On this week’s Hear District, Marques and Kris Johnson are joined by 4× New York Times bestselling author Shea Serrano to talk about his new book Expensive Basketball, why he dedicated a chapter to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 2021 NBA Finals run, and how emotion drives the game. The crew also debates the Mount Rushmore of basketball movies, writing techniques, and share stories from their respective basketball journeys, including run-ins with Michael Jordan, Reggie Miller and Denzel Washington. Before that, Marques and Kris break down the Milwaukee Bucks’ home opener, including Khris Middleton’s return, the newfound defensive edge of Doc Rivers’ squad, Ryan Rollins’ growth, Myles Turner’s debut, and how the Bucks’ offseason intensity is paying off. They also debate which Bucks legends deserve statues in the Deer District. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 — Intro 2:34 — Season Opener 20:47 — Celebrating Khris 28:59 — Bucks Statues 34:41 — Intro to Shea Serrano 43:29 — Giannis' Chapter 47:50 — Backstory & Writing 1:03:37 — Michael Jordan 1:08:05 — Bucks' Outlook 1:16:02 — Basketball Movies For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Bobby Portis joins Hear District ahead of the 2025-26 season to talk Bucks basketball, leadership, and life. The fan-favorite forward opens up about his journey from Little Rock to Milwaukee — and the lessons that shaped his game, mindset, and purpose. He shares how being raised by a single mother and grandparents fueled his drive, how early NBA challenges built his resilience, and what made Milwaukee the perfect fit when he joined the Bucks in 2021 — including the story of how he personally called Giannis to pitch himself as a free agent. Bobby reflects on the Bucks’ 2021 championship run, the roots of his underdog mentality, and stepping into a veteran leadership role on a younger, energized roster. He also shares his excitement for a rejuvenated team under Doc Rivers — and why he believes Milwaukee now has one of the deepest benches in basketball. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

In this week's episode of Hear District, Marques & Kris Johnson break down the Milwaukee Bucks’ first preseason games — spotlighting Doc Rivers’ new system, defensive energy, and early standouts like Ryan Rollins, AJ Green, and Kevin Porter Jr. They also touch on Giannis' response to recent rumors, why they both had a chip on their shoulders as players, and more. Then, Kyle Kuzma’s trainer, Clint Parks, joins to share his journey, training philosophy, and insight from working with Kawhi Leonard. They discuss Kuzma’s offseason development, his fit with Giannis Antetokounmpo, how playing alongside LeBron James shaped him, and what Bucks fans can expect this season. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Marques Johnson and Kris Johnson break down Milwaukee Bucks training camp on this week’s Hear District. They cover Giannis missing Media Day, Kevin Porter Jr.’s role leading a deep guard rotation, Kyle Kuzma’s revamped shot diet, and how the Bucks’ playstyle could evolve this season. The guys also debate whether Milwaukee has the NBA’s best trio of bigs and who’s likely to make the final roster. Later, WNBA & Big Ten analyst Shimmy Miller joins to unpack Napheesa Collier’s fiery comments about WNBA leadership, the league’s ongoing ref and CBA issues, the WNBA Finals, and whether A’Ja Wilson is cementing her GOAT case. Plus, insight from Shimmy’s decades of coaching young women’s hoops. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

On this episode of Hear District, Marques & Kris are joined by Bucks insider Eric Nehm to preview Milwaukee’s thrilling 2025–26 season. They dive into how a faster pace, more 3-point shooting, and a revamped guard rotation could elevate the offense. They also discuss the team's ability to force turnovers at a higher rate, how defense will become a greater priority, and why Myles Turner is an excellent fit for the lineup. They also explore Giannis Antetokounmpo’s mindset entering the year, from his sharper jumper to his evolving role as lead playmaker and leader, while diving into hilarious and meaningful anecdotes from their own careers. Later, Ti Windisch & Rohan Katti of the Gyro Step Podcast join #BucksPodFest to talk bold predictions, Bucks hot takes, favorite players, and which guard could emerge as a breakout star. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

