The Baseline

The Baseline

The Baseline

Hosted by: Jonathan Rears, Meir Cohen

On “The Baseline”, Meir Cohen and Jonathan Rears dive into the world of international basketball, interviewing characters from all around the basketball community. On this show, we will leave no stone unturned and discover the difficulties and rewards of the basketball grind. Stay tuned to gain weekly access to the inside scoop with division I NCAA players, Israeli league superstars, and many more.

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein
  • Jonathan Rears

    Jonathan Rears

    I grew up in Boston Massachusetts where I played varsity basketball all 4 years of high school and also played AAU for a few years as well. Basketball is my biggest passion in life and I love everything that comes with it. I moved to Israel to study at RU where I have founded this […]

  • Meir Cohen

    Meir Cohen

    From a young age I’ve been fascinated with sports media, ever since the days of early morning radio shows I would listen to as a kid growing up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. There is nothing I love more than sports, and having a platform to hear stories from all kinds of people is a dream come […]

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Jared Armstrong – Faith, Identity and Hooping with Purpose | S2 The Baseline Ep 6

The Baseline
24/12/2024

In this episode of The Baseline, we sit down with Jared Armstrong — a fearless guard whose journey from the U.S. to Israeli pro basketball is anything but ordinary 🏀. From early setbacks to becoming a symbol of perseverance and pride, Jared opens up about what it means to rep his Jewish identity while chasing greatness overseas.

We talk faith, culture shock, and the grind of proving yourself in a new country — both as a player and as a person. This one’s honest, motivating, and real.

💬 What we talk about:
– Growing up in the U.S. and finding basketball purpose 🇺🇸
– The leap to Israeli professional hoops 🇮🇱
– Embracing his Jewish identity on and off the court ✡️
– Cultural transitions, challenges, and growth 🌍
– His mindset, mission, and message to the next generation 💬

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast ❤️ Subscribe, rate, and tag us in your stories — we might repost you!

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Melissa DiaWakana – Owning Her Game & Rising Fast | The Baseline Ep. 34

The Baseline
10/12/2025

From Africa to Paris to the international stage, Melissa Diabakana’s journey is all about resilience, identity, and owning what she can control. In this episode, Melissa opens up about the grind behind her growth, the mindset that keeps her steady, and what it really takes to carve out a lane in pro basketball.

💬 What we get into:
– Her path from French youth hoops to the pro scene
– Confidence, composure, and developing a coaching mindset
– The challenges of adapting to new countries & systems
– What she’s hungry for next and how she plans to get there

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Tag us in your stories — we’ll repost you!
🔗 All links → linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Josh Nzeakor – Power, Patience & Finding His Game Overseas | The Baseline Ep. 33

The Baseline
07/12/2025

From dominating the paint in college to carving out a steady, physical role overseas, Josh Nzeakor’s path is all about resilience, self-belief, and staying ready. In this episode, Josh opens up about the ups & downs of overseas, and how to build a long-term career abroad.
💬 What we get into:
– His journey across the USA and Europe to make it to Israel
– how he’s expanded his offensive toolkit
– Adjusting to new cultures, coaches, and expectations
– What keeps him motivated as he pushes for that next jump
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we’ll repost you!
🔗 All links ➡️ linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Bodie Hume – Versatility, Confidence & Making His Mark Overseas | The Baseline Ep. 32

The Baseline
03/12/2025

From dominating at Northern Colorado to proving himself in the fast, physical world of international hoops, Bodie breaks down his transition to pro basketball, how he’s expanding his game, and what it takes to stand out overseas.
💬 What we get into:
– His path from Colorado to the international stage
– Adjusting to new systems, styles of play, and expectations
– How he stays prepared mentally & keeps leveling up
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we’ll repost you!
🔗 All links ➡️ linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Jase Townsend – Finding His Footing & Flourishing at Maccabi Ra’anana | The Baseline Ep. 31

The Baseline
26/11/2025

From lighting it up in college to carving out his lane in the competitive world of overseas basketball, Jace Townsend’s journey is all about growth, resilience, and staying true to his game. In this episode, Jace breaks down his transition overseas, how he’s elevating his skill set, and what it means to make an impact with Maccabi Ra’anana.
💬 What we get into:
– His path from the U.S. to Israeli hoops
– Developing a pro mindset. Discipline, confidence, and on-court adaptability
– Adjusting to life abroad & the challenges that come with
– How he stays locked in and sees the game
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we’ll repost you!
🔗 All links ➡️ linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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DJ Burns – From Murray State to Israeli Hoops | The Baseline Ep. 30

