In the premiere episode of Catch as Catch Can, George Tinsley Sr. sits down with NBA legend and longtime friend, Butch Beard. The two reflect on Beard’s illustrious basketball career, from his humble beginnings in Kentucky to his vital role in the Golden State Warriors' 1975 NBA Championship victory.

Butch opens up about his time playing with greats like Wes Unseld at the University of Louisville, his experiences with the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers, and his challenges and triumphs as a coach at both the professional and collegiate levels.

Listeners will hear stories of resilience, from overcoming a draft into the Vietnam War to starting basketball programs at historically black colleges. Butch’s passion for coaching and helping young athletes develop on and off the court shines through in this inspiring conversation. Along the way, the two former basketball pros reminisce about their shared history, offering insight into the dedication, discipline, and perseverance that define champions. 

Tune in to hear about the evolution of the NBA, the changing culture of the game, and Beard’s reflections on today’s greats, including LeBron James and Michael Jordan. Don’t miss this deep dive into basketball history and leadership in sports.