaching, how it fits into his drive to gives kids positive role models and a sense of well-being - and why he's bought land in Ghana as part of a long-term project there.
We discuss the joy and pain of trying to make it big in the USA, playing with Kevin Durant and against other NBAers, the magical formulas that separate good BBL teams from the not, and what impact 777's investment into the British Basketball League might have. More at MVP247.com.
Oaklands Wolves player-coach Lauren Milligan joins the MVP Cast.
She tells Mark Woods about becoming the youngest playcaller in the Women's British Basketball League and nurturing wins with developing young talent at Oaklands Basketball Academy on and off the court. We explore her route through the sport, the mentors who have helped her, her ambitions for the future - and food. More at MVP247.com.
Surrey Scorchers forward Tayo Ogedengbe joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about honest conversations about racism with his three young sons and how the BBL's Players Voice initiative has a role to play in addressing issues. We chat about the concept of a players union and how the British Basketball League might develop, his own pathway in the UK and abroad, his side gig in modelling and how he was shaped by a spell in his teens when he was left homeless. More at MVP247.com
Great Britain guard Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about being a child of London, and of France, and the cross-capital switches that took him to Bristol, then college, and then the pros. We talk about social media in the world of basketball, dealing with injuries, and GB's forthcoming FIBA World Cup qualifiers against Greece and Turkey. More at MVP247.com.
Sponsored by TeamSportz.
Sheffield Sharks centre Bennett Koch joins the MVP Cast. He tells Mark Woods about the ebbs and flows of his three years in the British Basketball League, the family brotherhood that propelled him and his siblings onto the court, trash talking, playing overseas and how he likes to unwind .... with a hike. More at MVP247.com.
Sponsored by TeamSportz (www.teamsportz.pro)
Tech guru Francisco Baptista joins the MVP Cast. The founder and CEO of Team Sports talks to us about how AI and data are transforming sports at grassroots and pro levels, how his new App aims to alter the way players and coaches are able to develop their basketball game, where the next step in tech will be, and how he was inspired by his upbringing in Angola before ending up in Hemel. More at mvp247.com
Sheffield Hatters forward Helen Naylor joins the MVP Cast.
She tells Mark Woods about pairing basketball with having her first child last year and the physical and logistical challenges presented by pregnancy and parenting. We explore the role of her basketball-playing family, the flatlining and resurrection of the Hatters and her succession of great teams in the WBBL and elsewhere. More at MVP247.com
Sponsored by TeamSportz - find out more at www.teamsportz.pro
Leicester Riders guard Kimbal Mackenzie joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about hooping it as a kid in Canada, looking to make it in the NBA and dealing with the loss of that dream. He recounts his switch to Spain, his ambitions to make it big off the court - and getting paid in Bitcoin. More at MVP247.com
Sponsored by TeamSportz - www.teamsportz.pro
Glasgow Rocks centre Boban Jacdonmi joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about playing catch-up following his late, late start in basketball, how he accelerated his development with a former Harlem Globetrotter in Stoke, his path to the USA through junior college to Division One of the NCAA, his international ambitions, and how he sees his career panning out with the Rocks, and beyond. More at MVP247.com
London Lions guard Josh Ward Hibbert joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about his transition to basketball from tennis, his alternative sporting career as a junior Grand Slam champion and the transition from one to the other. We talk about his development as a basketballer and the influences that shaped him, and his role on a Lions team starting its bid in the FIBA Europe Cup. More at MVP247.com
Manchester Giants head coach Lloyd Gardner joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about the rebuild in his second season in Manchester around the stellar signing of Dan Clark, the positive impact of the ill-fated London City Royals on his career, learnings from his TV commentary work and from the Barking Abbey Academy before switching to the British Basketball League - and his experience with Great Britain. More at mvp247.com
Cheshire Phoenix guard Jules Dang Akodo joins the MVP Cast.
He tells Mark Woods about his childhood switch from Cameroon to the UK and the ties that bind, the talent bloom that saw him decamp for Slovenia in his mid-teens and the Euro odysseys beyond, his dissatisfying trip to a EuroBasket finals with Great Britain, last season's ups and downs with London Lions and his ambitions for 2022. More at mvp247.com.