The Baseline
19/11/2025

From the blue-and-gold courts of Murray State to the fast, physical pace of Israeli basketball, DJ Burns’ journey is all about energy, evolution, and embracing the grind. In this episode, he opens up about adapting his game overseas, finding his voice as a pro, and what it takes to impact winning on both ends.
💬 What we talk about:
– His path from New Orleans to the Israeli Premier League 🇮🇱
– Building a pro mindset — confidence, consistency, competitiveness
– Adjusting to life abroad and fitting into Rishon LeZion’s family
– How he stays hungry, focused, and ready for every opportunity
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we’ll repost you!
🔗 All links ➡️ linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Max Heidegger – From California to the Euro Ball | The Baseline Ep. 29

The Baseline
12/11/2025

From Santa Barbara gyms to packed European arenas, Max Heidegger’s story is built on sharp shotmaking, confidence under pressure, and the mindset of a pro. In this episode, he breaks down the grind, the travel, the highs, and what keeps him chasing that next level.
💬 What we talk about:
– His rise from UCSB to top European clubs
– Mental toughness through injuries, & moves
– Life overseas and staying grounded
– What he’s still hungry for next
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we’ll repost you!
🔗 All links ➡️ linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Akili Vining – From Texas to Europe | The Baseline Ep. 28

The Baseline
05/11/2025

From down South in the USA to stadiums overseas 🌍 — Akil Vining’s journey is all about belief, growth, and grit. In this episode, he opens up about the grind, adapting to life abroad, and what keeps him locked in on and off the court 💪
💬 What we talk about:
– His path from Texas to the pros 🏀
– Mental toughness through ups & downs of life and family
– Life lessons from playing overseas 🌍
– Staying connected to home ❤️
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we’ll repost you!
🔗 All links ➡️ linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Max Adelman – From Music City to the Israeli Pro Game | The Baseline Ep. 27

The Baseline
30/10/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Max Adelman, a Memphis-born guard who sharpened his game at Vanderbilt University before taking his talents overseas

From SEC battles in Tennessee to adjusting to life in Israel, Max shares how discipline and love for the game carried him through every level.
💬 What we talk about:
– Growing up being Jewish & hooping in Memphis 🎸
– Competing in the SEC at Vanderbilt 🏛️
– Prioritizing academics and hoops 🌍
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!
🔗 Catch all our links here: linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Joirdon Nicholas – Greatness to Global Grind | The Baseline Ep. 26

The Baseline
22/10/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Joirdon Nicholas, a versatile forward who dominated across america before taking his game overseas. From his roots in Texas to life as a pro abroad, Joirdon opens up about the grind, the growth, and the game that shaped him.
💬 What we talk about:
– Standing out in HS & College 🏀
– Making the leap from college to the pros ✈️
– Adapting to new countries and styles of play 🌍
– Mental toughness, leadership, and staying motivated 💪
– The reality of chasing the overseas dream 🚀
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!
🔗 Catch all our links here: linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Lior Berman – From Auburn Pride to Israeli Pro | The Baseline Ep. 25

The Baseline
15/10/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Lior Berman — a standout guard who made his mark at Auburn University before taking his talents overseas to launch a professional career in Israel 🇮🇱. With discipline, heart, and a relentless work ethic, Lior shares the next chapter of his basketball journey.

💬 What we talk about:
– Playing college basketball at Auburn 🐯
– Transitioning from NCAA to the pro level 🇮🇱
– Adjusting to life and culture overseas 🌍
– Lessons on hard work, patience, and perseverance 💪
– Advice for young players chasing their dreams 🚀
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!
🔗 Catch all our links here: linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Mick Moshiashvili – Training across the world | The Baseline Ep 25

The Baseline
09/10/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Mick Moshiashvili — an Israeli basketball mind whose love for the game took him from the streets of Haifa to the bright lights of Sierra Canyon and now to the Milwaukee Bucks 🏀. From coaching in Israel’s Premier League to working alongside NBA stars, Mick’s journey is all about passion, persistence, and purpose. Whether you’re a young coach chasing your dream 📈, a player looking for inspiration 🌍, or a fan of basketball storytelling — this episode hits home.
💬 What we talk about: – Growing up with a deep love for basketball in Israel 🇮🇱 – Coaching with Hapoel Haifa and the lessons learned on the sidelines 🧠 – Working with Dash and developing players behind the scenes 🔥 – Experiences at Sierra Canyon and what makes that culture elite 🎓 – Joining the Milwaukee Bucks and stepping into the NBA world 🦌 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast ❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!

