March 18, 2020 • 26 mins
Pac-12 Network’s Mike Yam and Don MacLean interview Colorado guard McKinley Wright IV. They talk about the abrupt ending to the season, and McKinley describes how he reacted to learning the NCAA Tournament was cancelled (1:45). He lays out the areas Colorado needs to improve for next season (6:00), and talks about the parts of his game that he will concentrate on this offseason. Mike and Don ask McKinley how he tries to instill confidence into his teammates (10:45), and he reveals the unique approaches he takes with many different personalities on the team. McKinley describes the determining factors for whether or not he returns for his senior season in Boulder (14:40), and talks about a meaningful conversation with his Dad shortly after the cancellation of the NCAA Tournament (18:05).
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Episode Transcript
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(00:02):
Ah, Jill, great the ballbaby, Let's go. This is Inside
the Pack twelve podcast. Put ona pair of your headphones and fall Black
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(00:45):
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I hit your host Mike Gamm andthe board dumb acclaim. Hey,
welcome to the podcast and today's episode, and it's you know we mentioned this
yesterday, don I know? You? And I as we were going through
and recapping the season, we wereexcited to get an opportunity to talk to
(01:07):
a kid who even a year agoyou thought was the favorite to win Player
of the Year honors. He clearlyis one of the best point guards in
the entire country. Colorado's McKinley rightis with us now. McKinley, look
great to have you on the podcast. And I saw a tweet that you
put out on Selection Sunday. Donand I were going to be doing a
show and our pactrol of Network Studiosthat obviously didn't happen, and I immediately
(01:30):
just thought about kind of what youare going through, what a lot of
the players in this league are goingthrough. But the tweet was basically just
a broken heart emoji with Selection Sundaythere. He just kind of take me
through the emotions of the last weekor so. Yeah, it's been obviously
been tough for myself and my teammatesand players all around the country. And
(01:53):
you know, you you especially Philfor singers and the way that they get
to they have to go out likethis. You know, every kid grows
up and you know, James areplaying in marsh Madness. Everybody in the
country while is everybody knows what itis. So um for me and my
group of guys, it was goingto be all of our first time playing
in a tournament, and you know, it's something we worked hard for all
(02:14):
year. Obviously our last five gamesdidn't showcase that, but you know,
outside of those games, we hada really good season, and um,
you know, we worked hard fora moment like this to hear our name
called on TV and where we're here, where we're playing that, and who
we're playing against, and just tryingto send the seams out in the right
way. And you know, forus not for that to get canceled,
(02:35):
you know, due to this virus. It sucked, but um, we
understand, and um, you knoweveryone help helped us first. So yeah,
McKinley, how much is what Ithink is interesting? Even even though
interesting is probably not the right wordin this environment, But most teams,
including yours, I would imagine,use the NC Tournament for motivation to motivate
you not just during the regular season, but like in the summertime work counts.
(03:00):
You know, you mentioned you guyshadn't been there in a few years.
How disappointing is it when you usethat motivation knowing that if you do
what you're supposed to work as hardas you're supposed to because your team was
good enough that you will play inthe NCAA Tournament and then it's taken from
you. Man, it was itwas tough. Um. You know,
we found out on the bus comingback from Vegas and um, we're seeing
(03:23):
that to marsh Madness was canceled.And it was crazy because you know,
you were right. We talked aboutthat all summer, you know, after
it was in the n T lastyear. You know about our goal and
our goal is you know, notjust to breach the NUBA Tournament, but
to event. So we wanted tojust you know, get there and show
that we belonged and you know,compete at a high level and you know,
(03:44):
one of the best tournaments ever.So um, you know it was
it was heartbreaking for it to becanceled. And everything's getting canceled right now.
It's it's crazy, like so manypeople are testing positive for the virus
and um, you know, asthings like we're close to a nation wise
shut down, so it's getting outof hand. It's like, you know,
Tony, Tony has been a toughyear and you know we just got
(04:08):
into it. So I mean,all I got to do, all we
can do is keep praying to God, and I don't know, trying to
get over it. Yeah, McKinley, I think your words and your emotions
they perfectly explain what I think alot of people in this country are are
are feeling right now. You mentionedbeing on the bus, and that's how
you found out. Obviously the dejectionand the sadness is what's resonating, I
(04:30):
would imagine on that bus. Canyou paint the picture though, of what
those conversations with your teammates were actuallylike once you realize like, hey,
we're not going to be playing inthe big dance. Um, you know,
we found out that, you know, we just want to chairs as
much time we got left with ourtwo singers, you know, Stanton Lucas
and Um, you know they'll beheading out of here no sooner than expected,
(04:55):
and they're not getting to play anymore games with those guys, and
and Luis and I. Last gamewas tough, you know, especially I
have to find out that we hadno more left. We didn't have another
opportunity to go play and wait forthese guys though. Um, you know
it was the muscle on the bus, you know, Coach, Well,
it was emotional. Nobody wants theseason the end like this, we we
(05:16):
thought we had more basketball to beplayed, and uh, this is supposed
to be the best time of theyear, and you know it sucks right
now, but um, you knowI did what it is. You know,
McKinley, you're one of the bestleaders that our conference has seen in
quite some time. And from dayone it was it was obvious whose team
it was and that your leadership wasgoing to be a major factor for Colorado
(05:38):
basketball. And I know everyone's thoughtsare on what's happening right now around the
world, but if you could kindof project, you know what, where
where your head's gonna be out andwhere your team's head's gonna be out once
we get through this and you startthinking towards next year in what you guys
need to do to get yourself rightback in position like you were this year.
(06:00):
Um, you know I was goingto take a lot of hard work.
You know, guys are trying tosay in the gym right now as
much as possible, but you know, our our gym just got shut down.
Um today, you know, wegot to get from working yesterday.
But um, you know, asfar as the next year plans, you
know, we know what it takesto win. And defense, you know,
that's that's the main focus. Anddefense are rebounding was a strong suite
(06:23):
of ours throughout most of the season, and we liked it towards late in
the season, and you know,we knew it was the area that we
need to improve upon. And youknow, just having got to step up
and um, believing in themselves andbelieving that they can make shides down the
stretch and stuff like Petters in thearea, the mental suffness side is what
we can improve. So um,we know, we know what it takes.
