Shows
No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 188: Previewing the 2025 IHSA basketball State FinalsMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
The IHSA state tournament wraps up this week with the State Finals. Mike and Joe give their Two Takes, discuss the Kaneland news and preview this weekend's action in Class 3A and 4A.
2025-03-1237 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 187: Sectionals previewMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
The IHSA state tournament is in full swing. This week Mike and Joe give their Two Takes and then break down some of the top sectionals across the area.
2025-03-0439 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 186: Regionals previewMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
The IHSA state tournament is underway. This week Mike and Joe give their Two Takes and then break down some of the top regionals across the area.
2025-02-2639 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 185: Listener questionsMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
It’s time for some listener questions as we hit the final week of the regular season. Joe and Mike dive into a big mailbag and answer questions on all sorts of topics.
2025-02-1838 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 184: Questions and answers heading into the stretch run of the seasonJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
This episode begins with Mike and Joe's Two Takes on the the past week of hoops and then they ask each other some questions on the season. Topics include which player means the most to his team, the biggest surprise team, the unranked team most likely to make a postseason run, the best team no one is talking about, the most underrated player and more.
2025-02-1139 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 183: The Stock ReportJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
It's time for the annual Stock Report, where Mike and Joe decide to buy, sell or hold the stock of each team in the Super 25 and then pick three teams outside the rankings they'd like to buy stock in.
2025-02-0439 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 182: Analyzing the paths to state in Class 4AJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
In this episode Mike and Joe give their Two Takes on the busy week of hoops and then take a look at the sectional assignments and supersectional matchups in Class 4A.
2025-01-2239 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 181: A look at the state's exciting freshman classJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
In this episode Mike and Joe give their two takes on the busy week of hoops and then take a look at some of the talented freshmen making an impact across the state.
2025-01-1437 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 180: Listener questionsMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
It's time for some listener questions as we hit the midpoint of the regular season. Joe and Mike dive into a big mailbag and answer questions on all sorts of topics.
2025-01-0739 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 179: Reviewing the holiday tournamentsMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
This episode is all about the holiday tournaments. Mike and Joe look back at a super busy stretch of the season and discuss Pontiac, Proviso West, Hinsdale Central, Pekin, the Big Dipper, Plano, Jacobs, Bloomington-Normal and the Jack Tosh.
2025-01-0238 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 178: The 2024 Holiday Tournament previewMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
In this episode we focus on breaking down and previewing the top holiday tournaments in the state. We go in-depth on Pontiac, York, Proviso West, Hinsdale Central and the Big Dipper and take a look at several others.
2024-12-2330 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock Ep. 177: Five unexpectedly undefeated suburban teamsMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
In this episode we highlight five teams that have made it to mid-December unbeaten: Geneva, Hersey, Wheaton Academy, McHenry and Downers Grove North.
We also give our Two Takes and discuss all the latest news in high school basketball.
2024-12-1735 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 176: The Public League's resurgence and a Chicago Elite Classic reviewMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
In this episode Mike and Joe give their two takes on the busy week of hoops, take a look back at the Chicago Elite Classic and preview some of this week's big games.
2024-12-1038 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 175: First week reactions and a Chicago Elite Classic previewMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
In this episode we take a look back at some of the major developments in the first week of the season, including breakouts from seniors Phoenix Gill and Nick Allen and the debut of freshman Cole Kelly.
Then we take a look ahead at the upcoming Chicago Elite Classic.
2024-12-0333 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 174: Five storylines to watch this seasonMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
In this week’s episode we dive into five storylines for the upcoming season:
-Will the Public League be shut out at state again?
-What are the best teams outside the Chicago area?
-Which team will be this season's Palatine?
-Will Cole Kelly make as big an impact as last season's freshmen?
-Will a senior step up to win Player of the Year?
2024-11-2538 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 173: Revealing the 2024-25 preseason Super 25 rankingsMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball is back for its 11th season.
This episode is all about the preseason Super 25 rankings. We go in-depth on the top teams and discuss each of the 25 that earned a spot. And there is even room at the end to talk about the teams that just missed out.
2024-11-2039 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 172: Breaking down the 2024 IHSA basketball state finalsJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
This week's episode is a look back at all the action in Champaign this weekend. Mike and Joe break down the state championship games, discuss the format, the crowds and then take a look ahead at next season.
