NBA veteran, Austin Rivers, is joined by one of his oldest friends, Pausha Haghighi, to give you that true insider’s perspective from someone who’s actively playing in the league on anything and everything happening in the National Basketball Association. They hit on the biggest headlines and stories going on in the Association and of course, sprinkle in some of the best stories and memories from Austin’s extensive career.
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With the reveal of the March Madness brackets, Austin Rivers and Pausha Haghighi discuss some of the major changes college basketball has undergone since Austin’s Duke days, namely the evolution in recruiting, NIL, and the transfer portal (00:00). Then, Austin tells the story of how he selected Duke over Florida before talking through age discrepancies in the current college product. Later, the guys lay out reasons why Oklahoma City is beatable in the playoffs, and why they think the referees ma...
Austin and Pausha open by discussing the Cavs' 15-game win streak and how they made the leap this season (2:21). Then, they discuss how the Most Improved Player award is voted on (22:46) before previewing a potential Knicks-Pistons first-round matchup and talking about what goes into hitting a game-winning shot (36:20). Hosts: Austin Rivers and Pausha Haghighi Producer: Stefan Anderson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...
Austin and Pausha revisit the Jokic-SGA MVP conversation and emphasize how tired they are of voter fatigue (4:20). Then, they discuss which teams could have the competitive edge in the playoffs, with teams like the Lakers and Nuggets right behind OKC. Later, they dive into Stephen A.’s comments about Bronny and LeBron, and Austin discusses why things went south (34:00). Then, they talk through Harden’s recent comments about coaching and predict how this could be the trend (44:44). Hosts: Austin ...
Austin and Pausha react to Malik Beasley’s untimely comments on guarding James Harden after The Beard dropped a 50-piece on the Pistons (1:22). Then, Austin argues where Harden ranks among the likes of Stephen Curry, Damian Lillard, and Russell Westbrook (6:40). Later, they weigh the arguments for Jokic or SGA as MVP (25:05). They then run through a few stand out moments from the week, including LeBron hitting the 50K-point mark and the Celtics duo of Payton Pritchard and Derrick White putting u...
Austin and Pausha talk through LeBron’s recent comments about being the “face of the league” and discuss the responsibilities and consequences involved (16:21). Then, they reflect on what it was like to be in the building for Steph’s insane performance in Orlando against the Magic (29:14), before hitting on both the Warriors’ apparent revitalized season with Jimmy and the Lakers’ with Luka. Later, they discuss which matchup they’d like to see in the Finals (32:42), and how disappointing the Suns...
Austin and Pausha start off by reacting to two of the most recent box office matchups. First, they talk Lakers-Mavs and dissect the insane performances by Luka, Austin Reaves, and especially Kyrie (3:36). Then, they talk Thunder-Timberwolves and the Wolves’ playoff potential after they picked up an epic win against the best team in the West. They also revisit the consistent concerns surrounding the Thunder's chances in the playoffs (27:47). Plus, a conversation comparing college ball to the NBA,...
Austin and Pausha run through brackets of teams that fall into the ranks of either legitimate contenders or probable pretenders (5:45)! They also answer whether they’d take Evan Mobley's or Chet Holmgren’s career (26:18), where the Bucks, Warriors, and Lakers land after their big trades (32:05), and what category the Grizzlies and Pacers fall into (44:57). Hosts: Austin Rivers and Pausha Haghighi Producer: Erika Cervantes Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more ...
Austin and Pausha react to the unfortunate news that Victor Wembanyama will miss the rest of the season (1:12). Then, they jump into Bobby Portis Jr.'s 25-game suspension and discuss the opportunity it poses for Kyle Kuzma (5:25). Finally, they recap a disappointing All-Star Weekend and break down the less-is-more solution to the weekend (23:50)! Hosts: Austin Rivers and Pausha Haghighi Producer: Erika Cervantes Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your...
Austin and Pausha are back ahead of All-Star Weekend to break down their thoughts on how to fix the game. But first, they revisit the end of the Warriors’ honeymoon phase and the Lakers’ play with Luka (7:36). Then, they briefly discuss Brunson and KAT’s dynamic and share who they believe are the best “Robins” to their teams' “Batmans” (16:18). Then, they jump right into All-Star Game talk and discuss how it compares to the Hoop Summit and McDonald’s Game (24:12). Austin then addresses the respo...
Austin Rivers and Pausha Hagigi dissect the aftermath of the Super Bowl, contrasting its impact with recent NBA trade deadlines, particularly the Luka-AD deal. They analyze Austin Reaves' standout performance and his importance to the Lakers, while also diving into the "honeymoon phase" of Jimmy Butler and Steph Curry with the Warriors. The hosts also touch upon the Phoenix Suns' disappointing season, the Philadelphia 76ers' potential rebuild due to Joel Embiid's injuries, and the overlooked value of the mid-range shot in modern basketball. The episode offers a deep dive into the business and emotional toll of the NBA.
