Dawg Talk

Welcome back to Dawg Talk Podcast — In this episode, the crew kicks it with social media personality and basketball content creator Maxisnicee and Famous Los, joined by KCP, KG, and J Mac for a wild, unedited conversation that jumps from NBA debates to behind-the-scenes hoop culture. 

Welcome back to Dawg Talk Podcast — In this episode, the crew kicks it with social media personality and basketball content creator Maxisnicee and Famous Los, joined by KCP, KG, and J Mac for a wild, unedited conversation that jumps from NBA debates to behind-the-scenes hoop culture.

We get into:
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KCP gets real on Dawg Talk with J Mac and KG (Kenny Games) about one of the toughest parts of the NBA: role changes. In this episode, KCP talks about what it felt like to come off the bench for the first time in years, how it impacted his confidence, and the mindset shift that helped him respond like a champion. The crew breaks down veteran leadership, building team chemistry, staying ready through adversity, and what “being locked in” really looks like.

The conversation goes beyond hoops too. The guys share how faith and time in the Bibl...

KCP’s viral Halloween costume twin is in the building.

We’re back with another episode of Dawg Talk and this one is special. J Mac and KCP are live from Memphis with a highly requested guest: KCP’s wife, McKenzie Caldwell-Pope (MCP).

Fresh off “breaking the internet” dressed up as her favorite player (yes, she pulled up as KCP head to toe, beard and all), 

McKenzie sits down to talk about:

In this episode of Dawg Talk Podcast, J Mac and KCP sit down with Memphis Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. to talk about finally getting healthy after toe surgery, the mental grind of playing through pain for years, and what it’s really like fighting for your spot as an undrafted guard in the league.

Scotty opens up about:

Playing through a fractured toe and turf toe for years

The moment he finally decided to get surgery and what recovery looks like

The mental battle of G League life, two-way contracts, an...

Welcome BACK! On today's episode hosts J Mac and KCP are back in Memphis — not live, but you’ll feel like you’re in the room. J Mac and KCP discuss the Pelicans sideline moment, NBA “tough guys,” James Johnson stories, and whether LaMelo’s flash actually helps Charlotte win. KCP also lists his current top defenders and why versatility wins.

We get real about life and hoops: KCP adjusting to a new team and coaching staff, the “flow” offense finally clicking, handling a slow start and the internet chatter, and what being away from family does to the grind. Th...

The Dawgs are at their new home in Memphis, and they're welcoming KCP's first Grizzlies' teammate! A certified underdog turned NBA rising star — Jaylen Wells, the West Coast hooper who went from JV benchwarmer to All-Rookie First Team in just a few years. From his 5'8" freshman days in Sacramento to making the Memphis Grizzlies rotation, Jaylen’s story is pure grind, faith, and staying ready when your name gets called.

KCP and J-Mac — sit down with Jaylen Wells to talk about life in Memphis, starting his non-profit Sleep Nation, and how he turned “overlooked” into “unstoppable.” They dive deep...

The Dawgs are in the house with a certified Georgia legend in the making — Jake Wilkins, the "Baby Highlight" carrying on his family’s basketball legacy while carving out his own path in Athens.

From dunking at 13 to adjusting to SEC speed, NIL deals, and gaming on the side, Jake opens up about everything — the pressure (or lack of it) that comes with being his father’s son, staying loyal to Grayson, and what keeps him grounded as he steps into the spotlight.

The crew gets into NIL culture, class checkers, fan-bike punishments, late-night golf sessions...

UGA standout and Atlanta rookie Asa Newell sits down with the Dawgs to talk NIL, class checkers, storming the court vs. Florida, making the NCAA Tournament for the first time in a decade, and shooting 43% from three in Summer League. He walks through the pre-draft workout circuit, draft-night curveballs, early reads on training camp, what great vets expect from rookies, and why the G League is real competition. We wrap with Georgia vs. Bama picks and some all-time Athens stories.

Episode Highlights:

Dawg Talk is back for Season 2 and this time is tailgating at UGA on game day!  Hosts J Mac, KCP and KG kick-off the LIVE show with OG team chemistry, NBA stories, and hot takes joined by NBA vet and special guest Josh Smith for unfiltered hoops and life advice.

