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Don Hahn
This is the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Peter Rosenberg
That sounds like heaven to me.
Don Hahn
Listen live weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 8 80, ESPN, the ESPN New York app, and your smart speakers, 401.
Peter Rosenberg
Of the big city. Don Han and Rosenberg hang with you old 630 tons of people to talk about the Knicks at 1-800-919-3776. But if you take a look at what's happening in sports in general, I think all of us are around the same age. Growing up where it just felt like home court, home ice, home field was always so huge. There were places you didn't go and win. Wasn't there a time Allen, like, the Rangers didn't win at the Coliseum for like, 15 years. Yeah, it was just an automatic loss. But teams didn't go to Lambeau and win playoff games. Then Michael Vick did. It's like, oh, my God. And now you can rattle off the times the packers have lost at Lambeau Field. I can't think really of a place like Seattle. You can't win in Seattle. The 12th, man, forget it. It's too loud. You can win in Seattle now. And there was no bigger case than winning in the NBA on the road in the postseason. Just didn't happen. And now we're seeing game sevens being won on the road. You look at how good the road teams have been in the playoffs this year in both the NBA and the NHL, but the NBA just didn't do it. And now you do. And I've been thinking a lot, like, why? And I think it's a good thing overall. But we talk about hostile environments. It's not nearly as hostile now as it was back in the day. You know, people. Players aren't going through the things that they went through 20, 30 years ago where they're throwing batteries at Jim Rice. Right. Of course. And thank God.
Don Hahn
But it's a good thing. Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
You walked into places. It was like, you can't. You might not get out of there alive trying to win a game.
Don Hahn
Well, that was like the Spectrum told you that story. I mean, the Islanders really, you know, were on. They were set up to win the Stanley cup in five games in that series in 1980. They were in. They went to Philadelphia to win it. The whole organization went. Bill Torrey brought everybody, and they all were sitting in a. In a section at the Spectrum, way up. And as they were falling into the seats before the game started, a bunch of fans saw them and started saying, you guys. You guys are from New York. You guys are from Long Island. If you Guys, win the cup tonight. You're not getting out of this building alive. And all of them were, like, quietly hoping, you know what? Maybe we just can win it at home in game six. They didn't want to win. Like, imagine feeling that way. Your team's on the verge of winning its first championship, and you're so afraid that if they win, we're going to get. We're going to get our ass kicked. Like, I don't want that. Like, it just used to have. I think you're right. I don't know if it's the buildings, the newer buildings. Are they. Are they lacking something? Is there an intimidation fact? Not there. I mean, you remember the old Boston guard. You played there. You were miserable as a road team. Miserable. Like, there was one time, you know the story about how the Lakers and Celtics played one time in the. In one of the finals and was just so hot, and Riley melted them.
Alan Hahn
Out of the building.
Don Hahn
Well. Well, didn't Riley complain about it being too hot or the window was locked shut or something like that? And so he said, we need air conditioning. And Red Auerbach had an air conditioner left on a chair, not plugged in. A wall air conditioner. You had to put in a window. But there's no window.
Peter Rosenberg
There's no window.
Don Hahn
Here's your air conditioner. Good luck. Like, it's just. You can't do that anymore.
Peter Rosenberg
But. And just like. And it was an awful story earlier this baseball season. Jared Duran. Duran who? A fan was talking about his attempted suicide a couple of years ago, and it became a national story. Right. Because it's just offensive thing to say, but, you know, 20, 30 years ago, 50 years ago, you think about what Jackie Robinson went through.
Don Hahn
Oh, God.
Peter Rosenberg
People would say those things with pride.
Don Hahn
I mean, I just went through it last night, fourth quarter, he's on the stationary bike and they're getting smoked. He already has had his issues earlier in the game, which I'm sure we'll talk about later, but he was on the stationary bike, which they always put in the tunnel. It's right by where fans are. And a fan was thrown out for saying racially insensitive things to Draymond Green in a back and forth that they were having. And that was confirmed by Golden State warriors security that was standing right there with him.
Peter Rosenberg
Right.
Don Hahn
It's not like this doesn't go on.
Alan Hahn
But this is why these conversations kind of always get complicated. Because some of the things that we miss about what made things crazy were also like sort of as Don jokingly points out when we talk about football, it was also a sign of people being friggin Neanderthals.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh yeah.
Alan Hahn
Ties together. So it's like in one sense you missed the mystique, but the things that came with the mystique were just called us needing to evolve as a society.
Peter Rosenberg
But there was a time where Draymond would have to suck it up and listen to it. They weren't gonna throw anybody out of the building. It wasn't gonna become a national story. Yeah, we just saw. They just went with Greg Buttle would tell me stories about, believe it or not, the worst place he used to go when he played in division was New England. You know, they would spit on him and it was just, it was, it was crazy. And thank God things have changed. But, but I guess to the point of our conversation is, is that it makes it less of a hostile environment. And the amount of money people are paying for tickets and now that you get people that are, that have maybe a little bit more.
