Heath Barn Hoopcast
Heath Barn Hoopcast is a new podcast featuring former Illinois Men’s Basketball players, hosted by Jon Heath. This pod provides a great way for Illini nation to hear entertaining stories from their favorite players of the past. Whether it’s the all-time leader in scoring, assists and steals, or a walk-on that carved out an important role for 4 seasons, Heath Barn Hoopcast provides an outlet for these players to rehash some of their fondest memories while wearing the Orange and Blue. They cover their childhood all the way to what they’re doing now, with stories and advice that can range from hilarious to inspirational. It’s an honor to have these men on as guests, and I hope you’ll check out Heath Barn Hoopcast.
Listen on:
Episodes
Friday Jan 03, 2025
Friday Jan 03, 2025
Awesome episode with former Illini Michael Finke. He discusses his quickly approaching fatherhood, his upbringing in Champaign, playing with his brothers growing up, his time at Illinois, his recruitment to other colleges, what led him to Grand Canyon as a transfer and how close was to going to another college, his time playing overseas, and what he’s up to now. GREAT stories throughout, and he participated in “Stevie’s stumpers,” where my son Stevie asks him a question. Great time talking with Michael Finke. ENJOY.
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Monday Dec 16, 2024
In this episode, Bruce discusses the dreaded Final 8 game against Kentucky, his outstanding teammates from his Illini playing days, and his relationship with Coach Henson. He also talks his time in the NBA, and what led him to his path of becoming a pastor. We talk about faith and family, and my son Stevie sneaks in to ask him a question as well. Very inspirational episode, and an amazing man. ENJOY.
Tuesday Sep 17, 2024
Tuesday Sep 17, 2024
It’s the all time assist and steal leader for the University of Illinois, Bruce Douglas. In part 1, he discusses his upbringing, playing for then perennial powerhouse Quincy in High School, as well as some of his favorite moments as a player in HS. He then tells great recruiting stories, including Bobby Knight sitting on his couch giving his sales pitch to get Bruce to Indiana. We also get into what makes a great defensive player. GREAT ADVICE FOR KIDS. He’s an amazing man. Enjoy part 1.
Monday Sep 02, 2024
Monday Sep 02, 2024
In the debut episode of Heath Barn Hoopcast, it’s Illini all-time scoring leader Deon Thomas. I usually go through and give specific details about the episode, but man, just listen. So many awesome stories from growing up, his recruitment, his time at Illinois, as well as overseas. We also compare past Illini teams, and have a lotta laughs. Also, it’s the debut of “Stevie’s stumpers,” where my son asks each player a question. I do have to give away one little nugget; there’s a Brad Underwood story that made me laugh VERY hard. Thank you Deon Thomas. ILL.