2024-03-1338 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 171: Previewing the 2024 IHSA state finalsJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
This week's episode is all about the 2024 IHSA State Finals in Champaign. We break down the Class 4A and 3A games and take a quick look at the smaller classes.
2024-03-0639 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock high school basketball podcast, Ep. 170: Previewing the IHSA sectionalsJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
This week's episode opens with a discussion about the Kenwood news and then Mike and Joe dive into sectional previews, taking a look at each of the matchups in Class 4A and some of the Class 3A brackets.
2024-02-2739 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 169: Previewing the IHSA Class 4A regionalsJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
This week's episode is all about the regionals. Mike and Joe focus on the Class 4A bracket, going through each of the sectionals and talking about the best regional matchups.
2024-02-2038 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 168: Overlooked star players and successful teamsJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
Mike and Joe give their Two Takes and then take a look at several teams and players putting up big numbers and big win totals that haven't received much attention so far this season.
2024-02-1340 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 167: Listener questions mailbagJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
This episode is all questions and answers. Mike and Joe dive into a big mailbag full of questions from No Shot Clock listeners.
2024-02-0640 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 166: The stock reportJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
Mike and Joe give their Two Takes on the busy week of basketball and then it is time for the Stock Report, where they decide to buy, sell or hold the stock of each team in the Super 25.
2024-01-3139 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 165: Discussing the area's top five conferencesJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
Mike and Joe give their Two Takes on the busy week of basketball and rank the top five conferences in the Chicago area so far this season.
2024-01-2339 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 164: Previewing the When Sides Collide shootoutJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
Mike and Joe give their Two Takes on the busy week of basketball and preview this weekend's When Sides Collide Shootout at Benet: Normal vs. DePaul Prep, Downers Grove North vs. H-F, Young vs. Yorkville, Kenwood vs. Mount Carmel and Benet vs. Thornton.
2024-01-1637 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 163: This season’s surprisesJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
Mike and Joe give their Two Takes on the busy week of basketball and break down four big surprises so far this season. New rules, conferences that have impressed and more.
2024-01-0939 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 162: Reviewing the holiday tournamentsJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
Mike and Joe give their Two Takes on the busy week of basketball and look back at Pontiac, Proviso West, York, the Big Dipper and Hinsdale Central.
2024-01-0239 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 161: 2023 Holiday Tournament previewJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien's weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
This is the annual holiday tournament preview episode. We dive into the fields at Pontiac, York's Jack Tosh, Proviso West, Hinsdale Central, Bloomington and Rich's Big Dipper.
2023-12-2340 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 160: Listener mailbagMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
In this week’s episode, we each give our two takes and then we jump right into a big mailbag of questions from the listeners.
Which players are NBA bound? Is Benet for real? Will Brother Rice's hot streak continue? What's the best/deepest Class 4A sectional? All those questions and many more are answered.
2023-12-1939 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 159: The case for No. 1, breaking down the top teamsMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen's weekly look at Illinois high school basketball.
In this week's episode, we each give our two takes and then we break down the eight teams that have a case to make to be ranked No. 1 so far this season. It's been an interesting three weeks and things are wide open right now.
2023-12-1239 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 158: This season’s first impressionsMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
In this week’s episode we give our first impressions of the season, our Two Takes and provide a look ahead at a busy week of basketball, including the Chicago Elite Classic.
2023-11-2837 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 157: Preseason sleepers and storylinesMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen's weekly breakdown of Illinois high school basketball.
In this week's episode we talk about six sleeper teams, six underrated players and six storylines we'll be following all season.
2023-11-2039 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 156: Revealing the 2023-34 preseason Super 25 rankingsMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen’s weekly look at Illinois high school basketball is back for a tenth season.
This episode is all about the preseason Super 25 rankings. We go in-depth on the top teams and discuss each of the 25 that earned a spot.
2023-11-1438 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 155: Reviewing the IHSA State FinalsThe season has wrapped up. Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien look back at the IHSA State Finals, breaking down the action in Class 4A, 3A and 2A.
2023-03-1439 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 154: Previewing the IHSA state finalsThe big week has arrived. It's state finals time. Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien preview all of this week's action in Champaign.