Don Hahn
See, I'll disagree there. I've heard this from a lot of people, Donnie. And again that people are complaining about tonight, I mean, tomorrow it's the most expensive Nick ticket on the resale value. I just want everybody to know too, on the resale market, people that say the Knicks are charging it too much and it's, it's the Knicks already. They said that that game was sold out the minute the series was, was scheduled. This is the secondary market, which is where these tickets that people bought are now being sold on an average, I think was vivid seats at an average of $611. And the, the high end is like in the, in the ten grand high end. So you're talking about super bowl level. Like, you know, some of these tickets are 30 grand to get in the bill. Like you talking about right on the court, like. But when you get the higher end people to come in this notion that, oh, you're getting the wine and cheese, people that sit back and oh yeah, you know, that's. It's Thurston and Lovey. No, it's not. It's actually more entitled people than you think that think they can say and do whatever the hell they want.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, no question. I think it's worse, not better saying if a guy that went out there, you know, and decided, you know what, this is a big game, I'm going to pay two grand, I don't think he's going to have an appetite to get kicked out in the first quarter.
Alan Hahn
No, no, but Don, Don, but Don What? No, no, but Don, what it is, is a lot of times those people don't think they can be kicked.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, then that's why.
Alan Hahn
That's why we've seen over the last few years. What was the one a couple years ago, there was that fight with the. With the person at courtside with LeBron. There have been a few where these people.
Don Hahn
Because the Okins brothers got into it with a fan who was yelling at Nicole Yokich. Russell Westbrook has had several times with fans, they say stuff, and he'll go right into the crowd and have a conversation with.
Alan Hahn
And these are people who paid. These are people who paid top dollar and think, well, I spent the money, so what do I want, guys?
Peter Rosenberg
You know? You know, you know, a Super bowl crowd and a lot of neutral fans there, too. But it ends up becoming more of a party. And it's not. Not as crazy because, like, unfortunately, a lot of the real Die Hards, the guys that are gonna get loud. I'm not talking about guys that are gonna cross the line, but I'm talking make it a hostile environment from the. From the sense of, you know, booing the opposition, really getting into the game. Then you just wonder how many guys are schmoozing clients and just want to be there.
Don Hahn
No, Don, I'll give you another example. And it's something that Jalen Brunson was talking about at that Detroit crowd. They were loud.
Alan Hahn
That.
Don Hahn
Again, I was there. That crowd was as aggressive, intense, and loud as an NBA crowd you will ever experience. And I mean. I mean, I've been in every building in this league. I've never been in an environment like that outside of the Garden, which is. Feels more friendly to me, of course, but in that. In that environment. Oh, hell yeah. And Jalen Brunson said that he. I think maybe that's also a new mindset of athletes that maybe didn't exist years ago. When teams did get intimidated, he loved it.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, yeah.
Don Hahn
And when he hit that bucket, the one to win the series, and he does his three point celebration, he kisses his hand and he pointed. And I'm like, who the hell's he pointing at? He was pointing at a fan. This guy that was every. Every game three, four and six, he was in the same seat right on the court, and he was riding Brunson every possession, telling him he was overrated, calling him a flopper, all this, that you need a neck brace because you keep snapping your head back, like yelling. Everything on his case. And when Brunson hit the shot he looked right for him and pointed at him and he said, of course, hitting that shot at the Garden would. Would have been awesome. Just to hear the crowd, like Larry Johnson talks about his four point play and how that whole building just exploded when that shot went.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, that's what.
Don Hahn
But. But Brunson said there's something. There was just something primal.
Peter Rosenberg
Sure.
Don Hahn
About looking at that dude and saying, go home.
Peter Rosenberg
But you're also talking about one of the most clutch guys in the sport. Not everybody's like that. So there could have been another player that may be folded under that kind of environment, but for the most part, Devin Williams, it's a little safer. But. But now. But you brought up Devin Williams. Is that, I think what the reverse has happened now, where you can get fired up to play on the road and look forward to that quote, unquote, hostile environment, because it's really just verbally hostile or the fans kind of getting on you, which motivates you.
Don Hahn
Not really afraid for your life.
Peter Rosenberg
You're not afraid. You know, you're not really put in any kind of discomfort like you were back in the day. But when you're home and you're trying to impress the home crowd, like, that place is going to be nuts tomorrow. Oh, I can't believe these fans. Can't wait for it. So now what do you want to do as a Knick? You want to try to impress them? You want to try to give them what they want?
Don Hahn
Yep.
Peter Rosenberg
And if you don't, they're going to. The crowd's going to turn on you. But maybe now they're not as vocal. And now maybe it gets a little nervous.
Don Hahn
Get tight, you'll get groans. It's what happened in Boston.
