Shows
Hive HoopsBEST CASE SCENARIO FOR THE HORNETSOn this episode of Hive Hoops, our host, Joshua Balta, details what he believes is the best case scenario for the Charlotte Hornets this season. Is it playoffs or bust? Embrace the tank? Or some third middle thing? Find out on Hive Hoops!2024-10-2333 minHive HoopsHORNETS EXPECTATIONSExpectations are starting to rise. This is what off-seasons are for. While fans of the Charlotte Hornets have many reasons to be hopeful, our host, Joshua Balta, cautions them to be optimistic for the future but not overly fanatical about the season to come. 2024-09-0932 minHive HoopsTHE ONE MISS THIS HORNETS OFF-SEASONThe Charlotte Hornets have had a great summer. Hiring Charles Lee, filling out his staff, trading for a defensive-minded guard in Josh Green, taking a chance on a high-upside prospect in Salaün, adding veteran leadership in Taj Gibson and Seth Curry, going 7-1 across all competitions this summer, and building a true culture/identity within the organization. There was one misstep though. Our host Joshua Balta details what that miss was on this episode of Hive Hoops.2024-07-2227 minHive HoopsIN JEFF PETERSON WE TRUST!On this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta celebrates the Hornets' offseason that fans have been dreaming of and calling for for years now.2024-07-1626 minHive HoopsTidjane Salaün Initial ReactionsThe Charlotte Hornets surprised everyone and selected Tidjane Salaün 6th overall Wednesday night. Our host Joshua Balta provides his draft night thoughts on the selection.2024-06-2728 minHive HoopsDRAFT DAY! WHAT WILL THE HORNETS DO?Corban Ford from PUMAPro, Swish Theory, The Lead, and Basketball Intelligence joins our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss last-minute draft affairs and what the Charlotte Hornets will ultimately do Wednesday night. Trade up for Sheppard? Castle? Trade back for Ron Holland or Devin Carter? Stay pat at 6? Dillingham to Charlotte? All of this and more can be found right here on this episode of Hive Hoops!2024-06-2631 minHive HoopsSHOULD CHARLOTTE MOVE UP IN THE DRAFT?Reports suggest that Charlotte could move up to draft Reed Sheppard or Stephon Castle in the 2024 NBA Draft. Dalton Knecht has also been linked to the Hornets in recent reports. Our host, Joshua Balta, tells us why Charlotte is in a good spot to move up, stay at 6, or even trade down on this episode of Hive Hoops. 2024-06-2425 minHive HoopsTYPICAL HORNETS OFFSEASON: DRAFTING LOTTERY AND OFF-THE-COURT ISSUESLather, rinse, repeat. Would you really be experiencing a Hornets offseason without talking about selecting in the lottery of the NBA Draft and off-the-court issues? Corban Ford from Swish Theory/The Lead/Roster Reconstruction joins our host Joshua Balta to talk Charles Lee, who at pick 6, and LaMelo Ball.2024-05-2235 minHive HoopsFORMER HORNETS IN THE PLAYOFFSOn this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you around the league to check-in on former Hornets players, and those that have a connection to the team (or specific player) during the 2024 NBA Playoffs.2024-05-2125 minHive HoopsNO LOTTERY LUCK; HORNETS WILL SELECT AT 6You cannot have Lady Lottery Luck on your side every year, right? The Hornets slide down to the sixth overall selection in the 2024 NBA Draft following Sunday's Lottery results. Our host, Joshua Balta, provides his early thoughts on who the Hornets should target with their 1st round selection.2024-05-1324 minHive HoopsCHARLES LEE: HORNETS' NEW HEAD COACHCharles Lee is the new Head Coach of the Charlotte Hornets. Our host Joshua Balta provides his initial reaction on this episode of Hive Hoops!2024-05-1023 minHive HoopsCHARLOTTE'S COACHING SEARCH WITH CORBAN FORDCorban Ford from The Lead, Swish Theory, and the podcast "Roster Reconstruction" joins our host Joshua Balta to discuss Charlotte's coaching search. Are we growing worried? Should we be? Is this another cycle like the one that left the Hornets scrambling two years ago? Find out right here on this episode of Hive Hoops!2024-05-0835 minHive HoopsLAKERS COMPLICATE THE HORNETS HC SEARCHThe Lakers have fired Darvin Ham and in typical Lakers "taking over Charlotte on a wintry Wednesday night in Uptown" fashion they have decided to interview Charlotte's, presumably, top candidates in Charles Lee and JJ Redick which elongates and possibly alters the course of Charlotte's search. Our host Joshua Balta provides his initial reaction to the news on this episode of Hive Hoops!2024-05-0619 minHive HoopsSTILL NO NEWS ON THE COACHING HIREThe NBA Playoffs have begun, and yet again no Charlotte Hornets. But when that day comes... !!!!!!!!!!!!! There is no new news on the head coaching hire. Our host, Joshua Balta, gives his take as to why that might be on this episode of Hive Hoops! 2024-04-2214 minHive HoopsHORNETS' SEASON IS FINALLY OVEROn this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you through his quick thoughts on the Hornets' season, and what the next steps are and should be as Charlotte moves into the off-season.2024-04-1528 minHive HoopsHORNETS COACHING SEARCH ADDS MORE NAMESThe Charlotte Hornets are set to interview more candidates for the open Head Coaching position. Our host Joshua Balta gives his thoughts on why this is a good thing.2024-04-0923 minHive HoopsSTEVE CLIFFORD STEPS DOWNOn this episode of Hive Hoops we discuss Steve Clifford announcing that he will be stepping down as the Head Coach of the Charlotte Hornets at the end of the season and moving into an advisory role within the Front Office of the Organization. Our host Joshua Balta takes you through his thoughts on Steve Clifford, how the process was handled, and who the top three names should be on the Charlotte Hornets' coaching search list.2024-04-0431 minHive HoopsLAMELO OFFICIALLY SHUTDOWN FOR THE SEASONThe Charlotte Hornets officially shutdown LaMelo Ball for the season. