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Perplexed in Portland: Blazers add Yang Hansen

Holy Backboard

In the 414th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, Dustin and Sage dive deep into the Portland Trail Blazers' choices during the 2025 NBA Draft. They discuss the controversial selection of Hansen Yang, the Blazers' strategy, and the implications for the team's future. The conversation spans various topics, including the perplexing direction of the Blazers' front office, the potential of their new picks, and the competitive landscape of the NBA. They also touch on standout performers and winners of the draft, as well as projections for the upcoming Summer League.

Emergency Pod! Jrue Trade

Holy Backboard

Welcome to the 413th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast! In this special emergency edition, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss the unexpected late-night trade of Jrue Holiday for Anfernee Simons and two second-round picks. They dive into the implications of Holiday's arrival for the Portland Trail Blazers, the impact on the team's defense, and how this move aligns with Portland's focus on two-way versatility. The episode also covers the potential changes in the Blazers' strategy for the upcoming NBA Draft and evaluates how the trade affects roster spots and player development. Please listen to...

Future Friday: Rasheer Fleming

Holy Backboard

On the 412th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss Rasheer Fleming, a top NBA draft prospect from Saint Joseph's. They dive into his impressive physical tools, college statistics, and potential fit with the Portland Trailblazers. The conversation explores Fleming's defensive strengths, offensive role, and the importance of his development. The episode also covers the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft and the value of drafting players with high floors and potential. Join Dustin and Sage as they explain why Rasheer Fleming could be a standout pick for the Blazers.

2025 Lottery Mock 3.0

Holy Backboard

Dustin and I work together to create a mock draft!

Complementary Pieces: Koby Brea

Holy Backboard

Kobe Brea, a standout college basketball player known for his exceptional shooting skills. Hailing from the Bronx, New York, Brea played for Dayton before transferring to Kentucky. Despite testing poorly in physical metrics at the combine, his shooting remains unparalleled. He shot 43% from three-point range on six attempts per game, demonstrating versatility by excelling in catch-and-shoot situations and shooting off the dribble. I discuss his potential fit in the NBA, particularly with the Portland Trailblazers, emphasizing his shooting ability, intelligence, and supplementary skills like...

Future Friday Cedric Coward

Holy Backboard

In this episode of Future Friday, Dillon and Dustin dive into one of the most intriguing prospects in the NBA Draft:Cedric Coward . Known as the “man of mystery,” Coward’s game sparks debate, with Dillon taking a more cautious stance on his potential, while Dustin sees high upside. Together, they break down: Coward’s biggest strengths and where he thrives on the court The key weaknesses that could impact his transition to the NBA How fit, role, and development could make or break his pro career This episode gives listeners a balanced, thoughtful look at one of the Draft’s...

Complementary Pieces: Ryan Kalkbrenner

Holy Backboard

Dillon Sage discusses NBA draft prospect Ryan Kalkbrenner, a 7'2", 257-pound center from Creighton, ranked as the 32nd prospect and 50th center. Sage emphasizes the importance of understanding the current draft class's big talent, especially small ball fives, and highlights Ryan Kalkbrenner's potential as a platoon center for elite teams. Kalkbrenner's impressive hands, shot-blocking, and rebounding abilities make him a valuable role player, capable of providing solid minutes off the bench. Sage compares Cochran to players like Hassan Whiteside and Walker Kessler, noting his ability to block...

Future Friday Kasparas Jakučionis

Holy Backboard

In the 409th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast, Dustin and Sage discuss Illinois combo guard Kasparas Jakučionis, a top prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft. They go into detail on Kasparas Jakučionis's measurements, skills, and performance stats from his season at Illinois, discussing his potential as a lottery pick. The episode also examines Kasparas Jakučionis's strengths, including his rebounding, shooting, and ability to apply rim pressure, as well as his areas for improvement, like turnovers and ball handling. The discussion touches on his fit with the Portland Trail Blazers and his...

Complementary Pieces: Noah Penda

Holy Backboard

Dillon Sage discusses the strengths and weaknesses of Noah Penda, a player from LA Man's French team, who is set to enter the draft at 20 years old. Weighing 225 pounds and standing between 6'6" and 6'8", Penda is examined in terms of his role and performance. Although categorized as a small forward, Sage argues that Penda is more suited as a power forward due to his athleticism and playstyle. While his three-point shooting is poor, Penda excels in passing, team defense, and making winning plays. Sage highlights Penda's potential as a valuable team-oriented player, drawing comparisons to Najee...

Complementary Pieces: Will Riley

Holy Backboard

Dillon Sage provides an in-depth analysis of Illinois freshman Will Riley, a versatile 6'9" shooting guard and small forward from Ontario, ranked 12th on ESPN's top 100. Sage discusses Riley's college performance, emphasizing his strengths as a cutter and a shooter while noting his struggles with shot selection, strength, and agility. Despite a poor max vert and lane agility, Riley impresses with his standing reach and playmaking abilities. Sage projects Riley's potential role in the NBA, particularly for teams like the Blazers. He highlights his offensive capabilities, need for role clarity,...

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