Cousin Stizz, Basketball And Depression, Olympic Surprise

Cousin Stizz wrote his first rap lyrics on his hours-long commute to his suburban high school. Today, he's the voice of the Boston Celtics. This week on Only A Game, Stizz shares how he did it. Plus, a story about basketball, mental illness and friendship at a San Diego junior college. And the story of an Olympian who got an unexpected second chance. Join us!

Subscribe to the Only A Game podcast on Apple Podcasts, NPR One or Stitcher.

How Boston Rapper Cousin Stizz Made It 'To The League'
When Cousin Stizz's friends first heard him rap, they told him he was "trash." Now, he's the official voice of the Boston Celtics.

3 Stories: Zion Williamson, Kaepernick Settlement, Don Cherry Vs. Hurricanes
Arizona State Global Sport Institute CEO Kenneth Shropshire and the Boston Globe's Nora Princiotti join Only A Game's Karen Given.

Nate And David: A Story Of Basketball, Friendship And Mental Health
When David Pradel was going through a hard time, Nate Edwards was there to help. But David didn't know that Nate was suffering from depression, too.

Charlie Pierce: The Week In Sports
Karen Given and Charlie Pierce discuss Manny Machado’s record deal with the San Diego Padres, the “dumpster fire” that is the New Orleans Pelicans and how the French Fencing Federation has embraced The Force.

How A First-Time Olympian Got A Second Chance At Glory
Nigeria's Blessing Okagbare fell one centimeter short of a spot in the 2008 Olympic long jump final. But then, something unexpected happened.