(06:44):
Our guys that dedicated, you know, to putting the work in and
you know for next year. AndI only get into determinent but events,
and you know that's been the ultimategoal since I've gotten here and the group
that came in with me getting here. So we just try to trying to
change the culture around here, andwe know it takes to do so.
Kiley, I think it's obvious thatthe culture has been changed. I mean,
(07:05):
you look at the success that yourteam had this season, and as
you made reference to, it wasn'tthe finish that you were hoping for.
Is there something you would point tothat would explain some of the losses down
the stretch in the first round lossin the in the Pact twelve tournament.
Um, yeah, we we kindof talked about it as a team beating
after the season was over and andyou know, we came to some some
(07:29):
team agreements on where the areas thatwe struggled. And then obviously defense,
our defense everybound it was terrible ml the last five games, including the
Pact twelve first round opener, andwhen guys we we came to agreement that
when guys weren't making shots or gettingbaskets, you know, they didn't care
(07:50):
about the defensive end anymore. Andthat that's an area, you know,
for a veteran team that we haveto overcome. We have to be able
to overcome that and believe that wecan win games on the defensive end.
So, um, you know,those two areas, that's something that has
to travel with us every night,you know, everywhere we go, and
that's gonna be a big part ofus if we wanna you know, do
(08:13):
uh do our ultimate go and wina high level McKinley, did you know
that I invented that phrase? Defensetravels? Did anybody tell you that?
Because I did, Yeah, Idid. Okay, What about for you
individually? You know, you hadanother really good year for Colorado and you
do so many things for that teamthat fill up the statue. But what's
(08:35):
next for you individually as you looktowards next year in terms of in terms
of improving what you do? UM, the next step for me, you
know, it's it's a lot goingon right now. UM. And I
plan to you know, declare andget some workouts in and get NBA feedback
(08:56):
and you know, figure out whatposition I'm meant to be able to play
at the next level. But anduh, it went as far as that
I don't plan to sign the agentor anything like that. UM. I
plan to keep my option open tocome back if if everything doesn't go as
planning in these workouts and stuff likethat. So UM, and as far
(09:16):
as improving, you know, Iobviously want to improve my turnover ratio and
keep improving on my jump shot andjust becoming the best leaguer I can be.
And you know, we had anotherteam meeting about that. UM.
I've been a pretty good leader,but there's always there's always areas I can
grow in, and one of theareas has to be getting on my teammates
more coach. Coach made a commentand one of the players who who wasn't
(09:39):
playing the Freshman restaurant keep showing.They both made a comment that our group
loved each other, loved one anotherso much that we weren't holding each other
accountable and we weren't being chippy witheach other and getting on each other.
So, um, I think that'sthe area I have to improve in.
So um, yeah, that's that'swhat's next for me. McKinley. There
(10:01):
was a comment that Tad Boyle madeand it resonated with me because to Don's
point, you've been you know,I remember seeing you in your first Pactrolve
tournament. You and Kevin O'Neill wason set with us, he said.
McKinley writes the future the point guardspot in this league, and it's played
out that way in so many differentareas. And yet Tad had said after
a game it was one of duringthis five game losing streak, he said,
(10:22):
man, I really wished the teamhas much confidence in themselves as they
do in McKinley. Right, thatspeaks to your leadership. But at the
same time, you know, whatis it that that was happening within inside
that locker room where guys maybe didn'thave that individual confidence in their abilities.
Uh. You know, I can'tspeak for the other players, but you
(10:46):
know, me being who I amand having so much confidence in myself.
You know, I've been like thatmy whole life. And you know,
I've noticed when some of my teammatesare struggling, and I'd always talked to
him after a game or text them. I won't got to the hotel room,
and I just told I don't wantto text them a group chat.
I'll text some individually, like Ibelieve in you, you know, keep
keep shooting the ball, or Ibelieve in you you can guard and this
(11:09):
and that. But I just Ijust tried to pick my teammates up as
much as possible. And we don'thave a lot of guys like you know
a lot of guys. We havea lot of guys that, um,
you know, when they're struggling,they go into a shell, or you
know, when someone else is struggling, they don't know how to pick them
up. So I kind of coachchallenged me from day one, day one
I stepped on campus. He's seenit in me and told me that I'd
(11:31):
have to do that to certain playersand and I tried as a freshman to
but being a freshman trying to leadseniors what's difficult for me. So you
know I've been I've been improved umas the years I've went on. But
UM, that's just been who Iam. And you know, I try
to encourage everybody that UM let themknow that they but long here and they
(11:52):
can play at a high level aswell. So I guess what I'm hearing
then McKinley is like, there's alot of love in that program, and
you guys obviously really like each other, and you've you've tried the approach of
picking guys up when it hasn't gonewell for him or they get down on
themselves, But isn't it So Iguess what Tad's talking about then is finding
a balance between getting on guys toget more out of him, but then
also picking them up on the backend too, exactly, And that's exactly
(12:16):
he's talking about. Um. Thenwe have our individual meetings with him,
Man, that was exactly what hewas talking about. You know, there's
certain guys like Tyler. You know, I can I can really get on
him and UM clause at him ordo whatever I have to do to get
him going. Because he's in myroommate since freshman year. You know,
I know his background story and whathe wants to do with his future.
(12:37):
So that's a guy I could Icould be a little more hard with um
as far as you know what aguy like UM the sign for example,
you know, I'll be like,you know, I believe in you,
and the sign was fun in adifferent way than Tyler, and he'll you
know, jump in on a defensiveend and you know, make a play.
So that's exactly what he was talkingabout. And I'm just the difference
(12:58):
between getting on the teammate and beinga little more lenient with a teammate.