In this episode:

The Dawgs are back in Las Vegas for their last electric episode of Dawg Talk Podcast!  J Mac, Kenny Gaines, and KCP sit down with entrepreneur, sports visionary, and Prospects founder Adam Wexler for an in-depth conversation on hoops, business, and building Georgia basketball into a powerhouse.

From Adam’s Sandy Springs roots and UGA days to his journey through the music industry, sports marketing, and founding PrizePicks, this episode is packed with stories, game-changing ideas, and behind-the-scenes insight. We dive into the 60-win Atlanta Hawks season, the NIL era, recruiting strategies, winning the state of Georgia, and...

We’re BACK with another episode of Dawg Talk — live from the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas for NBA Summer League! J Mac, Kenny Gaines, and KCP are joined by a very special returning guest: NBA Champion and Milwaukee Buck Kyle Kuzma.

From reflecting on being traded midseason, to his unexpected love for tap dancing, Kuzma keeps it all the way real. He talks Bucks chemistry, adjusting to playoff expectations, team culture, and playing alongside Giannis. But it wouldn’t be Dawg Talk without a little style talk — and Kuz doesn’t hold back on what’s wrong with NBA tun...

Welcome back to Dawg Talk Podcast, recorded live from the iconic wrap-around terrace suite at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas during NBA Summer League! In this powerful episode, J Mac, KCP, and Kenny Gaines sit down with their former college coach and longtime mentor, Coach Mark Fox.

With over 300 wins under his belt and coaching stops at Nevada, Georgia, and Cal, Coach Fox brings stories, laughs, and wisdom to the table. From humble beginnings in Garden City, Kansas, to navigating the new era of college hoops (NIL, transfer portal, and SEC expansion), Coach Fox reflects on lessons...

In this legendary Dawg Talk Podcast episode, J Mac, Kenny, and KCP sit down with the one and only John Wall — 5-time NBA All-Star, #1 overall draft pick, and Kentucky legend — live from the wraparound terrace suite at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas during NBA Summer League.

John gets real about: 

-The pressure of being a top prospect and going #1 overall 

-His viral high school mixtape days and why he wore #11 

-Why he chose Kentucky over hometown schools like UNC and NC State 

-The locker room dynamics with Bradley B...

This special edition episode has been brought to you by The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

In this episode of Dawg Talk, we’re posted up in the Wraparound Terrace Suite at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas with none other than Cam Johnson—NBA sharpshooter, science enthusiast, and newly traded Denver Nugget.

J Mac, KG (Kenny Gaines), and KCP (Kentavious Caldwell-Pope) chop it up with Cam about his recent trade from Brooklyn to Denver, adjusting to a championship-contending culture, learning from stars like Chris Paul, and what it's really like playing through the highs and lows of...

From Savannah to Athens and around the world, JJ Frazier’s story is one of grit, grind, and greatness. On this episode of Dawg Talk, J Mac, Kenny, and KCP sit down with the Georgia legend to talk hoops, overseas life, wild college memories, and what it means to really be a Dawg.

JJ keeps it real as he opens up about being overlooked at 5’6”, dominating in the SEC, life in Turkey, China, and Italy, and his favorite overseas food spots (spoiler alert: Italy always wins). Plus, the crew gets into the off the court stories that’ll have...

In this unfiltered and high-energy episode of the Dawg Talk Podcast, J Mac, Kenny Gaines, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) are joined by none other than Jabari Smith Jr.—NBA rising star, Georgia native, and No. 3 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.

From his early days training with his dad and brother, to dominating during COVID, and his unforgettable Auburn run, Jabari keeps it real about the grind behind the glam. He breaks down:

This week on the Dawg Talk Podcast, former Mr. Georgia Basketball, Walker Kessler,  joins Kentavious Caldwell-Pope as the fellow McDonald’s All-Americans, SEC Defensive Players of the Year, and current NBA players chat! If you're a hoops fan, this is the conversation you've been waiting for!

J Mac, Kenny Gaines, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) sit down with Walker to talk about his entire journey.  From dominating Georgia high school gyms to the moment he got the call on draft night. But it’s not all stats and accolades — this episode is full of laughs, family stories, and straight-u...

