Grant Hill On Overcoming Adversity, Battling LeBron, Kobe and MJ, Incredible Duke Stories and More

Our guest this week is none other than NBA Hall-Of-Famer and absolute legend, Grant Hill. Topics include: Hazing JJ Redick during his rookie year on The Orlando Magic, exactly why he chose to go to Duke over North Carolina, why he admires Coach K (Mike Krzyzewski) so much, being a part of Coach's first National Championship, why JJ Redick was so hated at Duke, great Duke stories about Christian Laettner and Bobby Hurley, being named The Next Michael Jordan during his rookie season w/ The Detroit Pistons, playing for The Orlando Magic, almost playing with Tracy McGrady and Tim Duncan, details about his horrific injuries that sidelined his career and the misdiagnosis that came from so many doctors, almost becoming a Los Angles Laker, his admiration for LeBron James and so much more.
Subscribe to The Old Man and The Three podcast w/ JJ Redick (ESPN/First Take) and Tommy Alter KZbin channel today for more player interview highlights and NBA Finals analysis.

[@Oeleted]

“I want my hometown to see how good my teammates are.” Wow. That speaks volumes to how great of a teammate Christian was at Duke. Amazing.

[@Roadrunnerz45]

im guessing that quote was not included on the espn documentary which is why hill was upset? shame. glad he told it here.

[@Hullabaloo2013]

Dude epitomizes class. Confident but humble. Knowledgeable and insightful. CRAZY life experience. Doesn't act entitled or privileged like so many people who grew up with the advantages he had does. Fuckin LOVE Grant Hill. One of the best people the game has ever seen. And, if it wasn't for the injuries and medical mismanagement - would have had one of the best careers we've ever seen. Love listening to him on broadcasts and interviews. Team USA is in good hands with Hill. The best hands possible

[@austinjmendiola]

I'm 12 minutes in and this is already my favorite JJ pod interview. 53 minutes now and still my favorite interview. Grant is such a legend.

[@darrelljones3965]

Grant has had the cleanest fade for the last 30 years lol

[@HARRY__Pecker]

Lmao deadass. I think his head is fake

[@tobia.1281]

GHill’s barber is the real MVP

[@cpatt73]

Jalen Rose gives him a run for his money😆😆😆

[@missayawk]

Him and Steve Smith have the same barber

[@WKrealestateNYC]

Yo…. I was just thinking that 😭

[@wc4201]

Always liked grant. He’s so positive despite the stuff he went though medical wise throughout his career. In a way it’s inspirational. No quit in this man.

[@FibaFanatic]

Anyone have timestamps?

[@Roadrunnerz45]

this was a really great talk.

[@ptyten9718]

Some people don't know how cold Grant Hill was in the mid/late 90s. Legitimately one of the most talented perimeter players to ever player until that time. Injuries really robbed that all time duo he would have formed with peak T-Mac but he still had a very good career nonetheless.

[@roboslug]

Would have been Jordan and Pippen 2.0

[@tchai91]

I totally agree. That early 2000s Magic team was such fun to watch, and a healthy Grant would have elevated that team to very competitive in the East.

[@Yami-Diablo]

How cold or how hot? Because when you are in a shooting slump they say you are having a cold night.

[@johnplacca4746]

For real, I’m just happy he was able to reinvent himself and have a career. Another what if

[@gerrinharris4212]

G Hill was the Truth before he got hurt

[@siniister710]

Man if grant never got hurt these basketball conversations would look a lot different today. Dope guest as always

[@nickswaz]

If Barry Sanders was 7’2 tho.

[@9rays0n]

What’s crazy is even if he never got hurt if he never won a ring he’d basically be thought of like T-Mac

[@also3254]

So darn true. People don't know how nice he was!! Him & Penny were robbed by injuries!

