Courtside with Marc

An Orlando Magic superfan with zero experience building sports programs just assembled three players he's convinced will be top-6 NBA draft picks — and his strategy was brutally simple: "hire the right person and let them do everything."Hank Waters went from Orlando Magic courtside season ticket holder and lawyer to co-owner of Southeastern Preparatory Academy, transforming a struggling private school into a national basketball powerhouse in just 2.5 months. Waters details his recruitment of elite coach David Peavy from championship-winning Duncanville High School and assembly of future NBA prospects including Beckham Black (Anthony Black's brother), CJ Rosser, and Obinna Ekezie.The episode covers the complete operation: player housing, national competition leagues, international travel, maintaining academic standards, and the financial realities of running a private school. Waters shares his bold prediction that three of his juniors will be top-6 NBA draft picks and his vision for program expansion.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

NBA legend Horace Grant admits he "wanted to kick his ass" every time he faced his twin brother Harvey on the court — and their childhood games always ended in actual fights because neither could stand losing.The 4-time NBA champion shares stories about winning championships with Michael Jordan's Bulls and later with Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant's Lakers. Grant reveals why he ranks Kobe right behind MJ as his greatest teammates, discusses the impossible task of stopping prime Shaq, and explains how the Grant family basketball legacy continues through his nephews including current NBA player Jerami Grant.Key topics covered: Twin brother rivalry, playing with MJ and Kobe, facing Len Bias in college, 1987 NBA Draft with Scottie Pippen, championship mentality, modern NBA appreciationThanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Marc's daughter had to tell him he was interviewing a major TV star.Sometimes the best interviews happen when you least expect them. Marc thought he was sitting down with a regular basketball fan, until his daughter pointed out he was about to interview Dr. Richard Webber himself, James Pickens Jr., star of Grey's Anatomy for an incredible 22 seasons.Pickens shares the legendary casting story behind Grey's Anatomy, including the executive producer's famous question: "What are you doing for the next 5 years?" — which turned into over two decades and nearly 500 episodes. As one of only two remaining original cast members from the show's initial nine, Pickens offers rare insight into what makes a television phenomenon work.Key topics: Grey's Anatomy casting story, Hollywood longevity, Cleveland Cavaliers loyalty, surviving 22 seasons on television, basketball fandom in Lakers territoryThanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