The MVP Cast returns for a new series - to preview the 2021-22 British Basketball League season. We chat to new London Lions' general manager Brett Burman about his plans to conquer at home and abroad, plus we talk to various figures around the BBL about the ten teams and how they might fare.
More at mvp247.com
Former Great Britain men's head coach Joe Prunty joins the MVP Cast to recount his five year run in charge of the national team and the ups and downs of a programme that shifted markedly following the London 2012 Olympics. We talk his approach to building buy-in and bringing through young players and how it led to his recent spell at the helm of Team USA. He recounts his spell as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, the greatest players he has worked with during various stops in the NBA - and his plans for the future. Last in series.
More at mvp247.com.
Plymouth Raiders head coach Paul James joins the MVP Cast to talk 1000 games in the BBL, the boyish brotherhood that ushered him into the game, a path through Tigers, Heat, Wolves and the Raiders and the ups and downs along the way, his hopes for another tilt at Europe in the seasons ahead and the All-PJ team. More at mvp247.com
Leicester Riders forward Ella Clark joins the MVP Cast to talk about her double life in basketball and netball, what the two sports could - and should - learn from one another, her ambitions in the game and why she'd welcome a return for Great Britain. More at MVP247.com
Shequila Joseph joins the MVP Cast to talk about her start in basketball in London, the learnings from a college stint in the Deep South, the grand tour of Europe she has been on as a pro and making her Great Britain debut. More at MVP247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Adrian Fulton and Bill McCotter of Belfast Star are the guests on the 100th edition of the MVP Cast. The duo tell us about basketball in Northern Ireland and its curious place within Ireland and UK hoops. They expand on the history of the reigning Irish Superleague champions, basketball's emergence and the problems caused by The Troubles, developing a new generation and the potential for a BBL franchise in Belfast, Dublin and elsewhere. More at mvp247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance
Scott Melvin, chief executive of Buzz16 Productions and exec producer of the BBL on Sky Sports, joins the MVP Cast. He tells us what makes great sports television and his borrowings from his former role in charge of Monday Night Football and other broadcasts. He tells us about how the British Basketball League's return to Sky came about, how they put a fresh look together and what it hopes to achieve, and what UK hoops might do to grow its imprint. More at MVP247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Surrey Scorchers centre Ryan Richards joins the MVP Cast to recap the amazing stories from a decade and more in the game. We discuss his growth as a teen prospect and the lack of sound advice that halted his transition from Draftee by the San Antonio Spurs into the NBA itself. He tells us about his extraordinary career arc through leagues across the world and the decisions which took him there, his ups and downs with Great Britain and the lessons learnt, and what his plans are for his future in and out of basketball. More at MVP247.com. (Some strong language)
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Cardiff Archers guard Robyn Lewis joins the MVP Cast to share her passion for food, her development over three different stops in the WBBL, the lessons she's passing on by coaching kids and the influence of Stef Collins, and planning for life after hoops. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Bristol Flyers guard Josh Wilcher joins the MVP Cast to tell us about the system in Australia that nurtured his talent and that of the country's huge NBA contingent, and the growth of the NBL. We learn about his tough battle back from an Achilles injury and the role sports psychology played in it. And how he went unpaid to come to the UK and rebuild his basketball career in Reading and his second chance in the BBL. Plus he reveals his future career plans ... as a cop. More at mvp247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
We turn the spotlight on grassroots basketball on the MVP Cast with the man behind one of the country's most successful clubs, John Bunyan of Falkirk Fury. We talk about the challenges coming out of Covid, creating a culture and infrastructure that's produced multiple Great Britain internationals and what's required to grow, nurturing coaching development to breed talent and how the national team pathway could be upgraded. More at MVP247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Newcastle Eagles coach Chris Bunten joins the MVP Cast to discuss growing the Women's British Basketball League commercially and the player pathways that might bring through fresh stars, and to talk about becoming an integral part of the Eagles and the ecosystem of north-east England. He shares his views on coaching development in the WBBL and the UK and why he'd like more sharing to deliver improvements. More at MVP247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we chat to bright young coaching mind Jack Burgess about his leap of faith to pursue his career in Spain after a cameo playing career at Glasgow Rocks, how he earned a shot at the youth teams of ACB outfit Zaragoza and getting an inside view of what makes the system in the country so good. He gives us his thoughts on how the UK might learn from their successes and the ambitions he has for his own journey. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Worcester Wolves' forward Mike Parks Jr joins the MVP Cast to tell us about his tough childhood in east Chicago and the homelessness that spurred him to make his way out. He talks about playing for two legends in college and how he had to fight for his spot. And he explains how Covid has forced the sacrifice of undertaking his most important job - as a father - from afar. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Great Britain head coach Chema Buceta and rising star Evelyn Adebayo join the MVP Cast ahead of the last round of qualifiers for FIBA EuroBasket Women 2021.
