The Right Time with Bomani Jones It’s Time To Hate Duke Again, Lakers Big win, Bruce Pearl embarrasses himself | 03.16
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Mar 16, 2026 March Madness sparks a call to revive national animosity toward one perennial program. A deep dive into the Lakers’ surge, seeding drama and whether LA is a desirable playoff matchup. Oklahoma City’s construction and Luka’s clutch moments get attention. Takes on a coach’s awkward plea, Kanye’s comeback concerts, and a heated DM from a Morehouse alum add cultural spice.
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Why This March Feels Better Than Recent Years
- College basketball quality improved because NIL and retained freshmen keep high-level players in school.
- Bomani argues this shifts talent distribution so under-22 best players are more often in college again, making March more compelling.
The Hampton Denial Story
- Bomani recalls believing Duke lost only to Davidson, then learning they lost to Hampton too as an example of stubborn fan denial.
- He uses a Simpsons bomber-jacket joke to illustrate cognitive dissonance around team identity.
Why Teams Want The Lakers In Round One
- The Western Conference is chaotic with Thunder, Spurs, Lakers, Rockets, Nuggets, Timberwolves jockeying for top six.
- Bomani notes many teams would prefer facing the Lakers in the first round because of exploitable defensive matchups.