McKinley, I don't want you tohave to speak for Tyler, but I'm
just curious if he's got the sameapproach. But with the NBA draft,
as you do, declare just toget the feedback with the hopes of,
you know, depending on how thefeedback goes with with the option to come
back to school next year. Haveyou guys had that conversation and know what
(13:20):
he's thinking a little bit? Imean, I don't know, Um you
know what agents are telling him asfar as where you'll land if he did
stay on the draft or whatever whereverthe case may be. But UM,
I know he plans on doing thesame thing he's gonna. I don't know
if he'll sign agent or not,but I think he plans to um keep
(13:41):
his eligibility open just in case hedoes want to come back, but he'll
get some workhouse with some teams andUM, hopefully you get an invite to
the NBA combined and do what yougotta do. But as far I can't
speak for him as far as comingback or if you stay in there or
what the case maybe, but Iknow he does plan on declaring and um
(14:03):
keeping the option of coming back open. And everyone's different, McKinley and that
decision making process in terms of what'simportant to them. Obviously, where you're
going to go is the number onething, but then there's other things that
matter. You know, you guysset yourself up to playing in the NCAA
tournament and they canceled the NCAA tournamentthis year. UM, you're good.
It looks on paper like you guysare gonna have a pretty good team coming
(14:24):
back next year. If everybody comesback. So how much of that stuff
factors into it? And and Iguess because me and Ym we're talking about
this yesterday. Um, how muchof not playing in the tournament this year
is gonna is gonna have an impacton your decision? Um, there's so
many things that play a play arole in this decision. And you know,
(14:46):
it's it's hard to kind of nitpickeach each individual thing. Um.
But I mean, as far asI know, that does way you expected.
You know, that's something that I'vejoined us if I the kid,
and like I said, my teammateswe all look forward to playing in that
and it's something we still want todo. So, Um, that plays
(15:07):
the huge role I know, asfar as guaranteed money us as far as
the NBA teams, that plays theyears role. Um. There's other things
too, like what agents you wantto pick, And it's just so much
outside noise to it. Um,I can't pick everything out, but as
far as right now, I can'tat least, And I know the NC
(15:28):
Double A tournament for sure has abig role in it. Um, something
that you know, Tyler and myselfstill want to do. And um,
you know there's a good chance thatit will happen, Um, just depending
on what goes on old in thenext couple of months. Keilly, what's
life like right now? I mean, I'm sure the way this season's ended
is dramatically different in fact that ithasn't happened like this for anyone. So
(15:50):
I think everyone's just still trying tofigure things out. You mentioned you got
some workouts in, but they justclose the gym, um, you know,
because they don't want the virus tospread. But like day to day
for you right now, what's itactually like. It's it's weird. It's
like, I don't know, it'sdifferent. I wake up every morning and
do what I got to do inthe morning, and we have this this
(16:12):
new online class set of thing.It's called Zoom. So for any anybody
who was in class day, they'reall online now and then you meet on
this Zoom app with your whole class, and it's it's it's harder, um
for me, especially because I'm ina Silenist class and you know, my
professors one hundred percent death death andit's hard to you know, see what
(16:37):
he's saying and stuff like that.So I do that and I play video
games. Trying to become a Iguess the programmer and um watching throw back
games that come on on TV orwhatever, and I hang out still hang
out with kg Um. I don'tget I don't know. We're not our
thing is. I'm not really scaredof the violets, but I know the
(16:59):
how serious it is and you knowhow dangerous it can be depending on your
health. So I mean, I'mjust getting through the days right now.
I don't know. It's not muchto do. You know, I can't
get in the gym I got.I got three sons McKinley that are playing
Fortnite till two in the morning.If you want to join now, I
mean, is that is that yourdeal on Xbox? Or what? What
(17:21):
are you you two k or whatwhat are you playing? I'm playing forward
now. I was playing Fortnite rightbefore I got on the phone with you
guys. Actually, that's funny becausewhen Troy called you and you didn't pick
up, and then you called himback, I'm like, he must have
just gotten killed on Fortnite. Idid. That's exactly what's happened. What
(17:42):
happened, That's funny. Not surprisedon that you knew that that actually happened.
When you called it, I waslike, there's actually a pretty good
chance that that's how I played out. McKinley. I'm glad you were honest
enough to you to tell us thatwas the real situation. Um, McKinley,
last thing for me at least,you know, just preparing getting ready
for the pactual tournament and obviously thisinterview. I read a great article I
(18:06):
believe it was in the Denver Postabout the relationship you have with your dad.
Just curious, like the advice orthe conversation that you had with him
when you realize that we weren't gonnaplay in the NC doable a tournament because
it was canceled, Like what whatdid he say to you? What did
you say to him? It wasit was hard for both of us because
you know, after the Las inVegas, he came to my hotel and
(18:30):
we just talked outside for for aminute, and uh, we both knew
that there was a high chance forthe NC double that tournament getting canceled.
Then you know, being able toput on that stage it was always something
I look forward to. And youknow, when my dad was in my
life, when he was in prisonand we would always talk on the phone.
We would talk about you know,Trey Burke and Sabas Napier and Kimball
(18:52):
Walker and Johnny Flynn and all thoseguys who were like all those Flint guys
who had great college careers and soldout in March Madness and so they really
belonged. We'd always talked about that. You know, for me, it
was my first time being able toplay in that tournament and for it to
get canceled. Um, he knewit was a hard time for me and
(19:12):
my teammates. And you know,he's just he was just there for me
from now. He's always been whenhe when he can, and UM,
you know, he just encouraged me, you know, to um make the
best decision for myself. And youknow, whatever decision I do decided to
make, he's gonna be there forme, um as best as he can,
and he's gonna do whatever he canto keep me happy. So,
(19:34):
I mean, those are just somewords that came out of his mouth time.
You know, he was excited,excited for the future, with the
future hops um, whether that's thenext level or returning to see you next
year. So, UM, hewas just there for me and wanted me
to help me make the best decisionfor myself. Good stuff, McKinley.