Peter Rosenberg
I'm telling you, I've been in enough Ranger playoff games. And we're in the building, the building's up for grabs, and all of a sudden they give up an early goal or they fail on the first couple of power plays, and now the boos start coming out and shoot the puck and come on. And it happens in baseball, too. Judge strikes out, and now the crowd's all. They're all nuts. When he goes to the plate and then he strikes out, it's like. And now you feel like you're letting everybody down. You know, when you're a road team, your job is to let them down, but when you're home, you don't want to let them down. So I think that what you're seeing in sports now is that sometimes the more apoplectic the building is the more crazy the building is. And I'm not discouraging fans from being this way, but I think the evidence kind of shows in recent vintage that sometimes you have a chance of making it even more difficult for the home team than you do the road team, depending on who the team is.
Don Hahn
It's a good point. It's a good point. Remember, Legs told us this, right, about the Northeast crowds and how there's something about playing in the Northeast for the home team. It's when things are going well, there's nothing like it. But if you aren't playing well and the expectation is for you to play well, there is this frustration that starts to boil over that you can't help but feel. It's wild.
Peter Rosenberg
I just. Because it's just. It's overwhelming, right.
Don Hahn
Meanwhile, Oklahoma City, they're all wearing the same T shirt. They're all clapping. It's amazing, right, that everything they do there is all in support. You never hear that crowd boo. You never hear that. The only frustration they ever express is with the officiating.
Peter Rosenberg
Right.
Don Hahn
That crowd in Oklahoma City, never. And they were, you know, remember, they were young, too. They weren't. Weren't very successful until recently, you know, after the KD Harden and Russell Westbrook era. Of course, they never booed their team. Never. It's unreal. It's just a different attitude.
Peter Rosenberg
I just thought about it today. When you look at Cleveland down oh 2. And granted the injuries have a lot to do with that. You know, the Celtics down. Oh, to the Florida Panthers. No, not the, The. The Vegas Golden Knights lose the first two games in Vegas.
Don Hahn
Like that goal last night.
Peter Rosenberg
It is. It is just incredible that you just see. I've just never seen this deep in the second round of the playoffs. Yeah, the road teams be this good and so it's. It's something. So just something I guess to consider. But that building, I will say though.
Alan Hahn
Regardless of how much the tickets cost tomorrow, every important game in that building and just feels special. Like on tv, it just looks like it's. It's in the top. To me, the Garden ends up looking in the absolute top tier of the league for most intimidating places to play.
Peter Rosenberg
And the thing Peter Station was, is.
Alan Hahn
Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
For the two teams that they have in the Garden since they opened that building in 68, there hasn't been a lot of moments. I'll be really. It's crazy. I mean, you would think there'd be tons and there have been a few. But the Knicks. The Knicks have won two titles in that building. One in 70 and one in 73. The Rangers have won once in 94. We just talked about that. The Knicks haven't been to the third rounds in 25 years. Yeah, you know the, the Ranger games, I was referencing losing game seven in 2015 in the conference final. You know, they, they, they lost. They were what, one and one in the Stanley cup final at Madison Square Garden against the Kings. Like there's, there's been a lot of great moments too, don't get me wrong. But for a building that's been around for 50 plus years with two teams playing in it, there, there's only been really not that many amazing moments at Madison Square Garden.
Don Hahn
Yeah, no, it, it's true.
Peter Rosenberg
So when they come the, believe me, the fans appreciate and it's.
Don Hahn
Yeah, that's, that's exactly what it is. That's why when I say game of the century and some people look and go, it's the second round that I'm like, yeah, are you paying attention? Like since 2000, you paying attention? It's the game of the century. There's because the anticipation, what it means, who it's against. There's so much build up for this game. And by the way, if they win game three, you know what game four.
Peter Rosenberg
Becomes biggest game of the century.
Don Hahn
The game of the century. Yeah, exactly. It's just like it'll all continue to build like that. So.
Peter Rosenberg
All right, let, let's get back to some of the phone calls here. Let's go to JJ in North Carolina. You're on ESPN New York. What's up jj?
Caller
Hey guys. I think an underrated, very important. I'm not even a Knicks fan, but just from watching the games, I still have a bunch of friends and family in New York, so I'm kind of invested now. The one guy that I've noticed that is really taking his game up a notch and I don't know if they would be here without him is OG Anunoby. This guy can give you 25, you know, 20 a night. And Alan, he might be top three like defenders in the league without a doubt by now because the way he plays on Tatum and when he switches off the Brown, it's unbelievable that he is. Obviously it's hard to, for a wing to win a defensive player of the year, but his defense on obviously they're missing a lot of uncontested shots and everything. But I think just the MVP without, without him. Obviously. Brunson and Cat have been great, but I think OG at Anobi has just been so like remember that trade where everyone was saying that we gave up our two like homegrown guys, Barrett and Quickly and we were wondering about OG and Anobi's health. Well, RJ Barrett and Quickly have been the guys that haven't been that healthy for the Raptors.
Don Hahn
And funny how when players leave Tom Thibodeau and suddenly they start taking those load management games and extra time and sitting out games rather than wanting to play even though they have a nagging injury, isn't it funny how that all of a sudden happens. It's a little different, isn't it?
