No Chill with Gilbert Arenas

Gilbert Arenas is one of the most dynamic characters the NBA has ever seen. Agent Zero holds nothing back, puts all cards on the table and of course, has zero chill. Along with co-host Josiah Johnson, the No Chill Podcast is a healthy dose of all things Gilbert, his stories, his ideas and his unique perspective, while joined by athletes, actors and comedians.

Sports
Basketball
176
Episode 32 - The Celtics and Rockets at the Cro...
On this episode, we’ve seen a couple seasons come to an unceremonious end for two marquee teams. So as the respective doors have closed for the Rockets and the Celtics, we grade their overall performance, decide if the season was a disappointment or should have been expected, and what’s next. For Houston, what happens when they run it back with the roster they have? For Boston, what do they do different with or without Kyrie? We also get into Tyron Lue’s decision to turn down the Lakers coaching gig, that ultimately went to Frank Vogel. Of course Gilbert has a take on it. Also, he officially announces his fandom of Kawhi Leonard. While he’s at it, he adds on an explanation of his very publicized comments about Vince Carter re-upping for another season at 42 years old.
100 min
177
Episode 31 - Returning to the Essence of Basket...
On this episode we come to you from Vegas where we were in town for the BIG3 combine and draft. Enemies teammate and co-captain, Lamar Odom, joins the podcast to talk about what matters the most to him from a basketball standpoint, who was the toughest matchup he ever faced in the NBA and the best game he played in, that we never saw. Gilbert and Lamar also get into what differentiates east coast players and west coast players. Also, Lamar shares how a certain former teammate handled it when Agent Zero dropped 60 on him. This episode after the draft lottery, but before the BIG3 draft, where Gilbert, Lamar and the Enemies selected Royce White number one, Craig Smith and Frank Robinson to round out their squad.
36 min
178
Episode 30 - Giant Expectations with Dwight Howard
On this episode, we're joined by 8-time All-Star, 3-time Defensive Player of the Year, Dwight Howard. While Gil and Dwight were teammates in Orlando, their friendship started way before that. Now in DC, Dwight is getting back to 100% and ready to roll next season. In the meantime, we get into the complications of having to grow up fast in the NBA, what you’re not told about money, priorities and how to handle it all. For a guy that was literally expected to be Superman, he details everything that was thrown at him and how it made him who he is now. Also, look out for who Dwight says is the best player ever, it’s actually an answer you might not expect…
87 min
179
Episode 29 - What the Future Holds For the Lakers
On this episode, we jump into the Lakers soap opera. After you sort through the drama, there’s a basketball team to structure. We have just the guy who can tell us how to get it right in LA. GM and coach Arenas figures things out from the top down. For Gilbert, it starts in the front office, being able to recognize the right players to keep, move and bring in. Then it’s the coach, one who knows who to connect to their players and a guy who can maximize talent. As for those players, of course it starts with LeBron. When you have an all-time great player, you surround him with the right blend of star power, experience, value signings and complimentary pieces. The bottom line, there is help in the horizon, but there is definitely work to be done to get there.
61 min
180
Episode 28 - Why James Harden Clearly Is the MVP
On this episode we sort out the MVP race. As we witnessed this year, three incredible players had three incredible seasons. Russ averaged a triple double...for the third straight year. Giannis took it up another level, dominating both ends of the floor and leading Milwaukee to the best record in the NBA. And then there’s the dominance of James Harden. He averaged the most points on a season since MJ’s 37 in 1987. He went for 60 twice and 50+ seven times. All three are deserving in their own ways, but there can be only one MVP. For Agent Zero, the choice is the Beard and he tells us why.
51 min
181
Episode 27 - What The Future Holds For Luka Don...
On this episode, we get into the rookie of the year race. It’s one of the closest to call in years. Actually, this year’s rookie class has been all around fantastic, but clearly it comes down to Luka Doncic and Trae Young. Luka jumped out of the gates, playing at a high level and showing that his game would absolutely translate from Europe. As for Trae, he answered the doubters with his dynamic playmaking ability, scoring talents and delivering in the clutch for the Hawks, especially on the back half of the season. Thanks to a draft day trade, these two will always be linked together, and after this season both will have their teams hyped to build around their young rising stars. So before the award is handed out, Gil makes his call, and of course has good reasons.
76 min
182
Episode 26 - The Thing About Pass First Point G...