(19:55):
And my last thing's more of acomment than a question. I've always apreciated
the tough guys and the guy's withgreat competitive spirit and guys that like to
compete and aren't afraid. And you'veyou've been all that since day one and
as much as yeam and I andI don't speak for him, but we'd
love to see come back to theconference. We hope you do what's best
for you and that you get everythingthat you want. And if that's playing
(20:17):
in the NBA next year or ifthat's coming back to see you, I
think nothing but good things are gonnaare coming to you. And you're a
terrific player and we've loved we've lovedwatching it for the last three years.
I appreciate that, you know,it's always good to be around you guys.
Thank you for everything you know.Um, I appreciate it. Yeah.
Well, look, and donn youcan't speak for me because I cosan
(20:40):
and everything that you just said,and I can't help but think McKinley,
if you do decide, and thefeedback isn't you know, exactly like you
should enter this upcoming season. Butyou just mentioned some of the all time
greats you know over the last fewyears that have played to college basketball and
have thrived and had their moment inthe NC double a term, and I
can't help but think, man,you are so do to have that type
(21:00):
of game in the big dance.So best best to luck to you this
offseason. Stay healthy, continue towash those hands, crush it on the
video games, take care of businessin the class from and I know Don
and I will be thrilled if aPAC twelve basketball media day you're going to
be back in the studios with ushanging out for a little bit and we're
talking about another great season for you. So congrats again and appreciate you coming
(21:23):
on the pod with us. Donaldgood, thank you, appreciate you guys.
Thanks m You know, Don,I'm actually glad that you brought that
up, because you and I talkedabout this at times last year and maybe
a little bit this year, andprobably we should have mentioned it a little
bit more. But McKinley, hekind of is on the All Conference tough
guy list, I mean, basedoff of the injury last year, playing
(21:45):
through that, not really missing muchtime at all, Like he doesn't get
enough. You know, if theNBA starts giving him feedback, you know
the one thing. And I knowyou talked to a bunch of guys around
you know, the association front officepeople getting feedback, and I know you're
going to it up. But mylord, from a leadership standpoint, the
intangibles, he's got that. Butthat toughness factory, you can't look at
(22:06):
a box score or watch even somegame film without knowing what this kid was.
That pain threshold was a year ago, and I hate to say it,
yeah, because in twenty twenty,it now sticks out more than it
ever has. If you have acertain level of toughness, not only physically
but mentally. And for him toplay through that shoulder last year, I'll
never forget. I was at thegame middle of February, late February at
(22:29):
Washington State and he's playing and thething literally popped out of the socket and
most guys, I'm not saying everyguy, but most guys would be done
for the night. And I knew, and I think I was doing the
game with Guy Haberman. I thinkI even said it on the air.
He'll come back and sure enough,five or six minutes later, he's right
back in the game, and youjust don't see that that much anymore.
(22:51):
So that's like, like we talkedabout effort now becoming a skill, which
I can't even believe that comes outof my mouth that I say that toughness
is now becoming a skill because we'regetting so far away from it in this
day and age. But I lovethe fact that he competes. I love
the fact that he has that toughness. You know, the good news for
him if we're talking about him beingan NBA player, is that, you
(23:11):
know, smaller guards aren't frowned uponlike there were three, four or five
years ago. He's going to havean opportunity to play in the NBA.
I don't know if that means thisyear or if he comes back and has
an unbelievable senior year like somebody wejust saw in this conference, Mike Yam
like, why couldn't he come backand do what Pritchard did this year and
then he really sets himself up foran NBA career. Yeah, I think
(23:33):
it's a great call. Too oftenwhere we're talking about I know you've brought
it up on the podcast or Watsonwas talking to me about it the other
day, and he mentioned it onthe podcast we did with him the other
week. But you can have asuccessful NBA career and be a four year
guy like that does happen, andthat there is a world where that exists.
You know, It's obviously a personalindividual decision to be made, but
(23:56):
it is something to just keep inmind. And I look, I'm being
selfish as I love watching the kidplay. I do hope he comes back
from a Colorado perspective because they wouldbe once again in the driver's seat.
There's gonna be questions about this team'stoughness, and McKinley talked about that just
based off of the way this yearfinished. But there's no doubt that they
will be on the shortlist for oneof the favorites to win the league next
(24:18):
season. Donna, I don't know. I don't know where this leaves us
right now. I mean, we'restill friends, we'll still give me your
cable, but in terms of thepodcast and where we're at, this is
really uncharted territory for us. Wewere supposed to be doing this podcast through
the Ncable Tournament. I don't knowif this is our last one or not.
But as always, you and I'vebeen together for for eight years now
(24:41):
at the network doing shows and studioin this podcast the last couple of years.
I know you've been getting a lotof love, and I know you're
not always on Twitter, but there'sa lot of people who have been very
complimentary of your work and what you'vedone, and I echo those same thoughts.
It's been an absolutely working with youman. I think the last thing
I would say, yeah, ifthis is our last podcast and I feel
(25:03):
like it's heading that direction, isthat the bummer for me is that.
And I said this in that meetingthat you referenced earlier, our production meeting
before we start the tournament in Vegas. This has been my favorite year since
the Pactical Networks started, just becauseof the games, because of the finishes,
because of the players, because ofthe storylines, everything, the people
I work with, you guys ongame broadcasts and like. For it not
(25:25):
to finish is really a bummer,you know, And hopefully things get back
to normal at some point and wecan gear up for next year. But
just disappointing that we didn't get tofinish up what was an unbelievable year,
not only from a conference in winninggames and teams in the NCAA tournament standpoint,
but from our network and what wedo in studio and on game broadcasts.
(25:47):
I know how invested we are thisentire season on the games, every
single season. I had tweeted thisthe other day, and I know you
would agree with this. I willnever take for granted being at a game
or doing another studio show ever again, knowing what it's like right now.
It is. It's a cold reality, and it's tough perspective. But at
(26:10):
the end of the day, thisreally was the right decision for everyone,
And hopefully next time we do apodcast together, we are looking back at
this time, Don and saying,you know what, it was the right
decision for everyone in this entire country, public safety first and foremost. And
now what now we get to playsome basketball and we get to watch some
sports and not worried, not beworried about, you know, getting rushed
(26:30):
on Fortnite or whatever video game yourboys are at right now. And McKinley
as well. But Don, myfriend, always good working with you,
and we'll do it again soon.Yep.
