The Massachusetts Collective

Join us as we sit down with the legendary voice of the UMass Minutemen, Bob Behler . With nine years of calling basketball, football, and other sports at UMass, Bob shares his experiences and memories from his time in Massachusetts, including winning numerous local and national awards. Since 2008, Bob has been the voice of the Boise State Broncos, and he reflects on his transition from UMass to Bo...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with UMass basketball legend Monty Mack , the second all-time leading scorer and all-time leader in minutes played for the program. Hailing from Massachusetts, Monty's impact on and off the court is immeasurable. Joining us as a special guest host is his good friend and fellow program legend, Bill Taylor . Together, they reminisce about th...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with Chad O'Rourk e, owner of The Spoke and The Spoke Live in Amherst. Chad is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a passionate supporter of UMass basketball. Join us as we delve into Chad's journey in the hospitality industry, his love for the game, and the unique experience of running a popular spot for sports enthusiasts in a co...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with basketball legend Horace Neysmith , celebrated as one of the most dominant rebounders in the history of the University of Massachusetts. Neysmith takes us on a journey through his time at UMass, sharing stories of triumphs on the court and the challenges he faced along the way. From his unmatched tenacity under the basket to his leade...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we explore how the Hayden family's impact continues to shape UMass basketball, focusing on the journey of Jake Hayden , the Director of Basketball Operations. From his early days as a student manager ( following in his brother Warren Haydens footsteps, who is now the Assistant Athletics Director Of Ticket Sales & Operations) to his current pivotal...

On this episode of Commonwealth Conversations we sit down with Lilly Taulelei , a freshman player from the UMass women's basketball team. Lilly shares her journey from New Zealand to the United States, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way. From adjusting to a new culture to excelling on the basketball court, Lilly offers insights into her experience at UMass thus far and her aspira...

In this episode, we chat with UMass standout Robert Davis Jr. about his journey, the significance of fan support, and the upcoming postgame event at Hannoush Jewelers in Hadley on 2/3. Discover the role fans play in uplifting UMass Basketball and get a sneak peek of the exciting event that's set to dazzle fans and players alike.

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we have a dynamic duo! First, we sit down with Lakita Gantz , the mother of Robert Davis Jr. and a newly published author, to delve into her compelling story and newfound literary journey. But that's not all! We also welcome Amy Gallant from Hannoush Jewelers , who is hosting a special event on February 3rd, right after the UMass vs. George Mason game...

Join us as we trace the journey of Amherst native Dan Cutler through the world of college basketball. With three decades of experience, Dan's story takes us from his early days around the UMass program to his time as a UMass student and eventually to his successful career in the basketball industry.

Join us for an episode of Commonwealth Conversations featuring John Tate , one of Coach Cal's inaugural recruits at UMass. Discover the highlights of his time at UMass, from thrilling games to lasting friendships and what hes up to these days. And don't forget, after the game on January 20th, head over to the Spoke in Amherst for a special postgame event with UMass legends John Tate , Will Herndon...

Join us for a preview of the upcoming UMass vs. URI game in this episode of Commonwealth Conversations. Nathan Mook , owner of Rhody Vault and the Vault Network, provides insights into URI, while @UMassFan33 gives us a glimpse of the UMass perspective.

Step into the world of UMass basketball with Massachusetts' own Matt Cross ! In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, Matt shares insights into the current season, highlights the dedication of him and his teammates on the court, and emphasizes the crucial role of fans in supporting the team. Discover how you can join the collective and contribute to our NIL program to help these athletes shi...

Join us for an exciting episode of Commonwealth Conversations featuring Warren Hayden , UMass's Assistant Athletics Director of Ticket Sales & Operations. Discover Warren's journey from student manager to his influential role at UMass Athletics. Explore his game-changing $5 youth ticket initiative and its impact. Get insights into the dynamic world of collegiate athletics management and the st...

Join us in this episode as we explore the coaching journey of UMass Alumnus Matt Collier , now at the helm of Queens College, and delve into the profound influence of Bruiser Flint on his path to success.

Join us for another episode of Commonwealth Conversations as we chat with Dave Maclutsky , a seasoned professional with nearly 20 years of dedication to the University of Massachusetts. Dave's role as an Associate Athletic Trainer for the men's basketball program provides unique insights into the world of athletic care. Tune in to learn about his journey, the challenges he faces, and the critical...

Join us on Commonwealth Conversations as we sit down with Josh Maurer , the former voice of the Minutemen at UMass and now a key member of the Milwaukee Brewers' broadcast team alongside the legendary Bob Uecker. Josh takes us on a captivating journey, from his broadcasting days at UMass to his exciting career in sports broadcasting. Tune in for an exclusive look at his early years in broadcasting...

Join us for a unique episode with George Miller, former Sports Director at WHMP, play-by-play commentator for UMass basketball's historic seasons and former UMass PA announcer. George's journey from the sports broadcasting world to being the owner of Magic Wings Butterfly Sanctuary in South Deerfield showcases his diverse career path and adaptability. In this episode, we discuss his transition fro...

In this Breaking News Edition of Commonwealth Conversations, we delve into the ripple effects of the Temporary Restraining Order against NCAA transfer rules . Special guests Patrick MacWilliams and Corey Schneider, directors of The Mass Co and Midnight Ride Collective, share their insights on how this decision impacts UMass and their organizations. The episode also features brief updates from both...

Join us on Commonwealth Conversations for an engaging chat with Evelin Simmons, UMass's Director of Trademark and Licensing. A Hadley native and UMass grad, Evelin dives into the nuances of university branding, the challenges of protecting intellectual property, and her journey from student to brand guardian. Don't miss this unique insight into shaping a university's identity.

Join us on Commonwealth Conversations as we welcome Eli Slovin, known as Mr. UMass and an Amherst native. Eli shares his deep connections with Amherst and the University of Massachusetts.

This episode of Commonwealth Conversations features Ed Rubin , known among UMass fans as the "Sign Man." We trace Ed's journey from working with coach Jack Leaman to his ongoing support for the program. Ed and his wife Ann Marie recently made a significant donation to the Men's Basketball Program, and we discuss this contribution and their upcoming recognition at the UMass vs. South Florida game o...

In this Commonwealth Conversations Podcast episode, join us as we sit down with Matt Vautor, a UMass grad and veteran reporter. Matt has been intimately involved with UMass basketball for years, offering unique insights from his time at the university to the present day. Tune in to hear about his journey.

In this Commonwealth Conversations Podcast episode, we're excited to chat with Mike Fetterer, the creator of UMassHoops.com. Before #UMassTwitter took off, Mike launched this site as a dedicated space for UMass basketball fans to share, discuss, and enjoy everything about the team. If you've ever visited, posted, or interacted on UMassHoops.com, now's your chance to meet the person who started it...

In this episode of the Commonwealth Conversations Podcast, we sit down with Bill Taylor, a well-known UMass basketball supporter. Listen as BT recounts his journey with the program, highlighting his personal experiences and long-standing involvement. From the early days to significant milestones, BT's stories offer an insider's view into the world of UMass basketball. Discover how community suppor...

Welcome to another episode of Commonwealth Conversations! Today we kick off the 2023-2024 UMass basketball season with a true legend of the program, Tom McLaughlin. Tom's journey with UMass is nothing short of extraordinary. From his days as a standout player to his coaching career, his impact on the UMass basketball community has been profound. Coach Jack Leaman once hailed him as "the best and m...