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Vertical Pod with Woj: Jerry West

Golden State Warriors executive Jerry West joins The Vertical Podcast with Woj for an illuminating visit that covers topics ranging from Kevin Durant's recruitment to Wilt Chamberlain, the Showtime Lakers to Kobe-Shaq, to growing up in an abusive home in rural West Virginia.

West also discusses his thoughts on free agency and players having the right to decide where to play.

1:48: Memories of playing in the NBA Finals in New York against the Knicks.

4:46: Working on raising awareness for Atrial Fibrillation.

8:42: His track record for recruiting star players, including helping the Warriors land Kevin Durant.

16:17: Would West have considered joining the Celtics or Knicks if free agency existed during his career?

17:41: Warriors owner Joe Lacob’s comments about the Warriors being light years ahead of the rest of the league.

21:36: Nearly quitting his job with the Lakers when Jerry Buss wanted to trade James Worthy to the Mavericks.

25:28: West’s reaction to criticism of players forming super teams.

28:47: The formation of the NBPA and the players standing up to the owners to gain collective bargaining rights.

34:07: Growing up in an abusive household and coping with the death of his brother in Korea.

39:46: Bringing his intense work ethic with him to the front office.

42:49: Quickly knowing a young Kobe Bryant would be a great player.

48:33: His relationship with Wilt Chamberlain and the impact of his death.

58:17: Reflections on his tenure with the Lakers and deciding it was the time to go.

Click here to download the podcast on iTunes, or listen here or on Yahoo Sports.

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