Caller
It's crazy. And he is such.
Don Hahn
He is so smart. You don't realize how smart he is. But he. He. The best way to describe an OBI defensively is a disruptor because only on the ball. Like we're so used to just. All right, what's he. What is he doing on the ball? What's he doing to feel like his. His one on one with Tatum, where Tatum is shooting even though he's shooting poorly for the series. But his matchup minutes with Tatum, even the regular season, Tatum was shooting under 40%. So he's. He gives him trouble. Yeah, but. And you watch, he's one of the leaders in the league in deflections, which isn't something you notice watching a game, but that disrupts that just messes with your offense. When you have a guy that just very.
Caller
Like Alex Caruso, like.
Don Hahn
Yes, very much. Yeah. He's one of the tops in the league in stocks, which is steals and blocks. Like he's all the metrics you want to talk about defensively he brings. And then he can also on occasion give you a 20 point night, a couple of threes. That's also in his bag. So there's a lot there. Now he hasn't shot well in this series either. So when we talk about game three and different people who could have big games, that's another guy I'm looking at. I'm looking at him and he get.
Caller
Into rhythm and I wanted to give you props. Don, Peter, get up this morning. I think one of Allen's best moments. Greeny pointed. They're doing some kind of trivia thing with Hembo and they didn't like the question. I think. And I think Greeny, I couldn't really hear the volume. It was on in the gym. I'm pretty sure Greeny pointed it out to him and Alan and he orders Allen to get him out of the studio. Allen goes over, grabs him by the collar like a dog and Just like almost lifts him off his feet and kicks him out of the studio. That was a great, great moment. Glad you're glad everything is happening. Great for you over there. Alan as well.
Alan Hahn
Alan, you're greenies muscle now on the show.
Don Hahn
Listen, that's who. Wilbon, right? Michael Wilbon, the legend was on the show and Hembo, who does his trivia, he asked him a trick question and Wendy and I didn't like it. We thought it was, it was foul play. You don't do that to a guy like Wilbon who, you know, came in, you know, didn't get a lot of sleep. You know what he did. Don't. Wilbaugh was telling me that he was up till almost 1:30 in the morning watching the Vegas Edmonton game. And he was, he was talking to me in chapter and verse about the overtime and all the opportunities that the Oilers had before the hole. And so he's.
Alan Hahn
I'm going to tell you guys something crazy right now, by the way. I'm going to step out on a limb. Michael Wilbon, get ready for this. The man loves sports.
Don Hahn
I know. It's crazy to think so. Anyway, so Hembo asked this question. It's like Michael Jordan's highest scoring average in a series in the playoffs against which team? So, you know, you're thinking, what, Knicks, Pacers, Cleveland, like who? It's, it's the, the, the, the Suns from the, the finals when he averaged 41 a game in the final. It's like, who's thinking that? So anyway, so Green, he's like, we got to get him out of here. So I did the old, you know, the bouncer. What you, you know, like the, you know, I just started. We got to get him out of here. So I grabbed him by the nape of his neck and Hempo followed along. And I drag him out and I did this swift kick in the ass as he went out the door. It was great.
Alan Hahn
You treated him, Bo, like a feral dog.
Don Hahn
Yeah, yeah, get him out. Get him out. You don't treat, you don't treat Wilbond like that. You don't treat the Don that way. You got to go.
Alan Hahn
Wilbon is definitely in, in, in people left at our company. I, I don't know how you guys feel. He's 100% on my Mount Rushmore of respect. He's, he's about as high up there as I think.
Don Hahn
He's royalty. Like, I, I got up when I saw him come. I didn't know he was going to be in studio. I thought he was Going to be on remote. So when he came in studio, prepare.
Alan Hahn
For a name drop. God. Drop your guys. Go ahead, keep going.
Don Hahn
No, no, no. I got up just want him prepared.
Alan Hahn
I just want to prepare.
Don Hahn
Got up and shook his hand and introduced myself to him because I'd never worked with him before then.
Alan Hahn
No name drop needed.
Don Hahn
And then that was it. And then I sat back down. But I got up to say hello.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah.
Don Hahn
And thank him because it was like, wow, this, this is going to be great. And it was for me, it was his most fun I've had on that show.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, he.
Alan Hahn
The reason, one of the many reasons I think Wilbon is the man besides like, you know, growing up reading him in Washington before he was ever his story TV star.
Don Hahn
Oh, yeah.
Alan Hahn
He's an incredible writer. If you think he's good on tv, he's a better writer.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Alan Hahn
And he's very good on tv. But, but to have had a career this long and engaged people for this long and never have done it by being a hot take guy is incredible. Yeah, he's never been a hot take guy. He's like Don. He's like a nuanced conversationalist. It's just not.