Mike and Joe start out with a discussion of Downers Grove North's big win against Kenwood and then break down the Class 4A state semifinals, which feature the Trojans, Moline, New Trier and Benet.
Next up is a look at the Class 3A field, which includes Simeon, East St. Louis, St. Ignatius and Metamora.
The episode wraps up with a quick look at Class 2A and 1A.
2023-03-0840 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 153: Previewing the sectionals and looking back at the regionalsMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen comb through the brackets and preview the most enticing sectional matchups of the Illinois High School Association state basketball playoffs.
We also look back at some of the biggest regional final games.
2023-02-2738 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 152: Previewing the regionalsThe playoffs are here. Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien go in-depth on the Class 4A regionals, discussing some underdogs and some of the best matchups around the state this week.
The episode wraps up with a quick look at some Class 3A regionals.
2023-02-2039 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 151: Regular season winners, city tournament reviewJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien's weekly discussion of high school basketball.
This episode starts off with Two Takes, hitting on a variety of topics.
Then Mike and Joe go through some of the "winners" from the regular season, some tournaments, teams and rules that can consider 2022-23 a success.
2023-02-1437 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 150: Selecting surprise teams, breakout underclassmen and moreMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen's weekly discussion of high school basketball.
This episode starts off with Two Takes, hitting on a variety of topics, from Hinsdale Central to the Public League.
Then Mike and Joe take part in a multiple choice test, picking their favorite answers to a variety of questions on the season so far.
Which team is the biggest surprise this season? Who are the breakout underclassmen? Which unranked team should be getting more attention? All those questions and many more.
2023-01-3138 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 149: Listener questionsJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly discussion of high school basketball.
This episode begins with a look back at the When Sides Collide shootout and then we dive into a big listener mailbag full of questions.
2023-01-2438 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 148: Kenwood’s rise, When Sides Collide PreviewJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien’s weekly discussion of high school basketball.
This episode begins with a look back at the big Simeon vs. Kenwood game. Then we do our regular Two Takes segment, which includes a look at state tournament attendance in Champaign. There's also a look ahead to this weekend's big When Sides Collide Shootout and some talk about Camden, NJ and the country's No. 1 player, DJ Wagner, who is in town on Friday.
2023-01-1739 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 147: The Stock ReportJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien's weekly discussion of high school basketball.
This episode begins with the regular Two Takes segment and then we dive into the annual stock report, declaring if we would buy or sell stock in a team based on the rest of the season.
2023-01-1039 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 146: Breaking down the holiday tournamentsMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen look back at the busy holiday tournament week.
We go in-depth on Proviso West, York, Pontiac and the Big Dipper. Other tournaments mentioned include DeKalb, Bloomington, Pekin, Centralia, Maine East, IC Catholic, Hinsdale Central and Effingham/Teutopolis, Wheeling, Jacobs and Centralia.
2023-01-031h 03No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 145: Holiday tournament previewsMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen sit down and preview the state's biggest holiday basketball tournaments in this episode.
We go in-depth on Pontiac, Bloomington, York, Proviso West and the Big Dipper and take a look at a handful of other tournaments around the state as well.
2022-12-2439 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 144: Answering listener questionsJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien take on a big mailbag, answering questions from the listeners. They also give their Two Takes.
Topics include which teams still have something to prove, what the future holds for several prominent holiday tournaments, which schools have potential to be basketball powers, Jeremiah Fears and Jordan vs. Plumbers.
2022-12-2040 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 143: Early surprise teamsMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen break down six teams that have surprised us through the first three weeks of the season.
We also give our Two Takes, which includes a look at the DuPage Valley conference, some unknown players turning heads and more.
All that and a look ahead at the upcoming week of games.
2022-12-1340 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 142: Reviewing the Chicago Elite ClassicJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien talk about last weekend's loaded Chicago Elite Classic in this week's episode.
We also discuss the new recruiting/transfer rule that has been proposed and debate whether or not the area's top 10-15 teams are stronger overall this year than last season.
That and more.
2022-12-0639 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 141: The season opens with a bangMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen are back with their weekly discussion of high school basketball.
The season is underway. We break down two of the biggest games of the first week: Kenwood vs. Young and Joliet West vs. St. Rita and give our early impressions of several other teams. The episode wraps up with a preview of this week, including a look at the loaded Chicago Elite Classic.
