On this special episode of “Listen in With KNN,” host Kelsey Nicole Nelson welcomed special guest former professional basketball player and author Bobby P. Kinzer to the show.
Kinzer, a graduate of D.C. Public Schools played basketball and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High in Washington, D.C. Before playing professionally overseas, Kinzer received a four-year basketball scholarship to Penn State University. After two years with the Nittany Lions, Kinzer transferred to the then Texas A&I University and played one year getting selected to the All Lone Star Conference.
Kinzer’s authored book, “The Other Side of the Hoop: The European Basketball Experience,” dissects his experience as a young African American male playing in Europe in the 1970s, and the obstacles faced while embracing the differences of culture. “This book is for basketball enthusiasts and people who struggle with the decision of giving up or moving on,” Bobby said. Beyond basketball, Nelson and Kinzer delved into the underlying themes of resilience and gratitude within life and the sport of basketball. Bobby Kinzer’s story offers a refreshing perspective on the challenges and triumphs encountered on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, from cultural and linguistic barriers to social and economic hurdles. “The Other Side of the Hoop” promises to entertain, and motivate audiences worldwide, reminding us that obstacles are merely opportunities in disguise.
From the triumphs of underdog teams to the personal journeys of athletes navigating the highs and lows of their careers, Nelson and Kinzer outlined their perspectives on the future trajectory of basketball, both at the collegiate and professional levels.
They began locally in Washington, hyperfocusing on the promising career trajectory of Jordan Poole. The two explored the highs and lows facing his highly anticipated career since he came to Washington but also acknowledged the obstacles the Washington Wizards faced this season in the midst of a rebuild. “There are no dogs and leaders within the Wizards locker room right now” Nelson and Kinzer agreed.
Transitioning from their discussion on the local basketball scene in Washington, they shifted gears to dive into the excitement surrounding NCAA March Madness and the current state of women’s basketball. As they reviewed the basketball-filled month, they couldn’t overlook the current surge of excitement surrounding women’s basketball, particularly in light of the aftermath of the Louisiana State University (LSU) vs South Carolina game and the overall trajectory of the sport. From Brittney Griner’s story encouraging more fans to follow WNBA, to opportunities athletes like Angel Reese have utilizing their name, image, and likeness. “We live in an era, where there is a big shift of support for the WNBA, ” Kelsey said. “Women’s basketball will open up in a new realm, within the next couple of years”.
They provide an insightful and engaging exploration of March Madness, player performance dynamics, and celebrating the achievements of HBCU teams. From honoring Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) teams like Grambling University and Jackson State’s women’s basketball team. DC’S Howard University basketball team continuously dominates with their historic run to the NCAA Tournament. The duo also analyzed the performance of University of Maryland’s women’s basketball who earned a number 10 seed to the tournament.
“It is not about what happens to you, it is about how you react to what happens ” Kinzer quoted.
You can listen to the full show here.