Peter Rosenberg
He's, he is absolutely great. And you're, you're so right. He's a better writer than. He's a television personality. And he is a terrific television personality. Fraud alert Friday. Coming up next is big. Line them up, get them ready, because I want to know who's a fraud and who's not. Enn at 6. We're off at 6:30 because then it's Cubs and Mets at Citi Field, all happening right here on 880 ESPN New York and the ESPN New York app.
Alan Hahn
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Don Hahn
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Peter Rosenberg
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Don Hahn
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Don Hahn
Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Alan Hahn
I didn't listen to anything you just said.
Don Hahn
Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts. Did you or someone you know participate in fraudulent fan behavior?
Peter Rosenberg
I'm a fraud with a capital F.
Don Hahn
Is your friend a fraud?
Alan Hahn
I have been a complete and utter fraud.
Don Hahn
Are you a fraud?
Alan Hahn
What is fraud?
Don Hahn
Let's ask Dom McGregor.
Peter Rosenberg
Screw go scratch yourself.
Alan Hahn
What is better than Marco's? What is fraud? Nothing.
Don Hahn
Well, the only thing could be go scratch yourself.
Alan Hahn
Yeah, you know, quite a line. Yeah, it's a father and son combo right there. Now one thing was introduced last week when Don wasn't here. A fun thing that Ballard Brought to the table whenever we feel like using it. Ballard loves the segment. It suggested, Don, that we use Mark Wahlberg and his name as the standard for fraudulence, given that he was famously seen leaving the super bowl when the patriots were down 28. 3. So how many Wahlburgers does someone get? Is a fun little thing to throw at someone. 5. Five Wahlburgers being the max, of course.
Don Hahn
Let's get it sponsored.
Alan Hahn
Wouldn't that be great? Because they do actually have a burger place. It's still in business, right?
Peter Rosenberg
Yes, the Wahlbergs have a burger place.
Alan Hahn
Yeah, Wahlbergers.
Don Hahn
Oh, yeah, that.
Alan Hahn
They had a reality show about it.
Don Hahn
Yeah, apparently there's one on second Avenue.
Alan Hahn
There's one right here on second Avenue.
Don Hahn
Yeah, we gotta get that. Is it good?
Alan Hahn
I don't know.
Don Hahn
Yeah, it's. You know it is. It's.
Alan Hahn
You've had it.
Don Hahn
You can't really screw up a burger.
Alan Hahn
That's not. That's not a really great endorsement.
Peter Rosenberg
A ringing endorsement.
Alan Hahn
No, yeah, no, it's. And by the way, in the suite last night at the Kendrick show, the burger was the worst.
Don Hahn
Oh, wait, I'm sorry. That, that, that, that. That. That closed. Oh, it's gone. Location is no longer there. Yeah, it was Upper east side, but I guess it closed.
Alan Hahn
All right, well, guys, here we go. We had a David who reaches out to us and says, what's up, guys? Love the new show. I'm a loyal listener. The last decade.
Peter Rosenberg
Okay.
Alan Hahn
I grew up in Detroit. Love Detroit sports, but I never fell in love with the Lions when I was a kid. And then they had so many bad years, including the 016 team. I didn't feel like I had an NFL team. I absolutely love NYC and I follow NYC sports teams too. So at the beginning of the 2015 season.
Don Hahn
Here we go.
Alan Hahn
At 31 years old, I adopted the Jets. I'm all in.
Don Hahn
Wait, wait, beginning of which season?
Alan Hahn
2015. Yeah, not a sexy time. Particularly.
Peter Rosenberg
Never run a fraud.
Don Hahn
Just like what were you thinking, Fitzmack?
Alan Hahn
I adopted the Jets. I'm all in. I love the history, Super Bowl 3, the sack exchange years, etc. I've been all in for 10 years now. 10 really awful seasons. Been to 9 games in that time too. I'm also raising my 8 year old and 5 year old as jets fans. Poor kids.
Don Hahn
God help you.
Alan Hahn
I need an official ruling. Am I a fraud for adopting a team as an adult? Love, Dave from Detroit, Michigan.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, he's not a fraud, he's a moron. But other than that, because of all. He could. He could adopted anybody, but he adopts the Jets. I mean, that's just. Why didn't you stick with the Lions? I mean, it's just a mess.
Don Hahn
What's the difference?
Peter Rosenberg
But whatever. He's not a fraud because he never. He never rooted for the Lions. He didn't have a team. He needed a team. He picked the Jets. So, yeah, not the greatest selection in the world, but it's not fraudulent whatsoever. I thought he was gonna say, but now that the Lions are good, I've jumped on the bandwagon. That'd be fraudulent behavior. But if he sticks with the jets, he made his kids Jet fans. No, no fraud. Zero fraud.
Don Hahn
Okay.
Alan Hahn
Dhr. I love the show. Anyways, I was born in New York city, but after 9 11, my family moved to Minnesota for the rest of my childhood. Now I live in Pennsylvania.
Peter Rosenberg
What's his name?
