OGs Talkin' Ball

Mary Lou and Phyllis
  • 5.0 (7)
  • BASKETBALL

A weekly, one-of-a-kind podcast hosted by Portland basketball enthusiasts and self-proclaimed OGs, that’s Old Grandmas to you, Mary Lou and Phyllis. Original Gangstas of the game, these two know hoops!   Each week these friends package up all things basketball, kind of like chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven, before serving up their unique spin on players, coaches, games, fans, trends, books, movies and more.  While their focus is on the NBA (their hometown Blazers often get some extra love), they won't hesitate to dive into college or WNBA topics when the moment calls for it. Join Mary Lou and Phyllis for a lively, no-nonsense and surprisingly insightful take on the game they've loved for decades. After all, OGs know ball!

  1. 2D AGO

    Episode 23: The Legacy of the WNBA and After March Madness

    Episode 23 The Legacy of the WNBA and After March Madness  Part 1 - The OGs dig deep into the  history of the WNBA(W); Part 2 - A discussion about the W’s draft and recent bargaining success; Part 3 - The conversation then moves to what happens to players after the Division I Tournaments.  The W from the Beginning  Mary Lou and Phyllis trace the WNBA’s evolution from its 1997 debut through decades of growth, advocacy, and rising visibility, as players steadily pushed for better pay, working conditions, and respect. This journey culminates in the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA), widely seen as a landmark moment that reflects both the league’s progress and its ongoing fight for equity.                     Draft 101: The WNBA  A look at how the WNBA builds teams through the expansion draft that helps new teams form, the current draft process that brings in new talent, and, of course, free agency that allows veteran players choose where to play. All avenues are very interesting and not exactly the same as the NBA.   After the Madness: What’s Next for College Players?   The OGs break down what might be ahead for the top players from the men’s and women’s Final Four of the NCAA Tournament. Next steps vary widely depending on a player’s goals and eligibility. Some will declare for the NBA or WNBA, while others may enter the transfer portal or return to their college teams to develop further. So many choices!  Follow us on Instagram #OGs Talkin’ Ball

    33 min

  2. APR 1

    Episode 22: March Madness or March Heartbreak?

    The OGs take two - episodes about the tourney, that is.  Part 1 is about the NCAA women players and teams and Part 2 about the men players and teams.  In Part 3 the discussion shifts to the NBA - who’s clinched the playoffs and who’s playing in? Part 1 Stars and Sleepers - NCAA Women                                                                   Part 2 Stars and Sleepers - NCAA Men                                                                         Every March since 1939 the NCAA Tourney delivers both the stars that shine under pressure and sleepers who wreck brackets. This year is no different, so far, the stars are steady but the sleepers are lurking.  The OGs talk tourney for the Women and the Men in two separate sessions.                                                                                                                                  Part 3 Locked In or Playing In?                                                                                           Mary Lou and Phyllis discuss the NBA top dogs and surging squads.  The vibe - young teams are loud; old powers are waking up and just a few have it locked. The play-ins and playoffs could be messy, but in a good way.  Follow us on Instagram #OGs Talkin’ Ball

    36 min

  3. MAR 25

    Episode 21: Bouncing to Success

    Once again, the OGs explore a variety of intriguing topics in the world of basketball.  Tune in to learn more about the Euro Step, one player’s path to financial security and how an NBA basketball is made.   The Euro Step in the NBA  After researching how the Euro step in basketball evolved from a foul to a very refined basket making step, Mary Lou and Phyllis uncover some fun facts about this tricky basketball move. With it’s roots in the Yugoslavia European basketball league, it eventually became popular in the NBA for creating space and assisting finishes at the rim.                            Pat Connaughton’s Financial Playbook  The segment is about how Pat Connaughton leveraged his sports earnings into real estate, co‑founding Three Leaf Partners, which built a $500M+ portfolio in seven years. He also runs a foundation supporting youth basketball and community projects as well as gives back to the NBA by working with new players about investments and finances. From Leather to the Hardwood The making of an NBA basketball has evolved over more than a century. Over time and hands-on research, designs improved for better grip, durability, and bounce, leading to the modern leather NBA ball used today. Mary Lou and Phyllis talk about its construction that balances performance and consistency, and how a ball is selected as a ‘game ball’.         Follow us on Instagram #OGs Talkin’ Ball

    33 min

  4. MAR 18

    Episode 20: Lead. GivingBack. Shoot.