On this episode, we explore a theory of Gilbert’s about point guards. We look back at the championship teams since Michael Jordan’s Bulls won their first in 1991...that’s after Magic and after Isiah. As Gil points out, the point guards on these teams were not the top assist guys. Across the board they were expected to bring the ball up the floor, defend their position and hit spot up shots. Sure, there have been star point guards that won rings, from Jason Kidd and Gary Payton to Chauncey Billups and Tony Parker, but at those points in their respective careers they were not expected to create shots for teammates, they were facilitating. But don't worry, GM Arenas has a solution...
57 min
183
Episode 25 - The Value of Garbage Time
On this episode, we get into the game within the game. When we hear from players, we want to know what makes them tick, what they’re thinking and of course the stories. But what about how they watch the game? We are they seeing? What gets them hyped? And what bugs them? For Agent Zero he of course has one-of-a-kind perspective on the game. When it comes to garbage time, it’s not something we should just disregard until the buzzer sounds. No, for Gil he thinks it’s a time for players to make the most of their opportunity. He sees it as a time to prove yourself, to be aggressive and to hold nothing back. As for the coaches that preach sportsmanship and players who may be padding their stats, he’s got some thoughts on that too.
33 min
184
Episode 24 - Make Them Remember Your Name with ...
On this episode of the No Chill Podcast, we catch up with Shareef O’Neal. The last time we saw him, he was about to kick off his freshman year at UCLA. After a dominant high school career, a heart condition and an intense surgery put basketball on hold. Reef catches us up on his surgery, the recovery and how he’s been spending the time in between. The good news, he’s about to get back to basketball. He tells us how he’s using the down time to look at the game differently and enjoy college. He also shares how his dad has guided him through this chapter and what kind of advice not only Shaq given his son, but what other greats of the game have offered Reef.
69 min
185
Episode 23 - New Swag with Nick Young
On this episode, Swaggy P himself, Nick Young returns, once again with a lot to say. If we know anything about Gilbert and Nick, they go way back, and they’ve been going at each other since day one. Frenemies, brothers, teacher/protege...whatever you want call it these two are destined to be linked together forever.  This time around, Nick lets us know what he’s got his eye on in the league this year, what he’s getting into next and what it takes to have true swag. Also, with Gil’s recent BIG3 news, could we see these two together again on the court? Before that happens, we do know these two are in the gym together, so it’s about time we know what they’re working on.
64 min
186
Episode 22 - Controlling What You Can Control w...
On this episode, get on board to experience the ride that it is to be an NBA player. We’re joined by Michael Carter Williams, whose basketball journey is truly unique one. After being selected 11th overall by the Sixers, Michael had a breakout first season and was named Rookie of the Year. You would think things could only blossom from there. He tells us just how it can change in the blink of an eye. Trusting the process doesn’t work out for every player, and beyond ability, it comes down to fit, timing and opportunity. Rebuilds, salary caps and injuries are all factors that most players don’t have on their radar when they’re going out and competing. Gil also points out that you have to expect those changes at all times, that’s the constant. Also, when you’re in the middle of it, it takes a singular focus.
56 min
187
Episode 21 - BIG3 News with Ice Cube
For those of you looking to see Agent Zero in action again, we’re one step closer. The one-and-only, Ice Cube, comes through to talk about his attachment to basketball. We hear from a hip hop icon, first hand, why rappers always want to be ballers and vice versa. He also shares his perspective, as a lifetime fan of the sport, on how to put on a show and the big personalities that have made the game great. All this talk gets Gilbert thinking and things get real. Now we know he’s been in the gym, getting in shape and getting his shots up. So when Cube talks BIG3 and the vision of his league, Gil has a few things in mind for an Agent Zero/BIG3 takeover. The game may never be the same.
51 min
188
Episode 20 - The Trade Deadline Aftermath
On this episode we pick things up in the aftermath of the trade deadline. For the players that moved and those that didn’t, there 9is the fallout of finding yourself on a new team or refocusing after being a subject of rumors. For the media and the fans, we love the gossip...who’s offering up who, who wants out and the back stories from behind closed doors.   Once the dust settles, we get to see how things pan out on the court. As Gilbert tells us, players have to be able to deal with the chatter and work it out themselves. We often hear the phrase “it’s a business.” From the side of owners and the front office, this is the time of year when business can overshadow the competition. With that in mind, we figure out who really won, what it all means for the rest of the season and also the monster free agent group this summer.
