THE BLAZERS EPISODE | Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, and Donovan Clingan
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The Old Man and the Three podcast delivers a deep-dive special featuring Portland Trail Blazers stars Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, and Donovan Clingan on the eve of the NBA playoffs. The episode explores their individual journeys from overseas origins—Avdija from Belgium, Camara from France, and Clingan from Connecticut—highlighting the unique challenges and cultural adjustments they faced transitioning to the NBA. They reflect on personal growth, from Avdija’s early struggles in DC and his transformation in Portland to Camara’s evolution from a late bloomer in Israel to a key defensive contributor, and Clingan’s development through UConn’s intense culture and his decision to go pro after his sophomore year. The trio discusses the mental and physical demands of the NBA, the importance of consistency, and the value of mentorship from veterans like Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday. They also share candid moments about their competitive fire, work ethic, and even their passion for food and city exploration on the road. The conversation underscores a theme of resilience, identity, and the quiet power of staying true to oneself in a high-pressure environment.
Consistency and mental toughness are more important than short-term success—success in the NBA comes from showing up every night with the same energy.
The best players aren’t always the most talented; they’re the ones who stay true to their identity and adapt without losing themselves.
Mentorship from veteran players like Lillard and Holiday is invaluable for young stars navigating the emotional and physical demands of the league.
Personal growth often comes from adversity—whether it’s isolation in a pandemic year, playing up in age groups, or adjusting to a new culture.
Defensive impact isn’t just about stats—it’s about sacrifice, positioning, and being willing to take charges to help the team win.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Sponsor Intro & Episode Context
The episode opens with a sponsored segment for Spindrift Sparkling Water, followed by a warm introduction to the special early-week release. The hosts set the stage by highlighting the Portland Trail Blazers' dramatic season and the significance of the upcoming play-in game against the Phoenix Suns.
The Portland Resurgence & Team Identity
“We don’t need to convince guys to play hard. You know what I’m saying? And I feel like that’s the most important. That’s something you can’t teach.”
From Brussels to the NBA: Avdija’s Journey
“I was a big Miami Heat fan... It was around that time where it was like Miami was in the finals almost every year with Dallas and Spurs.”
Early Development & the Maccabi Experience
“I almost was like, is it really worth it? To kinda like go there and practice and get beat up every day.”
The Mental Game: Imposter Syndrome & Growth
“I feel like that’s natural in any of these things where you just are, you’re in this, no matter what... You still have imposter syndrome.”
“Nobody cares about your last game. You know, to be a good player and, you know, a great team, you know, there's 82 games. You can’t just have one good night a week.”
“We don’t need to convince guys to play hard. You know what I’m saying? And I feel like that’s the most important. That’s something you can’t teach.”
“I feel like that’s natural in any of these things where you just are, you’re in this, no matter what... You still have imposter syndrome.”
Host
Guests
Portland Trail Blazers
other
Deni Avdija
person
Donovan Clingan
person
Toumani Camara
person
UConn
organization
Dan Hurley
person
Damian Lillard
person
Maccabi Tel Aviv
other
Jrue Holiday
person
Spindrift Sparkling Water
brand
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