You've seen Obba Babatunde on screen, but wait until you hear about his other life as a horse whisperer and professional rodeo competitor.The acclaimed actor and entertainer reveals his fascinating dual career with the all-Black Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, sharing wisdom that applies far beyond the arena. From explaining how Bill Pickett invented "bulldogging" by literally biting steers, to his core philosophy that "investment of time and consistency of behavior earns trust," Babatunde delivers insights about communication, respect, and building relationships.Key topics covered: • The hidden history of Black cowboys in America • Predator vs. prey psychology in horse behavior • Why most horse problems are actually human problems • Japanese business communication philosophy • The art of earning trust through consistencyThanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Glynn Turman has stories that will blow your mind — like attending Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's UCLA acceptance party in 1965 when it was so packed they ended up celebrating in the hallway of a Harlem project.At 79, this legendary actor just got his Hollywood Walk of Fame star and describes LeBron James like poetry, calling him "built like a centaur but graceful as a gazelle." Glynn shares incredible stories from his New York roots, his 66-year entertainment career from Broadway's "A Raisin in the Sun" to Disney's current hit "Percy Jackson and the Olympians," and his evolving friendship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.Key topics covered: • Kareem's 1965 UCLA acceptance party in Harlem • Growing up playing street games in Greenwich Village • 66-year entertainment career highlights • Current friendship with Kareem over shared interests in Black history and jazz • Lakers fandom and favorite players across eras • Current starring role in Disney's "Percy Jackson"Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Byron Scott drops some serious basketball knowledge and his GOAT take might surprise you. The 3-time Lakers champion explains why Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is the greatest player ever and shares untold stories from his playing days with Magic Johnson and Michael Cooper.Byron went from sneaking into Lakers games as a kid in Inglewood to becoming part of one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history. In this All-Star Weekend conversation, he opens up about his toughest opponents, his closest teammates, and why Larry Bird called Michael Cooper the best defender who ever guarded him.Key Topics: • Why Kareem is the real GOAT • Toughest opponents: Jordan, Miller, Isaiah Thomas • The "Three Amigos" bond with Magic and Cooper • Sneaking into Forum games as a kid • Modern NBA analysis: LeBron, Luka, KDThanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Wayne Federman reveals the shocking medical discovery about Pistol Pete Maravich that changed everything.Wayne Federman, authorized biographer of Pete Maravich, spent 20 years researching the life of basketball's most tragic genius. From Pete's impossible 44.2 points per game average at LSU (with no 3-point line) to the shocking autopsy discovery that he was missing his left coronary artery, this conversation reveals untold stories from unprecedented access to Pete's personal diaries and family materials.Key topics covered: • Pete's revolutionary training methods that influenced today's NBA stars like Curry and Kyrie Irving • The million-dollar contract controversy that fractured the Atlanta Hawks locker room • How getting cut from high school basketball led Wayne to comedy and eventually to Hollywood • Marc's childhood Pete Maravich obsession and the legendary desk covered in 50-year-old box scoresThanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Filmmaker Martin Guigui joins Marc Israel at Warner Brothers Studios to tell the incredible 28-year journey of bringing "Sweetwater" to the big screen — the untold story of Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton, one of the first three Black players to integrate the NBA in 1950.What started as a shocking discovery at the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1996 became a decades-long mission involving Norman Lear, Adam Silver, President Obama, and Clint Eastwood. Martin reveals how he tracked down families, built the "Sweetwater family" with NBA legends, got Clifton inducted into the Hall of Fame, and found his lead actor in the final hour.In this episode:• Why the Basketball Hall of Fame didn't know basketball's "Jackie Robinson" story• How Norman Lear's WWII "assimilation" philosophy shaped his longevity • The magic phone call from Clint Eastwood's company the day after Martin's son said "make this movie"• Building relationships with Adam Silver, Wilt Chamberlain, and NBA pioneers• Finding Everett Osborne among 900+ audition videos just weeks before filmingMartin Guigui is a Grammy-nominated filmmaker, director, and musician who spent nearly three decades bringing this crucial piece of American sports and cultural history to audiences worldwide. His film "Sweetwater" was produced alongside Clint Eastwood's Malpaso Productions.Subscribe to Courtside with Marc for more insider stories from the world of basketball. Leave a review and share this episode with anyone who loves untold sports history.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Houston Rockets analyst and former NBA center Ryan Hollins joins Marc Israel onCourtside for an unforgettable conversation about basketball joy, preparation, and leadership.Ryan shares behind‑the‑scenes insight into the Rockets broadcast, breaks down the development of young stars like Amen Thompson and Alperen Şengün, and reflects on lessons learned from a 10‑year NBA career—including playing alongside Kevin Garnett.This episode covers: - What fans don’t see behind the broadcast - Why joy matters in basketball - NBA work ethic at the highest level - Learning from legends - Teaching the next generationA must‑listen for Rockets fans and anyone who loves the game.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

NBA agent and salary-cap expert EJ Kusnyer joins Marc Israel on Courtside to explain the business side of basketball.From Bird Rights and max contracts to the first and second apron, EJ breaks down the NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement in plain English—and explains why recent rule changes are reshaping teams across the league.This episode covers: - How the NBA salary cap really works - Why drafting well can actually hurt teams - How player contracts are structured - The real impact of luxury tax and apron penalties - What fans should expect in the next CBAA must-listen for NBA fans who want clarity instead of confusion.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Streetball legend and former NBA point guard Rafer “Skip to My Lou” Alston joins Marc Israel on Courtside for a powerful conversation about basketball culture, creativity, and longevity.From Queens playgrounds to the AND1 Mixtape Tour to an NBA career alongside Hall of Famers, Rafer shares how he balanced flair with fundamentals—and why understanding the right way to play the game mattered at every level.This episode covers: - The origins of the “Skip to My Lou” move - Streetball vs. NBA basketball - Playing with Yao Ming, Tracy McGrady, Vince Carter & Dwyane Wade - Coaching young players and passing on basketball wisdomA must-listen for basketball fans, hoop historians, and anyone who loves the culture of the game.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Former NBA veteran Mo Evans joins Marc Israel on Courtside to share the unfiltered truth about his journey to the league.From going undrafted to grinding overseas, learning from legends like Kevin Garnett and Chris Webber, and ultimately carving out an 11-year NBA career, Mo breaks down the decisions, sacrifices, and mindset that defined his path.This episode dives deep into: - The emotional impact of draft night - Why Europe helped save his NBA career - What separates great teammates from dividers - How young athletes can avoid costly mistakesA must-listen for basketball fans, athletes, and anyone chasing a long-term goal.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Edward Pollard’s basketball career didn’t end — it evolved.In this episode of Courtside, Marc Israel talks with the former Lamar High and Morehouse hooper about his journey from high-level basketball to overseas leagues, law school, and ultimately serving on Houston City Council.Pollard explains how the discipline, competitiveness, and “get it done” mentality from basketball now drive his approach to leadership, community service, and running District J.This is a basketball story first — just played on a different court.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