Ah, Jill, great the ballbaby, Let's go. This is Inside
the Pack twelve podcast. Put ona pair of your headphones and fall Black
gets into some ballcasts having the ballchat about the best conference in the nation,
all facts. This is truly forthe whole Bluffers who wonning then Gunna.
(00:25):
Then't get in buggers. How aboutwe discussing at the Trojans Husky Ducks
to Carnal then the cover bears,Beaver's son Devil's casts influence the Buffalos and
youths. I won't ever forget,got insight, opinions, and plenty of
special guests, coaches and players.Be right as an Inside is old and
Young Pack twelve Legends and the lumsbook that analysis. We go far,
(00:45):
be on the stars to take youfrom conference play all the way to the
final four with some hoop kind ofswords, just walking you through the game.
I hit your host Mike Gamm andthe board dumb acclaim. Hey,
welcome to the podcast and today's episode, and it's you know we mentioned this
yesterday, don I know? You? And I as we were going through
and recapping the season, we wereexcited to get an opportunity to talk to
(01:07):
a kid who even a year agoyou thought was the favorite to win Player
of the Year honors. He clearlyis one of the best point guards in
the entire country. Colorado's McKinley rightis with us now. McKinley, look
great to have you on the podcast. And I saw a tweet that you
put out on Selection Sunday. Donand I were going to be doing a
show and our pactrol of Network Studiosthat obviously didn't happen, and I immediately
(01:30):
just thought about kind of what youare going through, what a lot of
the players in this league are goingthrough. But the tweet was basically just
a broken heart emoji with Selection Sundaythere. He just kind of take me
through the emotions of the last weekor so. Yeah, it's been obviously
been tough for myself and my teammatesand players all around the country. And
(01:53):
you know, you you especially Philfor singers and the way that they get
to they have to go out likethis. You know, every kid grows
up and you know, James areplaying in marsh Madness. Everybody in the
country while is everybody knows what itis. So um for me and my
group of guys, it was goingto be all of our first time playing
in a tournament, and you know, it's something we worked hard for all
(02:14):
year. Obviously our last five gamesdidn't showcase that, but you know,
outside of those games, we hada really good season, and um,
you know, we worked hard fora moment like this to hear our name
called on TV and where we're here, where we're playing that, and who
we're playing against, and just tryingto send the seams out in the right
way. And you know, forus not for that to get canceled,
(02:35):
you know, due to this virus. It sucked, but um, we
understand, and um, you knoweveryone help helped us first. So yeah,
McKinley, how much is what Ithink is interesting? Even even though
interesting is probably not the right wordin this environment, But most teams,
including yours, I would imagine,use the NC Tournament for motivation to motivate
you not just during the regular season, but like in the summertime work counts.
(03:00):
You know, you mentioned you guyshadn't been there in a few years.
How disappointing is it when you usethat motivation knowing that if you do
what you're supposed to work as hardas you're supposed to because your team was
good enough that you will play inthe NCAA Tournament and then it's taken from
you. Man, it was itwas tough. Um. You know,
we found out on the bus comingback from Vegas and um, we're seeing
(03:23):
that to marsh Madness was canceled.And it was crazy because you know,
you were right. We talked aboutthat all summer, you know, after
it was in the n T lastyear. You know about our goal and
our goal is you know, notjust to breach the NUBA Tournament, but
to event. So we wanted tojust you know, get there and show
that we belonged and you know,compete at a high level and you know,
(03:44):
one of the best tournaments ever.So um, you know it was
it was heartbreaking for it to becanceled. And everything's getting canceled right now.
It's it's crazy, like so manypeople are testing positive for the virus
and um, you know, asthings like we're close to a nation wise
shut down, so it's getting outof hand. It's like, you know,
Tony, Tony has been a toughyear and you know we just got
(04:08):
into it. So I mean,all I got to do, all we
can do is keep praying to God, and I don't know, trying to
get over it. Yeah, McKinley, I think your words and your emotions
they perfectly explain what I think alot of people in this country are are
are feeling right now. You mentionedbeing on the bus, and that's how
you found out. Obviously the dejectionand the sadness is what's resonating, I
(04:30):
would imagine on that bus. Canyou paint the picture though, of what
those conversations with your teammates were actuallylike once you realize like, hey,
we're not going to be playing inthe big dance. Um, you know,
we found out that, you know, we just want to chairs as
much time we got left with ourtwo singers, you know, Stanton Lucas
and Um, you know they'll beheading out of here no sooner than expected,
(04:55):
and they're not getting to play anymore games with those guys, and
and Luis and I. Last gamewas tough, you know, especially I
have to find out that we hadno more left. We didn't have another
opportunity to go play and wait forthese guys though. Um, you know
it was the muscle on the bus, you know, Coach, Well,
it was emotional. Nobody wants theseason the end like this, we we
(05:16):
thought we had more basketball to beplayed, and uh, this is supposed
to be the best time of theyear, and you know it sucks right
now, but um, you knowI did what it is. You know,
McKinley, you're one of the bestleaders that our conference has seen in
quite some time. And from dayone it was it was obvious whose team
it was and that your leadership wasgoing to be a major factor for Colorado
(05:38):
basketball. And I know everyone's thoughtsare on what's happening right now around the
world, but if you could kindof project, you know what, where
where your head's gonna be out andwhere your team's head's gonna be out once
we get through this and you startthinking towards next year in what you guys
need to do to get yourself rightback in position like you were this year.
(06:00):
Um, you know I was goingto take a lot of hard work.
You know, guys are trying tosay in the gym right now as
much as possible, but you know, our our gym just got shut down.
Um today, you know, wegot to get from working yesterday.
But um, you know, asfar as the next year plans, you
know, we know what it takesto win. And defense, you know,
that's that's the main focus. Anddefense are rebounding was a strong suite
(06:23):
of ours throughout most of the season, and we liked it towards late in
the season, and you know,we knew it was the area that we
need to improve upon. And youknow, just having got to step up
and um, believing in themselves andbelieving that they can make shides down the
stretch and stuff like Petters in thearea, the mental suffness side is what
we can improve. So um,we know, we know what it takes.