[@realmontana6838]

Yea he started off hot as a mf

[@easymoney459]

W

[@MrBobbyCrane]

So happy to see Grant Hill get to be on this platform!!!! I feel blessed to have watched him in his prime. I had his 1st Fila mid high kicks, I loved them so much I skateboarded and played ball in them. 😁

[@Lalaphive]

Growing up in Detroit in the 90s Grant was OUR hero. He's the good guy that made it. Such an easy person to root for.

[@OmarWatson]

The part about Bobby Hurley brought back tears to my eyes, I would never forget that night. He was my favorite point guard coming up. I had liked Duke in the 80s but I fell in love with Duke with watching that Bobby, Grant, Christian, Antonio, Thomas team.

[@funkitpod]

I was a huge Grant Hill fan back then. And still now such a cool dude. Should have more media opportunities coming his way.

[@maeda01]

watching Grant in both Matt Barnes & JJ podcast made my day, he was definitely one of my fav players from the 90s. i'm lucky to be able to have seen MJ, Kobe, Grant, LeBron played the game.

[@juancorrea8591]

Never watched an interview with Grant Hill, seems like a great guy

[@brandondetroitfanmichaels4325]

Grant Hill was a beast! when he was on the Pistons! First basketball jersey, I ever had! I wasn't allowed to wear an MJ jersey in my house.

[@phreshmen333]

must be from Detroit 😂

[@marcusbutticus41]

Thank you JJ and Tommy for sticking to the discipline of asking pointed, succinct and open questions to your guests. Too often, we hear broadcasters or interviewers make value-laden statements and then ask for their interviewee's opinion. There is a reason why these conversations flow so naturally

[@10tive]

Wow! I think this is the best interview. What a humbling and inspiring experience. Thanka for sharing Grant. One of my 90s era NBA heroes.

[@raghutalluri5732]

Prolly the best guest on the podcast. He is so soothing to listen to. Respect!

[@TheJayofthejungle]

I just love hearing NBA stories from great players. As a Sixers fan at 13-14, I only ever wore Sixers jerseys, Jerry Stackhouse..Allen Iverson. Grant Hill was the first player from an opposing team whose jersey I wanted. Great player, interesting dude.

[@pvpichozen2027]

Grant hill is actually the reason why I started watching and playing basketball 🙏🏽💯🔥

[@siddey9782]

JJ is on tight schedule Man, He couldn't even change the Jacket. Appreciate all your hardwork 🤘🙏🏼

[@Dunc2222]

The best JJ pod interview ever. Grant Hill is so dignified, thoughtful, generous, smart and full of grace.

[@Earl_TheSquirrel]

I swear bro

[@adambarton73]

Grant is an absolute class act, always has been

[@AZhazardgaming]

As a Suns fan born in ‘98, I loved watching Grant in PHX as a kid but never knew the talent he really was until I got older. Really dope interview JJ 👍🏻

[@johnatwood1007]

GHill is such a great guy. Ultra talented ball player, solid commentary man, and beyond his professional success, he's got a great heart. God bless him, man. Gonna get a copy of his book.

[@michaeltremarco8062]

He could’ve been a top 10 conversation if injuries didn’t F him in the A. Great player. What a fantastic interview, way better than anything you see on TV. JJ is becoming one of, if not the best voice on the NBA.

[@arizjones]

Great to hear Grant Hill's perspective, on so many things. He came into the league at a unique time and saw so many different things, from some many different perspectives. What a life he has had. And what a humble, and dignified man. What took JJ so long to have him as a guest?

[@BIX-18827DCM]

Grant hill is so honest and candid. What a great interview

[@rondosavage9594]

GH is a true role model...inspires you to be a better human being. His humility is incredible.

[@nabilharrar7787]

One of the best one’s yet. Grant’s story’s were all so interesting and he articulated himself very well.