Buceta gives us his view on a vital clash with Belarus, the chances of Olympic qualification for Paris 2024 and why the British Basketball Federation and the home nations need to work in unison to bring our young talents through.
While Adebayo tells us about her time at the UConn Huskies under Geno Auriemma, her transition to the pro ranks in Spain and her motivation to become a GB mainstay. More at MVP247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Sevenoaks Suns and Great Britain guard Renee Busch joins the MVP Cast to talk about how Covid has impacted the WBBL, her multi-national background, being coached by her father Len and the immense role models in her life, the lessons she passes onto young girls under her tutelage, and the highs of her international career. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
London Lions guard Andre Lockhart joins the MVP Cast. He tells us about changed times and increased expectations under new management at the Copper Box, his own journey from London to Barbados and back and the inspiration he receives from his mother, and his role as a mentor and coach to promising players in the capital and the fear that Covid might edge them out of the game. More at MVP247.com (Recorded before Lions were forced to withdraw from the FIBA Europe Cup).
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
In the first of a new series of the MVP Cast, Cheshire Phoenix guard Mike McCall is our guest. He tells us about playing through Covid in the British Basketball League, taking an atypical route through the vibrant Chicago hoops scene and his plans to one day turn to coaching. More at MVP247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Great Britain guard Eilidh Simpson joins the MVP Cast to give us an insight into what makes GB Women such an close-knit group, why they will now think about the Paris 2024 Olympics, her career journey from Australia to roaming Europe, her personal travel bug and a special double proposal. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Leicester Riders and Great Britain guard Conner Washington joins the MVP Cast to talk Covid in the BBL, the destruction of his dream by his short American experience and its rebirth, how creating music brings back great memories of his late mother, his new excursion into modelling - and his forecast for the British Basketball League season ahead. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Kofi Josephs joins Mark Woods on the MVP Cast to open up on his creative non-conformist side and tell us why basketball took him past the inner city issues of Birmingham to find a world beyond, the mental health challenges faced by athletes, his devotion to the game that took him to a EuroBasket with Great Britain - and the diverse plans he has for his future. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Former NBA All Star and current president of the Russian Basketball Federation, Andrei Kirilenko, joins the MVP Cast to talk about the current and past wave of European players, his Stateside and international careers, his bid to restore Russia to the upper echelon of global hoops and why he feels his homeland is getting a raw deal with a potential Olympic ban due to the country's doping past. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
NBA Coach of the Year, Nick Nurse, joins the MVP Cast to talk about his amazing rise from driving the minibus with Derby to winning the NBA title with the Toronto Raptors.
He tells us about his fun trips and trophy stops with London, Manchester and Birmingham, the British Basketball League team he almost joined, how his stint in Brighton owning the Bears left him dead broke, and an 18 months to remember in Canada.
All recounted in his new memoire, 'Rapture: Fifteen Teams, Four Countries, One NBA Championship, and How to Find a Way to Win -- Damn Near Anywhere.' More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Andreas Kapoulas of Bristol Flyers is our guest on the MVP Cast.