2022-11-2940 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 140: This season’s top storylinesJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien's weekly discussion of high school basketball is back and all geared up for the first day of the season.
In this episode we discuss some of this year's top storylines, break down some sleeper teams that didn't crack the preseason Super 25 rankings and take a look at the busy Thanksgiving week of games.
2022-11-2140 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 139: Breaking down the preseason Super 25 rankingsMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen's weekly look at Illinois high school basketball is back for a new season.
This episode is all about the preseason Super 25 rankings. We go in-depth on the top teams and discuss each of the 25 that earned a spot.
2022-11-1539 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 138: Recapping the IHSA basketball state finalsJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien take a look back at the Illinois High School Association's state finals.
There's a lot to cover after a busy weekend of state championship basketball: Where does Glenbard West rank among the state's all-time great teams? How did the new format go? Was the return to Champaign a success?
2022-03-151h 12No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 137: Previewing the IHSA basketball state finalsMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen break down the Illinois High School Association's state finals.
We take a look at the semifinals in all four classes and talk about the tournament's return to Champaign.
2022-03-0959 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 136: Regional previewJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien break down the week in high school basketball. Mike and Joe give their Two Takes and then dive into a look at some of the most competitive games and best storylines in the IHSA state basketball regionals.
2022-02-2246 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 135: Surprise teams, breakout playersJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien break down the week in high school basketball. The episode opens with some listener questions, and then Mike and Joe give their Two Takes.
2022-02-151h 05No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 134: Mailbag and in-depth review of Sierra Canon vs. Glenbard WestJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien break down the week in high school basketball. The episode opens with a mailbag and then Mike and Joe give their Two Takes.
We dive into more than a dozen listener questions and also go in-depth on the big Glenbard West vs. Sierra Canyon game.
2022-02-081h 21No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 133: Previewing Glenbard West-Sierra Canyon and the city tournamentJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien break down the week in high school basketball. The episode opens with a mailbag and then Mike and Joe give their Two Takes.
This week's feature segment is all previews. We take a look at the recently revealed Public League playoff bracket and then talk all about the two big shootouts this weekend at Wintrust and UIC
2022-02-011h 03No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 132: The Stock ReportJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien break down the week in high school basketball. The episode opens with a mailbag and then Mike and Joe give their Two Takes.
This week's feature is one of the most popular every season, The Stock Report. Mike and Joe go through the entire Super 25 (and some other teams) and reveal if they want to buy, sell or hold their stock for the rest of the season.
2022-01-251h 16No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 131: Listener mailbag, When Sides Collide previewJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien break down the week in high school basketball. The episode opens with a mailbag and then Mike and Joe give their Two Takes.
This week's feature is a look at the When Sides Collide shootout on Saturday at Benet. It's one of the best lineups of the season with Young vs. Glenbard West, Simeon vs. Glenbrook South, New Trier vs. Yorkville Christian and St. Ignatius vs. Benet.
2022-01-1958 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 130: Public League basketball heats upMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen return to the traditional No Shot Clock podcast format. The episode opens with a mailbag and then Mike and Joe give their Two Takes.
We wrap things up with a look at an exciting week of Public League basketball, breaking down some of the best matchups, surprise players and interesting storylines so far this season.
2022-01-1147 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 129: Reviewing the Holiday TournamentsJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien take a look back at a busy week of high school basketball, reviewing numerous holiday tournaments from all around the state.
2022-01-041h 11No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 128: Holiday Tournament previewIt's an all Holiday Tournament episode. Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen break down the brackets at Proviso West, Pontiac, York, Rich South, Hinsdale Central, Pekin, Bloomington, Centralia and Plano.
2021-12-2450 minNo Shot ClockLISTEN: Early season surprises | No Shot Clock, Episode 127On the latest episode of No Shot Clock Joe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien discuss the Team Rose Classic and other action from a busy week of high school basketball.
We answer some listener questions to open the episode and then give Two Takes, a weekly segment where we sound off on current issues in the sport or highlight certain teams and players.
Then it's time for the feature segment of the show. We discuss six teams that are off to surprisingly good starts this season.
2021-12-141h 01No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 126: December shootout recaps and previewsOn the latest episode of No Shot Clock Joe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien discuss the Chicago Elite Classic and other action from a busy week of high school basketball.
