Holy Backboard

A weekly Portland Trail Blazers centric NBA podcast, hosted by Dustin Hawes and Dillon Sage.

All The Small Things 01/28/2026

All The Small Things Welcome to the 431st edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast! Hosts Dustin and Sage delve into the Portland Trail Blazers' recent performance, highlighting the highs and lows of their latest games against teams such as the Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards. They discuss key player performances, game stats, and areas for improvement, such as free throw shooting and defense. The episode also speculates on potential trade moves ahead of the deadline, focusing on rumors involving players like Jrue Holiday and the impact of possible trades on the team's future. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of the Blazers’ current standing and strategic insights on how they can bounce back in the upcoming games! 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome 00:14 Recap of Recent Games 02:33 Analyzing Team Performance 03:17 Free Throw Woes and Shooting Struggles 06:27 Defensive Issues and Player Limitations 20:03 Trade Deadline Speculations 26:46 The Giannis Trade Dilemma 27:16 Evaluating Giannis' Value and Trade Options 28:10 Potential Trade Packages for Giannis 29:55 Risks and Rewards of Trading for Giannis 36:14 Blazers' Upcoming Games and Predictions 46:36 Final Thoughts and Trade Deadline Speculations /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39915340

Loving Caleb’s Contributions 01/21/2026

Loving Caleb’s Contributions In the 430th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, Dustin and Sage discuss the Portland Trail Blazers recent performance, standing at 22-22 and ninth in the Western Conference. They analyze the team's games against the Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Sacramento Kings, highlighting key players like Deni Avdija, Shaedon Sharpe, and Donovan Clingan. The hosts also provide insights into upcoming games against the Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards, debating strategies and potential outcomes. With the NBA trade deadline approaching, they consider possible roster moves and reflect on the Blazers' development and playoff prospects. Tune in for an in-depth chat about the Blazers journey, key players' performances, and future outlook! /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39819335

Sitting Solid at the Halfway Mark 01/14/2026

Sitting Solid at the Halfway Mark In the 429th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast, Dustin and Sage discuss the challenges of aging, the current season's impact on the Portland Trail Blazers, and the development of players. They discuss recent games, injury updates for key players like Deni Avdija and Jerami Grant, and assess the Blazers' playoff chances. Discover mid-season evaluations of players like Shaedon Sharpe and Donovan Clingan, potential trade rumors, and the team's strategy moving forward. Join for an in-depth look at Rip City's hopes and hurdles. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39734395

Back from the (Jrue) Holidays. 01/08/2026

Back from the (Jrue) Holidays. In the 428th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss their holiday experiences and delve into the current state of the Portland Trail Blazers. They examine the team's recent performance, notable wins, player development, and injury updates. The podcast highlights Donovan Clingan’s improvement, the strategic challenges posed by upcoming games against strong opponents like the Rockets, Knicks, and Warriors, and the potential impact of trade decisions and player injuries on the team's future. The episode also explores the controversial strategy of fouling when ahead by three and outlines potential roster adjustments that may be necessary due to the impending 50-game cap for two-way contract players Caleb Love and Sidy Cissoko. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39653815

Unlocking Shaedon Sharpe’s Potential 12/17/2025

Unlocking Shaedon Sharpe’s Potential Welcome to the 427th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast! Join Dustin and Sage as they delve into the latest happenings with the Portland Trail Blazers. They discuss Sage's basketball card collection hobby and provide personal updates, including Dustin's upcoming holiday plans and a string of unfortunate events involving his glasses and chiropractic visits. Key highlights include an in-depth analysis of the Trail Blazers' performance, focusing on crucial games against teams such as the Sacramento Kings, Detroit Pistons, and Orlando Magic. The hosts ponder trade possibilities for key players like Jerami Grant and Jrue Holiday, and explore the challenges and strategies the Blazers must navigate to achieve their trade season and playoff aspirations. They also talk about the development of young talent like Shaedon Sharpe and the potential of players like Yang Hanson in the G League. Dive into the intricacies of the Blazers roster dynamics, trade scenarios, and what it will take for them to secure a playoff spot. Happy Holidays to all and Go Blazers! /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39447460

Home for the Holidays 12/10/2025

Home for the Holidays Welcome to the 426th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast with Dustin and Sage! In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges and highlights of the Portland Trail Blazers' recent games. We discuss their performance against Cleveland, Detroit, and Memphis and address key issues, including injuries, poor officiating, and the team's struggle with consistency. Despite a tough season, there is optimism with the return of key players and an easier upcoming schedule. We also preview the Blazers' upcoming matchups against the New Orleans Pelicans and Golden State Warriors, emphasizing the importance of smart play and effort. Tune in for a detailed analysis and insights into what lies ahead for the Portland Trail Blazers. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39362060