He details the protocols surrounding Covid-19 as he prepares for the upcoming British Basketball League season, the start of his love affair with the game in Greece and his coaching education, the Bristol Sport grand plan and his hopes for the forthcoming Flyers campaign, starting with the BBL Cup. More at MVP247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Sheffield Sharks guard Mackey McKnight joins the MVP Cast to talk about whether LeBron is now the G.O.A.T., why his life was changed by Hurricane Katrina and its impact on his family, the perils of playing overseas and the mentality it requires, and how signing in the British Basketball League came as the ultimate relief after his dark year out of the game. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Jennifer Leedham, currently associate head coach at St Francis College in Brooklyn, tells us about her path from Cheshire to New York City and onto the benches of college basketball, her closeness with sisters Johannah and Kirsty and their route into the game, the mental challenges which come with the job and her enthusiasm for nurturing the next generation as Great Britain Under-16 coach. More at mvp247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Ahead of the NBA Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat, we're joined by The Athletic's senior NBA writer Sam Amick to talk the realities of life inside the 'Bubble' for both players and media and its disjoint with current life outside in the USA, the "sadness and joy" of the Lakers ride toward a championship and the impact it might have on LeBron James' legacy, and the comfort level of the league looking into 2021. We also discuss British pubs and Sunday roasts and the majesty of pickleball. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Great Britain and Goettingen guard Luke Nelson joins the MVP Cast to give us an insight into settling into a new situation, running with the psychological ups and downs of injuries and personnel decisions, his Dad Steve's influence, player investment in the GB basketball programme - and his gaming prowess. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Mike Martin joins the MVP Cast to talk about his battle with brain cancer and the effect of the tumour on his life and family, the relief of dunking again and the drive to play basketball once more, the distressing theft of 52 pairs of shoes from his collection and the fundraising campaign that's been set up, and why he believes the sport needs to do much to bring through future generations of talent. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance
Andy Thomson comes on the MVP Cast to reveal why he decided to retire after 20 major trophies and the emotional process that took him there, the learnings he takes away from the sport, his best teams, coaches and team-mates from stops at Leicester Riders, Newcastle Eagles and elsewhere, his new career as a therapist and why he hopes a players union can finally arrive in the BBL. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance
Great Britain forward Ashley Hamilton joins the MVP Cast to talk about building a basketball brand on social media and the pitfalls for players, his foundation's work in Sierra Leone, the influence of new fatherhood, his choice of a team for next season and the business side of contracts, his view on the demise of the London City Royals. More at mvp247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Former Great Britain women's head coach and British Basketball performance director Mark Clark joins the MVP Cast.
He gives us a state of the nation on how the strategy for its growth has evolved and where its potential remains untapped, his disappointment at not leading GB all the way to the London 2012 Olympics, the secret of the success of the old Crystal Palace programme and polishing the rough diamond that was Andrea Congreaves.
Mark goes on a deep dive into the academy he established at Barking Abbey, how its model might be expanded further towards the BBL and WBBL - and his alternate role as father to Dan and Ella and the role parents can play in advising on basketball decisions. More at MVP247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
In the second part of our extended conversation with British basketball legend Alan Cunningham, he tells the MVP Cast about great nights with Portsmouth FC, London Towers and Worthing Bears, road trips overseas, his early connection to Masai Ujiri, and why he wishes the legends of the domestic game were still connected. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
In the first of a two-part conversation with the MVP Cast, British basketball legend Alan Cunningham takes us through his start with the Harlem Globetrotters, dealing with racism in his youth in California, his arrival in the UK with Doncaster Panthers and his high-flying ambitions from the off. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Krumesh Patel joins the MVP Cast to talk about his path through Leicester Riders to his new job as coach of Swedish side Wetterbygden, building a programme that caters to the needs of girls and young women at Charnwood, the dire lack of Asian players and coaches in British basketball and what can be done to access them, and his outreach work in India that opened his eyes. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
New London Lions arrival DeAndre Liggins joins the MVP Cast to talk about his move to the UK and his ambition to put the reigning British Basketball League champions on the map in the Basketball Champions League.
He tells Mark Woods about his journey from the tough environment of the south side of Chicago to the NBA, of playing along side Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden at the Oklahoma City Thunder - to learning from featuring beside LeBron James at the Cleveland Cavaliers and missing out on a trip to the Finals - and the brutality of the hoops business on both sides of the Atlantic. More at mvp247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Tim Lewis joins the MVP Cast to talk us through his current role as a scout in the NBA, his journey from teacher to becoming a coach and his rise through the ranks in the UK before expanding his horizons overseas and then, the gain and pain of former BBL club Essex Pirates.
He also tells us about the learnings from being around Chris Finch and Nick Nurse as their assistant for Great Britain, why the former is destined to be a NBA head coach and why the latter is a rock star.