Joe and Mike give their Two Takes and then give an in-depth look at some of this week's biggest games, including the Team Rose Classic at Mount Carmel.
2021-12-0745 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 125: First week impressions.On the latest episode of No Shot Clock Joe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien break down what they saw in the opening week of the 2021-22 high school basketball season.
The episode wraps up with a look at the busy week ahead.
2021-11-3038 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 124: Preseason Two TakesJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien continue to preview the 2021-22 high school basketball season.
We dive into the following topics:
* Two surprise teams not in the rankings that could do big things.
* Two seniors set to blossom this year
* Two breakout underclassmen (juniors or sophomores) that people will get very familiar with this season.
* Two storylines we are looking forward to following this season. 2021-11-2258 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 123: Breaking down the Chicago Sun-Times preseason Super 25It's finally here. A real, full high school basketball season is on the way. The first games start on Monday. Get ready for the next five months with the preseason preview.
Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen start the season with an exclusive look at the preseason Super 25, talking about each of the teams that cracked the rankings.
2021-11-1642 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 122: Discussing the weird end to a strange seasonOn the latest episode of No Shot Clock Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen debate the format of this hastily thrown together answer questions from the listener mailbag and give their Two Takes, a regular weekly feature of commentary and opinion on high school basketball.
-Why didn't CPS plan a season-ending event or set of games?
-Player of the Year discussion
-Breaking down DePaul Prep's big Chipotle tournament win
-An in-depth look at all the Chipotle games
-Why did Simeon and Young get knocked out of the tournament?
...2021-03-161h 00No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 121: Chipotle Clash of Champions preview and moreOn the latest episode of No Shot Clock Joe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien answer questions from the listener mailbag and give their Two Takes, a regular weekly feature of commentary and opinion on high school basketball.
The mailbag is the biggest and longest of the season, with tons of questions addresed:
-Is Simeon senior/Michigan recruit Isaiah Barnes a Player of the Year contender?
-Mid-Suburban League title game predictions
-Building the perfect conference
-How good has Indian Creek been the last two years?
-Who are the be...2021-03-121h 27No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 120: Listener mailbagOn the latest episode of No Shot Clock Joe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien answer questions from the listener mailbag and give their Two Takes, a regular weekly feature of commentary and opinion on high school basketball.
The podcast concludes with a look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-How good is Glenbard West and why they aren't in the Chipotle Classic
-More shot clock debate
-Should the overtime format be changed?
-Is Bryce Hopkins the best Catholic League player since Corey Maggette?
-Why can't sch...2021-03-0552 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 119: The surprise teamsOn the latest episode of No Shot Clock Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien reveal the five teams that have surprised them the most with major success so far this season.
The episode opens with a listener mailbag and then Joe and Mike give their Two Takes, a regular weekly feature of commentary and opinion on high school basketball.
The podcast concludes with a look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-What's going on with Player of the Year and All-Area?
-Is there really a holiday tournament happening on Saturday?2021-02-2549 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 118: Previewing the Public LeagueOn the latest episode of No Shot Clock Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen debate the recently revealed season-ending tournament, the Chipotle Classic.
Then we preview the top six basketball teams in the Chicago Public League, which begins its basketball season over the next week.
Then Joe and Mike give their Two Takes, a regular weekly feature of commentary and opinion on high school basketball.
The podcast concludes with a look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-A look at Hersey's high-scoring Ethan Roberts
-Is St. Rita's James Br...2021-02-1851 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 117: First impressions of the new seasonJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien talk about their initial impressions of the very young and very short high school basketball season.
The episode opens with a brief news update and a listener mailbag. Then Joe and Mike give their Two Takes.
The podcast concludes with a look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-Which players may have their recruitment hurt by the lack of a full season?
-What is the best way to find streaming games?
-How are we going to pick a season-ending No. 1 team?
...2021-02-1246 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 116: Breaking down the preseason Top 10Michael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen get started on a new season of the podcast.
The episode opens with a big mailbag of listener questions. After that we break down the preseason Top 10, which is revealed for the first time.
The podcast concludes with a look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-How COVID-19 has changed recruiting
-What is the status of Public League basketball?
-How will Evanston look without Jaylin Gibson?
All that and a ton more.