In this special edition of Dawg Talk, KCP (Kentavious Caldwell-Pope) sits down with J Mac and Kenny Gaines for his first public reaction to being traded from the Orlando Magic to the Memphis Grizzlies — and yes, it all went down on Father’s Day.

We dive deep into how KCP found out, what was going through his mind in the moment, and how his family took the news after just settling into life in Orlando. From emotions to excitement, family logistics to locker room vibes, this is an unfiltered, emotional, and real conversation you won’t want to mis...

In this special episode of Dawg Talk, Hosts J Mac and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) welcome Orlando Magic rookie Tristan da Silva, aka "Silk," for an in-depth conversation about his first year in the NBA, his international basketball journey, and life off the court.

The trio kicks things off with laughs about KCP’s lack of sleep and the origin of Tristan’s nickname “Silk,” given for his smooth game and demeanor. Tristan reflects on his transition from playing in Germany to NCAA basketball at Colorado, where he stayed all four years—something rare in today’s transfer-heavy college game...

In this hilarious and candid episode of Dawg Talk, co-hosts J Mac and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) kick back and share some wild stories from summers past — from unforgettable (and regrettable) party nights in 2016 to throwing up on a stranger’s head in the club, and even blacking out on NBA Draft night. KCP recalls moments that shaped his off-court journey, while J Mac reflects on a turning point in 2021 where KCP and his dad helped pull him out of a low moment in life.

The conversation shifts into hoops talk as they break down the NBA Finals matc...

To the roots of what Dawg Talk really is, Georgia Dawgs and co-hosts Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Kenny Gaines are joined by special guest and college teammate, Marcus Thornton.  They reflect on their deep brotherhood, basketball journeys, and life after hoops. 

Marcus shares his rise from Southwest Atlanta, detailing his dominant high school career at Westlake and how seeing Cam Newton in high school lit a fire under him. He opens up about being inspired by and playing alongside elite talent like McDonald's All-American Jelan Kendrick, committing to Clemson, and eventually switching to UGA after a coaching change — a move d...

In this special episode of Dawg Talk, hosts J Mac, Kenny Gaines (KG), and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) chop it up with NBA legend Dwight Howard in an unforgettable conversation full of laughs, insight, and behind-the-scenes stories from their time in the game .

Broadcasting from Dwight’s home, the crew reflects on the unmatched chemistry of the 2019-2020 Lakers championship team — from wild club nights in China with teammates like JaVale McGee and Kyle Kuzma, to playing football on the court before games, to deep team bonding over movies and bowling. Dwight shares how their off-court connection made on-c...

After a little playoff performance break, the Dawg Talk crew is BACK in full effect! J Mac, Kenny Gaines, and the main MAN KCP chop it up on everything from the NBA Playoffs madness to wild offseason trade scenarios. KCP clears the air on the Boston drama, the guys debate Thunder vs. Timberwolves, and we get into KD-to-the-Hawks rumors, shortening the 82-game season, and who's really got the best shot in the East.

Plus, J Mac shares wedding plans, coaching meltdowns, and why hanging with NBA players will make you feel short. It’s jokes, rea...

On this special episode of Dawg Talk, host J Mac is joined by former player and good friend Zach Brown to break down one of the best National Championship games in recent memory. From wild tournament surprises to standout performances, the duo dives deep into Florida's title run, Walter Clayton's NBA potential, and whether Houston made the right call in the final seconds.

They also debate the rise of the transfer portal and NIL era—how it's changing college hoops forever—and wrap up with a heated MVP debate: SGA or Jokic?

Topics include:
- NC...

The Dawg Talk Podcast is back with another uncut, unfiltered, and absolutely wild episode! This time J Mac and  KCP are joined by former Georgia Bulldog and all-around entertainer Vincent Williams for a deep dive into SEC basketball, college war stories, and some straight-up hilarious moments.

What’s Inside This Episode?

-SEC basketball—was it tougher back then or now?

-Crazy matchups against college legends (DeMarcus Cousins, John Wall, Bradley Beal & more!)

-An impromptu "vocal performance" that might just become a meme

-Insane college stories—locker room drama, w...

The Dawgs are back in a new city with a special guest! In this episode, J Mac and KCP sit down with two-time NBA All-Star and one of the shiftiest point guards in the league, Darius Garland. Fresh off an All-Star appearance, DG opens up about what really goes down during All-Star Weekend, the Cavs’ dominant season, and what’s fueling their championship mindset.  