And with overseas coaching stops from Japan to Arizona and parts in between, Lewis outlines why young British coaches need to commit fully to making it in the trade if they want opportunities to advance. More at MVP247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
ESPN's Tim Bontemps joins the MVP Cast to talk about the re-start of the NBA within a tightly controlled bubble in Orlando and the challenges that presents. With the playoffs forthcoming on site, we look at the likely contenders for a championship in isolation and the sub-plots in the mix. More at MVP247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Glasgow Rocks guard Jonny Bunyan joins the MVP Cast to talk about the unique role of local rotation players in the BBL in maintaining the culture of each club and why Gareth Murray is amply qualified to be his team's new head coach. The Scot gives us an insight in how Falkirk Fury, founded by his father John, has been one of the most prolific producers of Great Britain internationals in recent times, and why the development pathway needs a rebuild. More at MVP 247.com.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Renowned player agent and former Kingston Kings star Danny Davis joins the MVP Cast to give us an insight on how he represents his clients at PTI Sports, the pitfalls when cutting a deal and how they can break down and the market change that coronavirus is set to bring. He also recalls his glory days winning MVPs and trophies galore at Kingston and Glasgow Rangers and the joy of playing under Kevin Cadle. More at mvp247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Great Britain guard Melita Emanuel Carr joins the MVP Cast to discuss how experiencing the death of a friend led her to set up an initiative to address street violence in the UK, her experience of racism on both sides of the Atlantic, dealing with long-term injury and her plans to make a difference after her basketball career is done. More at mvp247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Kyla Nelson joins the MVP Cast to give us her perspective on the Black Lives Matter movement and growing up as a mixed race female in the UK and the USA. She reveals the peaks and troughs of her current battle with cancer, her decision to transfer universities from Pitt to Florida International, and her ambition to be a coach - of men. More at www.mvp247.com
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
Tony Garbelotto joins the MVP Cast to tell us about coaching during the aborted attempt to re-start the Japanese Basketball League during coronavirus, the pitching process to obtain jobs overseas, the parallels between the boom and bust of Mersey Tigers and London City Royals, and he reveals what arose from his abrupt exit from leading Great Britain after only two games in charge.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by former top referee Alan Richardson to talk about his officiating career at home and abroad and the perils of being caught in the middle, his experiences with FIBA and EuroLeague, and what it takes to reach the top.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we talk to Great Britain and London Lions forward Ovie Soko who tells us about coping (well) with the instant celebrity from his Love Island tour, his process for basketball self-improvement throughout his career and the contrasts between playing overseas and at home, his desire to be a role model, and his future ambitions on and off the court - including his first book.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we talk to Chris Harris about his place in history as the first Brit to ever play in the NBA, life in the league as it was in the 1950s, his friendship with Chuck Cooper and living through racial segregation in America, and why he gave it all up for the love of a good woman. More info at MVP247.com - Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance @ tecompliance.co.uk
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we talk to Pat Burke about the significance of being the first and only Irishman to make the NBA, the difference with even the biggest clubs in European basketball and his journey between the two sides of the Atlantic, the power dynamic between stars like Michael Jordan and the role players on their teams, the curious disappointment of being part of the Phoenix Suns' Seven Seconds or Less squad and the mentality of NBAers as the league plots an abnormal return to action.
Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance – check them out at tecompliance.co.uk.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we talk to legendary Scotland and Great Britain international Bobby Archibald about his storied playing career, the Auld Enemy hoops rivalry, his pride in the amazing rise of his son Robert to the NBA and the tragedy of his death, aged just 39, and why he and his wife Heather have launched a foundation to address the mental health issues incurred by athletes. Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance @ tecompliance.co.uk
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by former Glasgow Rocks and British Basketball League director David Low who talks us through the troubled financial waters for sport caused by coronavirus, the BBL's investment potential, opportunities and threats, venue construction plans and why the Scots should be crowned as champions. Sponsored by Total Environmental Compliance – check them out at tecompliance.co.uk.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by former England international Paul Stimpson who recounts his fast track to success at Crystal Palace and the pyramid pathways that allowed him to become a homegrown success in British basketball, his spell as head of media at FIBA and how you sell hoops as a television product internationally - and in the UK - and where streaming services might offer new opportunities in the future.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, more on the takeover of London Lions by an American investment firm with outgoing owner Vince Macaulay explaining how and why it happened, what the plans for the reigning British Basketball League champions are going forward - including a European campaign - and how the BBL might look coming out of lockdown.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we talk to British basketball legend Alton Byrd about his storied playing career, his arrival at Crystal Palace, his breakthrough GM opportunity with Murray International, the chances missed with aborted hoops projects at Manchester United and Glasgow Rangers, the learning points from his NFL Europe stint and what his insights his roles in the WNBA, and now NBA - as vice-president of the Brooklyn Nets' G-League offshoot in Long Island - might offer for the sport back in the UK. More info at MVP247.com
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, Jamelle Davis is our guest.