Former NBA guard Isaiah Taylor sits down with Mark Israel on Courtside to share his journey through professional basketball — from the NBA to leagues across Europe, China, and the Middle East.Isaiah talks candidly about his time with the Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, and Cleveland Cavaliers, learning from stars like James Harden, and guarding LeBron James. He also explains what most fans never see: the realities of overseas basketball — language barriers, cultural differences, hostile crowds, guaranteed contracts, injuries, and life far from home.From winning championships in Lithuania to playing in China with translators calling plays mid-game, Isaiah offers an honest look at the global basketball grind and what it takes to sustain a professional career.A fascinating conversation for NBA fans, aspiring players, and anyone curious about how the game is played — and lived — around the world.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

What happens at an NBA game when the cameras aren’t focused on the players?In this episode of Courtside, host Marc Israel sits down with Natalie Alvarado, Director of Live Programming & Entertainment for the Houston Rockets. Natalie is responsible for everything fans experience inside the arena — from national anthems and halftime shows to mascots, contests, music, and real-time game flow.Natalie’s story goes far beyond the arena. A former Rockets Power Dancer, she went on to sign a record deal, tour nationally, and chart on Billboard before returning to the NBA with a new perspective and a bigger role.This episode explores:The choreography behind NBA game presentationThe pressure of live decision-making during gamesThe intersection of performance, production, and sportsWhy the most memorable moments can’t be plannedA fascinating look at the people who turn basketball games into unforgettable experiences.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

In Episode 2 of Courtside, host Marc Israel sits down with Jonathan Sanford, the public address announcer for the Houston Rockets and the University of Texas Longhorns, to explore the hidden craft behind the NBA game-day experience.Jonathan shares his remarkable journey from a small town in Alabama to announcing NBA Finals games, winning a championship with the San Antonio Spurs, and ultimately becoming the voice fans hear inside Toyota Center.This episode explores:🎙️ What a public address announcer actually does during an NBA game🏀 How arena energy is built, managed, and protected⏱️ The precision behind timeouts, music cues, and in-game entertainment🤝 Why relationships, preparation, and reliability matter❤️ The powerful story behind the fan-favorite “Two Shots” callJonathan also discusses working with officials, coordinating with game operations, respecting player identities through pronunciation, and why PA announcing offers a level of fan connection that radio and television simply can’t match.If you’ve ever wondered how the NBA experience comes together beyond the court, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the voice that helps bring it all to life.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

In the inaugural episode of Courtside, host Marc Israel sits down with Craig Ackerman, the longtime television voice of the Houston Rockets, to unpack one of the most unique journeys in professional sports broadcasting.Craig shares how a childhood love of the Rockets, a college baseball career, and an unpaid internship inside the Rockets organization ultimately led him to one of the rarest jobs in sports: NBA play-by-play announcer.This conversation covers:🎙️ How broadcasters actually break into the NBA📻 Why radio is the true “art form” of play-by-play🤝 The power of internships, relationships, and timing✈️🏀 What it’s really like traveling with an NBA team🔥 Why energy matters more than perfection behind the micAlong the way, Craig reflects on working alongside legendary voices, learning the language of the game, and why preparation and persistence matter just as much as talent.Whether you’re an NBA fan, an aspiring broadcaster, or someone curious about how careers are really built, Courtside Episode 1 offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at life in the NBA broadcast booth.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.

This short episode introduces Courtside, a basketball podcast built around real conversations and real perspective from inside the game.  Host Marc Israel is known for his fandom, sitting courtside at Houston Rockets games.  He's bringing that same energy and love of the game to this podcast.Courtside isn’t about headlines or hot takes. It’s about context — the people who play, coach, cover, and shape the sport, and the stories that don’t always make it into a broadcast or box score.In this teaser, we outline what the show is, why it exists, and what listeners can expect going forward. This episode is also part of setting up the workflow and feed ahead of the full launch.Full episodes coming soon.Thanks for being early.Thanks for listening to Courtside. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more fans find the show.New episodes drop weekly, bringing you conversations from inside the NBA and the people who live the game every day.