Recorded 24 May 2023
(00:22) Welcome to former NBL player and current commentator and GM of the Next Stars Program - Liam Santamaria (not Lim Saint Marie).
(02:19) Early career: playing for Brian Goorjian with the Victoria Titans; NBL highs and lows circa early-mid 2000s.
(08:31) From contraction to expansion (leading to an NBL that's never been stronger).
(13:59) Early roles in media and commentary (and friendship with former player and current CEO of South East Melbourne Phoenix Tommy Greer); The importance of good coaching, challenges in commentary and point guards as commentators.
(21:15) MAILBAG
Role as General Manager of NBL Next Stars Program:
(24:08) History and evolution of NBL Next Stars (from early inspiration in 2016 to today - Terrance Ferguson, Brian Bowen, LaMelo Ball, Josh Giddey); Day-to-day duties and road ahead.
(33:38) Breaking news: 5 star recruit Ron Holland in Next Stars' sights after de-committing from Texas Longhorns.
(34:23) NBL Salary Cap: Marquee player rule (and how it work with Next Stars); Goal of Next Stars going forward; French Connection.
(43:50) Future prospects Rocco Zikarsky & Dash Daniels - and how early Next Stars start recruiting.
(46:16) Thoughts on current/soon to be Next Stars in the NBL - Ariel Hukporti, A.J. Johnson & Alexandre Sarr.
(54:42) NBLxNBA as potential NBA pipeline.
(58:28) Favourite live sporting moment and interview wrap.
(1:04:03) Final thoughts.
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