Exploring Mizzou Basketball with Cullen Honohan

Welcome to the first episode of the 1821 Sports Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of college basketball with our special guest, Cullen Honohan. In this engaging conversation, host Jackson Meyer sits down with Cullen to discuss his recent visit to the University of Missouri, his basketball content creation journey, and his unique perspective on the Mizzou basketball program.

A Glimpse into Mizzou Basketball

Cullen, a former college football player turned basketball content creator, recently visited the University of Missouri to film a video showcasing the inner workings of the Mizzou basketball program. His experience at Mizzou was nothing short of exceptional, largely due to the warm welcome from head coach Dennis Gates. Unlike other college tours where coaches often remain in the background, Coach Gates was actively involved, making Cullen feel like part of the Mizzou family from the moment he stepped on campus.

Gates’ personal engagement stood out as he greeted Cullen, familiar with his content, and enthusiastically supported his video ideas. This openness allowed Cullen to experience the program’s tight-knit culture firsthand, a defining characteristic of Mizzou basketball. With seven returning players—the most in the SEC—the team’s camaraderie was evident. Off-camera conversations with players revealed their loyalty to Coach Gates, who fosters a family-like environment through team-building activities like cookouts and ice cream truck visits.

Cullen’s Journey into Sports Media

Cullen’s passion for basketball began in high school in Florida, but his athletic path led him to play college football as a linebacker and later a tight end at Holy Cross. Despite his football background, his love for basketball conversations drove him to start creating content in 2022 during his senior year. Transitioning from an economics degree to sports media, Cullen began making videos in his dorm room, leveraging his graphic design skills honed during the COVID-19 pandemic and his early days making Vines.

Balancing a full-time content creation career is no small feat. Cullen emphasizes the importance of routine in the unpredictable world of social media. Whether filming at home or on the road—like his spontaneous trip to Iowa—he relies on structured planning to ensure smooth video production. His authenticity shines through, especially in moments like giving an impromptu speech to the Mizzou team, where he drew on his experiences visiting various programs to connect with the players.

Impressions of Mizzou’s Facilities and Players

Mizzou Arena, built in 2003, impressed Cullen with its compact, efficient layout. The proximity of the locker room, practice facilities, and game court allows players to train on their home court daily—a significant advantage. Recent renovations, including branded LED lights and a clean, fresh-smelling locker room, added to the appeal. Cullen noted the arena’s modern branding and cleanliness as standout features, humorously assuring fans that the locker room smells great, even if the student section during a packed game might not.

During scrimmages, three players caught Cullen’s eye: Aaron Rowe, whose lightning-fast first step left a lasting impression; Trent Burns, who has transformed into a formidable presence with added size; and a physically dominant player whose acrobatic finishes and strength stood out. These observations highlight the exciting mix of returning talent and transfer portal additions, like Sebastian Mack from UCLA and Javon Porter from Loyola Marymount, fueling optimism for the upcoming season.

The Mizzou Culture and Coach Gates’ Impact

The Mizzou basketball program’s culture is defined by its tight-knit, family-oriented atmosphere, driven by Coach Gates’ leadership. Unlike his more reserved press conference demeanor, Gates showed a dynamic, engaging personality during Cullen’s visit, balancing camaraderie with authority. His ability to connect with players, coupled with their trust in him, creates a cohesive unit poised for success in the SEC. Cullen’s experience, from giving a nerve-wracking speech to witnessing intense practices, underscored the team’s hustle and unity.

Looking Ahead

Cullen’s visit left him eager to return to Mizzou Arena for a game, particularly during a football-basketball weekend to experience Columbia’s electric atmosphere. With plans to cover Mizzou in the NCAA Tournament and upcoming content featuring top players and other universities, Cullen’s channel, All Hail Cullen, is a must-follow for basketball fans. Check out his YouTube channel and follow him on TikTok (@allhailbball) for more behind-the-scenes looks at college basketball.

Watch the full episode below to see Cullen’s Mizzou experience and get a closer look at Coach Gates’ dynamic leadership and the team’s vibrant culture.

Thanks for joining us on this deep dive into Mizzou basketball. Stay tuned for more episodes of the 1821 Sports Podcast, and don’t forget to subscribe to Cullen’s channel for the latest in basketball content!