This week on Hear District, Marques & Kris Johnson welcome Evan Cohen (ESPN Radio’s UnSportsmanLike) to break down the Milwaukee Bucks’ under-the-radar outlook for the 2025–26 season. They discuss which offseason moves set the Bucks up for another 50-win run, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s EuroBasket bronze medal with Greece, and why he called it his greatest achievement. Evan also reflects on Kris’ UCLA days, the importance of draft position, underrated NBA teams that never won a title, and his journey through sports radio. Later, Van Fayaz & Jackson Gross of Brew Hoop join #BucksPodFest to talk Bucks’ offseason moves, standout players to watch, Wisconsin’s big summer in sports, and how AI is reshaping sports media. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

This week on Hear District, Marques & Kris Johnson welcome Jason Timpf of Hoops Tonight to debate Giannis Antetokounmpo’s place among the NBA’s elite, what it would take for him to achieve his 3rd MVP, and why next season could be his best defensively. They also break down the Bucks’ 3-guard lineup and how it could shape Milwaukee’s success. Later, Justin Garcia & Camille Davis of Locked On Bucks join to kick off #BucksPodFest, sharing stories of their Milwaukee roots, the Bucks’ biggest X-Factor for the upcoming season, why Kevin Porter Jr. could be the Bucks’ No. 2 scorer, their most anticipated lineups of next season, favorite players in franchise history, and where this summer stands in the pantheon of all-time Wisconsin sports' summers. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

This week on Hear District, Kris & Marques Johnson break down Giannis Antetokounmpo’s EuroBasket dominance, what it'll take for him to solidify himself as Greece’s basketball G.O.A.T., Thanasis Antetokounmpo’s return to Milwaukee and his impact on team culture. Radio voice Dave Koehn takes us behind the scenes of the Puppy Bowl with two of its stars… his French Bulldogs! He also discusses his favorite moment of the Bucks' 2024-25 season, Tony Bennett's NBA coaching prospects and more! MJ & Kris also react to the NBA’s proposed U.S. vs. World All-Star Game and draft squads of potential first-time All-Stars in the East. Other topics include a preview of the Bucks' roster heading into training camp, the Clippers/Kawhi Leonard salary cap investigation, Angel Reese’s comments on the Chicago Sky and Spike Lee’s new film, "Highest 2 Lowest." For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Greek journalist Harris Stavrou joins Kris & Marques Johnson from Cyprus to dive deep into Giannis Antetokounmpo’s rise, the Antetokounmpo brothers’ legacy, and the cultural impact of EuroBasket. Harris reflects on first seeing Giannis at 16, his leadership growth, and whether he's embraced in Greece the same way he is in Milwaukee. They also break down Greece's EuroBasket hopes and Thanasis' triumphant return to the court. Later, Jacob Sutton of JHuttHoops on Substack talks Bucks breakout candidates—why Cole Anthony and Ryan Rollins could shine—Giannis’ mid-range game, scoring guard free agents, and the next Dyson Daniels. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Award-winning journalist Jemele Hill joins Marques & Kris Johnson on Hear District for a wide-ranging conversation on sports, media, and culture. Jemele shares how her Detroit upbringing shaped her resilience, the challenges she's faced in sports journalism, and how social media and former athletes are transforming the industry. They revisit the Milwaukee Bucks’ 2020 bubble boycott, its impact on sports activism, and how the movement has evolved since. The trio also discusses when we might see the NBA’s first female head coach and the WNBA’s growing popularity, with a focus on CBA negotiations and media narratives around Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. Jemele talks about her shelved Colin Kaepernick documentary with Spike Lee and his latest film, "Highest 2 Lowest." Marques & Kris wrap things up with thoughts on the Bucks signing Amir Coffey and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance at EuroBasket 2025. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

9-year NBA vet and MAC legend, Gary Trent Sr., joins Kris and Marques Johnson on Hear District, breaking down his son's path to the NBA, his first year in Milwaukee, how Doc Rivers recruited Gary Trent Jr. to the Bucks, and why the 3-guard lineup featuring GTJ dominated last season. But first, they discuss Trent Sr.'s difficult upbringing, how that shaped his professional life and how he found basketball. They dive into his NBA career, the shooting tips he imparted on Trent Jr. from playing with Dirk Nowitzki and when he knew Gary Jr. had what it takes to make it. Finally, Marques & Kris discuss a Top 10 Bucks of All-Time List curated by Bucks Twitter, and the new age of celebrity GMs running college basketball programs. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

