Skip to main content
Sliders & Curveballs

Sliders & Curveballs

By Mike & Joseph

A Father and his now 11 year old son are figuring out the sports world together. Forty years of experiences separate Mike and Joseph. Both will try and tackle history’s classic debates and the modern sports landscape. Everything’s fair game. It’s their perspective. They’re probably horribly wrong.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Marching Towards Madness

Sliders & Curveballs Mar 09, 2021

00:00
44:42
Saturday Night at the Garden

Saturday Night at the Garden

Hall of Fame Coach, Jim Calhoun, once said, “….there’s nothing better than playing Saturday night in March, at the World’s Most Famous Arena, Madison Square Garden, in New York City.” That means the Big East Championship is on the line. It’s UConn vs Marquette. Winner owns the city. It’s the Sounds of the Game.
Mar 17, 202401:00:04
#77 Is a Go!

#77 Is a Go!

Part 2 of 2. Luka is playing! Feel the energy live from the TD Garden in Boston. Celtics vs the Mavericks. Hallelujah!
Mar 02, 202427:17
Cool Hand Luka

Cool Hand Luka

There’s less than 25 games left in the NBA regular season. For Christmas, Joseph wanted Boston Celtics tickets vs #77~ Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks. He’s got great taste. Two MVP candidates go head/head and we will bring you all the action- LiVE. These young Allstar players are the future of the league. Which one will be better tonight? It’s our Sounds of the Game. Hopefully. Part 1 of 2.
Mar 01, 202438:43
Drivers, Start Your Engines

Drivers, Start Your Engines

I’m driving solo today. I’ve received instructions from my Crew Chief and Spotter. It’s Presidents Day, 2024, and I’m only 2 hours South of Daytona Beach enjoying the final leg of our family vacation. A rainy Sunday, has unexpectedly postponed the 66th NASCAR Daytona 500, so I’m inviting my Nephew Ricky, to help me, bring you “Sounds from Raceday.” It’s “The Great American Race.” The Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing. We’re going to be Live at Daytona International Speedway. Join us in Victory Lane!
Feb 20, 202401:29:35
Next Stop- Grand Central Station

Next Stop- Grand Central Station

All aboard! It’s 8am in New Haven, CT and we’re jumping on the train to New York City for a matinee matchup. UConn Nation is known for flooding the World’s Most Famous Arena, Madison Square Garden, and planting their CT flag. HOF Coach, Rick Pitino, is quoted as saying, he wanted to play all his Big East games at MSG or other large venues — except for UConn. Why? “UConn fans outnumber ours and takeover our own building.” It’s rare to lose home court advantage, in your own state. Today, Joseph and I will bring you the Sounds of the Game. We’re live, from The Mecca of basketball.
Feb 03, 202435:33
Celtics, Clippers, and Uncle Lou

Celtics, Clippers, and Uncle Lou

What age did you experience your 1st live NBA game? Huge crowds, luxury amenities, rowdy fans, and the World’s greatest players. Boston’s been dominate this season at the TD Garden on the parquet. They will be challenged by a cast of future Hall of Famers including Russell Westbrook, James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George. It’s our Sounds of the Game and Uncle Lou’s NBA Baptism in Boston. Oh, and he’s a 76ers fan.
Jan 28, 202433:17
Yo8i

Yo8i

Let’s start 2024 and Season 6 off with a bang! Executive Producer and granddaughter of New York Yankee Legend, Yogi Berra, joins us on our show today. Her documentary~ It Ain’t Over, chronicles the life, family, and Hall of Fame career of her beloved grandfather. Lindsay takes us from Yogi’s childhood in St. Louis, through all the World Series heroics, and right into making her film featured on Netflix. A family show featuring an iconic sports family.
Jan 10, 202457:28
Ants At A Picnic

Ants At A Picnic

Surprise! We have a BONUS episode to end 2023. Practice just ended a few minutes ago at Gampel Pavilion and we’re recording live from Storrs, Connecticut, inside The Werth Family UConn Basketball Champions Center.
Dec 31, 202301:03:13
Beat PHILA

Beat PHILA

Road Trip! Will the NBA Eastern Conference come down to the Celtics & 76ers? It’s an early season December matchup, but there’s a strong chance the rivalry Chamberlain/Russell/DrJ/Bird once dominated, will have another exciting chapter. Tonight, we’ll take you inside the Sounds of the Game, from The TD Garden. It’s the newly revamped Celtics, who added Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis taking on Embiid and Maxey. Let’s go Green!
Dec 02, 202332:32
In The Mix For Six