[@arimichael2499]

YOU CAN TELL HE WANTED TO SHARE A LOT OF HIS STORY...LEGEND AND HALL OF FAMER...GREAT DUDE AND VERY ARTICULATE AND INTELLIGENT AS WELL

[@simplysimple7628]

G Hill one of the most humble and genuine people on earth. He was destined to be with coach K. They just clicked. I was a hige fan of G Hill back in high school, not so much a Duke fan but I used to watch those games because of him. Just amazing teams those days. Guys stayed 3-4 yrs. Those teams had ridiculously high chemistry. Miss those days maaaan🙏🏼😔💪🏼✊🏼

[@D_a_a_v]

Camera quality - mic quality - interview quality. Everything is top tier. Great stuff

[@E_JB-4513]

Great interview, I appreciated Grant’s openness. I’m 45 and loved late 80’s and 90’s college basketball.

[@braxtonthomas6194]

The type of man one would like ones son to be like. Grant Hill. Outstanding!

[@jesus-xr9yo]

He still had a long career, goes to show how legendary professional athletes are, the number of injuries and the years it takes to get back in NBA shape

[@vanessasumandal6175]

❤

[@ericpeters0n]

What an incredibly thoughtful and well-spoken human being.

[@lvplackbussy9831]

Well-spoken??

[@CainMarcoMusic]

Thats what one sounds like when they go to duke

[@missayawk]

I didnt think J.J. was gonna make it in the NBA.He showed his true love for the game for the work he put in.He became more than a shooter and worked on his body.I love to see when a guy puts in the work and has success.Much respect to J.J.

[@Cosmolydian]

I'm too young to have watched Grant Hill, but I'm a fan now. What a damn good speaker he is, such a good communicator.

[@SolZer]

Great interview! I am old enough to remember how great GHill was as a player, and as a Suns fan I loved this episode. Thank you.

[@tisdue]

he was such a stud for the Suns.

[@drustill]

Crazy to think that this dude was my first real basketball idol growing up. This was late 90s, early 2000s. Toronto just got their team, MJ craze was never a thing for me (other than the kicks), and G. Hill was just it to me. Don't remember how it started, but I remember how amped I used to get when I would pull one of his trading cards from the packs. Always wanted that OG Pistons turquoise jersey...even to this day, I might cop it. Now, fully grown, and cemented in Bron being the goat, you start to reflect on players you admired growing up, especially when they were never able to live up to their potential, often due to injuries. Hearing how there may have negligence on the medical professionals part in dealing with his ankle injuries, and knowing how far they have come in that field i.e. dudes coming back even strong from ACL and Achilles injuries, you just being to lament what could have been. He legit was the first "next MJ" in my eyes, in terms of that narrative. Not as flashy, but just smooth as silk, with unparalleled fundamentals and on/off the court leadership/professionalism that is second to none; even listening to him today as a broadcaster, with his elite basketball IQ providing amazing insight and dissecting plays like no other. Man, not a lot of people will get a comment out of me, let alone a thesis which I appear to be on the track to writing... true legend, what could have been...

[@Storm23PS3]

Really enjoyed this one, JJ. Grant Hill, what a player. I of course wonder what could have been but still glad we got to see what we did.

[@Betty-Boop809]

This was a fantastic sit down. I could’ve listened to Grant’s stories for hours…& WOW, the stories.

[@spencergoolsby535]

JJ please don’t get sad. I got nba 2k22 and started up a my gm session chose the Dallas Mavs my team and boy oh boy was I freaking pumped to find out JJ was on the roster and I could watch him and luka lead my team to the promise land. Good content JJ keep it up brotha!!

[@joepro7138]

One of the best episodes. Really interesting to hear Grant Hills point of view on the 90s, his injury and other aspects of his life.

[@jamal_77646]

grant hill is a stand up guy. seen him a couple times in the home town of orlando. great guy man

[@mitchellpatrice]

God I loved me some Grant Hill!!!! Thanks for putting him on!

[@AR-io8fv]

God Grant is such an impressive human. I’d want him to be the face of my organization in any industry.

[@goodfellabeats]

Gotta say, these last two interviews have been really, really good.

[@Betty-Boop809]

I can’t think of one that wasn’t really really good. This is a top tier podcast.

