Dennis Scott

Big Boi talks bball and rap on NBA TV's: The Jump

Fresh off dropping his new album, Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors, Outkast's Big Boi made an appearance on NBA TV's The Jump to talk shop on two of his (and my) favorite subjects, basketball and music.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Big Boi is an accomplished hip hop artist and a true hoops fan.

Earlier today, Big Boi, who together with Andre 3000 makes up the rap duo, Outkast, stopped by The Jump studios in Atlanta and chatted with Brent Barry, Dennis Scott and company.  The gang asked Big Boi about everything from his hometown Falcons and Hawks, to recording his new album, the situation the Los Angeles Lakers, and just who would be in his personal Big Three.

"So who would be your big three?" Brent Barry asked the rapper.

"First I'd have to grab me Andre 3000 of course," Big Boi said.  "Really that's all I need.  I don't need anybody else.  Me, Dre and the referree that's it."

Big Boi, who spent the first half of his life in Savannah, Georgia before moving to Atlanta, is known for being a huge Atlanta sports fan.  When asked about being a Hawks season ticket holder and going to the games, Big Boi was ever prideful saying, "I support as much as I can.  Home team first.  I mean it's Bird Gang the whole way."

And this year especially, there's plenty of good reason for Big Boi to be proud of Atlanta sports.  At 12-2, the Falcons are currently tied with the Texans with the best record in the NFL and have already clinched their division.  The Hawks, led by Josh Smith, have a 15-7 overall record so far this season and are only one game behind the reigning Champion Miami Heat for first place in the southeast division.

When questioned about what's gotten into Josh Smith lately, Big Boi dropped the following wisdom:

"I guess you know when you get to mature, you come into your own style.  It's the same thing with doing music.  I guess it just takes experience.  To get growth you get real like that.  You just gotta stay on your craft."

I don't think many would argue about whether or not Big Boi knows a thing or two about experience and honing in on one's craft.  Together with Andre 3000, Outkast has gone platinum numerous times and has taken home six Grammy Awards.

One of the best parts of the interview came when Dennis Scott asked Big Boi, "What do you think is going on with the the Lakers, and Kobe and Dwight Howard, what's your take on all that?" to which the famed rapper responded, "I don't know.  Everybody wanna blame the coach.  I don't know man, 'cuz the coach ain't shootin' free throws, you know?"

Got to give it up to Big Boi for always keepin' it real.

Check out more of the rapper's appearance on NBATV.com's The Jump.

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Purest Three Point Shooter of All Time?

This article was borne out of the idea that Jason Kidd has made the third most three point baskets in NBA history. I love J Kidd, but to me, he is the antithesis of a “pure shooter”, a guy that came out of the womb knocking shit down. Kidd refined his skill to the point where he somehow gets it done but early in his career he struggled with hitting the three.

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Ramon Sessions: 'I'm a Timberwolf right now, and I expect to be one'

Sessions, rumored to be on the trading block, said, "I'm a Timberwolf right now, and I expect to be one next season."

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HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Credit Ramon Sessions for taking the high road.

One summer after signing a multi-year contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves, he no longer fits the club's plans.

Jonny Flynn will start at point guard. Newly signed Luke Ridnour will be the back-up. And next summer Ricky Rubio could swap the European professional circuit for the Frozen Tundra of 'Sota.

So Sessions will be traded, but still said the right things at the Timberwolves' basketball camp. He could have taken a different approach like a certain retired sharpshooter turned analyst who shall remain nameless (click video below). 

('Don't call me 3D no more.')

Expect Sessions to soon find a new home as a reserve combo guard. The former D-league star could still develop into a Vinnie Johnson, instant offense type off the bench.

And his positive, professional attitude can only help.

--Oly Sandor.

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