60 min
189
Episode 19 - Trust Your Ability with Olin Simplis
On this episode, skill development specialist, Olin Simplis comes through to give us a look at what has become a must for players to keep their edge. Having a skills coach in your camp is the way they are able to evaluate their games and build on their arsenals. Working with players such as Spencer Dinwiddie, Shai Gilgeous Alexander and Bismack Biyombo, Olin has made a name for himself, connecting with guys who range in their skill sets, but all who share a rare desire and drive.   Just like a boxer has with their trainer in their corner, guys like Olin wear numerous hats from mentor, psychologist, family member and bad cop. The proof of the progress is what we see in the on-court results. For Olin, it all comes down to connection. Once that’s in place, his message can get through and the real work can take place. As Gilbert agrees, it is so important for a player to always remain confident and know how to get to their comfort zone at all times. You’ll find out from both Agent Zero and Olin, exactly how that happens. 
85 min
190
Episode 18 - Basketball Over Everything with Ke...
On this episode we’re joined by the two-time champion, nine-time All-Star and MVP, Kevin Durant. Kevin and Gil go way back to Agent Zero’s days in DC when KD was a young, up-and-coming hooper -- that’s Seat Pleasant and the DMV. We learn Kevin slows the game down, and when he put it all together to be effective at the highest level. He also takes a minute to acknowledge where he’s at in this window of the prime of his career. More importantly, how he’s playing with true happiness. We also find out what it’s like to get every team’s best shot, and also how to keep your focus when you blow them out. And what we’ve always wanted to know, how they decide in the huddle who gets the last shot. For Kevin and the Warriors there is a different level of sacrafice that comes with the territory, which is maybe what we should appreciate most about their dominance. For Gil and Kevin what they have in common is the priority of basketball over everything. With that in mind, how they approach choices players make not only in their careers, but also their lives. Make no mistake about it, the money and the status is major, but the championship is the ultimate dream.  
73 min
191
Episode 17 - Welcome The Challenge with Blake L...
On this episode we’re joined Blake Leeper. Blake is an eight-time Paralympic track and field medalist who is on a mission to compete in the 2020 Olympic games. We learn Blake’s story of how being born without legs below the knees has never slowed him at anything. Actually it’s only pushed him to refuse to allow any obstacles to stop him.   Along with Gilbert, we explore what makes truly great athletes want to push the limits and keep raising the bar beyond what others before them have set. It’s something that we can all relate to, where at times we’re going to get knocked down and times when we’re going to fail, but it’s having the character to pick ourselves up from failures and use it as fuel to succeed. So get ready to find out what it is within true competitors to take on they’re the challenges they’re dealt and what it is that drives them to the next level.  
93 min
192
Episode 16 - The Art of Shooting with the Letha...
On this episode we get back on the court to explore the art of shooting with one of the best teachers in the game, Chris Matthews, aka the Lethal Shooter. Along with Gilbert, a player who made his name on taking and making big shots, it’s a discussion that examines the elements of what makes shooters great. What we know is this, great shooters are made not born. Of course it starts with mechanics, but mechanics that work for you. Once technique is established, shooting is crafted through work ethic and reps...your time in the gym. Furthering the conversation, we find out that the best we see on the court are supremely confident, while also possessing unbreakable concentration. Above all, going inside the mind of a couple of shooting masters...it comes down to mindset.
72 min
193
Episode 15 - Attack the Defense
On this episode, we’re in the gym once again. The plan was to examine the finer points of skill training, but just before we started, Agent Zero was in the mood for some competition. For the first time in a long time, we find Gilbert Arenas going at a live defender, full speed and digging into his bag of tricks. Just in case you were wondering...yes...he still has it! So while we get to see the Hibachi cook once again, skills coach Travis Nichols of TNT Training, along with former Winthrop hooper Gideon Gamble, focus attacking a defender in the midrange, finding driving lanes and working against contact. This is an inside of inside looks as we jump in on a workout and examine how elite level players get to their shots.  