[@tristyevely3798]

As a Duke fan who cut my teeth on the back to back championships, this is MY FAVORITE EPISODE EVER!!!

[@lo2smooth647]

What a Remarkable Story From a True Class Act!! The Amount Of Adversity Grant Had To Not Only Endure But OVERCOME Is a Testament To The Warrior He Is On And Off The Court. U Were Always One Of The Most Naturally Gifted Talents We'd Ever Seen And I Thank U For ALL The Wonderful Memories You'd Given Us. God Bless U And Your Beautiful Family Infinitely. JJ U Da Man💪🏾❤️💯

[@lionelt7882]

Grant Hill was my favorite player when I played ball in the late 90s. Had a Grant Hill 1996 DreamTeam jersey too

[@Byandlarge36]

This podcast is one of the best out here! Two Duke legends at the table; nothing better! #LetsGoDuke

[@FibaFanatic]

Anyone have timestamps? I'm not watching the whole thing. Sorry, JJ.

[@therenewedpoet4292]

Great point on talking. My favorite year of baseball we never stopped talking. Probably annoying, but talking with 12+ guys constantly without feeling awkward about anything was great confidence boost.

[@DirtyFolks]

When Grant said "Rocket Ismael" at 14:50 , combined with Desmond Howard and the Fab 5... its easy to forget that Michigan was a powerhouse in the 1990's.

[@Unamatrix01]

Outstanding interview with the one and only Grant Hill. You guys are truly doing an excellent job with the podcast, I wish you continued success in the future.

[@WilliamJohnson-vj5gz]

Incredible interview. I wish it could have lasted even longer. Grant is such a great story teller and the questions asked brought out the best.

[@benrezzy]

3:50 Those rookie hazing must be torture

[@coolkatco]

Always a fan of Grant Hill, and as a Canadian big fan of Tamia... I empathize with his career experience and the full legacy trajectory potential that was taken away....Excellent podcast session... I admire that Grant Hill personality and composure through out all of this... I would have sued from heaven to highwater for mal practice....

[@Rushinglc]

Theo Pinson was that guy for the Mavs this past year. Always bringing the energy and setting the tone for the culture knowing he wouldn't touch the floor in meaningful minutes.

[@CainMarcoMusic]

Big key to the knicks success the prior season…very under rated glue guy

[@sloanNYC]

Grant has always been one of those people who you knew would succeed no matter what. He really had his career cut short, was a 25/8/6 type player who could also defend. If he was coming up today he'd probably have a nasty step back 3 and Euro-step given his coordination and athleticism.

[@darrendeedman4497]

My idol! I named my kid after this guy. One of the greats!

[@kirkjabusch1514]

Great interview. Grant seems like such a nice guy. And, he should do a podcast. And, it is a darn shame he didn't get a chance to be healthy for his career.

[@MM4451]

Before the injuries Grant Hill was the GUY!!!

[@Rockindaxmike]

Damn after hearing what he went through, it’s crazy what kind of career he had with Phoenix afterwards. He was fantastic

[@JustinVoorheesLNS]

I never thought I would like JJ Redick. I can attest. I was so wrong.

[@ogg7490]

Coaches on all levels need to listen to this!

[@tobyhammett6807]

Damn, cued up the last shot by Laettner as Grant is re-telling the story...chills :)

[@NickPeters-xy9tw]

Love these interviews, I’d really like to see DRose on here that would be great let’s make it happen🔥🔥🤞

[@Don0213]

"The only way they (The Dream Team) could stop Bobby was putting Jordan on him." Insane!!!

[@HARLEM430]

Great interview. Seems like Grant is a really humble and cool dude. Glad he made it back. And I remember him cooking Scotty too.

[@danieloceans9652]

Had his Detroit Pistons teal jersey when I was young. Hill was a special talent and he’s all class

[@1989pulsar]

I remember when Grant was on that one episode of Living Single. Classic.

[@thugnotez4476]

what a fantastic interview. you can call him a snitch, but man. he really lays it all out there. the honesty

[@Hmmm_B]

Honest as hell.