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through initial thoughts and what concerns there are moving forward.2024-03-2920 minHive HoopsJEFF PETERSON IS OFFICIALOn this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you behind his thoughts on Jeff Peterson's biggest remarks from his press conference on Wednesday at the Spectrum Center which introduced him as the EVP of Basketball Operations for the Charlotte Hornets.2024-03-0719 minHive HoopsLAMELO REMAINS OUTOn this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you through the Hornets' offensive struggles, should Clifford be brought back, and LaMelo remains out. 2024-02-2918 minHive HoopsCHARLOTTE WINS IN SALT LAKE CITYThe Charlotte Hornets won in Utah for the first time since 2006 behind Grant Williams, Miles Bridges, and Co. Our host Joshua Balta takes you behind the key components that led to Charlotte's fourth straight win and what the upside (and downside) to LaMelo Ball returning to the newly, vastly improved Charlotte Hornets.2024-02-2322 minHive HoopsNEW HORNETS ARE 3-0Our host Joshua Balta takes you through an episode of jubilation and excitement. The new look Hornets are 3-0 and head into the All-Star break generating buzz throughout the organization, city, and fanbase as a whole. 2024-02-1518 minHive HoopsHAYWARD AND PJ TRADEDThe NBA Trade Deadline has come and gone, and the Charlotte Hornets look different. Gordon Hayward and PJ Washington were dealt ending an underwhelming era of Charlotte Hornets Basketball. Darian Thomas from The Lead joins our host Joshua Balta to discuss trade details from the day, Miles Bridges, James Bouknight and more.2024-02-091h 08Hive HoopsLAUGHING (stock) HORNETSThe Charlotte Hornets fell by twenty to the Knicks, Steve Clifford got thrown out, and players were seen laughing on the bench in the midst of it all. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes a look back on LaMelo's basketball journey prior to being drafted by Charlotte and asks the question: Is it unfair of us to ask him to become a great leader?2024-01-3011 minHive HoopsTERRY ROZIER TRADEDCorban Ford of Sports Ethos, Swish Theory, and The Lead joins our host, Joshua Balta, in a crossover episode of Hive Hoops to discuss the trade between the Charlotte Hornets and the Miami Heat that sent Terry Rozier to South Beach in return for Kyle Lowry and a 2027 1st round draft pick. 2024-01-241h 11Hive HoopsHORNETS RUIN KAT'S CAREER NIGHTKarl Anthony-Towns scored 62 points against Charlotte, but it did not matter. The Hornets won 128-125 in a crazy, comeback win. Our host Joshua Balta details the improbable victory on this episode of Hive Hoops!2024-01-2326 minHive HoopsTHE HORNETS WIN!On this episode of Hive Hoops, our host Joshua Balta takes you behind Charlotte's 124-120 win over a Wemby-less San Antonio squad. A win is great. Take them how you can get them this season. But what did Friday night's close win really demonstrate about the makeup of this Hornets team? You can find out right here at Hive Hoops!2024-01-2223 minHive HoopsMITCH MAKING MOVES?The Charlotte Hornets are 8-30. It all sucks. With Mitch Kupchak heading out the door soon, do you still want him making moves at the deadline? Do you really want another ownership group in the city to play a large part of the daily operations of a Charlotte sports franchise? Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through the latest murmurings involving the Charlotte Hornets on this episode of Hive Hoops. 2024-01-1821 minHive HoopsBLOW IT ALL UPJoshua Balta returns to provide his latest takes on the 8-29 Charlotte Hornets. Trade LaMelo? Keep Terry Rozier? Our host provides his thoughts as to what the Charlotte Hornets should be doing as the trade deadline approaches. 2024-01-1631 minHive HoopsCLIFFORD RANTS; BLAME GOES ALL-AROUNDSteve Clifford went on a post-game rant on the Hornets' defensive deficiencies following Charlotte's winnable-loss against Minnesota on Saturday night. Yet blame deserves to go all-around the organization: from players to the GM and the coaching staff as well. On this episode, our host Joshua Balta takes you into the Hornets' issues that extend well-beyond a post-game rant.2023-12-0429 minHive HoopsIS THIS JUST ANOTHER LOST SEASON FOR THE HORNETS?W.B. Whitted hosts the latest episode of Hive Hoops by stepping in for Joshua Balta. Is it already time to be looking at 2024 Draft Prospects following LaMelo Ball's latest injury?? W.B. says pump the brakes on that. Find out why he's still clinging to a small hope on this episode of Hive Hoops!2023-11-3028 minHive HoopsHORNETS BEAT THE CELTICS ON LP ON A MONDAY; MUST BEAT THE WIZARDSDarian Thomas from The Lead: Hornets Lead and Bleav Podcast Network fills in for our host Joshua Balta on the latest episode of Hive Hoops. Darian breaks down the key reasons as to how the Charlotte Hornets overcame Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics on League Pass on a Monday. Darian talks about how the Hornets must win tonight against the Wizards.2023-11-2223 minHive HoopsHORNETS 1-0 IN-SEASON TOURNAMENT; MILES BRIDGES SET TO BE BACKThe Hornets split the weekend against the Wizards and Knicks, moved to 1-0 in the In-season Tournament, lost Brandon Miller to an ankle injury, more defensive issues, and Miles Bridges is set to return this week. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes listeners through the weekend happenings surrounding the Hornets and what he believes will happen with Miles Bridges' court appearance. 2023-11-1327 minHive HoopsWARNING: HORNETS RANTAt all levels of the organization: ownership, front office, coaches, and players they have told us they expect to compete for a playoff spot. Right now they are competing for the #1 overall pick. Rant by our host Joshua Balta on this episode.2023-11-0935 minHive HoopsLAMELO IS BACK! HORNETS SPLIT THE WEEKENDLaMelo Ball clamped up Tyrese Haliburton on Saturday night to win the game for the Charlotte Hornets, and then followed it up with a 30 point, 10 rebound, 13 assist triple-double on Sunday night in a contest against the Dallas Mavericks that saw Charlotte come up just short. Joshua Balta highlights key takeaways from a weekend that might have gotten the Hornets' young star back on track and what that means headed forward.2023-11-0625 minHive HoopsHORNETS FALL TO THE LOWLY ROCKETSThe Charlotte Hornets fall to 1-3 on the season. Out host Joshua Balta gives his thoughts on the disappointing start for the Hornets.2023-11-0230 minHive HoopsHORNETS GET BULLIED, DUREN'D IN LOSS TO PISTONSThe Charlotte Hornets fall to 1-1 on the season after getting bullied, other than Brandon Miller and PJ Washington, against the Detroit Pistons. Our host Joshua Balta gives his thoughts on the bad and the good (but mostly bad) from Friday night's contest.2023-10-3024 minHive HoopsHORNETS ARE 1-0!Joshua Balta goes up and down the roster showering praise on an impressive win on opening night against the rival Atlanta Hawks. Charlotte, you have a center. Charlotte, you have a rookie. Charlotte, you did not overpay PJ Washington. And much more.2023-10-2630 minHive HoopsSEASON PREDICTIONS WITH DYLAN JACKSONDylan Jackson joins our host Joshua Balta to provide their season predictions for the Charlotte Hornets.2023-10-251h 03Hive HoopsHORNETS HYPE, ARE YOU BUYING IT?Brandon Miller advanced? Gordon and Terry as leaders? LaMelo improving defensively? Are the overall vibes coming out of the Spectrum Center for real? Darian Thomas from The Lead and the Bleav Podcast Network joins our host Joshua Balta to provide what to buy and what to sell coming out of the Hornets organization.2023-10-0940 minHive HoopsBRANDON MILLER IS THE BIGGEST STORY OF HORNETS MEDIA DAYSteve Clifford, LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Miles Bridges, PJ Washington, your mama, and even Hugo had rave reviews on Brandon Miller. Get excited everyone! But wait. Our host Joshua Balta tells you why we need to pump the brakes a bit and still practice reserve on the BMill hype. 2023-10-0424 minHive HoopsKAI JONES, CODY MARTIN, MALEDON/SUMNER SIGNINGS AND SEASON PREDICTIONSW.B. Whitted joins our host Joshua Balta in a content heavy episode of Hive Hoops! Thoughts on Kai Jones being away from the team indefinitely, Cody Martin still limited, two guard signings in Sumner/Maledon, and season predictions can all be found right here on this episode!2023-10-021h 05Hive HoopsTYLER HERRO, SHOULD THE HORNETS WANT HIM?On this episode, Joshua Balta provides his takes on whether or not the Charlotte Hornets should pursue Tyler Herro in a trade.2023-09-2522 minHive HoopsHAYWARD OFF THE BENCH; PREDICTING 2028 ALL-NBA TEAMSCorban Ford from Swish Theory, Sports Ethos, and The Lead joins Joshua Balta to argue whether or not Hayward or Rozier (or both) should come off of the bench for the Hornets. The conversation switches at the 37 minute mark, and the guys give their predictions on how the 2028 All-NBA Teams will look like. Two Hornets are included during this segment 👀
2023-08-311h 13Hive HoopsPJ WASHINGTON IS BACK; ROTATION; LAMELO DISRESPECTBen from Hornets Twitter (X) joins our host Joshua Balta to discuss the big news from the past week for the Charlotte Hornets. PJ Washington signs a 3 yr/48M deal to return to Charlotte. How should the Hornets rotation look now with PJ back in the fold? Which of McGowens, Thor, Jones, and Bouknight still have a shot at receiving minutes? LaMelo the 84th best player in the league??? All of this and more right here at Hive Hoops!2023-08-281h 06Hive HoopsB-DIDDY BACK IN THE QCBaron Davis joined LaMelo Ball to debut the return of the 1997-2002 throwback pinstripe jerseys. Seeing BD back in the QC came with all of the feels and nostalgia that made many of us Hornets fans. Our host Joshua Balta takes us back through memories of many of the Hornets greats. More PJ and schedule talk right here at HH as well!2023-08-2421 minHive HoopsNTILIKINA/HUNTER SIGNINGS, NEW "PATIENT" OWNERSHIPKarter Baughan joins our host, Joshua Balta, on this episode to talk about the first two signings under the new ownership group in Frank Ntilikina and R.J. Hunter. Speaking of new ownership, what is the current climate around the team, and are we excited for what is to come or should fans be cautious due to some of Plotkin and Schnall's recent comments?? This and more right here on Hive Hoops. 