The crew gets real about:  

-The grind of being on a No. 1 seed team and what it takes to stay on top  

-Why Evan Mobley’s evolution is changin...

In this episode of the Dawg Talk Podcast, we take a wild ride down memory lane as former Georgia Bulldog hoopers reunite to share the REAL stories from their time in college. From recruitment experiences and unexpected campus fights to legendary parties and classroom struggles, nothing is off-limits in this candid, unfiltered conversation.

Tune in as the crew breaks down: -The recruitment process and why some players really committed to UGA -College fights, locker room tensions, and the brotherhood that formed through it all -Wildest parties and unforgettable nights on campus -Academic struggles, creative classroom s...

Dawg Talk celebrates co-host Kentavious Caldwell-Pope's big 32! Filmed from the Caldwell-Pope compound, this fun-filled episode brings the usual banter, laughter, and high-energy moments you’ve come to expect. From childhood memories of Atlanta nights, Kenny and J Mac reminisce about iconic clubs, nightlife culture, and must-visit food spots that made Atlanta home. 

KCP gets candid about his competitive edge, moments of frustration on court, and the respect he’s built for himself as a player while discussing All-Star snubs and the challenges of being recognized for his defensive prowess. The group also dives into lively debates about Atlan...

This special Valentine's Day edition takes us into the Caldwell-Pope love story with his wife, McKenzie.

From their unexpected first meeting to navigating long-distance love and finally, the transition to married life with five kids, McKenzie shares heartfelt insights into their journey. KCP reflects on the challenges of balancing an NBA career with family life and how they've maintained a strong relationship through it all.

This episode is filled with laughter, touching moments, and valuable lessons on love, family, and resilience.

Grab some popcorn...

In this jam-packed episode of *Dawg Talk*, host J Mac and Mr. Two-Time himself, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP), dive into the latest around the league, and it's getting spicy. 

The NBA trade deadline has shaken up the league, and we’re reacting in real-time as news drops. De'Aaron Fox to the Spurs? Zach LaVine to the Kings? How does this change the Western Conference playoff picture? 

Luka to LA? AD to Dallas?

J Mac and KCP break down the blockbuster Luka Dončić–Anthony Davis trade and...

This week, we've got a special guest, Denver Nuggets' Peyton Watson. Join hosts J Mac and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) as they dive deep into Peyton's remarkable journey. From his high school days in Long Beach, where he was ranked in the top 25 players, to becoming an NBA Champion fresh out of his rookie season, Peyton shares it all.

In this episode, Peyton opens up about the challenges of transitioning from UCLA to the NBA, the lessons he absorbed from veteran teammates, and the bond that formed between him and KCP over their shared appreciation...

The Dawg Talk Podcast is back with another fire episode, live from the Caldwell-Pope Cabana! Join your hosts J Mac and KCP, aka "Mr. Two-Time," as they welcome special guest and NBA All-Star Paolo Banchero. The trio dives deep into Paolo’s journey back from injury, the mental and physical hurdles of recovery, and the perspective he gained while sidelined.

Paolo shares insights on the Orlando Magic’s growth as a team, overcoming adversity, and their mission to make their mark in the playoffs. From brotherhood in the locker room to the mindset needed to excel, this epis...

Podcast Episode Description for "Dawg Talk Podcast"

In this vibrant and candid episode of Dawg Talk Podcast, host Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and co-host J Mac welcome special guest, two-time NBA All-Star and four-time rebounding leader Andre Drummond. Broadcasting from the iconic "Cardwell Pope Cabana," we dive into everything from our early days as teammates in Detroit to the evolution of the NBA and the mental toughness required to navigate the highs and lows of professional basketball.

Andre opens up about the mental health challenges athletes face, sharing how he overcame moments of self-doubt and adversity while o...

