In this episode, we take a nostalgic trip back to the summer of 1974, a pivotal time for Brooklyn basketball. Featuring interviews with Albert King, John Salley, World B. Free, and Rick Telander, this episode highlights the unique culture of playground basketball and the characters who made that summer unforgettable. Discover the stories behind Albert King's rise to fame, Fly Williams' playground legend, and Rick Telander's classic book, Heaven is a Playground. 02:01 - 06:00: Albert King on the essence of Brooklyn playground basketball 06:01 - 12:00: Rick Telander's journey to Brooklyn and the birth of Heaven is a Playground 12:01 - 22:00: The legend of Fly Williams with insights from Albert King, John Salley, and World B. Free 22:01 - 28:00: Rodney Parker’s role as a connector in Brooklyn basketball and his influence on Jim McMillian 28:01 - 34:00: Albert King's basketball family and his rise from Fort Greene to national fame 34:01 - 38:00: The impact of Heaven is a Playground and Albert King’s reflections on his legacy See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore the trials and triumphs of some of Brooklyn’s most iconic basketball players. Featuring interviews with Hall of Famers like Lenny Wilkens, Oscar Robertson, and Billy Cunningham, we delve into the stories of Connie Hawkins and Roger Brown, who overcame significant challenges to leave a lasting legacy in the sport. Discover the impact of the 1961 gambling scandal on these players' careers and how they found redemption in the ABA. 02:01 - 06:00: Connie Hawkins' early career and the 1961 gambling scandal 06:01 - 12:00: Lenny Wilkens and Oscar Robertson on Connie Hawkins' talent and legacy 12:01 - 26:00: The rise and fall of Roger Brown, including his legendary high school showdown with Connie Hawkins, his struggles post-scandal, and his comeback and success in the ABA with insights from Ted Green, Oscar Robertson, and Peter Vecsey 26:01 - 30:00: Tony Jackson's career and contributions to Brooklyn basketball 30:01 - 34:00: Larry Brown and Doug Moe’s journey from Brooklyn to the ABA 34:01 - 38:00: Billy Cunningham's memorable year in the ABA and the league’s lasting influence See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we delve into the illustrious history of Boys High School, a powerhouse in Brooklyn high school basketball. Featuring interviews with greats such as Lenny Wilkens and Jackie Jackson, this episode highlights the extraordinary talent and unforgettable moments that defined Boys High. From dominating the PSAL championships to creating legends on the playgrounds, discover how Boys High set the standard for excellence in basketball. 02:01 - 06:00: Mel Davis on the allure of Boys High and his decision to attend 06:01 - 10:00: Peter Vecsey and Billy Cunningham on Boys High's dominance in the 1960s 10:01 - 18:00: Connie Hawkins' impact, legendary performances, and insights from Larry Brown and Lenny Wilkens 18:01 - 22:00: The epic 1960 PSAL semifinals featuring Hawkins and Roger Brown 22:01 - 26:00: The myth and reality of Jumpin’ Jackie Jackson 26:01 - 30:00: Sihugo Green and other Boys High legends who followed 30:01 - 34:00: The coaching legacy of Mickey Fisher and Howie Jones 34:01 - 38:00: Lenny Wilkens' journey from Boys High to the NBA Hall of Fame See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore the roots of basketball in Brooklyn, tracing its journey from the early 20th century to the foundation of the NBA. Featuring interviews with basketball historians Claude Johnson and Murry Nelson, this episode highlights the contributions of early pioneers like Ossie Schectman and Dolly King, and organizations such as the Smart Set Athletic Club. Discover how these trailblazers laid the groundwork for the sport and created a lasting legacy. 02:01 - 06:00: The story of Ossie Schectman and the first points in NBA history 06:01 - 12:00: Claude Johnson on the formation of early basketball clubs in Brooklyn 12:01 - 18:00: The impact of the Smart Set Athletic Club and the rise of the Black Fives era 22:01 - 26:00: Murry Nelson on the early professional leagues and the Brooklyn Celtics 26:01 - 30:00: Dolly King's journey from LIU to the professional leagues and his legacy 30:01 - 34:00: The influence of early basketball on the development of the sport See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our premiere episode, we celebrate the legends who laid the foundation of Brooklyn Basketball. Featuring interviews with basketball greats such as Stephon Marbury, Chris Mullin, and World B. Free, this episode takes you through the playgrounds, high schools, and professional careers that shaped these iconic figures. Discover how the gritty, competitive spirit of Brooklyn basketball not only created stars but also influenced the entire sport. Explore the legacy of legendary teams, the culture of streetball, and the communities that supported these athletes from their humble beginnings to their grand achievements.  02:01 - 06:00: Interviews with Ray Haskins, World B. Free, and Stephon Marbury 06:01 - 10:00: Discussion on iconic Brooklyn playgrounds and high schools featuring Larry Brown and Albert King 10:01 - 14:00: The cultural impact of Brooklyn basketball with insights from Lenny Wilkens and Chris Mullin 14:01 - 18:00: Tales of streetball legends and playground heroes narrated by John Salley and Rod Strickland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.