He tells us about his extraordinary journey through playing basketball in six countries, staying focused on his dreams even when he was twice left homeless in his youth in London and the mentors who helped keep him afloat, what it was like to try out in the G-League for the Raptors 905 and retaining a dream to make it all the way to the NBA, his work with at-risk youths and his burgeoning sideline as a talented artist. More info at mvp247.com.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we chat to former Leicester Riders and London Leopards head coach Billy Mims about the BBL's Showtime Era and the rivalries and friendships he shared with the likes of Nick Nurse and Kevin Cadle, the reasons why the British basketball boom turned to bust at the turn of the century, and achieving enduring college success at Florida Tech. More info at mvp247.com
In the 50th episode of the MVP Cast, we're joined by British basketball legend Andy Betts who tells us why he didn't make the NBA despite being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets, the highs and lows of his trip around Europe's super-clubs, his international career, his sense of regret about the death of long-time team-mate Robert Archibald and the emergence of his daughter as a potential star of the future. More info at mvp247.com
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by Newcastle Eagles guard Drew Lasker who gives us the inside line on his team's corona-crisis ahead of the BBL Trophy final, his alter-ego as a skills development trainer, his craziest team-mate and staying sane in isolation. More info at mvp247.com
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, Leicester Riders forward Christina Gaskin recounts a harrowing Stateside stint in which "college basketball nearly killed me". How did she cope, and what did she learn from the experience? And why she - and her team-mates - were glad to be able to finish the season by lifting the WBBL Trophy.
In this episode of the MVP Cast, we look ahead to the 2020 BBL and WBBL Trophy finals in Glasgow in conversation with Newcastle Eagles head coach Ian Macleod, Solent Kestrels guard Brendan Okoronkwo, Leicester Riders boss Jesper Sundberg and his counterpart at Durham Palatinates Lee Davie.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, Mark Woods chats to Bristol Flyers centre Dan Edozie about his inspiring journey from the mean streets of Las Vegas and Los Angeles, to homelessness and the foster system, and the basketball breaks that brought him full circle and back to the UK.
Every episode available at MVP247.com
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we talk to interim Great Britain men's head Marc Steutel about his late promotion and his future hopes, ahead of the opening qualifiers for EuroBasket 2021 against Montenegro and Germany.
The MVP Cast returns for 2020, and in this edition we chat to Great Britain head coach Chema Buceta and veteran forward Chantelle Handy ahead of the Olympic women's basketball qualifiers in Belgrade, where a priceless spot at Tokyo 2020 is on the line.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, our guest is Sheffield Sharks guard Nick Lewis who tells us about running with future NBA stars in his youth, his second life as a businessman and stopping talent from falling through the gaps, and his rejuvenation upon his return to the BBL.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined Surrey Scorchers head coach Creon Raftopoulos who tells us about the pain of growing up in post-colonial Zimbabwe, his extraordinary parents, the coaching journey that began when his playing days were abruptly curtailed and the impending defence of the club's All Stars title. Sponsored by allstarsbasketball.co.uk
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by new Worcester Wolves coach Matt Newby who tells about his second chance in the BBL, his basketball journey, the recruitment process and the legacy of pro hoops in Leeds.
Sponsored by allstarsbasketball.co.uk
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we chat to Sheffield Hatters head coach Vanessa Ellis ahead of the new Women's British Basketball League season. She tells us about the real challenges of financing a team, following the huge shoes of Betty Codona, her desire for a fix to the current system of bringing young females into the sport and the boon of being an assistant to the Great Britain team.