Austin and Pausha break down the recent NBA trade deadline, starting with the controversial Luka Doncic trade and the Nets' decision to keep Cam Johnson. They laud the Warriors for their strategic acquisition of Jimmy Butler without giving up key young talent, while criticizing the Suns for their chaotic handling of Kevin Durant. The hosts also discuss the Milwaukee Bucks' acquisition of Kyle Kuzma and the Lakers' future-focused Mark Williams trade, alongside other notable moves. The episode concludes with a discussion on the NBA's potential motivations behind the Luka trade and a look ahead to All-Star Weekend.
Austin and Pausha are in emergency pod mode! First, they react to the absolute monster of a trade that lands Luka Doncic in L.A. and Anthony Davis in Dallas. They unpack the deal from all sides and explain why the trade makes no sense across the board. Then, they offer their immediate thoughts on the second blockbuster trade of the weekend, which sent De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs and Zach LaVine to the Sacramento Kings. Hosts: Austin Rivers and Pausha Haghighi Producers: Erika Cervantes...
Austin and Pausha are back to run through the 2025 All-Star reserves list. They share the biggest snubs, the coaches' approach to choosing the roster, and which players are most deserving. Plus, they touch on the trade rumors about De'Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs and then shout out Isaiah Thomas for his G League play. Hosts: Austin Rivers and Pausha Haghighi Producer: Erika Cervantes Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podc...
Austin and Pausha hit on some football talk and share which rivalries in the NBA compare to Bills-Chiefs (1:02). Then, they dive into the announced All-Star starters and discuss LaMelo not making the list, plus which players could be named reserves (8:24). Later, they discuss the games in Paris and highlight the almost-crowned Defensive Player of the Year, Victor Wembanyama (18:24), before Austin shares his experiences playing abroad. Then, they touch on another trade deadline conversation surro...
Austin and Pausha kick things off by sharing their favorite go-to song after hearing Jokic loves listening to "Many Men" by 50 Cent (0:15). Then they hit on DLo’s comments regarding “free basketball” (4:39) and dissect both sides of the coin while also referencing Anthony Edwards’s recent play and potential adjustments (22:48). Later, they do some “fit checks,” weighing how Jimmy Butler would fit in with the Suns (27:35) and discussing which type of ball handler would be best next to Cade Cunnin...
Austin and Pausha start the week by breaking down "ring culture" (10:51) and discussing how to work through performance anxiety (19:47). Then, they discuss which lower-seeded teams, among the Warriors, Lakers, Suns, and Timberwolves, would be the most competitive come playoff time (31:54). Later, they hit on the awkward moment between Jayson Tatum and Steve Kerr (36:26), and then Austin shares the scarring moment Chris Paul snatched up Kobe's game-worn 24 jersey… for his son (47:46). Hosts: Aust...
Austin and Pausha kick things off with talk about Wemby’s jersey swap and the news that it was posted for auction soon after (1:00). Then, Austin shares which player’s leg sleeve (!) he had (4:15) and what sneakers he used to rock back in the day (7:21). Later, they briefly hit on Cooper Flagg’s potential fit with the Raptors (18:40) before discussing potential trade deadline moves with Cam Johnson, CJ McCollum, Dejounte Murray, and, of course, Jimmy Butler (24:43). Lastly, they touch on Russ’s ...
Austin and Pausha recap their weekend attending Magic games in Orlando and discuss their takeaways, from differences in playing time for Anthony Black vs. Cole Anthony, to Paolo Banchero returning from injury, to watching Giannis play in person (2:00). Then, they hit on the Pacers’ uphill trajectory (18:24), before breaking down how Cooper Flagg could potentially look if he were to be drafted by the Hornets (21:20). Later, they run through Zion’s suspension (33:31), Cade Cunningham holding his o...
Austin and Pausha break down last night’s games and start with addressing what Wemby needs to improve on to become unguardable (2:58). Then, they transition to talking about the highly anticipated Thunder-Cavs game, as they reevaluate Chet’s impact for OKC (24:26) and discuss the Cavs’ impressive play (27:14). Later, they hit on their Dunk of the Year candidate with LeBron punching it on Dereck Lively II (35:44), followed by Austin reflecting on a time he was viciously dunked on (42:01) and the ...
Austin and Pausha kick things off with praise for LiAngelo Ball’s new song, "Tweaker" (0:10). Then, they dive into the Jimmy Butler–Heat conversation, breaking down arguments for both sides with who’s right and who’s wrong (8:25) before transitioning into a conversation about Ant and how he can improve (24:22). Then they talk about the Thunder's impressive record and what we expect from them in regard to SGA and postseason play (32:34). Later, they hit on the Bulls’ tribute to Derrick Rose (44:0...