2023-08-0739 minHive HoopsOFF-SEASON GRADESPatrick Simon of Hornets Lead joins our host Joshua Balta to grade Charlotte's off-season to date, and what it can improve to if certain moves are made. We are in the final days of a Michael Jordan majority-owned Charlotte Hornets team. Our guest has some final remarks for MJ.2023-08-0331 minHive HoopsWHO DESERVES MORE BLAME FOR INACTION THIS SUMMER, KUPCHAK OR NEW OWNERSHIP?Joshua Balta is back from a mini-vacay and ready to tell you how much he hates the month of August due to the inaction across the NBA. Speaking of inaction, have we been placing blame on Kupchak when quite possibly the new majority-ownership might be behind it? This and more right here on this episode of Hive Hoops!2023-08-0124 minHive HoopsRANKING OFF-SEASON PRIORITIES, MJ SALE VOTE PASSESOn this episode, Joshua Balta briefly touches on the vote that passed meaning that the Charlotte Hornets will officially have new majority-owners in Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall. He then provides his rankings of what the Hornets' off-season must-do's should be. 2023-07-2429 minHive HoopsMILES BRIDGES, MITCH KUPCHAK AND MORE SUMMER LEAGUEPatrick Simon of Hornets Lead joins our host Joshua Balta to give his thoughts on Summer League. Our host presents his takeaways from the two press conferences from this week involving Miles Bridges, LaMelo Ball, and Mitch Kupchak.2023-07-211h 11Hive Hoops16 MILLION TOO MUCH FOR PJ? DSJ CHOSE NETS OVER HORNETSPatrick Simon of Hornets Lead joins our host Joshua Balta in this two part series detailing the news from the weekend that the Charlotte Hornets have not approached the 16 million dollar mark per year for PJ Washington. In addition, The Charlotte Hornets did indeed offer guard Dennis Smith Jr., yet DSJ chose Brooklyn over Charlotte. The two Hornets Lead contributors give their takes on what this means for the Hornets and their roster construction for what has proved to be another slow-moving off-season for the front office in the Queen City.2023-07-1730 minHive HoopsTEN MAN ROTATION;SUMMER LEAGUE OVERVIEWTerry Magnum of Buzz Boys joins our host, Joshua Balta, to overview Summer League and give their biggest takeaways and lowest of the lows. Talks turn to the outlook of the season and where our host and guest see the rotation as it stands today.2023-07-141h 18Hive HoopsBRANDON MILLER ARRIVESBrandon Miller and Nick Smith Jr. put on a show Tuesday night in what was an eventual loss to the Scoot-less Portland TrailBlazers during the NBA2K24 Summer League. Our host, Joshua Balta highlights, and lowlights, the performances from SL and gives his thoughts on what seems to be PJ Washington signing the Qualifying Offer in Charlotte, and why that might not be the best route for PJ.2023-07-1242 minHive HoopsLAMELO, BRIDGES, PJ, AND SUMMER LEAGUE OVERREACTIONSWhat a busy week for the Charlotte Hornets! LaMelo Ball signed his extension, Miles Bridges is back on a 1 yr deal, PJ Washington or Grant Williams, and the Hornets Summer League team debuts (unfortunately). Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through the latest happenings of Free Agency and Summer League on this episode of Hive Hoops!2023-07-0453 minHive HoopsHORNETS FREE AGENCY TIERS, MORE DRAFT THOUGHTSNBA Free Agency starts this week. It is believed that the Charlotte Hornets will bring back PJ Washington and Miles Bridges (although MItch Kupchak did make some interesting comments). Our host, Joshua Balta, lays out his three tiers of FA targets for the Charlotte Hornets, and recaps the draft from last Thursday.2023-06-2658 minHive HoopsTHE CHARLOTTE HORNETS SELECT BRANDON MILLER; DRAFT NIGHT RECAP WITH SAM DRACULABrandon Miller was the selection over Scoot Henderson for the Charlotte Hornets at two. Sigh. We recap our thoughts, emotions, concerns, pain on the night. Sam Dracula joins our host, Joshua Balta, to further recap the night and what Charlotte's next steps are as free agency nears.2023-06-2351 minHive HoopsWORRIED ABOUT THE OFF-SEASON? MORE MJ SALE TALK WITH UNDER CONSTRUCTIONJamaal and Keyza from Under Construction stop by to join our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss MJ's sale and what their thoughts are on "why now?" Should Hornets fans be worried about the direction of the team during the sale with so many moving pieces? All of that and more here on this episode of Hive Hoops!2023-06-1940 minHive HoopsEMERGENCY EPISODE: MJ SELLSAdrian Wojnarowski broke news early Friday morning that Charlotte Hornets majority owner, Michael Jordan, has agreed to sell his majority-stake to a group led by current Hornets minority owner Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall. Our host, Joshua Balta, provides his initial thoughts to the news and what it means for the Charlotte Hornets' off-season and future.2023-06-1628 minHive HoopsHORNETS/PELICANS TRADE IDEAS WITH REL MYERSRel Myers from the Pels and Whistles Podcast and Pelicans Lead joins our host, Joshua Balta, to explore possible trade ideas between Charlotte and New Orleans. The two talk through various scenarios and either accept or decline the deals based on the packages. 2023-06-1538 minHive HoopsPELICANS AGGRESSIVELY WANT SCOOTOn this episode, our host Joshua Balta explores Shams' breaking news yesterday that the New Orleans Pelicans want to aggressively pursue acquiring the #2 or #3 overall selection in the 2023 NBA Draft in order to select Scoot Henderson, and what all of this could mean for the Charlotte Hornets. 2023-06-1321 minHive HoopsBRANDON MILLER AND OUR BIGGEST CONCERNS, WALSH AT #27??Matt Powers, Editor of The Swish Theory, joins our host Joshua Balta to give his position on Scoot vs. Miller. Miller's biggest concerns are highlighted by our guest, as well as where he would have the current 2023 draft prospects ranked against recent top prospects from drafts prior. Matt provides us with his late 1st round/early 2nd round steals, and who fits the Hornets best from those candidates. 