Shawn Kemp & Vin Baker Discuss Being Traded for Each Other, Playing in Seattle and Recovery

On September 25, 1997, one of the most shocking trades in NBA history included Seattle SuperSonics legend Shawn Kemp, traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, and rising star Vin Baker going to the Pacific Northwest. More than two decades later, these two former All-Stars sat down together for the first time to reflect on that pivotal moment in their careers.

In this exclusive episode, recorded live from Seattle's Edgewater Hotel in February 2025, Kemp and Baker talk about the day of the trade, what it felt like to be swapped for one another and how their careers unfolded in the years since. They share behind-the-scenes stories about going head-to-head on the court, their experiences playing in front of the passionate Seattle crowd, and how the trade shaped their legacies.

The conversation also dives deep into their personal journeys, including battles with addiction, the path to recovery, and life after basketball. They talk about what they’re up to now, including Vin’s work with the Milwaukee Bucks and the Recovery Centers he’s opening—starting in Wisconsin—to support others on their own healing journeys.

Special thanks to The Edgewater Hotel for hosting us, and to the Swinomish Casino and Lodge for sponsoring this conversation. This episode was co-produced with our friends at Converge Media. And of course, thank you to Seattle NBA Fans, our additional partners and the entire Seattle hoops community for riding together with us as we continue this journey toward the eventual return of the NBA to the Emerald City.