Sponsored by allstarsbasketball.co.uk
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we look ahead to the new British Basketball League season in the company of commentator and sage Dan Routledge and discuss who the potential contenders and challengers might be and the state of the BBL entering the 2019-20 campaign. Sponsored by allstarsbasketball.co.uk
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by FIBA secretary-general Andreas Zagklis who talks World Cup in China, widening the net of basketball worldwide and what help might be offered to British hoops.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we look ahead to the 2019 FIBA World Cup with Poland coach Mike Taylor who tells us about building a national team, his spell in the British Basketball League with Essex Leopards, growing up as the son of a coach and being a ball boy at the New York Knicks - and whether the USA can be toppled in China.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we speak to coach, author and speaker Cornell Thomas about the lessons learnt in basketballing adversity, working with Luol Deng and nurturing young talent in the USA, approaching the mental health issues facing athletes and how the mindset of players can be a huge asset in the corporate world.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by Great Britain men's captain Dan Clark who talks EuroBasket pre-qualifiers, going into the family basketball business, how the structure of British basketball can improve with the involvement of former players and what we should learn from Spain's development system.
In this episode of the MVP Cast, we chat to Great Britain centre Gabe Olaseni and new head coach Nate Reinking ahead of the FIBA EuroBasket 2021 pre-qualifiers against Kosovo and Luxembourg. Gabe tells us about the fresh vibe, the team's points to prove and what he's done with his money. While Nate explains why he took the role, his long-term vision to reach an Olympics and the emotional lure of a return to GB.
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by Great Britain forward Myles Hesson who tells us about watching Love Island, Nate Reinking's appointment, his development in his home city of Birmingham, how his gamble to head overseas paid off, and how GB's men have been inspired to raise the bar by their female counterparts.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, Cheshire Phoenix head coach Ben Thomas joins us to reveal some of the secrets behind off-season recruitment, his personal journey into the profession, the benefits of sharing knowledge and the possible impact of the changes to the BBL season.
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we preview the 2019 Women's EuroBasket and get the thoughts of Great Britain head coach Chema Buceta, captain Stef Collins, and Jo Leedham and Chantelle Handy, as they head into the group stages in Riga.
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we speak to two of Great Britain's young tyros, Savannah Wilkinson and Kennedy Leonard after coming from the States for national duty, how they were shaped by their family histories, and their hopes for the future.
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by Great Britain guard Kyle Johnson, who tells us about Raptors fever in Toronto and playing for Nick Nurse, the ups and downsides of various stops in Europe and Canada, the process involved in each off-season's search for a contract, and GB's worrying transformation from 2012 to the present.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we chat to Great Britain centre Hannah Shaw about what goes on at training camp, road tripping and heading abroad to Spain, the art of 3x3 hoops, dealing with online trolls, why the women's game needs to believe in its own worth and the targets set for EuroBasket 2019.
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by Jim Naismith - grandson of basketball's inventor James - to talk about the game's original coach and his family's connection to its history, and we also hear from Kieron Achara, ahead of a new NBA documentary on the links to Scotland and the Scottish game.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, our guest is former Great Britain head coach Damian Jennings, who tells us about his current role at the University of Calgary and the world of Canadian basketball, his pain at having to step down as national team boss, and the travails of combining parenting with summer golf.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we chat to Sheffield Hatters forward Sarah Toeaina about her extraordinary sporting family, a rookie life in Yorkshire, the novel attractions of Easter eggs and the forthcoming WBBL Playoffs.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by Sevenoaks Suns guard Cat Carr, who tells us about the challenges of growing up as a mixed race kid in New Jersey, the stresses of earning a college scholarship, the quest for self-help, travelling the world, and the chase for a perfect season in the Women's British Basketball League.
In the latest edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by London Lions and Great Britain guard Justin Robinson who tells us about feeling the love on the mean streets of Brixton, the perils of playing overseas, why the sport domestically has failed to grow properly in recent years and how he'd like to work on gang issues when his career moves on.
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by Great Britain guard Andrew Lawrence who tells about life in Italy, how the tricks he learnt at Chelsea translated into basketball, being the youngest Olympian on the 2012 team, recovering from a ACL injury, and how his grandfather inspired him to be a high flyer.
In this edition of the MVP Cast, we're joined by Mike Tuck of the Sheffield Sharks who talks about the post-Raptors awakening of Canadian basketball, life on the mean streets of Baltimore - and Cyprus, his double life as a marketing man, and his dream testimonial team.