MJ & Kris are joined by Hall of Famer, Kevin Garnett, for an epic episode of Hear District spanning his legendary playing career; from humble beginnings through his NBA journey & life after basketball. Garnett discusses the profound impact Bucks coach Doc Rivers made on his life on and off the court, his early impressions of Giannis Antetokounmpo and their experience training together, plus KG's newfound relationship with Bobby Portis, his impressions of the Bucks signing Myles Turner, and what it takes to be an all-time great. Garnett explains the personal meaning behind his involvement in the Hoop It Up 3x3 basketball tourney as it visits Deer District from August 15 to 17, 2025. KG also gives Marques his flowers as they discuss their iconic film roles in "Uncut Gems" and "White Men Can't Jump" respectively, playing with Kris at Timberwolves training camp, how overcoming trouble in his youth led to KG getting drafted out of high school, and much more. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Kevin O'Connor of Yahoo Sports joins Kris & Marques Johnson to analyze the Milwaukee Bucks' offseason moves and how it positioned them to contend in a wide-open Eastern Conference. But first, Kevin shares his reactions to the Bucks' signings, how Cole Anthony factors into the lineup, Giannis Antetokounmpo's place in 'Best Player in the World' debates, how Myles Turner fits in Milwaukee and adds an element of versatility, Point Giannis, the Bucks' potential new Starting 5 and how players like Kevin Porter Jr., Kyle Kuzma & Andre Jackson Jr. can fulfill their potential next season. They also discuss the state of restricted free agency, a hilarious story about Isaiah Hartenstein, Jimi Hendrix's influence & much more. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Legendary NBA journalist Marc Stein of The Stein Line joins Marques & Kris to talk through GM Jon Horst's busy offseason and the Bucks' place in the Eastern Conference. But first, they reminisce about what made Marques Johnson such a compelling player and how the NBA landscape has evolved since. They dissect lessons in modern teambuilding from the NBA Finals, Horst's splashy summer, the Myles Turner signing, Bucks' roster construction, Giannis Antetokounmpo's decision to play for Greece in EuroBasket 2025 and what it means for his Bucks season, MJ's role in "White Men Can't Jump," whether it should've been remade, the controversial trade that sent Marques to the Clippers & more. Then, MJ & Kris react to some Bucks players' first time dunking and reflect on their earliest dunks, including the first time Kris dunked on MJ, before diving into the live streaming era and how sports media is evolving before our eyes. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

ESPN's Jorge Sedano drops by Hear District to discuss whether Milwaukee's new tandem of Giannis Antetokounmpo & Myles Turner give it the best frontcourt in the NBA. They also discuss the Bucks' place in an unpredictable Eastern Conference landscape, media perception of the Bucks' offseason moves, how Myles transforms Milwaukee's defense, Giannis' MVP possibilities and more. Later on, MJ and Kris break down Cole Anthony's fit with the Bucks, how his role in Milwaukee will set him up for success, and how his addition impacts the team's guard rotation moving forward. They dive into Kyle Kuzma's role and how to maximize his skill set, Chris Livingston's remarkable growth through 2025 Summer League, expectations for minutes distribution and how the Bucks' coaching staff is setting up for success next season. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

In this week's Hear District, Kris & Marques Johnson are joined by former Bucks Trainer & UCLA athletics legend, Tony Spino, to reflect on the '70s Bucks & understand why Achilles injuries are plaguing the NBA. But first, MJ & Kris react to Doc Rivers' latest comments and how he plans to unleash 'Point Giannis' next season. They assess how this plan could unlock core Bucks players like the newly re-signed Jericho Sims, Gary Trent Jr. & AJ Green. They also look at how Gary Harris can add to the team and which Bucks players are standing out most in the early stages of NBA Summer League. MJ drops a hot take about Cooper Flagg before introducing Tony, who shares memories of Kareem, a rookie Marques Johnson, the great Junior Bridgeman & that era of the Milwaukee Bucks. They dive into the state of NBA injuries and why seven players lost their seasons to Achilles tears after decades of that injury being a rarity. They finish with a hilarious story about Coach John Wooden & former President Bill Clinton, and other musings about Tony's relationship with the Johnson family & his place in UCLA history.