In The Mix For Six

Are you ready to preview the defending Champion, UConn Huskies, chances of a repeat performance! Going back/back is the goal. The Hartford Courant’s, Joe Arruda, joins us in our studio to report on Connecticut’s team. In depth analysis, scouting reports, and our challenging True, False, and Why segment will put our guest to the test.
Nov 03, 202301:00:29
Tyler’s Journey

Tyler’s Journey

Multi sport athlete and 2x National Champion, Tyler Olander, from UConn is our guest today. We’re recording inside The James A Calhoun Gymnasium, on the campus of the University of Saint Joseph, West Hartford. Together we reflect on Tyler’s extraordinary 2011-2014 title runs. He loves basketball and baseball as much as we do. Learn how this Connecticut native experienced both sports at the highest levels.
Oct 29, 202345:33
Northeast Sports Card Expo - Hosts

Northeast Sports Card Expo - Hosts

A year ago we attended our first card show together in Atlantic City, NJ. It was The National. Today, we’re blessed to host Day 1 of the largest card show in Connecticut, thanks to George Pep. Join us for live/post show reaction as we interview Topps Artist, Paul Jennis, celebrities, athletes, and entertain thousands of card collectors in Stamford, CT.
Oct 08, 202336:08
Live from: The Court of Dreams

Live from: The Court of Dreams

The birthplace of basketball, Springfield, Massachusetts is the host location for today’s show. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. We’re honored to podcast beside over 400 inductees. Join us in exploring the games greatest teams, players, and coaches. Go behind the scenes of this newly renovated and fully interactive sports museum.
Sep 04, 202325:37
Exclusive Practice Rapid Reaction

Exclusive Practice Rapid Reaction

The 2023 NCAA Basketball Champions, UConn, are back on the court with 6 new faces on the club. The champs are holding a VIP practice for 400 season ticket holders at The University of ST Joseph’s, West Hartford. Do they have what it takes to repeat this year? Joseph and I bring you the post practice scouting report.
Jul 29, 202321:41
The Polar Park Experience

The Polar Park Experience

Rain, rain go away, we’re shipping up to AAA. Home of the Woo Sox in Worcester, Massachusetts. Ready to share our sights and Sounds of the Game. It’s a rematch of the 1986 World Series ball clubs. The Red Sox vs The Mets. We’re down on the farm, with a park designed by our friend, preeminent baseball architect, Janet Marie Smith.
Jul 09, 202338:43
Jamaica to Storrs

Jamaica to Storrs

It’s the 10 year Anniversary of UConn’s 2nd dual championship in basketball. No other school has done it before. Celebrate the historic event with us and guest~ UConn 2014 champion Kentan Facey. Relive every basket and hear the full story from the huddle to the court. It was a magical time in Storrs.
Jun 22, 202351:49
Quadruple Threat

Quadruple Threat

Basketball, hockey, football and baseball. Connecticut’s, Bob Joyce, walks us through a broadcasters journey. Voice of the dynasty, known as UConn Women’s Basketball, shares all. Can Bob handle Joseph’s best sliders & curveballs? We dive into UConn’s past, present, and future with all sports angles covered. Even the view from behind home plate.
May 30, 202301:10:17
The Heat Is On

The Heat Is On

Jason Tatum vs Jimmy Butler for all the marbles. The 2023 NBA Eastern Conference Championship is on the line. We’re in attendance and live from Boston with our Sounds of Game7 at the TD Garden. No NBA team has ever come back from the 0-3 grave. Derrick White’s last second put-back, in Miami, made it possible. Find out if history is made and how it all unfolds. Celtics vs Heat. Win or go home.
May 30, 202336:26
Hop On The Caravan

Hop On The Caravan

Our Championship episode, featuring UConn’s sharp shooter, Alex Karaban. How does a red shirt year turn into a title season? Listen in for Alex’s thoughts on his teammates, opponents, the Final Four, a Hartford parade, and calamari. There’s no topic off limits. Celebrating Championship #5 together.
Apr 26, 202344:15
Five Banners

Five Banners

We’re broadcasting live from the #UConn Mens Championship Parade in the Basketball Capital of the World. Special guests, live reaction, the trophy presentation and more in Hartford, Connecticut. Experience the confetti flying and horns blowing as you’re surrounded by thousands of loyal fans! #UConnNation
Apr 08, 202332:18
Opening Day Fenway

Opening Day Fenway

Can’t skip school or work. We’re doing it for you! Join us live, from Boston’s Bleacher Bar, as we eat and preview Opening Day from under the bleachers. Then come experience our Sounds of the Game and kick off the 2023 MLB Season as the Boston Red Sox battle the Baltimore Orioles, at historic Fenway Park.
Mar 30, 202340:21
On The Mound with Lenny