Please rate and review us on Ap...2021-02-031h 10No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 115: Wrapping up the season and a look aheadJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode opens with a big mailbag of listener questions. After that we break down every Class 3A and Class 4A sectional semifinal, since that is the last basketball fans across the state will get this season.
The podcast concludes with a look at the possible top ten teams for next season.
Topics include:
-The Illinois High School Association's decision to cancel the state tournament
-Fenger's terrific season
-What is the de...2020-03-171h 09No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 114: Sectional preview, All-Area next fiveMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode opens with a quick preview of the Class 1A and Class 2A supersectionals and then we breakdown the five players that received votes for the Sun-Times All-Area team but didn’t make the final list of 20 players.
After that it is all sectional talk. We break down every Class 4A sectional semifinal in the state and hit on all of the Class 3A semifinals in the Chicago area.
Topics include:
-Aurora’s two un...2020-03-1059 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 113: Regionals preview, Peoria predictionsJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode opens with an in-depth discussion of the Illinois High School Association’s tentative schedule for the new state finals weekend format.
Topics include:
-Why is the IHSA playing third place games at 7 pm on Thursday and Friday in the new state format?
-Is Notre Dame the clear favorite in Class 3A?
-Could Joliet West really play for the Class 4A state title?
-Don’t miss a possible Dom Martin...2020-03-031h 03
No Shot ClockLISTEN: Listener mailbag | No Shot Clock, Episode 112Michael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode starts up with our Two Takes. Then we get into the feature segment, where we dive into a huge listener mailbag full of all types of questions.
Things finish up with a brief look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-Could Barrington make a state tournament run?
-Will Evanston make it to Peoria?
-What trades would you make to improve teams?
-How will Rolling Meadows and Buf...2020-02-251h 23No Shot ClockAnswering the big questions | No Shot Clock, Episode 111Joe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode starts up with a big listener mailbag followed by Mike and Joe each giving their Two Takes. Then we get into the feature segment, where we answer some of the season’s big questions.
Things finish up with a brief look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-Does Joliet West have enough to make a run to state?
-Player of the Year talk
-What is the state’s best con...2020-02-181h 01
No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 110: Conference surprisesMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode starts up with a huge listener mailbag followed by Mike and Joe each giving their Two Takes. Then we get into the feature segment, Conference Surprises, where we breakdown some of the things that have surprised us so far in various conference races.
Things finish up with a brief look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-Should the Public League ditch the super conferences?
-Sleeper picks for state in all fo...2020-02-111h 09No Shot ClockThe Stock Report | No Shot Clock, Episode 109Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode starts up with a quick listener mailbag followed by Mike and Joe each giving their Two Takes. Then we get into the feature segment, The Stock Report, where we each breakdown five teams whose stock we think is overvalued and five teams whose stock we would purchase.
Things finish up with a brief look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-How good was Ronnie Fields as a pro prospect?
-A look b...2020-01-281h 16No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 108: The best teams no one is talking aboutMichael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode starts up with a listener mailbag followed by Mike and Joe each giving their Two Takes. Then we get into the feature segment, talking about eleven teams that have flown under the radar while putting together excellent seasons.
Things finish up with a brief look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-Why didn't a Chicago venue bid on the state basketball tournament?
-Has Orr considered moving up in class?
-DePaul Prep's r...2020-01-2157 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 107: The ten breakout players of the 2019-20 seasonJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien review the past week of action in Chicago high school basketball.
The episode starts up with a huge listener mailbag and then Mike and Joe each pick five breakout players that have opened eyes this season. Things finish up with a brief look at the week ahead.
Topics include:
-DeKalb’s new status
-More shot clock talk
-The state bracket has been determined. A look at the draw in Class 3A and Class 4A
-The Pat Gordon situation at Lincoln Park
...2020-01-141h 14No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 106: Reviewing the decade's best teams and playersJoe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien take a look back at the past decade. The episode opens with a small mailbag of listener questions and a brief discussion of some happenings from the last several days.
Then it is time to dive into the 2010s. First we discuss the ten best players of the decade, breaking them down into a first and second team.
Up next is an in-depth discussion of the 13 best teams of the decade, including a handful of great teams that just missed the cut.