(06:44):
Our guys that dedicated, you know, to putting the work in and
you know for next year. AndI only get into determinent but events,
and you know that's been the ultimategoal since I've gotten here and the group
that came in with me getting here. So we just try to trying to
change the culture around here, andwe know it takes to do so.
Kiley, I think it's obvious thatthe culture has been changed. I mean,
(07:05):
you look at the success that yourteam had this season, and as
you made reference to, it wasn'tthe finish that you were hoping for.
Is there something you would point tothat would explain some of the losses down
the stretch in the first round lossin the in the Pact twelve tournament.
Um, yeah, we we kindof talked about it as a team beating
after the season was over and andyou know, we came to some some
(07:29):
team agreements on where the areas thatwe struggled. And then obviously defense,
our defense everybound it was terrible ml the last five games, including the
Pact twelve first round opener, andwhen guys we we came to agreement that
when guys weren't making shots or gettingbaskets, you know, they didn't care
(07:50):
about the defensive end anymore. Andthat that's an area, you know,
for a veteran team that we haveto overcome. We have to be able
to overcome that and believe that wecan win games on the defensive end.
So, um, you know,those two areas, that's something that has
to travel with us every night,you know, everywhere we go, and
that's gonna be a big part ofus if we wanna you know, do
(08:13):
uh do our ultimate go and wina high level McKinley, did you know
that I invented that phrase? Defensetravels? Did anybody tell you that?
Because I did, Yeah, Idid. Okay, What about for you
individually? You know, you hadanother really good year for Colorado and you
do so many things for that teamthat fill up the statue. But what's
(08:35):
next for you individually as you looktowards next year in terms of in terms
of improving what you do? UM, the next step for me, you
know, it's it's a lot goingon right now. UM. And I
plan to you know, declare andget some workouts in and get NBA feedback
(08:56):
and you know, figure out whatposition I'm meant to be able to play
at the next level. But anduh, it went as far as that
I don't plan to sign the agentor anything like that. UM. I
plan to keep my option open tocome back if if everything doesn't go as
planning in these workouts and stuff likethat. So UM, and as far
(09:16):
as improving, you know, Iobviously want to improve my turnover ratio and
keep improving on my jump shot andjust becoming the best leaguer I can be.
And you know, we had anotherteam meeting about that. UM.
I've been a pretty good leader,but there's always there's always areas I can
grow in, and one of theareas has to be getting on my teammates
more coach. Coach made a commentand one of the players who who wasn't
(09:39):
playing the Freshman restaurant keep showing.They both made a comment that our group
loved each other, loved one anotherso much that we weren't holding each other
accountable and we weren't being chippy witheach other and getting on each other.
So, um, I think that'sthe area I have to improve in.
So um, yeah, that's that'swhat's next for me. McKinley. There
(10:01):
was a comment that Tad Boyle madeand it resonated with me because to Don's
point, you've been you know,I remember seeing you in your first Pactrolve
tournament. You and Kevin O'Neill wason set with us, he said.
McKinley writes the future the point guardspot in this league, and it's played
out that way in so many differentareas. And yet Tad had said after
a game it was one of duringthis five game losing streak, he said,
(10:22):
man, I really wished the teamhas much confidence in themselves as they
do in McKinley. Right, thatspeaks to your leadership. But at the
same time, you know, whatis it that that was happening within inside
that locker room where guys maybe didn'thave that individual confidence in their abilities.
Uh. You know, I can'tspeak for the other players, but you
(10:46):
know, me being who I amand having so much confidence in myself.
You know, I've been like thatmy whole life. And you know,
I've noticed when some of my teammatesare struggling, and I'd always talked to
him after a game or text them. I won't got to the hotel room,
and I just told I don't wantto text them a group chat.
I'll text some individually, like Ibelieve in you, you know, keep
keep shooting the ball, or Ibelieve in you you can guard and this
(11:09):
and that. But I just Ijust tried to pick my teammates up as
much as possible. And we don'thave a lot of guys like you know
a lot of guys. We havea lot of guys that, um,
you know, when they're struggling,they go into a shell, or you
know, when someone else is struggling, they don't know how to pick them
up. So I kind of coachchallenged me from day one, day one
I stepped on campus. He's seenit in me and told me that I'd
(11:31):
have to do that to certain playersand and I tried as a freshman to
but being a freshman trying to leadseniors what's difficult for me. So you
know I've been I've been improved umas the years I've went on. But
UM, that's just been who Iam. And you know, I try
to encourage everybody that UM let themknow that they but long here and they
(11:52):
can play at a high level aswell. So I guess what I'm hearing
then McKinley is like, there's alot of love in that program, and
you guys obviously really like each other, and you've you've tried the approach of
picking guys up when it hasn't gonewell for him or they get down on
themselves, But isn't it So Iguess what Tad's talking about then is finding
a balance between getting on guys toget more out of him, but then
also picking them up on the backend too, exactly, And that's exactly
(12:16):
he's talking about. Um. Thenwe have our individual meetings with him,
Man, that was exactly what hewas talking about. You know, there's
certain guys like Tyler. You know, I can I can really get on
him and UM clause at him ordo whatever I have to do to get
him going. Because he's in myroommate since freshman year. You know,
I know his background story and whathe wants to do with his future.
(12:37):
So that's a guy I could Icould be a little more hard with um
as far as you know what aguy like UM the sign for example,
you know, I'll be like,you know, I believe in you,
and the sign was fun in adifferent way than Tyler, and he'll you
know, jump in on a defensiveend and you know, make a play.
So that's exactly what he was talkingabout. And I'm just the difference
(12:58):
between getting on the teammate and beinga little more lenient with a teammate.