45 min
194
Episode 14 - It's a Lifestyle with Matt Barnes
On this episode, we dive into the world that exists for athletes outside of the arena. We’re joined by the 14 season veteran, championship winner and a guy who weathered storms on and off the court, Matt Barnes. Gilbert and Matt, are two guys who established themselves as pros, while also figuring out how to walk the line and live the life. For young guys, they share some wisdom as to how to keep things in perspective and how to prioritize your life as a pro. They also look back on their era, how social media and celebrity culture have only magnified the expectations on an athlete. It’s a unique lens these guys offer a look through and a side of the game that really is not shared enough.
50 min
195
Episode 13 - Real Friends with Nick Young
On this episode, Nick Young joins the podcast. For Gilbert and Nick, they have one of those friendships that is part brotherhood, part rivalry, and flat out hilarious. We run it all the way back to when these to Valley kids were first introduced in DC in 2007.  Before he was Swaggy P, Nick was taking under the wing of Agent Zero. It formed a unique bond that take them through their careers and into some wild times on and off the court. These two are there for each other through thick and thin, have some stories to tell and then some. 
79 min
196
Episode 12 - Confidence Always on 100
On this episode, we take a look at the ways in which a great scorer can be effective. When it comes to offensive skills it is the combination of work ethic and natural ability. Currently in the NBA, individual skill is at an all-time high. We run through scoring talent and the attributes -- off the dribble, pure stroke, off movement and clutch moments -- and who has some of the best of technique we’ve ever seen on the court. Taking it further, Gil concludes that it all comes down to confidence. From one of the coldest bucket getters ever to do it, Agent Zero takes us inside the brain of an offensive mastermind. Be sure to catch his train of thought when it comes to being in the zone and taking the last shot. For the Hibachi, there’s no such thing as good defense, because there’s always better O.
69 min
197
Episode 11 - Know The Alpha Dog
On this episode of the No Chill Podcast we get take a look at the importance of chemistry for an NBA team. Whether it’s knowing who’s supposed to get the ball in crunch time, fitting in on a roster or finding the right blend of veteran and young players, it’s all about how their egos work together. From how the Warriors will make it work this season as free agency questions loom, to Melo’s failure to launch in Houston and what Jimmy Butler left behind in Minnesota, there’s been no shortage of drama in the early part of this NBA season.  Agent Zero has some ideas as to why it’s on the star player to take control, but more importantly why there always must be an alpha dog in the locker room to determine who’s running things. In some cases it’s clear cut, but Gil points out how more often than not, isn’t always the superstar that has the most command.
73 min
198
Episode 10 - College vs The Pro Game
On this episode of the No Chill Podcast, we dive into what it takes to play in the college game as it compares to the pro level. So far this season, Duke looks it has a all-time team. With this dynamic, young Blue Devil team turning heads early, we’re also being introduced to a new Coach K. As for Zion Williamson, he has exceeded early expectations, but Gil has a some questions about his game translating to the NBA. We also take a look at the option of a year in the G League with an $125,000 contract for top prospects, as opposed to a year in college. Is it actually a good deal? Or are you better off on campus? Speaking of staying on campus, we look at the return of LaMelo Ball to a high school squad. For Gil, it is the right move by Melo to stay on track to the NBA. If and when he gets there, what kind of player will he be?
71 min
199
Episode 9 - What Makes An Effective Coach
On this episode of the No Chill Podcast, we take a look at NBA coaching. For Gil, he’s got a lot on his mind about what makes a good coach and why superstar players generally DON’T become head coaches. But he thinks more should. For players, they want a coach that will listen and more importantly, adapt. We take a look at some of the best systems and why they work. Also, how players benefit from pairing with the right coach for their style of play. After that, Gil introduces us to the Agent Zero Academy. It’s something that he’s been working on for a while, watching the game and the development of players. He explains the platform, how it works and why he felt the need to launch it. He explains his approach and mindset to skill development, the work ethic needed to level up, and how exactly to become an all-everything scorer.
56 min
200
Episode 8 - Giving Credit Where Credit Is Due
There have been some eye popping and some head scratching moments to start the NBA season. With all eyes on the Lakers, Gil’s got a few ideas of how to get it right with the players that they have. After the drama that led to Kawhi Leonard’s exit from San Antonio, he’s showing us why he’s so damn good in Toronto. For Agent Zero, he wasn’t sold on Kawhi before, he just may have changed his mind.From there we run through some of the breakout, slept on and high ceiling players that look good early. Gil explains why things are clicking for guys like Zach LaVine, Kemba Walker and De’Aaron Fox.
77 min