2023-06-0939 minHive HoopsHOW WOULD THE 2023 DRAFT CLASS RANK IN PREVIOUS DRAFTS?Our host, Joshua Balta, takes the top three selections from the 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 drafts and ranks them according to his pre-draft grade on each player. Using zero NBA-playing evidence, Balta attempts to provide his pre-draft grade on each player and where he would have them ranked if they were all a part of the same draft. There are some BIG misses, and then there are some BIG hits. Join in all of the fun on this episode and see where Scoot Henderson, Brandon Miller, LaMelo Ball, and more would rank according to our host!2023-06-0741 minHive HoopsJABARI AND #4 FOR SCOOT? SHOULD CHARLOTTE TRADE UP FOR GG? WITH DYLAN JACKSONDylan Jackson, a mainstay in the Hornets community, joins Balta to discuss if the Hornets should entertain any offers to move out of the number two overall selection in the 2023 NBA Draft. We had to get Dylan's opinion on the the debate that everyone is talking about should the Hornets stay pat at #2: Scoot or Miller. What should Charlotte do with the remaining picks in the draft (package and move up, trade for a current player, trade for future assets, etc.) fills in at our middle segment, and then the episode finishes with a highly-rated player that neither Dylan...2023-06-0142 minHive Hoops"YOU TAKE SCOOT" WITH CORBAN FORDCorban Ford from Swish Theory joins our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss the NBA Draft, just missing out on Wemby, Scoot versus Miller, Caleb Martin, and more!2023-05-2940 minHive HoopsWILL SCOOT OR MILLER START?It has been a week since the Charlotte Hornets missed out on the Wemby Sweepstakes. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you inside of his thoughts and emotions the morning after the NBA Draft Lottery and of the past week. He also brings up the question, "Will Scoot or Miller start for the Hornets?" His response may surprise you...2023-05-2422 minHive HoopsWEMBY ALMOST A HORNET; CHARLOTTE LANDS THE #2 PICKWe were this close, Charlotte. The lottery gods chose to give Wemby rights to a five-time champion who possessed the likes of David Robinson and top-ten, all-time great Tim Duncan in the San Antonio Spurs. WTF. But it's not all bad. The Charlotte Hornets moved up to #2 in the upcoming NBA Draft and will likely be deciding between guard Scoot Henderson and forward Brandon Miller. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through his wide-ranging emotions on this draft lottery reaction episode, and how the sting of missing out on the number one overall pick drained much of the elation...2023-05-1751 minHive HoopsLOTTERY, WEMBY PREVIEW, MONTY WILLIAMS AND NICK NURSEIT'S NBA DRAFT LOTTERY WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!! We have been waiting for May 16th since late December as Hornets fans, and it has finally arrived! The future of the entire franchise could be altered by winning the lottery, yet the pain and suffering could equally continue as well. On this episode, our host Joshua Balta, details all of the possibilities that could unfold for Charlotte on lottery night by taking you pick through pick with the percentage odds of each possibility. Our official mini-Wemby prognostication makes an appearance, as well as what Charlotte may do on draft night should they not...2023-05-1535 minHive HoopsDILLON BROOKS AS A HORNET?Ben Hollifield joins the pod to tell all listeners why Dillon Brooks must be a Charlotte Hornet. He, along with our host Joshua Balta, dream about the idea of adding Jrue Holiday to the roster (not going to happen, but it was fun anyway). Free agent talks ensue with Ben providing his desired top-five free agent targets, and Balta providing a sneak peek into his own list. The episode ends with an "Executive of the Year" segment (or should we say "Not Executive of the Year" segment) that takes us back to last off-season (hell) and why GMs like...2023-05-0451 minHive HoopsMORE BRIDGES, KUPCHAK, LAMELO WITH SAM DRACULASam Dracula joins our host, Joshua Balta, in order to give his takes on the last two weeks of the Hornets' off-season following the conclusion of the 2022-2023 season. 2023-04-241h 15Hive HoopsMILES BRIDGES SUSPENDED, KINDA.Miles Bridges has been suspended by the NBA. Well, sort of. Our host, Joshua Balta, takes you through the NBA's decision, what it means for the Hornets, and Bridges himself. Balta looks back on Kupchak's remarks on Bridges from just last week and how that will play into the decision-making process for Charlotte. Personal thoughts on the possible return of Bridges is offered as well, and ultimately what kind of interest/contract will Bridges receive. All of this and more right here at Hive Hoops!2023-04-1723 minHive Hoops"LIFE IS BETTER WHEN YOU WIN;" HORNETS' EXIT INTERVIEWSJerry Donation from ClutchPoints joins our host Joshua Balta to discuss the biggest takeaways from the team's exit interviews. Segments on LaMelo Ball, Steve Clifford, PJ Washington, rapid fire on who should be back in Charlotte next season, and more can be found right here at Hive Hoops!