On The Mound with Lenny

Former Boston Red Sox pitcher and 2004 World Series Champion, Lenny DiNardo joins the show. The now NESN Studio Analyst takes us from his Minor League days, through his playing career overseas, and eventually facing MLB’s best hitters. Experience breaking the 86 year old curse, the duck boat parade, Dad’s bloopers, and Lenny’s Super Bowl Bingo Card.
Feb 11, 202347:57
King Me

King Me

34 combined Championships. MVP players at every position on the court. We road trip to Boston for our latest game-day experience. It’s the next chapter in the storied Celtics/Lakers rivalry and LeBron James is about one week away from breaking the NBA’s all-time scoring record, held by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. We bring you the Sounds of the Game. We’re live in Bean-town and The TD Garden.
Jan 29, 202338:42
117 Champions

117 Champions

NY Times National Baseball Columnist, Tyler Kepner, joins the show featuring his newest book~ “The Grandest Stage: A History of the World Series.” Experience every thrilling moment of the Fall Classics with us.
Dec 18, 202201:12:38
Joker On Causeway

Joker On Causeway

It’s Veterans Day and we’ve traveled to the city of Boston. Join us for a special sounds of the game as the Celtics and Jason Tatum, welcome 2x MVP, Nikola Jokic, of the Denver Nuggets, to the TD Garden. We’re sharing our family sports adventure. Go green!
Nov 12, 202226:00
Next Generation Huskies

Next Generation Huskies

Recorded live in the studio for the first time in 2 years, we’re joined by #UConn beat writer, Dave Borges, to preview the 22/23 Men’s basketball season. Scouting reports, spies, starting lineup, new faces, and dual championship dreams in Connecticut.
Oct 01, 202255:07
Tales From The NBA

Tales From The NBA

Grab yourself a media credential and join us in the pressroom. Longtime NBA media journalist, Chris Bernucca, tells his stories and opinions on the greats including Bill Russell, LeBron James, Shaq, Kobe, and Michael Jordan. He ranks the top 20 legends and walks us through the contenders and pretenders in the upcoming 22/23 NBA season.
Aug 28, 202201:05:43
FIFTY

FIFTY

Celebrating episode 50 together in Atlantic City, New Jersey at The 2022 National Sports Collectors Convention.
Jul 31, 202224:07
Enemy Territory

Enemy Territory

It’s an American League East Division Collision. Aaron Judge, chasing 61 home runs, and the New York Yankees have the best record in baseball with 63 wins. We go live to Yankee Stadium for the Sounds of the Game as arch rival Boston tries to spoil the day and keep pace in the 2022 Wild Card race.
Jul 18, 202237:17
A GOAT vs The Goats

A GOAT vs The Goats

Three time CY Young award winner and World Series Champion, Max Scherzer, pitches in a rehab start vs our local AA team, The Hartford Yard Goats. Listen in as WFSB, Sports Director, Joe Zone, helps us preview the start and Hearst Media favorite, Dave Borges, brings you post start reaction. It’s Sounds of the Game with Mike & Joseph.
Jun 30, 202220:29
Father’s Day Live

Father’s Day Live

It’s Juan Soto, of the Nats, vs Kyle Schwarber of the Phillies on 6.19.2022. We’re broadcasting to you from Nationals Park, in the Naval Yard, on the edge of the Anacostia River. Sounds of the game from our Nations Capital on my favorite day of the year.
Jun 20, 202221:54
Rivalry

Rivalry

The Boston Red Sox vs The New York Yankees is the greatest rivalry known to sports. Yes, we can prove it. Listen in to NESN’s, Tom Caron, as he guides us through the fiercest competitions in MLB history.
Jun 08, 202234:60
All Access Yard Goats

All Access Yard Goats

Join us on a VIP Tour of Dunkin Donuts Park in Hartford, CT. We talk baseball with GM Mike Abramson, Manager Chris Denorfia and Game Day Conor. Dugout, press box, YG Club, tossing out the first pitch, and Joseph announcing the 6th inning LIVE for 7,000 loyal fans.
Jun 05, 202254:54
Game 7

Game 7

It’s a heavyweight NBA matchup between Boston’s, Jason Tatum, and the defending champion, Buck’s star, Giannis Antetokounmpo. Win or go home on Joseph’s 10th birthday. Experience the sounds of the game from The TD Garden in Boston.
May 16, 202214:27
3 Point King