After a busy week in the NBA, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel beat reporter Jim Owczarski joins Kris & Marques Johnson on Hear District to break down all the Milwaukee Bucks' moves. After sharing their initial reactions to the team's latest moves, they dive into Damian Lillard's Bucks tenure & how both sides have a bright path forward. They dissect Myles Turner's fit with Giannis and how this pairing can help unlock the Bucks' potential on both sides of the floor. The trio bids farewell to Brook Lopez & Pat Connaughton, pondering how the championship team will be honored and if No. 11 should be retired. Jim shares his insights on Bobby Portis' extension, Gary Trent Jr.'s market and how these signings solidified an impactful summer for Milwaukee's rotation. Subscribe to the Hear District podcast to enjoy the biggest names in basketball sounding off on your favorite team. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Fresh off the 2025 NBA Draft, Zach Harper of The Athletic & SiriusXM NBA Radio joins Marques & Kris to discuss the 47th pick, Bogoljub Marković, & what his selection signals for the Milwaukee Bucks. They dissect his playstyle, how he fits with Milwaukee's core & how Bogi can follow in the footsteps of other great European players. They also react to post-draft comments by Bucks Assistant GM Milt Newton, analyze the best ways to build around Giannis Antetokounmpo, discuss a Bucks free agent class headlined by Gary Trent Jr., Bobby Portis & Kevin Porter Jr., the team's pathway to contention in the Eastern Conference, navigating the tricky CBA/Second Apron, the crew's thoughts on Ryan Coogler's "Sinners" & Zach's movie recommendations for MJ. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Intro 5:46 - Bogoljub Breakdown 14:14 - CBA Fallout 18:41 - Building Around Giannis 23:03 - Competing in the East 29:18 - Bucks Free Agency 32:32 - Movie Recommendations Subscribe to the Hear District podcast to enjoy the biggest names in basketball sounding off on your favorite team. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Rafael Barlowe of NBA Big Board joins Kris & Marques Johnson to preview the 2025 NBA Draft & the Milwaukee Bucks' many options with the 47th pick. But first, they look back at Rafael's extensive pre-draft scouting of Tyler Smith & Ryan Rollins, discussing what the young duo can accomplish in the NBA. They also dive into some potential second-round & undrafted targets for Milwaukee, how Giannis Antetokounmpo's mental approach set him apart from elite prospects, the advantages of being an underdog, how NIL is helping or hurting the draft, global scouting, prospect demographics, youth basketball & more draft insights. MJ & Kris round out the episode by showing love to some Hear District fans & reflecting on the intricacies of Black Father's Day through some greetings MJ received for the holiday. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Intro 3:02 - Scouting Ryan Rollins 6:57 - Underdog Advantages 12:39 - Scouting Tyler Smith 14:30 - Bucks' Draft Possibilities 18:03 - 2nd Round Prospects 29:55 - NBA Draft Philosophies 36:15 - State of NIL & Youth Hoops 45:55 - Global Hoops Development 53:27 - Fan Love & Black Father's Day Subscribe to the Hear District podcast to enjoy the biggest names in basketball sounding off on your favorite team. For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus.

Marques Johnson & his co-host/son, Kris highlight 50 years of the Wooden Award with a special episode of Hear District from the L.A. Athletic Club, where they reflect on the legendary coach's legacy, philosophies & his impact on a young MJ at UCLA, inspiring him to become the first ever Wooden Award winner. They also discuss Giannis' proposal of a U.S. vs. the World All-Star game, his trip to Brazil & what his offseason signals to Milwaukee so far, plus some buzz from around the team. In light of Don Nelson winning the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award, MJ reminisces about his former Bucks coach & his visit to Nellie's Hawaii estate. They pay respects to the late David Greenwood and share the story of the time he trash-talked Wilt Chamberlain, rank MJ among UCLA legends, dive into iconic coaching styles and much more on this week's Hear District. Subscribe to the Hear District podcast to enjoy the biggest names in basketball sounding off on your favorite team. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hear-district/id1733360203 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5WI3L2MP4ZgSjWwXqxvK58 For more, follow @bucksplusaudio — the official podcast network of the Milwaukee Bucks — on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Facebook, and check out all Bucks+ podcast content at www.bucks.com/plus. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bucksplusaudio/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/bucksplusaudio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bucksplusaudio TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bucksplusaudio