Defense, Decision-Making lead to Losses in Clutch 12/03/2025

Defense, Decision-Making lead to Losses in Clutch In the 425th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage cover a wide range of topics, from Thanksgiving recaps to in-depth analysis of the Portland Trail Blazers' recent performance. Listen as they discuss the impact of key injuries, defensive struggles, and the potential for future trades, including a hypothetical acquisition of Giannis Antetokounmpo. They also provide detailed recaps of recent games and preview upcoming matchups against Cleveland, Detroit, and Memphis. Tune in for insightful commentary, strategic breakdowns, and a passionate take on the current state of the Blazers /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39260170

No Time to Panic in Rip City 11/19/2025

No Time to Panic in Rip City In the 424th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss the recent performance of the Portland Trailblazers, who suffered a challenging week, dropping to a 6-8 record for the season. The hosts analyze the team's gameplay, including a win over the Pelicans, a significant loss to the Rockets, which prompted a players-only meeting, and disappointing defeats to the Mavericks and Suns. They delve into the team's declining fast break points, defensive struggles, and the impact of injuries on performance. Key players, such as Deni Avdia, Shaedon Sharpe, and Donovan Clingan, are discussed in terms of their roles and potential. Predictions for upcoming games against the Bulls, Warriors, Thunder, and Bucks are made, with an emphasis on strategies Portland might employ to improve their standing. The episode also reflects on the need for the team to adapt their playstyle and address gaps in defense and execution. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39103555

Turnovers, Shot Selection Dampen the Start of Portland’s Road Trip 11/12/2025

Turnovers, Shot Selection Dampen the Start of Portland’s Road Trip The Blazers sit at 5–5, Dustin and Sage break down a wild week featuring a 22-point comeback vs. OKC, frustrating road losses, and the continued rise of Shaedon Sharpe. They dive into Clingan’s growth, Camara’s struggles, and why Portland’s pace might be their biggest enemy. It’s a mix of optimism and frustration, but caring about this team again feels so good. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/39014470

Good Things Take Time 11/06/2025

Good Things Take Time In the 422nd edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss a week filled with ups and downs for the Portland Trail Blazers. We delve into the Blazers' recent games against the Utah Jazz, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Lakers, analyzing key plays and player performances. They also provide insights on the Blazers' defensive struggles, the impact of injuries, and how they can turn things around in upcoming games against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Miami Heat, and Orlando Magic. Join them as they bring you the latest updates and in-depth analysis on Blazers basketball! /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/38929805

Organized Chaos 11/06/2025

Organized Chaos In this week’s crossover from Holy Backboard, Dustin and Sage break down the Blazers’ chaotic but compelling 2–2 start. With Tiago Splitter stepping in as interim coach after Chauncey Billups’ shocking arrest, Portland is running wild, fifth in pace, first in steals, and leading the league in forced turnovers. The duo calls it organized chaos: a defensive, fast-breaking brand of basketball that’s fun, frantic, and surprisingly effective. They dive deep into the team’s strengths (effort, pace, and defense) and growing pains (turnovers, half-court stagnation, and shaky rebounding). The episode explores how players like Shaden Sharpe, Jrue Holiday, and Donovan Clingan fit into this new identity, and what adjustments might be needed once Scoot Henderson returns. It’s an episode about tempo, tenacity, and testing identity a reminder that in Rip City, chaos has never looked this organized. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/38831970

Emergency Podcast: Chauncey Billups 10/24/2025

Emergency Podcast: Chauncey Billups We discuss the shocking news of Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups' arrest by the federal government for money laundering and wire fraud related to an illegal poker ring tied to the mafia. The hosts recount how they learned about the news and its implications for the team, both on and off the court. They examine the potential severe repercussions for Billups, including insider trading charges related to NBA games, and the possible fallout for the Trail Blazers organization. Despite the severity of the situation, the podcast sees a silver lining for the team with Tiago Splitter stepping in as the interim head coach, offering a fresh opportunity for the franchise. The hosts emphasize the need for structural changes and improved regulations in the NBA to handle such scandals effectively and maintain the integrity of the sport. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/38773880

2025 Trail Blazers Season Opener 10/22/2025

2025 Trail Blazers Season Opener In the 419th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast, Dustin and Sage kick off the Blazers' season opener with an in-depth analysis of recent player extensions and roster strategy. They discuss the contract extensions of Toumani Camara and Shaedon Sharpe, emphasizing Sharpe's potential value compared to other young guards. Concerns around the Blazers' bench depth and the impact of injuries are expressed, alongside predictions for the first four games against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, and Los Angeles Lakers. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/38746445

2025 Western Conference Preview 10/04/2025

2025 Western Conference Preview Welcome to the 418th edition of The Holy Backboard Podcast! Hosts Dustin and Sage return after a break and delve into various topics, including their summer activities, the WNBA playoffs, and their upcoming plans. The main focus of this episode is an in-depth discussion on the Portland Trail Blazers' upcoming season, the impact of Scoot Henderson's injury, and the challenges the team faces. The duo also provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Western Conference, presenting their predictions and insights for each team. Tune in to hear their thoughts on the Blazers' roster, potential season outcomes, and their Western Conference Finals predictions. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode! /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/38462265