    The OGs honor coach, Pat Summitt, spotlight NBA players and teams making a positive impact in their communities, and wrap up the episode with a candid conversation about shooting slumps. The Summitt Standard   Tennessee Volunteers Women's basketball coach, Pat Summitt wasn't just a legendary coach - she was a leader who changed the game and empowered generations to athletes.  The OGs discuss  her lasting legacy of excellence, toughness combined with heart that lives on far beyond the court. Who’s Been Extra Nice?  Mary Lou and Phyllis discuss how NBA teams and players are making a real impact off the court by giving back through education programs, youth sports, and community initiatives. This conversation highlights how basketball can inspire change and uplift communities way beyond the game.  From Clutch to Cold Are shooting slumps just a normal part of the game for even for the best players? The OGs unpack how players battle through tough stretches - and why confidence, preparation, resilience, and even counseling can be the real game-changers Follow us on Instagram #OGs Talkin’ Ball

    32 min

  5. MAR 4

    Episode 19: The Evolution of College Basketball

    From Naismith to Nets    With March madness right young the corner, the OGs couldn’t resist the topic of college ball - created by Dr. James Naismith in 1891. Since then, men’s college basketball has grown into a defining American sport. The NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament has helped to shape an enduring legacy of tradition, opportunity, and major cultural impact.   She Got Game   The OGS unfold the story of women’s college basketball that was first played at Smith College using the format of James Naismith’s game. It grew steadily for over 90 years before the NCAA took over and the national championship was launched. These modern era powerhouse programs have many direct links to the WNBA.   Sidelines and Spotlights   Mary Lou and Phyllis bring their attention to outstanding women’s college basketball coaches, whose programs continue to set national standards for game excellence. The conversation continues with women’s hoopers in the NIL era where standout athletes have redefined opportunity by leveraging their talent and marketability to become influential figures both on the court in the business of college sports. Follow us on Instagram #OGs Talkin’ Ball

    34 min

  6. FEB 25

    Episode 18: Buckets and Banter

    NBA All-Star Weekend After Hours    Let’s get real about the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend, breaking down what was a hit, what flopped, and everything in between. No filter, just straight-up takes only these two  can deliver.       Paid in Full… Now What?   Mary Lou and Phyllis break-down NBA Supermax contract deals. Who actually qualifies and does the money match the pressure? Is the Supermax a reward for loyalty and greatness, or a franchise-crippling gamble?                    Born to Hoop or Built in the Gym?   The OGs discuss which basketball skills come from DNA and which ones come from reps - over, and over, and over. Who has the skills needed to play and can a player have it all?     Follow us on Instagram #OGs Talkin’ Ball

    33 min

  7. FEB 18

    Episode 17: OGs Inside the Paint

    Take it Outside     From cracked concrete to unwritten rules, the OGs reflect a bit more about outdoor hoops- how the blacktop shaped the game, the mindset, and the culture that still lives today.        Motion Matters   Mary Lou and Phyllis break down the difference between kinematics and kinetics - one focuses on  how movement happens, the other explains the forces that cause it.  Within the context of basketball, comparing them enhances our understanding and their impact on the game.                          Twists and Turns   Buckle up! There's always plenty to talk about - from the latest headlines and trade impacts to surprises in the NBA as well as in men's and women's college B-ball.  With the season moving fast, the twists and surprises seem to be coming even faster!                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Follow us on Instagram #OGs Talkin’ Ball

    34 min

  8. FEB 11

    Episode 16: The OGs Talk All-Stars and NBA Trades

    A Legacy of Legends: 75th Year Celebration   First played in 1951, the NBA All-Star Game was created to showcase the league’s biggest stars in one electrifying matchup. Over the decades, it has evolved from a simple exhibition into a global celebration of basketball culture, talent, and iconic moments. Mary Lou and Phyllis have done their homework and are ready to put it all into perspective.  NBA All-Stars  The OGs discuss the star-studded lineup of the league’s top All Star performers and the entire weekend festival of basketball events. This 3-day event highlights both established superstars and exciting first-time selections as well as a newly created US vs the World game format. Deal or No Deal?  The February trade deadline has passed. NBA teams are settled into clear lanes; contenders have been fine-tuned, while those rebuilding squads are solidifying their rosters. There were a few big splashes while some plan for the the next phase. Highlights, surprises and standouts will be discussed. Follow us on Instagram #OGs Talkin’ Ball

    34 min
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5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

A weekly, one-of-a-kind podcast hosted by Portland basketball enthusiasts and self-proclaimed OGs, that’s Old Grandmas to you, Mary Lou and Phyllis. Original Gangstas of the game, these two know hoops!   Each week these friends package up all things basketball, kind of like chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven, before serving up their unique spin on players, coaches, games, fans, trends, books, movies and more.  While their focus is on the NBA (their hometown Blazers often get some extra love), they won't hesitate to dive into college or WNBA topics when the moment calls for it. Join Mary Lou and Phyllis for a lively, no-nonsense and surprisingly insightful take on the game they've loved for decades. After all, OGs know ball!

Information

  • Creator
    Mary Lou and Phyllis
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 OGs Talkin' Ball
  • Show Website
    OGs Talkin' Ball