2023-04-1138 minHive HoopsJAMES BOUKNIGHT, KAI JONES AND THE GREENSBORO HORNETS; NEW CBA AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR CHARLOTTEThe Greensboro Hornets are back! Our host Joshua Balta breaks down the latest performances from James Bouknight, Kai Jones, and the rest of the young Hornets. New CBA Deal. What does it mean for the Charlotte Hornets?2023-04-0335 minHive HoopsBRING DSJ BACK! HORNETS' CENTER ROTATION CAROUSELThe Charlotte Hornets de-saddled the Dallas Mavericks in back-to-back contests over the weekend severely affecting the Mavs' chances at the post-season while providing a shot to the arm for the Hornets' fanbase down the stretch of the season. Dennis Smith Jr. had big time performances against his former team, and has been playing well for the Hornets all season long. Should DSJ be brought back to Charlotte next season although he is shooting 21% from three? Our host Joshua Balta dives into this, JT Thor's recent play, and the center rotation carousel that the Hornets will deploy in the final 6...2023-03-2836 minHive HoopsMICHAEL JORDAN SALE UPDATES, NICK RICHARDS' EXTENSION, SHOULD CLIFFORD RETURN?Evan Kent from The Crown Club joins our host, Joshua Balta, to provide his thoughts on the possible sale of the Charlotte Hornets by Michael Jordan. New information has surfaced since the reports originally released. Balta and Evan give their takes on why they believe a sale may, or may not, occur. Nick Richards received a 3 yr/15M extension. Was this a good move? In addition, the roster continues to fill out heading into the off-season/next season. Does this bode well for coach Steve Clifford, and should he return next season? 2023-03-241h 06Hive HoopsMJ SELLING THE HORNETS? SHOULD GERALD WALLACE'S JERSEY BE RETIRED?Swarm and Sting's B.W. Whitted joined our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss the biggest topic surrounding the Charlotte Hornets at the moment...Michael Jordan possibly selling his majority stake in the organization. The two go in depth on the topic dissecting Jordan's tenure in Charlotte from a basketball standpoint, community level, and even to what it would mean to the league as a whole if MJ were to sell the team. In addition, B.W. recently wrote an article that was inspired by a Hornets fan who has started a petition to have Gerald Wallace's jersey retired in...2023-03-201h 14Hive HoopsMARCH MADNESS HORNETS EDITION: PLAYERS IN THE NCAA TOURNEY ON DRAFT WATCHDarian Thomas from The Lead, Trust The Buzz, and Bleav in Hornets joins our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss players from the NCAA Tournament who should be on Charlotte's radar in the upcoming 2023 NBA Draft. 2023-03-141h 09Hive HoopsSHOULD KELLY OUBRE AND DSJ BE BACK IN CHARLOTTE NEXT SEASON?Hive Hoops is back this week with your host Joshua Balta. The Hornets are 7-3 in their last 10 games and one of the top defensive teams since the NBA Trade Deadline. Balta details some of the reasons that the Hornets have been trending upwards as of late. Kelly Oubre and Dennis Smith Jr. are healthy and playing like it recently for Charlotte. Should they return next season in the Queen City? All of this and more right here at Hive Hoops!2023-03-1040 minHive HoopsLAMELO BALL HAS SURGERY; HORNETS FIVE GAME WINNING STREAK ENDSLaMelo Ball is out for the season, and had successful surgery to repair a fractured ankle on Wednesday. Our host, Joshua Balta, details what his main concerns are for the LaMelo-less Hornets down the final stretch. Charlotte's five game winning streak came to an unsurprising end Wednesday night as Kevin Durant made his return to play donning a Phoenix jersey for the first time since his trade to the Suns. A brief recap of the game leads to some positive takeaways for a certain Hornets rookie. Do the Hornets have a legit shot at a bottom three record now...2023-03-0232 minHive HoopsWE LIVE IN A LAMELO BALL/MARK WILLIAMS WORLD; DOES MITCH KUPCHAK DESERVE AN APOLOGY?LaMelo Ball and Mark Williams headline this latest rendition of Hive Hoops starring guest, Sam Dracula. And how could they not? LaMelo Ball is playing the best basketball of the season alongside his new shiny toy in rookie big, Mark Williams, who dropped in 18 points and TWENTY rebounds against Bam Adebayo and the Miami Heat. The performance helped propel the Charlotte Hornets to their fourth consecutive win ushering in a wisp of hope into a fanbase that has been rather lifeless dating back to the summer of 2022. Our host, Joshua Balta, and Sam dive into what they are seeing...2023-02-271h 08Hive HoopsLAMELO BALL VS. ANTHONY EDWARDS; OUBRE EFFECT; MARTIN CONCERNThe Charlotte Hornets' final 22 game stretch begins tonight with a matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves meaning that we get a showdown between the cream of the crop of the 2020 NBA Draft in LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards. Our host, Joshua Balta, breaks down previous matchups between the two budding stars while discussing the effects of the looming return of Kelly Oubre on the likes of Bryce McGowens and JT Thor. Cody Martin continues to be sidelined with knee soreness and the worries are rising. Balta voices his concerns surrounding the most recent Hornet who received an extension. 