3 Point King

On December 14, 2021 Stephen Curry passed Ray Allen to become the NBA’s All Time Leader, with 2,974 career 3 pointers. Author, Marcus Thompson, takes us inside, The Miraculous Rise of Steph Curry in his book- GOLDEN.
Apr 09, 202245:44
Points, Pints, and MSG

Points, Pints, and MSG

Joseph & Dad hit NYC for the first time together. Mom and the James family keep us laughing all day long as we road trip for a UConn matinee at the World’s Most Famous Arena. It’s time for sounds of the game, from center court, at Madison Square Garden.
Feb 14, 202209:46
Courtside Experiences

Courtside Experiences

What’s it like watching a game from floor seats? Joseph and I take you inside the sounds of the game as the UConn Huskies battle the Red Storm and the Boston Celtics take on the Chicago Bulls. Both games were thrillers in the final seconds. Two wins in one week! Experience how it all unfolded with us.
Jan 16, 202238:51
Mickey Mouse vs. The Boston Celtics

Mickey Mouse vs. The Boston Celtics

NBA insider, Keith Smith, from the Celtics Blog, explores the Boston Celtics past, present, and future on the show. We know who can win the 21/2022 NBA title and learn Keith doesn’t own anything in the colors purple or gold.
Jan 08, 202246:33
Party Like It’s 1999

Party Like It’s 1999

Kevin Freeman, 1999 UConn NCAA Champion, takes us inside the locker room. Experience his recruiting process. Feel what the first Coach Calhoun practice was like. Kevin’s favorite countries, foods, and championship teammates. A player view of Connecticut’s first Final Four and that incredible Monday night game vs Duke. Plus, Joseph loses his tooth on air!
Nov 17, 202137:32
32,292

32,292

The shrug, the shot, the flu game, the sneakers, and six NBA championships. Get to know the world’s most famous athlete through the eyes of his biographer, Roland Lazenby. Michael Jordan- The Life.
Oct 17, 202138:24
On The Diamond

On The Diamond

Wall Street Journal, MLB writer, Jared Diamond, previews the 2021 baseball playoffs and his book~Swing Kings. The hitting instructors that launched JD Martinez and Justin Turner into elite home run machines. A colorful cast of outsiders changed the game. Plus, we know the World Series Champion.
Sep 25, 202130:30
Supersonic

Supersonic

Author, Jon Finkel, uncovers how a stolen team’s legacy gave rise to the NBA’s secret empire. Hoops Heist. Seattle. The Sonics. Plus, who are the top 10 greatest basketball players of all time?
Aug 24, 202125:11
Superfan Roundtable

Superfan Roundtable

Three generations of UConn fans, including Conor Geary and Jared Kotler, explore our Championship history and the future of the Men’s basketball program playing in Storrs, Connecticut.
Aug 16, 202139:56
MVP

MVP

He’s a World Champion and two time NBA MVP. Listen to author, Mirin Fader, share with us the fairy tale story of Giannis Antetokounmpo- “The Greek Freak.” An improbable rise to super-stardom.
Jul 22, 202122:52
Top Dog

Top Dog

We go behind the scenes with UConn Athletic Director, David Benedict. Our discussion includes the return of fans, life of an AD, Hall of Fame coaches, scouting reports, NIL law, and more from Storrs, CT.
Jul 09, 202131:05
Reaction Time

Reaction Time

NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL, & Topps card collecting. Joseph’s ready to share his opinion on all the hottest players, teams, and Summer sports topics.
Jul 01, 202135:29
Surprise!

Surprise!

Join the party! It’s my cohost, Joseph’s, 9th Birthday and everybody stops by the show to celebrate and wish him a great day and year.
May 11, 202116:06
Cooperstown Collection

Cooperstown Collection

SABR member, Ralph Carhart, joins the show to discuss his book The Hall Ball. One Fan’s Journey to Unite Cooperstown Immortals with a Single Baseball.
Mar 31, 202154:04
Marching Towards Madness

Marching Towards Madness

John Fanta, pxp voice, of Fox College Hoops and the Big East Shootaround takes us from Madison Square Garden in NYC to the 2021 NCAA Tournament host state of Indiana. Together we’ll find out what UConn’s strategy should be for another magical March run.
Mar 09, 202144:42
You Can’t Topps This

You Can’t Topps This

We’re celebrating the 70th Anniversary of Topps Baseball Cards with professional fine artist, Paul Jennis. Take a closer look at his incredible 2021 Game Within The Game Topps cards. Plus, we announce our first “Pitch Us A Question” baseball card contest winner.
Feb 17, 202118:14