Up Hill Down Under

We officially ride the Zalgiris Bandwagon, some Coaching Chaos, and Netflix’s Big NBA Bet

In this episode, we tackle the latest Euroleague headlines, starting with a potential shake-up in the coaching scene. Could legendary names like Ettore Messina, Zeljko Obradovic, or even Luca Banchi be facing the hot seat? We dive deep into the possibilities, break down the potential for a first head coach firing, and analyze the top candidates, who are currently available on the market.

Next, we celebrate the unstoppable force that is Zalgiris Kaunas – a team that’s playing some incredible basketball this season. Head coach Andrea Trinchieri has his team playing at an incredible level to start the season. Question remains: can they keep this pace up?

 

Switching to the NBA, we discuss Netflix’s new “Starting 5” series, following players like LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards, Jimmy Butler, and Domantas Sabonis through the 2023/24 season. We share our favorite moments so far, imagine which Euroleague stars would make a great counterpart, and speculate on who should be featured in a second season.

 

It’s a jam-packed episode covering all things Euroleague, NBA, and beyond!

 

Co-Host: Matej Hopp and Simon Pichler
Producer: Simon Pichler

Music: Lunatic - HLM 3 (Intro) & 113 - Outro (113 fout la merde)

You can follow the Up Hill Down Under podcast on, Facebook (@uphilldownunder) Instagram (@uphilldownunder), on Twitter/X (@uphilldownunder) and on YouTube (coming soon).

For advertising opportunities please reach out via e-mail:

hello@uphilldownunder.com

#41: Hoops & Homeruns: Euroleague Highlights & MLB History

In this episode, we dive into the highlights of the past few Euroleague rounds, spotlighting the standout games and a surprising rise from Zalgiris that has everyone talking. We discuss an early Final Four preview in the making, as Fenerbahce and Panathinaikos clash in what could be a thrilling showdown later in the season, and we break down yet another impressive performance from FC Barcelona.

 

But we’re not stopping in Europe – we switch gears to the U.S. and change the sport as we unpack the historic MLB World Series matchup between the L.A. Dodgers and the NY Yankees. Join us for a cross-continental sports journey packed with action, analysis, and some predictions!

 

Co-Host: Matej Hopp and Simon Pichler
Producer: Simon Pichler

Music: Lunatic - HLM 3 (Intro) & 113 - Outro (113 fout la merde)

You can follow the Up Hill Down Under podcast on, Facebook (@uphilldownunder) Instagram (@uphilldownunder), on Twitter/X (@uphilldownunder) and on YouTube (coming soon).

For advertising opportunities please reach out via e-mail:

hello@uphilldownunder.com

#40: From Fenerbahce’s Dominance to Partizan’s Troubles: Euroleague Early-Season Analysis

In this episode, we dive deep into the Round 2 of EuroLeague basketball, discussing standout performances, tactical strategies, and upcoming matches. We highlight key games and teams that have caught attention, such as Fenerbahce’s impressive early-season form, while also focusing on teams like Zalgiris and their strong potential. Barcelona’s underwhelming play despite a win, and Partizan’s need to turn their season around are also major talking points.

Furhther, we also explore the struggles of Virtus Bologna, who are yet to find their rhythm, while focusing on the stellar start by Panathinaikos and their ambitious aim to reach the final four. The (non-)surprising resurgence of Lorenzo Brown at Panathinaikos, alongside Sasha Vezenkov’s return to form for Olympiakos, which is deemed crucial for their title hopes.

The conversation further delves into the intense Istanbul Derby between EFES and Fenerbahce, the rivalry, and team dynamics. Notably, they analyze the unexpected results from the Baskonia vs. Red Star game, along with the rising pressure on coaches. Simon and Matej also make predictions on the future outcomes of key matches and share thoughts on how the season could unfold.

 

Co-Host: Matej Hopp and Simon Pichler
Producer: Simon Pichler

Music: Lunatic - HLM 3 (Intro) & 113 - Outro (113 fout la merde)

You can follow the Up Hill Down Under podcast on, Facebook (@uphilldownunder) Instagram (@uphilldownunder), on Twitter/X (@uphilldownunder) and on YouTube (coming soon).

For advertising opportunities please reach out via e-mail:

hello@uphilldownunder.com

#39: Euroleague 2024/25: Round 1 Recap – Stars, Surprises & Teams Under Pressure

Welcome to the first episode of the 2024/25 Euroleague season!

We’ve tipped off in style, and Round 1 didn’t disappoint. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the best game of the week(00:01:55), analyzing the top teams and performances that caught everyone’s attention. From jaw-dropping individual displays to team efforts that set the bar high—who delivered, and who stole the spotlight?

We’ll also break down some early surprises and the unexpected twists that have already shaken the Euroleague landscape. Of course, not everyone met the hype—so we’ll cover the early disappointments, too. Which teams and players fell short of expectations, and what went wrong(00:24:56)?