2023-02-2422 minHive HoopsWHY YOU SHOULD CONTINUE WATCHING THESE HORNETS; ALL-STAR WEEKEND RECAPThe Charlotte Hornets are 17-43 with 22 games remaining. The playoffs have been off the table since December and the NBA lottery results are the next date circled on most Hornets' fans calendar yet our host, Joshua Balta, provides multiple reasons as to why this final stretch is important and why/what you should watch for. A micro-segment of "Host and Hoist" details the best moments in Charlotte Hornets All-Star Weekend history, and then the episode ends with a recap of this past All-Star weekend.2023-02-2026 minHive HoopsHORNETS WIN; ATLANTA ONLY 30 MINUTES AWAY?? MORE TRADE DEADLINE ASSESSMENTThe Charlotte Hornets beat the Atlanta Hawks for the third time this season, and if it weren't for what happened last April in State Farm Arena, it would be safe to say that the Hornets own the Hawks, but alas... Connor Sparrow from the KarterKast Podcast joined our host, Joshua Balta, on the show to talk about Charlotte's sixteenth win, LaMelo's 30 minutes to Atlanta comment hahahaha, and an all out balanced performance from the guys in Purple and Teal. After a weekend to sit and assess, Balta and Connor attempt to provide a more measured reaction to the Hornets...2023-02-1440 minHive HoopsTHE DAY AFTER THE DEADLINE: HORNETS POST-TRADE DEADLINE EPISODE WITH MATT SPONHOURThe NBA Trade Deadline has passed and the Charlotte Hornets made two moves: Jalen McDaniels is off to Philly in exchange for Svi (it's just Svi) and two 2nd round picks, meanwhile Mason Plumlee was traded to the Clippers for Reggie Jackson and a 2028 2nd round pick. On this episode, our host Joshua Balta and special guest Matt Sponhour from Stay Hot: A Sports Podcast give their thoughts on the Hornets' trade deadline. How did the Hornets front office do? What grade do they receive? Who did you want to see get moved, yet ultimately did not? Did the...2023-02-1030 minHive HoopsSTATE OF THE HORNETS AND NBA TRADE DEADLINE WITH DAN FAVALEDan Favale of Bleacher Report and the Hardwood Knocks Podcast joined our host, Joshua Balta, to discuss the current state of the Hornets as well as Dan's most recent piece for B/R that is a comprehensive look at the NBA Trade Deadline. Charlotte showed up four times in Favale's article. On this episode, Balta and Dan discuss these trade proposals and why they make sense for the guys in Purple and Teal. As in any piece, cuts must be made. Dan shares some of the trade concepts he had cooked up that included the Hornets that couldn't quite...2023-02-0340 minHive HoopsHORNETS FALL SHORT IN MILWAUKEE; LAMELO FRANCHISE RECORD; TRADE DEADLINE MUSTSDarian Thomas from Trust the Buzz and NBA Draft Nerds joins our host Joshua Balta on the show to recap the loss in Milwaukee, will the Hornets be "too good" down the stretch, trade deadline musts, and LaMelo Ball's franchise record. Is P.J. Washington a vital piece to the future of this team? Is LaMelo's franchise record of eight triple doubles an indictment on this franchise's history? Who would you rather have moving forward: Cody Martin or Jalen McDaniels? All of this and more can be heard right here at Hive Hoops!2023-02-0137 minHive HoopsWAS SIGNING GORDON HAYWARD ACTUALLY A GOOD THING? TRADE OR FADE: TRADE MACHINE SCENARIOSBen Hollifield, more commonly known as @benhuncc on Twitter and former guest of "The 11th Pick Podcast," joined the show to discuss where the Hornets are nearly 50 games into the season, are injuries mostly to blame for Charlotte's woes, was Gordon Hayward's deal actually a good thing for this team, and finishing up with a segment called "Trade or Fade" where our host Joshua Balta grades Ben's recent Trade Machine ideas for the Hornets. 2023-01-2636 minHive HoopsUGLY IN UTAH; WHAT DOES RUI TO THE LAKERS MEAN FOR THE HORNETS?The Hornets slip back to their losing ways falling 120-102 in Utah. The Hornets went 2/16 from deep and that pretty much summed up the night for the guys in Purple and Teal. Rui Hachimura was dealt to the Lakers for Kendrick Nunn and three 2nd round picks. Our host Joshua Balta discusses the impact that the deal may have on setting the market, and what that could mean for a few Hornets players should the franchise choose to move on. The episode finishes with a LaMelo Ball health update via Steve Clifford in the post-game presser, and a plead...2023-01-2426 minHive HoopsLAMELO BALL INJURED AGAIN, STEVE CLIFFORD WIN #208, MORE MARKHornets win!!!!!! But, it came at a cost. Of course it came at a cost. LaMelo Ball suffered yet another sprained ankle in the win over the Houston Rockets in the battle for last place. Our host Joshua Balta takes you through his thoughts on whether or not LaMelo should return this season, the medical staff's role in the hyper-injuries this season, Mark Williams' performance that hasn't been replicated in FOUR DECADES, coach Steve Clifford's franchise setting win total, and Clifford's comments from earlier in the week in regards to earning playing time versus being given playing time. 2023-01-1929 minHive HoopsCAN LAMELO BALL BE A NUMBER ONE OPTION?; WHO SHOULD BE ROSTERED COME FEBRUARY 10TH?Karter Baughan joins the show for his second appearance alongside our host Joshua Balta to discuss the 11-31 Hornets, can LaMelo Ball be a number one option on a winning team, number two option even? Balta and Karter talk about the two dookies, we mean dukies, on the Hornets and their recent uptick in play and production in Mason Plumlee and Mark Williams. The episode closes with a Rapid Fire (not really) edition of Trade Deadline talk. Who should still be rostered come February 10th, and what will be the reaction if the Hornets/Mitch Kupchak have a quiet...2023-01-1239 minHive HoopsMAYBE EVERYONE NEEDS TO GOThe Hornets allowed Ja Morant to bleed 26 seconds off the clock before touching the ball, and that pretty much sums up the Charlotte Hornets' performance against the Memphis Grizzlies. The team looks pathetic, not focused, and completely out on competing this season. Our host, Joshua Balta, discusses his concerns of the players on this roster, their "winning-DNA (or lack thereof)" and if there are any current Hornets who will actively bring winning basketball to the city of Charlotte. 