Final Four field is set! The (continuing) disaster that is NIL, and "Two Trumps & a Lie"

Final Four field is set! The (continuing) disaster that is NIL, and "Two Trumps & a Lie"

Author: The Word Podcast April 3, 2025 Duration: 1:49:27
Join us as we preview the Final Four field for Saturday's slate of games, featuring all No. 1 seeds for the first time since 2008. Outgoing Maryland head men's basketball coach Kevin Willard gives us all a playbook for how not to leave a job. The accelerated basketball coaching carousels we are seeing may be a result of the proliferation of a mostly unregulated NIL landscape, and we take a look at the broader implications on collegate sports and how it parallels some current political developments.

You don't want to miss our new segment, "2 Trumps & a Lie", where James has to pick the false headline from 3 recent developments out of the Trump Administration. As a bonus, we've got two rounds for you on this episode!

Tune in to The Word Podcast: Sports, News, & Stuff for the kind of conversation you'd have with your funniest, most opinionated friends. Hosts Rich Abernethy and James Mundia, friends since their college days, have turned their lifelong banter into a consistently entertaining podcast. Each episode finds them diving into the headlines and sports stories everyone is talking about, but with a relaxed, humorous perspective that never takes itself too seriously. They break down the week's events with a blend of genuine insight and comedic relief, making even the most complex news feel accessible. The chemistry between Rich and James is the engine of the show, creating a welcoming atmosphere where listeners feel like they're part of the discussion. Beyond their own takes, they frequently bring in guests from across the sports and entertainment landscape, adding new voices and expert angles to the mix. This isn't just a recap of scores and events; it's a lively exploration of the stories behind the stories, the cultural moments that spark debate, and the sheer fun of the games we love. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just enjoy smart, funny commentary on current events, this podcast offers a refreshing and thoroughly engaging listen every time. You'll hear authentic camaraderie, unexpected laughs, and thoughtful analysis, all wrapped up in a package that feels like hanging out with your most knowledgeable pals.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 53

The Word Podcast: Sports, News, & Stuff
Podcast Episodes
Rory Doubles Up! NBA Play-in games went crazy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:58
We're fresh off a phenomenal Masters that put our picks to the test! We checked in on our previous Masters predictions and found we were successful in predicting our "disappointments," which led to an "incredible reverse…
The Masters is here! March Madness wraps up. BURRITO DEBATE! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:25:51
We are live for "Christmas in April," checking in on the Masters, which is already testing our predictions. We fact-checked our draft picks. James is already committed to two trips to Fish Camp after losing the NFL pick…
Kash'in out at the Olympics, NBA Playoff Push, HORNETS!, Luka & JJ [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:16:19
We're back to cover the fallout from FBI Director Kash Patel partying with the USA Men's Hockey Team.It's playoff push time in the NBA and Rich's own Charlotte Hornets are making a statement!The recent benchside dustup b…
Superbowl Recap! Pick'em League Results! Costco is our Apocalypse HQ [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:25
Super Bowl Recap: We break down a Super Bowl that one of us called "boring and completely forgettable," discussing the Patriots' "hapless" offense and Sam Darnold's career arc that saw him win a Super Bowl after his infa…
Ryder Cup Madness! 3 Bold Statements Check-in. UNC football is dunzo. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:29:13
We're back after a brief hiatus to tackle the madness that was the recent Ryder Cup, the early returns in the NFL season, and the improbable collapse of UNC football in the first season under Bill Belichick.With the NFL…