Jon Rothstein sits down with Marquette head coach Shaka Smart for a mid-summer college hoops conversation. Jon and Shaka break down last year's Marquette struggles, using the transfer portal to fill certain gaps and what to expect from the upcoming Marquette roster. All that and much more from the 17-year head coach!

(0:00) Intro + Shaka Smart joins the show

(0:30) Shaka’s family and favorite vacation spots

(2:00) The last half decade at Marquette

(3:05) Comparing Shaka’s head coach jobs

(4:10) How tough was last season? And missing the tournament

(6:45) Growth from adversity vs. success

(8:00) When did Shaka come to terms with the transfer portal?

(10:00) Transfer portal: compliment instead of define?

(11:20) Impressions of the 2026-27 version of the roster

(13:10) Why Nigel James Jr. is poised to be the next great Marquette guard

(14:30) Which returner makes the biggest jump?

(15:30) The next steps for Adrien Stevens

(16:55) The relationship with a player you recruited vs. a portal add?

(19:10) Gaps that transfers will fill

(21:15)The Big East and NCAA Tournament bids

(23:00) Marquette’s nonconference schedule

(24:00) One great win and one tough loss

(26:35) Keys to Marquette being a Big East contender

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We're also the home for Inside College Basketball Now, hosted by Jon Rothstein. Known for his unmatched insider knowledge, bold takes, and relentless coverage, Rothstein goes deep to deliver what’s really happening in college hoops. From breaking down the biggest storylines to in-depth interviews with the top coaches in the country, this podcast is your all-access pass to the pulse of the game — 365 days a year. This. Is. March… and everything in between.