And as we look ahead, we’ll highlight the players to watch for the upcoming season(00:34:15). There’s already buzz around some new and familiar faces—who’s poised to make a real impact?

Finally, with Round 1 in the books, we’re talking about the teams already feeling the heat heading into Round 2. Who’s under pressure to bounce back and avoid an early-season slump(00:42:30)?

Co-Host: Matej Hopp and Simon Pichler
Producer: Simon Pichler

Music: Lunatic - HLM 3 (Intro) & 113 - Outro (113 fout la merde)

You can follow the Up Hill Down Under podcast on, Facebook (@uphilldownunder) Instagram (@uphilldownunder), on Twitter/X (@uphilldownunder) and on YouTube (coming soon).

For advertising opportunities please reach out via e-mail:

hello@uphilldownunder.com

#38: 2024/25 EuroLeague Over/Under Predictions for every team

As the new EuroLeague season approaches, we dive deep into all 18 teams and predict their over/under results for the upcoming year.
Who’s poised for a breakout season? Which powerhouse teams might fall short of expectations? We’ve got you covered with detailed analysis, bold predictions, and everything you need to know before tip-off!

Co-Host: Matej Hopp and Simon Pichler
Producer: Simon Pichler

Music: Lunatic - HLM 3 (Intro) & 113 - Outro (113 fout la merde)

You can follow the Up Hill Down Under podcast on, Facebook (@uphilldownunder) Instagram (@uphilldownunder), on Twitter/X (@uphilldownunder) and on YouTube (coming soon).

For advertising opportunities please reach out via e-mail:

hello@uphilldownunder.com

#37: Back on the Hardwood: The EuroLeague season 2024/25 is almost here

It has been quite a summer for all the Euroleague teams but two teams definitely stood out. Panathinaikos Athens and Olympiacos Pireus - the Greek nemesis - have been guns blazing with acquiring quite an All Star roster. But one question remains: Who actually had the better summer signings? (00:06:20).

Andrea Trinchieri is not known for mincing words and he recently had some very interesting comments regarding the future of young talents in European basketball (00:18:10).

Can Bayern Munich basketball reach the Final Four? Newly acquired HC Gordie Herbert seems to think so (00:30:18).

According to Zvezda president Nebojsa Covic, the Serbian team’s goal is to register at least 24 wins in the regular season. We discuss if this is a feasible feat or just wishful thinking (00:37:10).

The next Euroleague Final 2025 will either be played in Belgrade or....Abu Dhabi? Great move or just a bad idea? (00:42:47)

Co-Host: Matej Hopp and Simon Pichler
Producer: Simon Pichler

Music: Lunatic - HLM 3 (Intro) & 113 - Outro (113 fout la merde)

You can follow the Up Hill Down Under podcast on, Facebook (@uphilldownunder) Instagram (@uphilldownunder), on Twitter/X (@uphilldownunder) and on YouTube (coming soon).

For advertising opportunities please reach out via e-mail:

hello@uphilldownunder.com

#36: Cinematic Champions: Sports Legends on Film

Sports movies and documentaries have always been intriguing. Some are really well made, some are just bad. We discuss some of our most favorite sports legends and who should portray them in a potential movie (00:15:10).

 

Co-Host: Matej Hopp and Simon Pichler
Producer: Simon Pichler

Music: Lunatic - HLM 3 (Intro) & 113 - Outro (113 fout la merde)

You can follow the Up Hill Down Under podcast on, Facebook (@uphilldownunder) Instagram (@uphilldownunder), on Twitter/X (@uphilldownunder) and on YouTube (coming soon).

For advertising opportunities please reach out via e-mail:

hello@uphilldownunder.com

#35: Hoops in 2028: Will Team USA stay on top? Can Serbia keep up?

It remains uncertain if the USA can continue their dominance in basketball at the 2028 Olympics using the same strategy as in 2024. While their talent pool is deep, other nations are rapidly improving, making the competition increasingly fierce (00:07:14).

Head coach Svetislav Pesic expressed concern that Serbian basketball might struggle to remain competitive on the international stage in the future. Does he have a point or will Serbia continue to be a force regardless of any changes within their system (00:25:10).

Plus, what European sports legends need to have their own movie? And which actor should portray their character? We have some suggestions - bring out your popcorn (00:37:45).

 

Co-Host: Matej Hopp and Simon Pichler
Producer: Simon Pichler

Music: Lunatic - HLM 3 (Intro) & 113 - Outro (113 fout la merde)

You can follow the Up Hill Down Under podcast on, Facebook (@uphilldownunder) Instagram (@uphilldownunder), on Twitter/X (@uphilldownunder) and on YouTube (coming soon).

For advertising opportunities please reach out via e-mail:

hello@uphilldownunder.com