Evaluating the Blazers' Offseason Moves 08/06/2025

Evaluating the Blazers' Offseason Moves In the 417th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss the Portland Trail Blazers' offseason moves, analyzing trades, draft picks, and free-agent signings. Major talking points include the trade of Anfernee Simons for Jrue Holiday, the drafting of Yang Hansen, and the mid-level exception used to bring Damian Lillard back. They critique the overall strategy and ponder the team's future direction, emphasizing the importance of player development. The episode also features a segment where they build all-time NBA teams from a randomized list of franchises. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37710135

Is now the right time for Dame’s return to Rip City? 07/18/2025

Is now the right time for Dame’s return to Rip City? Dustin and I discuss Damian Lillard's return to Portland. The pros, cons, the potential roster building, relationship building and the proper marketing /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37461070

Adios Ayton, Hello Holiday 07/09/2025

Adios Ayton, Hello Holiday In the 415th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss the Portland Trail Blazers' offseason moves and provide an in-depth analysis of the team’s recent trades, draft picks, and contract negotiations. They analyze Joe Cronin's 'confusing and unexpected' summer, highlighting key trades like acquiring Jrue Holiday and moving Deandre Ayton. The podcast covers the drafting of Yang Hanson, Summer League expectations, and the importance of roster flexibility. They also consider the potential implications of Robert Williams' performance, the need for improved team shooting, and the strategic future of players like Jerami Grant. Additionally, the hosts touch upon the WNBA team branding issues and reflect on Portland's sports management. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37353065

Perplexed in Portland: Blazers add Yang Hansen 06/27/2025

Perplexed in Portland: Blazers add Yang Hansen 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. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37199405

Emergency Pod! Jrue Trade 06/24/2025

Emergency Pod! Jrue Trade 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 their detailed analysis and immediate reactions to this significant trade. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37130655

Future Friday: Rasheer Fleming 06/20/2025

Future Friday: Rasheer Fleming 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. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37095430

2025 Lottery Mock 3.0 06/17/2025

2025 Lottery Mock 3.0 Dustin and I work together to create a mock draft! /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37047995

Complementary Pieces: Koby Brea 06/16/2025

Complementary Pieces: Koby Brea 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 cutting and passing. Brea could be an early second-round pick and highly valuable to teams needing shooting. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37032905

Future Friday Cedric Coward 06/13/2025

Future Friday Cedric Coward 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 most polarizing players. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/37007875

Complementary Pieces: Ryan Kalkbrenner 06/06/2025

Complementary Pieces: Ryan Kalkbrenner 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 shots and defend the paint despite not being a flashy player. With a limited number of traditional bigs in the draft, Sage believes Kalkbrenner could be a first-round pick and a valuable addition to teams needing a reliable center. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/36898900

Future Friday Kasparas Jakučionis 06/06/2025

Future Friday Kasparas Jakučionis 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 potential for growth in the NBA. They also briefly touch on other prospects and upcoming content in preparation for the draft. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:20 Player Profile:Kasparas Jakučionis 04:13 Kasparas Jakučionis's Strengths and Skills 10:18 Concerns and Areas for Improvement 16:28 Comparisons and Potential 19:59 Draft Strategy and Final Thoughts 23:09 Closing Remarks and Future Content /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/36885715

Complementary Pieces: Noah Penda 06/04/2025

Complementary Pieces: Noah Penda 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 Marshall. Despite some defensive limitations, Penda's versatility makes him a strong first-round draft prospect. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/36843540

Complementary Pieces: Will Riley 06/02/2025

Complementary Pieces: Will Riley 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, and potential to improve with better shot selection and strength training. Sage concludes by hinting at future analyses of other promising players. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/36810800

Dribble, Pass, Shoot: 2025 NBA Draft Edition 05/30/2025

Dribble, Pass, Shoot: 2025 NBA Draft Edition Dustin and I talk about some burning questions about the 2025 NBA draft. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/36795275

Complementary Pieces: Labaron Philon 05/28/2025

Complementary Pieces: Labaron Philon This episode provides an in-depth analysis of Labaron Philon, a point guard from Alabama. Standing 6'4" with a wingspan of 6'6", Philon is ranked 32nd in ESPN's Top 100. Though his vertical leap is subpar, his sprint speed, standing reach, and defensive capabilities stand out. His offense is inconsistent, marked by a 31% three-point shooting rate and a tendency to struggle to finish at the rim. Despite this, his playmaking abilities and defensive prowess make him a valuable prospect. Philon's defensive skills, intelligence, and willingness to do the dirty work are highlighted, suggesting that NBA teams would benefit from developing his balance and shooting skills. Sage ranks him highly due to his potential to be a great defending point guard and offensive conductor. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/36742075

Future Friday: Derik Queen 05/24/2025

Future Friday: Derik Queen Dustin and I talk about Maryland's Derik Queen. We talk about the sky high potential and the real potential of him failing. /episode/index/show/sagedigital/id/36696780

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