Both those lists have been revealed pre...2020-01-071h 23No Shot ClockLISTEN: Holiday Tournament wrap-up | No Shot Clock, Episode 105Michael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen review all the holiday tournament action from around the state, including tournaments at Pontiac, Proviso West, Hinsdale Central, Wheeling, York, Maine East, Effingham, Pekin, Centralia and more.
The episode starts up with a huge listener mailbag and then Joe and Mike each pick five players or teams to give a post-holiday tournament stamp of approval. Things finish up with a brief look at this weekend’s games.
Topics include:
-Would AJ Casey be putting up the same numbers at Simeon?
-Could Max Christie or Bryce Hopki...2020-01-031h 13No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 104: The 2019 Holiday Tournament previewMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen preview the state’s major holiday tournaments. Full previews of Wheeling, Pontiac, Proviso West, York (Jack Tosh) and Hinsdale Central.
-Which teams have the most to prove at the holiday tournaments?
-What player in each tournament is the most underrated?
-Three players to watch at each holiday tournament
-The best first round game at each holiday tournament
-The favorites to win, a sleeper pick to win and our picks to win each holiday tournament
-Has the Pontiac title game lost steam in t...2019-12-201h 00No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 103: The early season surprisesJoe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien review all the action from the past week of Chicago-area high school basketball including the Team Rose Shootout.
The episode opens with a mailbag of listener questions. Then we each give our Two Takes, which includes a breakdown of Thorton’s big win against top-ranked Thornton last week in Harvey. This week’s major feature is early season surprises. Mike and Joe each reveal three teams and/or players that have surprised them so far this season.
Also discussed on this episode:
-Notre Dame’s statement week
-W...2019-12-171h 03No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 102: Chicago's holiday tournament problemMichael O’Brien and Joe Henricksen review the Chicago Elite Classic and the other major events of the past week. The episode opens with a mailbag of listener questions. Then they each give their Two Takes. Then it is time to dive into what has been the elephant in the room in December the last few seasons: Why doesn’t the Chicago area have a major holiday tournament? Proviso West has slowly diminished over the past few years and nothing has replaced it. Can any of the current tournaments step up in its place? Can Proviso West rebound?
Al...2019-12-101h 01No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 101: Opening week reviewThe season is up and running in full swing. Joe Henricksen and Michael O’Brien review the Thanksgiving week storylines, including six teams that surprised everyone by pulling off undefeated starts. Then they each give their Two Takes from the first week. The episode opens with a big mailbag of listener questions (everyone is asking about Dom Martinelli).
On this episode:
-Breaking down No. 2 Morgan Park vs. No. 3 Young
-The south suburbs live up to the hype in Week 1
-Six teams that surprised everyone over Thanksgiving
-Is Willowbrook senior Ev...2019-12-031h 00No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 98: State finals review, season wrap-upNo Shot Clock, Ep. 98: State finals review, season wrap-up
Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen answer a bunch of listener questions, give their Two Takes and discuss the state finals this past weekend in Peoria.
-A ton of Evanston analysis
-Rockford East appreciation
-IHSA gossip
-Southwestern vs. CPS shootout?
-Who is next season's 4A favorite?
-Henricksen on Liddell
-O'Brien gushes on Terrence Hargrove
That and a ton more…
2019-03-191h 25No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 97: State finals previewNo Shot Clock, Ep. 97: State finals preview
Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien answer listener questions, give their Two Takes and discuss the state finals this weekend in Peoria. It's a historic episode: We finally have a guest. Ben Pope, the Sun-Times intern, joins the show to give his Two Takes and give an outsider's impression of our basketball scene.
-Genuine state finals weekend excitement
-So much Rockford East talk
-Discussing the North Lawndale-Farragut brawl
-Where does Providence-St. Mel rank among small school title winners?
-Will Belleville West repeat as Class 4A...2019-03-141h 26No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 96: Sectional preview, regional reviewNo Shot Clock, Ep. 96: Sectional preview, regional review
Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen answer listener questions, give their Two Takes and discuss the state playoffs, including a look back at all of the regional action and a look ahead at this week's sectionals.
-Simeon vs. Brother Rice through the years
-Don't forget about Evanston
-High academic Public League schools stepping up in basketball
-Lake Park's turnaround
That and a ton more…
2019-03-041h 02No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 95: Regionals previewNo Shot Clock, Ep. 95: Regional preview
Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien answer listener questions, give their Two Takes and discuss the state playoffs, including an in-depth look at the Class 4A regionals.