Austin and Pausha are back in the new year and kick things off with talk about D’Angelo Russell’s fit with the Nets and discuss which team might be best suited for his offensive style in the long run (5:47). Then, they dive even further into the “fit” conversation and break down Russell Westbrook’s chemistry with Jokic (14:08), KAT’s success with the Knicks (21:07), and what teams like the Timberwolves and players like Zion need in order to be competitive (28:02). Hosts: Austin Rivers and Pausha...
Austin and Pausha are back before the New Year to break down all the holiday hoops. They kick things off by talking through Cole Anthony’s fluctuating role with the Magic (2:10) before getting into the similar situation with Brandin Podziemski and Golden State. They also discuss Jonathan Kuminga's recent uptick in play and the current dynamic with him, the Warriors, and Steph Curry (14:58). Later, they get into the NBA ratings discourse (16:55) before giving a birthday shout-out to LeBron James ...
Austin and Pausha jump into the show by breaking down the success of the NBA Cup. They discuss Giannis’s dominant performance and where the Bucks rank in the East after their win (2:04). Then, they hit on OKC’s loss and what type of player they might be missing (8:10). Then, they give Dame his flowers after Adidas announced a lifetime sneaker deal, and touch on his impressive performance with the Bucks and his relationship with Giannis (15:10). Later, Austin answers some rapid-fire questions abo...
Austin and Pausha discuss the recent Magic-Knicks matchup and Austin shares the moment Jalen Brunson handed him a signed jersey with a personal message (8:03). Then, the guys dive into trade rumors and discuss which team might’ve made more sense for Dennis Schröder than the Warriors (23:47). Later, they talk through the upcoming NBA Cup finals between the Bucks and Thunder and what a win might mean for either team (38:13). Lastly, Austin and Pausha share their favorite Christmas movies ahead of ...
Austin and Pausha break down the exciting NBA Cup quarterfinal matchups and kick things off with Hawks-Knicks. They highlight Dyson Daniels and the Hawks’ stacked roster of playmakers (4:54), and compare their roster depth to that of the Knicks (15:45). Then, they discuss Giannis and Dame starting to find their groove together and whether or not they believe the Bucks are back (33:33). Later, they hit on the wild finish between the Rockets and Warriors (42:15), Jimmy Butler and LeBron James trad...
Austin and Pausha kick things off by reacting to Juan Soto’s historic MLB contract, with Austin comparing it to his first big NBA contract (1:20). Then, they share their takeaways from the Suns-Magic game they attended (8:55), discuss Chris Paul's climb to no. 2 on the all-time assists list (28:25), and dive into a round of rapid-fire questions in which Austin answers which player he’d take over another (35:10). Hosts: Austin Rivers and Pausha Haghighi Producer: Erika Cervantes Additional Produc...
Austin and Pausha jump into the show and hit on the Magic’s recent game against the Knicks and discuss the impact a nationally televised game has on the team and player (8:21). Then, they share which players they think would dominate a 1v1 tournament (17:41). Then, they address some of Ja Morant’s comments in the media about not dunking as much anymore, before Austin shares a very cool moment when Carmelo Anthony gave him a piece of advice (22:37). Later, they break down the Lakers’ poor record ...
Austin and Pausha jump into the pod and discuss the Clippers and how James Harden is settling in and rolling (4:00), before they hit on Thunder-Rockets and their stacked lineups (9:10). Then, they discuss the top two Eastern Conference seeds, the Cavs and Celtics (26:19), and talk through their top three coaches, with a special shout-out to Kenny Atkinson (29:42). Later, they wrap with a talk about their top five centers and whether they'd personally prefer an NBA MVP or Finals MVP (45:19). Host...
Austin and Pausha are back Thanksgiving week and share which food they most look forward to at the table (1:33). Then, they jump right into another 76ers' convo, where they break down past sidekicks Joel Embiid has had over the years (8:14). Then, stress why Trae Young needs to leave the Atlanta Hawks ASAP (27:42) and discuss their favorite shot celebrations (32:08) before Austin shares his experience watching his father, Doc Rivers, coach over the years (41:47). Later, they touch on Donte DiVin...
Austin and Pausha are back and dive straight into injuries plaguing the league, with an emphasis on the Pelicans—who are missing a staggering eight players due to injuries (1:44). Then, they revisit a previous statement that Nikola Jokic will go down as one of the Top 10 players to ever play, and discuss where Denver ranks among contenders and why Jamal Murray is key to the Nuggets' success in the post (8:00). Then, they raise the alarms for the 76ers after news of the tense team meeting was lea...