McKinley, I don't want you tohave to speak for Tyler, but I'm
just curious if he's got the sameapproach. But with the NBA draft,
as you do, declare just toget the feedback with the hopes of,
you know, depending on how thefeedback goes with with the option to come
back to school next year. Haveyou guys had that conversation and know what
(13:20):
he's thinking a little bit? Imean, I don't know, Um you
know what agents are telling him asfar as where you'll land if he did
stay on the draft or whatever whereverthe case may be. But UM,
I know he plans on doing thesame thing he's gonna. I don't know
if he'll sign agent or not,but I think he plans to um keep
(13:41):
his eligibility open just in case hedoes want to come back, but he'll
get some workhouse with some teams andUM, hopefully you get an invite to
the NBA combined and do what yougotta do. But as far I can't
speak for him as far as comingback or if you stay in there or
what the case maybe, but Iknow he does plan on declaring and um
(14:03):
keeping the option of coming back open. And everyone's different, McKinley and that
decision making process in terms of what'simportant to them. Obviously, where you're
going to go is the number onething, but then there's other things that
matter. You know, you guysset yourself up to playing in the NCAA
tournament and they canceled the NCAA tournamentthis year. UM, you're good.
It looks on paper like you guysare gonna have a pretty good team coming
(14:24):
back next year. If everybody comesback. So how much of that stuff
factors into it? And and Iguess because me and Ym we're talking about
this yesterday. Um, how muchof not playing in the tournament this year
is gonna is gonna have an impacton your decision? Um, there's so
many things that play a play arole in this decision. And you know,
(14:46):
it's it's hard to kind of nitpickeach each individual thing. Um.
But I mean, as far asI know, that does way you expected.
You know, that's something that I'vejoined us if I the kid,
and like I said, my teammateswe all look forward to playing in that
and it's something we still want todo. So, Um, that plays
(15:07):
the huge role I know, asfar as guaranteed money us as far as
the NBA teams, that plays theyears role. Um. There's other things
too, like what agents you wantto pick, And it's just so much
outside noise to it. Um,I can't pick everything out, but as
far as right now, I can'tat least, And I know the NC
(15:28):
Double A tournament for sure has abig role in it. Um, something
that you know, Tyler and myselfstill want to do. And um,
you know there's a good chance thatit will happen, Um, just depending
on what goes on old in thenext couple of months. Keilly, what's
life like right now? I mean, I'm sure the way this season's ended
is dramatically different in fact that ithasn't happened like this for anyone. So
(15:50):
I think everyone's just still trying tofigure things out. You mentioned you got
some workouts in, but they justclose the gym, um, you know,
because they don't want the virus tospread. But like day to day
for you right now, what's itactually like. It's it's weird. It's
like, I don't know, it'sdifferent. I wake up every morning and
do what I got to do inthe morning, and we have this this
(16:12):
new online class set of thing.It's called Zoom. So for any anybody
who was in class day, they'reall online now and then you meet on
this Zoom app with your whole class, and it's it's it's harder, um
for me, especially because I'm ina Silenist class and you know, my
professors one hundred percent death death andit's hard to you know, see what
(16:37):
he's saying and stuff like that.So I do that and I play video
games. Trying to become a Iguess the programmer and um watching throw back
games that come on on TV orwhatever, and I hang out still hang
out with kg Um. I don'tget I don't know. We're not our
thing is. I'm not really scaredof the violets, but I know the
(16:59):
how serious it is and you knowhow dangerous it can be depending on your
health. So I mean, I'mjust getting through the days right now.
I don't know. It's not muchto do. You know, I can't
get in the gym I got.I got three sons McKinley that are playing
Fortnite till two in the morning.If you want to join now, I
mean, is that is that yourdeal on Xbox? Or what? What
(17:21):
are you you two k or whatwhat are you playing? I'm playing forward
now. I was playing Fortnite rightbefore I got on the phone with you
guys. Actually, that's funny becausewhen Troy called you and you didn't pick
up, and then you called himback, I'm like, he must have
just gotten killed on Fortnite. Idid. That's exactly what's happened. What
(17:42):
happened, That's funny. Not surprisedon that you knew that that actually happened.
When you called it, I waslike, there's actually a pretty good
chance that that's how I played out. McKinley. I'm glad you were honest
enough to you to tell us thatwas the real situation. Um, McKinley,
last thing for me at least,you know, just preparing getting ready
for the pactual tournament and obviously thisinterview. I read a great article I
(18:06):
believe it was in the Denver Postabout the relationship you have with your dad.
Just curious, like the advice orthe conversation that you had with him
when you realize that we weren't gonnaplay in the NC doable a tournament because
it was canceled, Like what whatdid he say to you? What did
you say to him? It wasit was hard for both of us because
you know, after the Las inVegas, he came to my hotel and
(18:30):
we just talked outside for for aminute, and uh, we both knew
that there was a high chance forthe NC double that tournament getting canceled.
Then you know, being able toput on that stage it was always something
I look forward to. And youknow, when my dad was in my
life, when he was in prisonand we would always talk on the phone.
We would talk about you know,Trey Burke and Sabas Napier and Kimball
(18:52):
Walker and Johnny Flynn and all thoseguys who were like all those Flint guys
who had great college careers and soldout in March Madness and so they really
belonged. We'd always talked about that. You know, for me, it
was my first time being able toplay in that tournament and for it to
get canceled. Um, he knewit was a hard time for me and
(19:12):
my teammates. And you know,he's just he was just there for me
from now. He's always been whenhe when he can, and UM,
you know, he just encouraged me, you know, to um make the
best decision for myself. And youknow, whatever decision I do decided to
make, he's gonna be there forme, um as best as he can,
and he's gonna do whatever he canto keep me happy. So,
(19:34):
I mean, those are just somewords that came out of his mouth time.
You know, he was excited,excited for the future, with the
future hops um, whether that's thenext level or returning to see you next
year. So, UM, hewas just there for me and wanted me
to help me make the best decisionfor myself. Good stuff, McKinley.
(19:55):
And my last thing's more of acomment than a question. I've always apreciated
the tough guys and the guy's withgreat competitive spirit and guys that like to
compete and aren't afraid. And you'veyou've been all that since day one and
as much as yeam and I andI don't speak for him, but we'd
love to see come back to theconference. We hope you do what's best
for you and that you get everythingthat you want. And if that's playing
(20:17):
in the NBA next year or ifthat's coming back to see you, I
think nothing but good things are gonnaare coming to you. And you're a
terrific player and we've loved we've lovedwatching it for the last three years.