-What is the best recent team not to win the state title?
-Taking a look back a the 2005 Player of the Year race
-MSL title game rewind, the fantastic Fremd-Prospect game
-Which team has the toughest road to the Class 4A title?
That and a ton more…
2019-02-251h 00No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 94: State playoff seeds, city title game talkNo Shot Clock, Ep. 94: Playoff seeds, city title game talk
Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen answer listener questions, talk about the city tournament drama give their Two Takes and discuss the state playoff seeds and the seeding system.
-An appreciation of Orr's Sherif Kenney
-Why don't the top four seeds host regionals?
-Breaking down Maine South's resurgence
-Lawless award drama in the Catholic League
-Curie's remarkable season
That and a ton more…
2019-02-191h 04No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 93: The season's biggest surprisesNo Shot Clock, Ep. 93: The season's biggest surprises
Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen answer listener questions, talk about the possible new state tournament format, give their Two Takes and discuss this season's biggest surprises (players, teams, conferences).
-Which local players are making the biggest impact in college?
-What do we think of the possible three-day format for the state tournament?
-Notre Dame vs. St. Patrick
-Plenty on Waukegan, Stevenson, Waubonsie Valley,
-Public League playoff talk
That and a ton more...
2019-02-121h 18No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 92: Public League playoff previewNo Shot Clock, Ep. 92: Public League playoff preview
Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien dive into a big mailbag, give their Two Takes and preview the Public League playoffs.
-Who is the best suburban player this century? Best suburban team?
-The .500 teams that could make a run in the state playoffs
-This season's late-blooming senior prospects
-Things are looking up at Oak Lawn
-Revisiting Geneva's playoff chances
-Simeon vs. Belleville West, what did it mean?
That and a ton more...
2019-02-051h 13No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 91: Public League dominanceNo Shot Clock, Ep. 91: Public League dominance
Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien dive into a big mailbag and discuss this season's Public League dominance.
-Is the city championship up for grabs?
-Can anyone beat Curie?
-Why doesn't Illinois have a burger boy?
-Are shootouts good or bad?
-Who was better, Sherron Collins or Will Bynum?
-Discussing Sean Dockery
That and a ton more...
2019-01-291h 10No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 90: Upsets? Discussing a season of parityNo Shot Clock, Ep. 90: Upsets? Discussing a season of parity
Joe Henricksen and Michael O'Brien dive into a big mailbag and discuss this season's wide-open feel.
-Breaking down the Player of the Year race
-Is Kenwood's Seryee Lewis a high-major prospect?
-Why West Aurora hasn't cracked the Super 25
-Why Bogan, not Bloom is ranked No. 2
-Who are the area's best young coaches?
-Could Benet win the state title?
That and a ton more...
2019-01-1555 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 88: Holiday Tournament reviewNo Shot Clock, Ep. 88: Holiday tournament review
Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen review the top holiday tournaments in the state and take listener questions.
-Which teams are poised for major runs after the holidays?
-Can Curie finish the regular season undefeated?
-Two takes from Pontiac, Proviso West, York, Hinsdale Central and the Big Dipper
That and more...
2019-01-031h 11No Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 86: The early season surprisesNo Shot Clock, Ep. 86: The top surprises so far this season
Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen each detail the three things that have surprised them the most so far this season.
Before that we take listener questions and give our Two Takes, the regular weekly segment where we pick a subject from the past week to talk about in-depth.
-Does Simeon deserve to be ranked?
-A look at the East Suburban Catholic
-What is up with undefeated Dunbar?
-Why is Curie so much better this season?
-Fun in the Fo...2018-12-1851 minNo Shot ClockNo Shot Clock, Ep. 85: Terrific Team Rose shootout headlines wild week
No Shot Clock, Ep. 85: Terrific Team Rose shootout headlines wild week
Michael O'Brien and Joe Henricksen break down a wild week of action, from the Mid-Suburban League to the Public League and the Team Rose Shootout.
Before the review we take listener questions and give our Two Takes, the regular weekly segment where we pick a subject from the past week to talk about in-depth.
-Is Kankakee's backcourt the best in the state?
-Is Westinghouse guard Devin Davis the real deal?
-Should Brother Rice, Oak Park, Notre Dame and Farragut be co...2018-12-111h 07