Alan Hahn
Yeah, his name is tj.
Peter Rosenberg
Okay.
Don Hahn
All right, tj Teej.
Alan Hahn
I am a die hard Yankee fan and Ranger fan, but as I was growing up and my dad was a huge Giants fan, but I didn't root for the Giants because I didn't like Eli. I'm not gonna open Pandora's box on that. And now they've been bad for a while. I don't root for them. Now I'm rooting for the Vikings. Am I a fraud? Thanks, tj.
Peter Rosenberg
But was he. I'm trying to get a sense. Was he ever a Giants fan?
Alan Hahn
Said, he said, as I was growing up, my dad was a huge Giant fan, but I didn't root for them because I didn't like Eli.
Peter Rosenberg
So he didn't have a rolling dog, just like our previous emailer. And now he's in Minnesota and he finally gaveled on gavel.
Alan Hahn
Gavin. Thank you. Thank you.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, no, there's no fraud there.
Don Hahn
No fraud.
Peter Rosenberg
I want the Pandora's box open. Why? He doesn't like Eli. What would you not. I can understand if you were a Giants fan, you didn't like the way he played. Like, what's there not to like about Eli? There's not an ounce of controversy in the guy unless you're upset about, you know, his dad orchestrating where he was picked. But I think that was, by the way, my.
Alan Hahn
My wife. My wife, the world's biggest fraud, has chimed in. She. She wrote, she texted me, I guess to our last one. It showed Dave from Detroit, you are not afraid. You could choose to love any team you desire. Don't let anyone else make you feel otherwise. And if you want to change Again, great. Go for it. Who cares?
Peter Rosenberg
Your wife's a fraud.
Alan Hahn
Just. She's just a complete fraud. Fraud. A proud.
Don Hahn
Actually, that. That sense. Doesn't that kind of give you a little bit of an alarm bell there for me? No. Like, think about it. Like what she's saying.
Alan Hahn
In terms of what it says. About me.
Peter Rosenberg
No, her.
Don Hahn
About her.
Alan Hahn
Oh, no. She is a complete. Total.
Peter Rosenberg
Frauds could be good people, too, Alan.
Alan Hahn
Yeah, that's the thing. She.
Don Hahn
But if you're.
Alan Hahn
She's the definition. But I root for New York.
Don Hahn
If I don't like this, then I'll like that. If that's better, I'll go to that one. Like, you know.
Peter Rosenberg
Whoa.
Don Hahn
Are you suggesting there's a loyalty factor here that. I think that is, you know, I think.
Alan Hahn
Yeah. Have you ever considered there are people out there. Have you ever considered that there are people out there who. This is crazy, guys. I know. We're three dudes who do a sports talk show. There are people out there who actually don't weigh their sports fanship as. As heavily as they do their relationships. It's not exactly the same for everybody.
Don Hahn
I do think it's a window into the soul. That's all I'm going to.
Peter Rosenberg
So what you're saying is. Let me just get this straight. What you're saying is, potentially, Natalie could be a bad person.
Alan Hahn
Yeah. And walk out on me. No, no, Don. He's suggesting that if she change. If she says root for whatever team you want, she's also saying, leave whatever partner you want. Just do whatever feels good.
Peter Rosenberg
I don't connect those dots, Peter, but apparently. Thank you, Don.
Alan Hahn
And Don. Listen, Don is. Don's going to side with me every time. Don is married to a person whose team allegiance is based on who's the hottest person on the team. Okay? So not. No, she's loyal. Once she finds the hottest. Dave Rigetti's. Dave Rigetti. Here we are.
Peter Rosenberg
Donna and Patrice Breezewa.
Don Hahn
Oh, my goodness. Now, you know I'm just doing that for fun.
Peter Rosenberg
It doesn't sting any less.
Alan Hahn
Yeah, it still hurts. This is two days now, Marlin. I'm sure Carlin was having fun a few weeks ago, but it still hurt deep in my soul, you know what I mean?
Don Hahn
This is what you guys are doing to me. Just understand that I've been so buttoned up, right? And now I'm, like, trying to just, like, all right, let me have some fun with the boys. And every time I do, I feel like, no, that's too far. Okay, that was too far.
Alan Hahn
Maybe Never.
Peter Rosenberg
Insulting someone's wife is never. I don't care how comfortable you are. I've been on the show for 30 years. That's wrong to say.
Alan Hahn
He didn't insult her. He suggested she may just leave me at the tropical diet.
Don Hahn
He suggested that, you know, a window to the soul.
Alan Hahn
We're trying to have a good laugh. All right, let's move on.
Don Hahn
Here we go.
