I co- and hosted four episodes of Rookie Recap, a show published for UCTV Sports on YouTube. In each episode, I discussed the debut season of 15 players that were drafted into the 2023 NBA Draft.
In preparation for the episode, I spent about three hours doing research. I looked at references, watched game footage, and analyzed statistics for each 15 players. I created a short script so I knew what to say while we were filming.
I found enjoyment in research, especially comparing statistics and their game play. However, at this point, these players had only played in the NBA or G League, so I had to keep in mind that I couldn’t over-analyze their career. When writing my script, I knew I had to be fair to each player and sensitive if a player went through a season-ending injury.
Another challenge I faced was trying to keep each player to less than one minute. Some players had a great first season and lots of news to cover. That is why the first episode is a little longer than the other ones.
In post-production, I also created thumbnails, graphics for each player which highlighted their main statistics and added game footage for a more engaging video. I also edited the video and fixed the audio and color correction, if needed.
Rookie Recap: Episode One
Published on Feb. 2, 2024
As host, I spoke about the first 15 players selected in the 2023 NBA Draft. I analyzed the rookie season of first overall pick, Victor Wembanyama, to UConn’s very own, Jordan Hawkins.
Rookie Recap: Episode Two
Published on Feb. 9, 2024
I co-hosted this video and we went back and forth speaking about picks 16-30 such as Jaime Jaquez Jr. to Kobe Brown.
Rookie Recap: Episode Three
Published on Feb. 16, 2024
This is where research began to get a bit more difficult. Second round picks don’t often play in the NBA as much or are on a two-way contract with the G League. I strove to not sound repetitive and look for unique ways a player stands out in their game.
Rookie Recap: Episode Four
Published on Mar. 2, 2024
In this last episode, I had a much easier time doing research and knew to use websites such as ESPN, Basketball Reference, NBA, and the G League website as well as highlights on YouTube.