2023-01-0524 minHive HoopsGET HAYWARD THE HELL OUT OF CHARLOTTEHive Hoops is back with the first episode of the New Year. The Charlotte Hornets are 10-28 and our host Joshua Balta is RANTING. Following poor performances against the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers, as well as poor individual performances from some of the team's biggest names: LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Gordon Hayward; the season is all but over which has this Hornets team looking ahead to brighter days. LaMelo's defensive performances are called into question, Terry's inconsistency and sporadic play, and a Gordon Batum segment have all of the fiery pieces that can hopefully help you and...2023-01-0322 minHive HoopsWHAT COULD HAVE BEEN...The Charlotte Hornets dropped two close contests this week against two contenders in the Clippers and the Nets. Too much Kawhi Leonard late against the Clippers, and then the same with Kevin Durant against the Nets cost the Hornets two games in which the injury-laden team battled and fought, yet to no avail. The Hornets could not grab that final board versus LA, and then had to rely on JT Thor and Bryce McGowens late against Brooklyn. Our host Joshua Balta dives into his thoughts following both losses, as well as detailing the increasing gap between Bryce McGowens and...2022-12-0828 minHive HoopsWHAT IS HAPPENING IN CHARLOTTE?The Hornets just won two games against the Philadelphia 76ers and the Minnesota Timberwolves to finish off last week yet instead of talking about Kelly Oubre's performance, the Mint City edition jerseys and court, or Kai Jones' emergence we have a medical staff (and perhaps coaching as well) issue in the Queen City. Our host Joshua Balta details the events of Robyn Hayward's social media post as well as the responses from the Charlotte Hornets, Gordon's agent, and then Robyn again. Could all of this been started with a new team destination in mind?? We have it here at...2022-11-2823 minHive HoopsOFFICIALLY TRADE SEASON??The Charlotte Hornets dropped two more games over the weekend in which they held the lead in the 4th quarter or overtime. That brings the Hornets to 4-14 on the year and the question of whether or not it is time to start cranking up the trade chatter. Joshua Balta details who on the Hornets is trending up and who is trending down on the trade market as well as the young rookies from the 2021 Draft Class.2022-11-2238 minHive HoopsHORNETS BREAK THE 8 GAME LOSING STREAK!!!The Charlotte Hornets are no longer on a losing streak! The 8 game slide is a thing of the past! The Hornets won 112-105 over the Orlando Magic on Monday night to start a new streak, one that has the Hornets in the win column. Seven players scored in double figures, LaMelo Ball flirted with a double-double, and Mason Plumlee led the team in scoring. Our host Joshua Balta breakdown individual performances as well as a few players who saw a reduction in their role (cough cough: JT Thor and James Bouknight). This isn't season-changing, yet a win is a...2022-11-1523 minHive HoopsLAMELO BALL RETURNSThe Charlotte Hornets welcomed back their All-Star in LaMelo Ball, yet his placement into the lineup wasn't quite enough to overcome the blistering Miami Heat shooting and backdoor cuts on Saturday night. Charlotte has lost 8 in a row now with a four game week coming up that includes games against Orlando, Indiana, and Washington. Our host Joshua Balta speaks on the importance of this week in regards to the outlook of the remainder of the season, and how a continued losing streak may even have him embracing the tank. 2022-11-1411 minHive HoopsSTEVE CLIFFORD'S RETURN TO ORLANDO RESULTS IN A BEATDOWN LOSS TO THE PREVIOUSLY WINLESS MAGICThe Charlotte Hornets got throttled in Orlando on Friday night to a previously winless Magic side who was missing five of their rotation players. Balta rec aps the lows and the lower lows of the game while asking more from PJ Washington, Kelly Oubre, and more. Our host also mini-previews the short turnaround for Saturday's game at The Hive against Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Kenny Atkinson is in Charlotte and Balta speaks on the situation of the former but not-former Hornets Head Coach. 2022-10-2924 minHive HoopsHORNETS LOSE BY A TOENAIL TO THE KNICKS AND THE MAGIC MATCHUP HAS CLASSIC HORNETS LOSS WRITTEN ALL OVER ITThe Charlotte Hornets lost in heartbreaking fashion on Wednesday in MSG against the New York Knicks. Balta details the importance of these early games on the schedule as well as the three that turned two. Balta has the boys in Purple and Teal on upset alert against the Orlando Magic in their next game on Friday and how a win here could be a sign of things to come in Charlotte. 2022-10-2828 min
Hive HoopsMITCH KUPCHAK EXPECTS THE CHARLOTTE HORNETS TO WIN MORE THAN 43 GAMES? DO WHAT?!?! ALSO, MILES BRIDGES ISN'T THAT GUY!In his pre-game interview with Ashley ShahAhmadi, Mitch Kupchak blew Hornets fans' minds with the expectation that Charlotte will win more games this season than last. Also, Balta details as to why he doesn't believe that the loss of Miles Bridges will be as detrimental as many think. 2022-10-2427 min