Alan Hahn
Howdy. My name is Phil. I need Don's assistance on if I am a fraud, I hear from friends and family that I'm on the ledge of fraudulent behavior. I'm 33 years old, I was born and raised in Chicago and my three favorite teams are the Anaheim Ducks, the New York Yankees and the Green Bay Packers. Okay, I thought my three are random, right? I know, not a great start. But hear me out. My dad's originally from the Wisconsin area and I was raised being a Packer fan. Alright, that makes sense then watching and loving baseball. I idolized Jeter from the start of his career and before picking any team became a New York Yankee fan. Last my parents moved to California while I was in college and my stepdad's company had Anaheim Duck season tickets. Not knowing much about hockey and going to games when he had available tickets, I fell in love with the game's atmosphere and and became a die hard Ducks fan. So I have three teams from three different states, but I've never once changed or wavered fandom even with no championship since 2010. Don, am I a fraud?
Peter Rosenberg
I gotta tell you, this has been really easy today again, zero fraud. I never questioned how somebody gets to become a fan. He connected those dots. All logical reasons, right? I mean, maybe the Jeter. If Jeter had been a Brewer, I'm not sure he would have fell in love with them. But still he picked the Yankees and he stuck with. Father was from Wisconsin, Packer fan, got tickets to the Duck fan. That's how the Duck games. That's how he fell in love and he stuck with his teams. Guys, there's Zero Fraud. All three of these were three for three. Zero fraud.
Don Hahn
That's a good day.
Alan Hahn
That's pretty clean.
Don Hahn
Now we got calls, right?
Alan Hahn
Oh yeah.
Don Hahn
Okay.
Alan Hahn
Yeah, real quick. Email. All right, Javier, hold tight. My name is Oscar, I'm 33 and my brother is 20. We're raised in LA, both huge Yankee fans and we despise all LA sports teams, especially the Dodgers. Reason being we think their fan base is just at games to be seen on social media and don't know baseball. Wow, I'm all in On NY Sports, I'm a Rangers fan because of Don and a Knicks fan because I've listened to TMKs for years and now you guys, and I've learned basketball from you. However, my brother is a Celtics fan. I've asked him how he could be a Yankee fan and a Celtics fan in the same night, and he can't give a straight answer. Is he a fraud?
Peter Rosenberg
No, I don't think so. I mean, listen there. You're in from la, so you're just picking teams, right? So I don't think. Is there any, any connection between the Yankees and Celtics? I get New York and Boston, but I don't think there's anything directly between the Yankees and the. The Celtics. No, I don't think that's fraudulent behavior at all. I mean, the Yankee fan hates the Red Sox fan. Is he supposed to just hate everything Boston? Especially if you live in la.
Don Hahn
If you're in la, you're supposed to hate Boston.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, but he's not a Lakers.
Alan Hahn
Right.
Peter Rosenberg
He's a Nick fan. The bigger question is, brother's a Nick fan. He decided on the Celtics. I mean, everything's up for grabs. He's in la, hates all the LA teams. So I don't think you have to make any kind of a connection between sports. Well, I'm going to pick the Yankees, and so that means I'm not going to pick a Boston team. I don't.
Don Hahn
I don't see it okay saying no.
Alan Hahn
I'm with you. Another no fraud. All right, let's go to Javier in Queens, who apparently has a good question for Fraud Friday. Javier, what do you have?
Caller
Hey, guys, what's up?
Don Hahn
Thanks for taking my call.
Peter Rosenberg
I absolutely love Fraud Alert Friday.
Caller
It's one of my favorite things.
Peter Rosenberg
I was the one who gave.
Don Hahn
I gave Don the king of all.
Peter Rosenberg
Fraud as, like, the king of all media. I got a new nickname for Don after what he said earlier. He's Fraud Master Flex.
Caller
Like Punk Master Flex.
Alan Hahn
You know what? I like this, too. I like Fraud Master Job here.
Peter Rosenberg
This goes so many levels to this.
Caller
But here's my fraud question.
Alan Hahn
Okay?
Caller
Now that Bart Scott is openly rooting for the Knicks, is Bart Scott a fraud fan?
Don Hahn
Wow, that's an allegation.
Peter Rosenberg
This one's got a little bit more to it than the previous ones. I am going to rule no fraud because I do think it's somewhat logical for you to root for the team that knocked you out. And he's in New York and it probably benefits his show. Clearly in our station that the Knicks Make a run. So there's motivation there. It's awkward because I don't know why a Piston fan would be interested in the Knicks, but I could see Bart being interested in the Knicks because it helps his bottom line on the show and it makes the Pistons look better if the Knicks make a run. So I'm going to say no fraud. That is very acceptable.
Don Hahn
Let's go, Nick.
Alan Hahn
And that is also great news for me because if the. If the Knicks knock off the Celtics guys, I will be unabashedly rooting for the Knicks.
Don Hahn
Wow. Now, don't you rule on that one.
Peter Rosenberg
I ruled no fraud on.
Don Hahn
Even on Peter.
Peter Rosenberg
On Bart. No, but Peter, that's. No. Completely fraud. Wait, hold on. No, that's. Come on.
Don Hahn
Don't hit Peter with the gal.
Peter Rosenberg
Nick, Celtics is a thing. It is very fraudulent.