 

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Annette Snow – From College Courts to Global Hoops | The Baseline Ep 24

The Baseline
05/10/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Annette Snow, the dynamic hooper who turned her college success into a professional journey abroad. 🌍🏀
💬 What we talk about:
– The transition from college basketball to the professional stage 🌍
– Finding confidence and rhythm in new environments 🔑
– Lessons on perseverance, leadership, and growth 💪
– Advice for young athletes dreaming of playing abroad 🚀
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!
🔗 All links here: linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Damion Rosser – New Orleans to New Beginnings | The Baseline Ep 23

The Baseline
26/09/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Damion Rosser, the standout guard who made his name in New Orleans before chasing the pro dream overseas. 🏀
💬 What we talk about:

– The grind of carving out a career overseas 🌍
– Adjusting to new cultures and styles of play 🔄
– Lessons on resilience, faith, and growth 🙌
– Advice for young hoopers chasing their dreams 🚀
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!
🔗 All links here

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Max Hooper – From Sharpshooter to Texas Legends Head Coach | The Baseline Ep 22

The Baseline
17/09/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Max Hooper, a former pro and one of the most unique shooters in NCAA history, who has now stepped into his first season as head coach of the Texas Legends (NBA G League). 🏀
💬 What we talk about:
– Life as one of the NCAA’s most unorthodox shooters 🎯
– Playing professionally overseas 🌍
– The transition from player to coach 🧑‍🏫
– Inside the G League grind 💪
– Building culture and leadership with the Texas Legends 🚀
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!
🔗 All links here

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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JJ Kaplan – From Alabama Courts to Israeli Hoops | The Baseline Ep 21

The Baseline
10/09/2025

In this episode, we sit down with JJ Kaplan — a Jewish-American forward who went from starring at the University of Alabama in Huntsville to chasing the pro dream in Israel 🇮🇱. With grit, faith, and determination, JJ has carved out his path overseas while staying true to his identity on and off the court.
From small-town beginnings to the global basketball stage 🌍, JJ shares a story of perseverance, culture, and chasing what you love.
Whether you’re an overseas hooper 🏀, a fan of Israeli basketball, or someone inspired by athletes balancing sport and faith ✡️, this episode will hit home.
💬 What we talk about:
– Playing college ball at UAH ⚡️
– Transitioning to pro basketball in Israel 🇮🇱
– Life as a Jewish-American athlete overseas ✡️
– Adapting to new cultures and challenges 🌍
– Lessons for young players chasing their dreams 🚀
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!
-Catch all of our Links on Linktree! https://linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=cadc33b1-82a9-4595-a7ef-d0298f1acca1

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Clarke Rosenberg – Basketball, Identity and Resilience | The Baseline Ep 20

The Baseline
03/09/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Clarke Rosenberg — an Israeli-American guard whose game has taken him from U.S. college gyms to the hardwood of the Israeli Basketball Premier League 🏀. Known for his scoring ability and relentless drive, Clarke opens up about the highs, lows, and lessons from his journey as a pro.
From finding his footing overseas to balancing identity, faith, and the grind of basketball, Clarke’s story is about more than just buckets — it’s about perseverance and passion.
Whether you’re a player chasing your next contract 🌍, a fan of Israeli hoops 🇮🇱, or someone looking for inspiration beyond the court, this episode hits home.
💬 What we talk about:
– Playing in the Israeli Basketball Premier League 🇮🇱
– Navigating challenges as a Jewish-American athlete ✡️
– Adapting to different roles on and off the court 🏀
– Mental toughness and handling adversity 💪
– Advice for young players dreaming big 🚀
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!
-Catch all of our Links on Linktree! https://linktr.ee/thebaseline.podcast?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=cadc33b1-82a9-4595-a7ef-d0298f1acca1

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Isaiah Miller – Staying Ready Through The Grind | Episode 19

The Baseline
02/09/2025

From highlight dunks at UNC Greensboro to battling every night with the Austin Spurs in the NBA G League, Isaiah Miller has always been known for his bounce, defense, and relentless energy. Now, as he works through an injury and recovery, he opens up about the grind, the mindset it takes to stay locked in, and what’s next in his basketball journey.
Hear Isaiah talk about:

-Life in the G League with the Austin Spurs
-Staying disciplined during injury recovery
-The mentality behind resilience and staying ready
-Why his story is just getting started
-Full episode streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
-Catch all of our Links on Linktree!

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!

 

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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Felipe Haase – From Chilean Star to International Pro | The Baseline Ep 18

The Baseline
27/08/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Felipe Haase — Chilean basketball star, national team leader, and international pro making waves across the globe 🌍. From representing Chile on the biggest stages to dominating at Mercer and South Carolina in the NCAA, Felipe’s story is one of pride, perseverance, and proving himself at every level.
Whether you’re a hooper chasing the overseas dream 🏀, a fan of South American basketball 🇨🇱, or someone inspired by athletes breaking barriers — this episode brings insight, heart, and hustle.

💬 What we talk about:
– Growing up and hooping in Chile 🇨🇱
– Making the jump to U.S. college basketball 🎓🏀
– Life as a pro and representing the Chilean national team 🌎
– Challenges and lessons from the international game 💪
– Advice for young players chasing their dream 🚀
_Catch all of our Links on Linktree!

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @thebaseline.podcast
❤️ Leave a review & tag us in your stories — we might repost you!

 

Image Credits: Shali Bernstein

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