I appreciate that, you know,it's always good to be around you guys.
Thank you for everything you know.Um, I appreciate it. Yeah.
Well, look, and donn youcan't speak for me because I cosan
(20:40):
and everything that you just said,and I can't help but think McKinley,
if you do decide, and thefeedback isn't you know, exactly like you
should enter this upcoming season. Butyou just mentioned some of the all time
greats you know over the last fewyears that have played to college basketball and
have thrived and had their moment inthe NC double a term, and I
can't help but think, man,you are so do to have that type
(21:00):
of game in the big dance.So best best to luck to you this
offseason. Stay healthy, continue towash those hands, crush it on the
video games, take care of businessin the class from and I know Don
and I will be thrilled if aPAC twelve basketball media day you're going to
be back in the studios with ushanging out for a little bit and we're
talking about another great season for you. So congrats again and appreciate you coming
(21:23):
on the pod with us. Donaldgood, thank you, appreciate you guys.
Thanks m You know, Don,I'm actually glad that you brought that
up, because you and I talkedabout this at times last year and maybe
a little bit this year, andprobably we should have mentioned it a little
bit more. But McKinley, hekind of is on the All Conference tough
guy list, I mean, basedoff of the injury last year, playing
(21:45):
through that, not really missing muchtime at all, Like he doesn't get
enough. You know, if theNBA starts giving him feedback, you know
the one thing. And I knowyou talked to a bunch of guys around
you know, the association front officepeople getting feedback, and I know you're
going to it up. But mylord, from a leadership standpoint, the
intangibles, he's got that. Butthat toughness factory, you can't look at
(22:06):
a box score or watch even somegame film without knowing what this kid was.
That pain threshold was a year ago, and I hate to say it,
yeah, because in twenty twenty,it now sticks out more than it
ever has. If you have acertain level of toughness, not only physically
but mentally. And for him toplay through that shoulder last year, I'll
never forget. I was at thegame middle of February, late February at
(22:29):
Washington State and he's playing and thething literally popped out of the socket and
most guys, I'm not saying everyguy, but most guys would be done
for the night. And I knew, and I think I was doing the
game with Guy Haberman. I thinkI even said it on the air.
He'll come back and sure enough,five or six minutes later, he's right
back in the game, and youjust don't see that that much anymore.
(22:51):
So that's like, like we talkedabout effort now becoming a skill, which
I can't even believe that comes outof my mouth that I say that toughness
is now becoming a skill because we'regetting so far away from it in this
day and age. But I lovethe fact that he competes. I love
the fact that he has that toughness. You know, the good news for
him if we're talking about him beingan NBA player, is that, you
(23:11):
know, smaller guards aren't frowned uponlike there were three, four or five
years ago. He's going to havean opportunity to play in the NBA.
I don't know if that means thisyear or if he comes back and has
an unbelievable senior year like somebody wejust saw in this conference, Mike Yam
like, why couldn't he come backand do what Pritchard did this year and
then he really sets himself up foran NBA career. Yeah, I think
(23:33):
it's a great call. Too oftenwhere we're talking about I know you've brought
it up on the podcast or Watsonwas talking to me about it the other
day, and he mentioned it onthe podcast we did with him the other
week. But you can have asuccessful NBA career and be a four year
guy like that does happen, andthat there is a world where that exists.
You know, It's obviously a personalindividual decision to be made, but
(23:56):
it is something to just keep inmind. And I look, I'm being
selfish as I love watching the kidplay. I do hope he comes back
from a Colorado perspective because they wouldbe once again in the driver's seat.
There's gonna be questions about this team'stoughness, and McKinley talked about that just
based off of the way this yearfinished. But there's no doubt that they
will be on the shortlist for oneof the favorites to win the league next
(24:18):
season. Donna, I don't know. I don't know where this leaves us
right now. I mean, we'restill friends, we'll still give me your
cable, but in terms of thepodcast and where we're at, this is
really uncharted territory for us. Wewere supposed to be doing this podcast through
the Ncable Tournament. I don't knowif this is our last one or not.
But as always, you and I'vebeen together for for eight years now
(24:41):
at the network doing shows and studioin this podcast the last couple of years.
I know you've been getting a lotof love, and I know you're
not always on Twitter, but there'sa lot of people who have been very
complimentary of your work and what you'vedone, and I echo those same thoughts.
It's been an absolutely working with youman. I think the last thing
I would say, yeah, ifthis is our last podcast and I feel
(25:03):
like it's heading that direction, isthat the bummer for me is that.
And I said this in that meetingthat you referenced earlier, our production meeting
before we start the tournament in Vegas. This has been my favorite year since
the Pactical Networks started, just becauseof the games, because of the finishes,
because of the players, because ofthe storylines, everything, the people
I work with, you guys ongame broadcasts and like. For it not
(25:25):
to finish is really a bummer,you know, And hopefully things get back
to normal at some point and wecan gear up for next year. But
just disappointing that we didn't get tofinish up what was an unbelievable year,
not only from a conference in winninggames and teams in the NCAA tournament standpoint,
but from our network and what wedo in studio and on game broadcasts.
(25:47):
I know how invested we are thisentire season on the games, every
single season. I had tweeted thisthe other day, and I know you
would agree with this. I willnever take for granted being at a game
or doing another studio show ever again, knowing what it's like right now.
It is. It's a cold reality, and it's tough perspective. But at
(26:10):
the end of the day, thisreally was the right decision for everyone,
And hopefully next time we do apodcast together, we are looking back at
this time, Don and saying,you know what, it was the right
decision for everyone in this entire country, public safety first and foremost. And
now what now we get to playsome basketball and we get to watch some
sports and not worried, not beworried about, you know, getting rushed
(26:30):
on Fortnite or whatever video game yourboys are at right now. And McKinley
as well. But Don, myfriend, always good working with you,
and we'll do it again soon.Yep.
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The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!