The Evolution of Hit Show "Swagger"

In this episode, hosts Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings interview Rich Kleiman, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. The conversation revolves around Rich's involvement in creating the popular TV show "Swagger" and the documentary film "Point Gods". Both projects showcase the intersection of sports, culture, and personal journeys.

The hosts begin by mentioning the high praises for "Swagger" and express their interest in watching the show. Rich acknowledges the positive response and shares the story behind its creation. He explains how he and Kevin, presumably Kevin Durant, were inspired by Kevin's upbringing and his experiences at a rec center. They drew inspiration from the cult classic show "Friday Night Lights" and sought to create a similar narrative that revolves around basketball and the unique challenges faced by young athletes.

Rich goes on to describe how they partnered with Imagine, a production company led by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard, who provided the necessary resources and expertise to bring their vision to life. They enlisted the talented writer Reggie Blithwood and successfully sold the show to Apple. Rich reflects on how season one of "Swagger" encompassed real-world events like the pandemic and protests, while season two delved deeper into themes of loyalty, relationships, and the love of the game.

The conversation then shifts to "Point Gods," a documentary that explores the cultural impact of basketball point guards in the 80s and 90s. The hosts mention notable players who were not included in the film, which prompts Rich to acknowledge their absences. He clarifies that the film focused primarily on a specific era that influenced him personally, and he wanted to showcase the players who were cultural icons and products of the intersection between basketball and hip hop.

Rich expresses his admiration for the point guards featured in the film, emphasizing how they inspired him as a young fan. He reminisces about watching games and idolizing Mark Jackson, along with other legendary point guards like Kenny Smith, Kenny Anderson, and Rod Strickland. Rich admits that he did receive some criticism for the omissions and the decision to make the film, but he stands by his belief in telling the story of this specific era.

The hosts praise the inclusion of Rod Strickland and highlight his influence, particularly on current NBA star Kyrie Irving. They discuss how Rod mentored Kyrie in his early years and played a significant role in shaping his playing style. Rich agrees, acknowledging that Rod's impact deserved more attention and thinks that there is an argument for each player in the film to have their own dedicated projects.

The conversation ends on a positive note, with Rich expressing his satisfaction in being part of both "Swagger" and "Point Gods." He reflects on the era and the nostalgia it evokes, emphasizing the unique feeling it conjures. The hosts and Rich continue their discussion, diving deeper into their personal connections to basketball and the cultural impact it has had on their lives.

In this thought-provoking episode of EYL Medium, viewers gain insights into the creative processes behind "Swagger" and "Point Gods" while also exploring the profound influence of sports and culture on society. Watch the full episode to learn more about the shows and the experiences of the guests. #EYL #EYLMedium #Swagger #PointGods #Sports #Culture #Basketball #TVShow #Documentary #Interview