This week we’re joined by Iran “Biggie” Perez, widely known as Mr. Brownsville. Biggie has worn just about every hat in the local sports scene, from coaching to media to community organizing, all with one aim, better opportunities for Valley kids.A longtime educator and coach in Brownsville, Biggie has served across multiple programs at Rivera High School, contributing to football and basketball while also helping with school athletics media and outreach. His roles have included freshman football and JV boys basketball, plus social media manager and webmaster support for Rivera athletics. LFG!

Season 6 Episode 1!!! Our guest this week to kick off the new season is Matthew Thomas, a former UTPA Men’s Basketball player from 2008 to 2011. He joins G and Matt to revisit those seasons, the grind of Division I hoops, and the personal journey that led to his name change after college.

This week’s guest is Garry Dippell, a true UTPA Baseball legend whose story embodies grit, consistency, and excellence. Hailing from LaGrange, Texas, Garry walked on to the UTPA baseball team in 1978—and went on to etch his name into program history.During his standout career, Garry hit a program-record .443 in 1979, earning All-District VI honors, and followed it up with another stellar year in 1980, when he served as team captain and received the Jody Ramsey Award. His offensive production was unmatched: a .550 on-base percentage, .508 slugging percentage, and 55 walks in 1980, one of the highest single-season totals in program history.Garry was part of one of the winningest eras in UTPA baseball, helping lead the team to 113 victories between 1979 and 1980. His performance earned him a professional opportunity with the Gulf Coast League Cubs following his senior year.In this episode, Garry joins G and Matt to talk about:- His journey from walk-on to record holder- Lessons learned under legendary UTPA leadership- The mindset that fueled his success at the plate- Memories from the program’s golden years- His transition from college baseball to the professional ranksA must-listen for baseball purists, UTPA alumni, and fans of stories about perseverance paying off.

This week we welcome Robert and Janet Vackar of Bert Ogden Auto Group for a candid conversation about philanthropy, community building, and their deep commitment to UTRGV. We discuss why giving matters to them, how they evaluate impact, and what it takes to sustain long term support for students, athletics, and the Rio Grande Valley. The Vackars also share honest thoughts on UTRGV Football’s inaugural season, whether expectations were met, and what success should look like in year two. We close with stories behind the brand, leadership lessons, and what is next for the Valley.

Dr. Guy Bailey, UTRGV President, and his lovely wife, Val Lamantia, join the show this week. We recorded a rare in person interview at the Robert & Janet Vackar Football Stadium and we talked about his journey, his vision, and welcoming back all alumni looking for a home.

This week we revisit our in-person interview with Lane Lord, the head coach of UTRGV Women’s Basketball and one of the most respected program-builders in the game. Before taking over in the Valley in 2018, Lord turned Pittsburg State into a perennial contender—seven 20-win seasons in 11 years, multiple NCAA tournament runs, and a 2017 MIAA regular-season title—earning five MIAA Coach of the Year honors and three NCAA Regional Coach of the Year awards along the way. At UTRGV, Lord has continued laying a foundation—developing all-conference talent and leading the Vaqueros through annual battles in the Southland, most recently guiding the 2024–25 squad with his trademark defense-and-details approach.In this conversation, Coach Lord unpacks:How to establish culture and standards that travelThe recruiting blueprint that fueled his rise from high school and JUCO to Division I head coach.Lessons from building winners at Pitt State—and applying them in Edinburg.What’s next for Vaqueros Women’s Basketball?

With basketball season around the corner, we’re rewinding one of our favorites: Kahil Fennell. In this revisited episode, Kahil dives into culture-building, player development, and the mindset it takes to compete when the lights get bright. We revisit his story, his coaching philosophies, and the habits that translate from practice to game day—perfect fuel as hoops season tips off.

What You’ll Hear

• Kahil’s approach to leadership, accountability, and team culture

• Scouting, film, and the details that decide close games

• How to keep players locked in over a long season

• Lessons for athletes, coaches, and fans heading into opening week

Join the Conversation
Drop your predictions for this season and your favorite takeaway from Kahil’s episode. Subscribe for more tip-off content, player spotlights, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Maria Ben Earlingsdottir joins the show from Iceland! A standout basketball player for the women's team, she talks about the struggles she faced playing during her time on campus and the special relationship she shares with Bianca Torres.