[@hollisharris659]

Man I remember how good Grant was in the mid 90’s...he was literally LeBron before LeBron. He was the next big thing. I always hated that injuries limited him. But give him credit, dude was still a high caliber player even after the injuries. We all knew that he was great, greater than great. UNC fan here. I’ll say it every single time. I appreciate JJ more nowadays. I really feel bad for hating him as much as I did when he played at Duke. I’ve got mad respect for him now though. JJ, if you’re reading this, I’m sorry for all of bad names I’ve called you over your career 🤣🤷‍♂️🙏💪💪✊💯

[@nuggz720]

I used to have the old Grant Hill Pistons uni with the crazy horse on it - i think i wore that everyday for like a week. I didn't understand how bad the injuries were. One of the greatest players who due to injury never met his potential

[@pauladrianventurabasilio]

Man, this podcast is a breath of fresh air unlike ESPN bunch of clowns (not all though). 👀

[@reggaeb0y985]

Grant Hill. My childhood hero. I wish I was 14 again so I could see him playing

[@jamesmarieellison]

Grant Hill was the reason I watch Duke.

[@kc7131]

Finally JJ X Grant Hill...This is gonna be good!

[@melissaporter885]

Great interview, guys. Thanks, Grant. You're the genuine article.

[@EDWARDTHEEAUTHOR]

I remember when JJ airballed an fast break layup all by himself in Orlando, he use to play so nervous but turned out to be a solid pro

[@itsnuffin11]

Classy dudes . classy convo. Great pace . great work guys .

[@peterwinkler4934]

Grant Hill is the best...an absolute class act, always.

[@cooldoctor174]

A truly honorable professional. Amazing dude

[@Betty-Boop809]

This is my favorite sports podcast. I can’t wait until Jay Wright makes an appearance as a guest.

[@Jollighe]

great Interview. Grant Hill was may basketball hero during highschool. Sprite commercial was a hit.

[@helehelehele]

We gotta get a Hedo episode after that story

[@GunzNbutter]

Man prime Tmac & Grant Hill would’ve been one of the best duo’s ever smh

[@al5603]

I always say that a fully healthy Grant and T. Mac would've been as good as M.J. and Pippen.

[@Hman573]

omfg that Orlando Magic era was the best time of my life as a NBA fan, we need Dwight/Hedo/Jameer on the pod!

[@abringino]

Grant Hill is one of my childhood heroes together with J-Kidd, I hope you also get Jason on the show!

[@jmichaeldeane9966]

Outstanding interview thanks old man 3

[@imhong28]

Penny Hardaway and Grant Hill were very well on their way to being top 2-3 of their respective positions before injuries hit them.

[@brandanevans7403]

great to see JJ leading the new media!!

[@tadah21]

JJ is leading the new media because he was smart enough to keep ownership and stay unaffiliated with major network. Draymond doesn't understand you can't be new media affiliated with FS1 or showsports or any other major corporation. JJ has his own sponsorship and he has freedom to do and say as he pleases. All the smoke is not independent neither is a lot of the other guys they donot have complete ownership and they split sponsorship profits and they donot possess final say he does! So I truly applaud JJ!!!!🤓 the others are just giving their 💡

[@freshfromfla]

Grant Hill is a genuine, down to mars human

[@lw4533]

"Let's pee on him." 😂

[@smokejensen_]

11:00 this was my first ever college game and I hated JJ so much but after the game I couldn’t do anything but respect him.

[@aWillsaWay]

Grant Hill and Penny Hardaway were two of the biggest "what-ifs" ever!!

[@stretch_on1miller815]

Being from Detroit we jus knew (especially me lol) G.Hill was the next Jordan or at least very close. Love this interview great watch leading into the game 6 of the finals thanks jj 🙏🏽🤝

[@withalittlehelpfrom3]

Bruh, Grant in San Antonio would’ve been amazing!! Him and Pop would’ve gotten along perfectly.

[@whyroader]

This might be the best episode yet