Welcome to another electrifying episode of Dawg Talk Podcast! This week, J Mac, Big KG, and KCP are joined by a very special guest—NFL star Travon Walker. From dominating high school courts and fields to becoming the 2021 National Champion with Georgia and the 2022 #1 overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars, Trayvon shares his incredible journey with raw authenticity and humor.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Welcome to the first Dawg Talk Podcast episode of 2025! J Mac, KCP, and our newest co-host, KG, are kicking off the year with plenty of laughs, insights, and inspiration. In this jam-packed episode, the guys talk about:

Plus, they crown Kiki Rice as the...

This week on Dawg Talk Podcast, host J Mac is joined by co-host KG and two Bulldog legends—NBA champion KCP and UGA freshman sensation Asa Newell. Asa shares his journey from growing up in Athens to becoming one of the highest-rated recruits in UGA basketball history.

They dive into the recruiting process, navigating NIL opportunities, and balancing personal development with the pressure of being a top athlete. Asa opens up about his transition from high school basketball at Montverde Academy to SEC play, his growth under Coach Mike White, and the importance of staying grounded and fo...

In this jam-packed episode of Dawg Talk Podcast, host J Mac and co-host KCP, aka Mr. Two-Time, sit down with a very special guest, Kenny Gaines—a UGA legend, former pro basketball player, and now head coach at The Academy Prep.

-Kenny opens up about his journey from being a standout at UGA to playing pro ball overseas and transitioning into a coaching and entrepreneurial role.

-Hear about the ups and downs of running a nonprofit basketball program, instilling values in young athletes, and building a culture of excellence both on and off the court.

This week on Dawg Talk Podcast, Jay Mack and KCP are coming to you from NYC, courtesy of the NBPA! Tune in for an unfiltered conversation about the Magic’s incredible momentum, life on the road, and what it takes to build championship DNA.

KCP shares his thoughts on the team’s defensive dominance, the Eastern Conference Finals outlook, and stepping up as a leader for young teammates. Plus, we’re clearing up some long-standing rumors, diving into the NBA’s new in-season tournament, and spotlighting this week’s Dog of the Week: Franz Wagner, who’s been absolut...

On this episode of Dawg Talk Podcast, J Mac and KCP bring the energy with stories, insights, and laughs as they dive into:

KCP’s Eventful Summer: From a massive payday and a new city to family vacations and a gender reveal for his fifth child, hear how KCP balances NBA life and family.

A Wild Turks and Caicos Tale: KCP shares the terrifying moment he was stranded on a rock in the middle of the ocean for hours. Find out how he made it back and the lessons he learned.

Giving Back to...

In this candid and heartfelt episode of the Dawg Talk Podcast, Host KCP sits down with his boy, J Mac for a conversation packed with family stories, locker room laughs, and real-life lessons. From balancing life as a father of five and navigating fame to reminiscing about championship celebrations and Thanksgiving traditions, KCP shares the ups and downs of his journey on and off the court.

Tune in as the guys dive into:

In this episode of Dawg Talk, host and NBA Star Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and host J Mac sit with NBA star Kyle Kuzma for a laid-back yet insightful conversation. Dive into their unique NBA journeys, from rookie hazing, team dynamics, and adjusting to life on the road, to the evolution of their game and personal growth.

Kuzma opens up about his passion for fashion and art, sharing how he brought high-fashion vibes to NBA tunnels and how creative expression keeps him grounded. The trio also dives into Kuz’s impactful charity work, life-changing moments, and ho...

In the premiere episode of Dawg Talk, hosts Jordan McGruder and NBA star Kentavious Caldwell-Pope give you a front-row seat to KCP's incredible journey in pro basketball. From unforgettable stories on and off the court, KCP opens up about everything—from his rookie years with the Detroit Pistons to life-changing mentorships from legends like Chauncey Billups and Josh Smith.

Tune in as KCP shares memorable moments, including his iconic dunk on LeBron James, his passion for defense, and his time with the Orlando Magic. Plus, hear about his new love for golf and a fe...

Welcome to the premiere of Dawg Talk! Co-hosts NBA star Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a.k.a. KCP, and Jordan McGruder are kicking off this debut with everything that makes Dawg Talk unique—real, unfiltered conversations, barbershop-style banter, and a dive into the highs and lows of sports and everyday life. 

In this pilot episode, KCP and Jordan share how Dawg Talk came to life, tracing its roots back to their days at the University of Georgia. Get ready to know the real KCP beyond the court as they explore sports and life’s moments. Whether you’r...