Alan Hahn
Well, hold on. But. But I. I have been. The amount of time I've been here, the amount that I watch this team, you think I'm. I can't root. I don't just. I can't hate them. I guess it's. I guess it speaks more to the thing that it's the commanders and then everything else. Not Giants.
Don Hahn
Just embrace it. It's fine.
Alan Hahn
Because if the Giants. If the Giants go on a playoff run. Guys, you're not rude every time.
Don Hahn
Of course you will now.
Alan Hahn
But if this is more about you and your life, I'd be really.
Don Hahn
Fandom. Yeah. This is your level of fandom more than anything.
Peter Rosenberg
But what we've learned here, I think, over the last few days, Alan, is that he likes the Celtics and he's got a past with the Celtics, but he's not really a big fan of the Celtics anymore. He's not living and dying in this series. I haven't seen him remotely upset they've dropped the first two games.
Don Hahn
Not even a little bit.
Peter Rosenberg
All right. Not even a little bit. He's going to root for the Knicks if they beat the Celtics and it's a rivalry. If you're really a true Celtic fan, you hate the Knicks.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
And he won't completely jump ship to the Knicks, which would be logical for him considering he lives in New York and he's raising his child in New York. His wife in New York that just become a Knick fan. But I don't think he wants that from fraudulence on him because I feel. I still think he likes the Celtics.
Don Hahn
And wants to root for them, but.
Peter Rosenberg
Clearly he's not a big Celtic guy.
Don Hahn
You know what it is? This is what I think it is. Don, I think Peter's afraid to make the jump because the Knicks history suggests that this is probably fleeting. And the Celtics history suggests that they're, you know, they're always going to be good. And so the safest thing to do is just stay put.
Alan Hahn
See that? See, I thought for a second Don was going to show me a modicum of respect. I mean, Alan was going to show me a modicum of respect. And then in the end, of course, for the second time, the same segment, he just went off the top rope.
Peter Rosenberg
He did the audio version of dragging you out of the studio by your neck.
Alan Hahn
Yeah, exactly.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah.
Alan Hahn
He Hembo'd me because there. We talked about last year, my flirting with the idea of should I just be a Knicks fan? And the reason I can't do it is just because I can't do it, not because I'm hedging who's going to be better later. It's just the principalities. I just can't. But I also am not going to sit here and lie for good radio. When I'm sitting here watching this series. I'm not getting upset. The Knicks are playing great. I'm really happy for this team. The Celtics won last year.
Don Hahn
I'm glad you're not commanders. I'm glad you're not being.
Alan Hahn
I'm not perform. I'm not going to be that guy.
Don Hahn
I am glad because that would have been that. That'd be even more. More like. That'd be so unappealing. It really would be.
Alan Hahn
And disingenuous to be that guy pretending to jump. You guys know, when I'm a Pat, everyone could tell with the commies. There's no escaping it. It's in my blood.
Don Hahn
Yeah, you're inside.
Alan Hahn
I love the Celtics. Listen, I have a deep history. I have. I still have all my. So much awesome. The collectibles for my whole life. Right. I love them. But. Yeah, it's just not. It's not quite the same thing. And if the Knicks go on, I will be rooting for the Knicks.
Don Hahn
Now we're getting called out.
Peter Rosenberg
I saw this.
Don Hahn
Yes. Do you want to handle this, Peter, or do you want me to do it?
Alan Hahn
I don't know what's going on.
Peter Rosenberg
Suffering.
Don Hahn
All right, so. Yeah. So Jim and Jim. Jim listens to everything so clearly. And he said this. I think the three of you are frauds. You guys always go nuts when media quote, unquote, laughs when a coach or player says something. But when Spike Lee said he wants to stay married, you guys were dying of left. Okay.
Peter Rosenberg
I'm ready to defend myself, but do.
Don Hahn
You want to make a ruling?
Peter Rosenberg
Here's why. It's no fraud, and I'm going to tell you why. First of all, I can't prove it, but I found it legitimately funny. But forget it. Let's just say for sake of argument, we all fake laughed at that joke. It is our business to prop up our guest and our show. We don't want him to die and fail because then the show fails. You don't have any vested interest in laughing at Tom Thibodeau's joke. If you're a reporter, he's not a comedian. He's not there to entertain you or an audience. You're completely neutral on the subject. You just feel uncomfortable and feel like you have to laugh. We have a vested interest in our guests succeeding because our show succeeds. So, yeah, maybe I did fake laugh because you know what? It's not good radio if a guest tells a joke and we don't laugh at it. But you tell me why a reporter has to laugh at something somebody says. Are they trying to prop up their. It's not their guest. They're just doing their job. They don't have an audience that they have to keep engaged. It benefits the show to laugh at our guests joke, does it not?
Alan Hahn
Yes, and it's Spike Lee, for God's sake. The man.
Peter Rosenberg
I found it legitimately funny. But even if I faked it, Peter, isn't that a good enough reason to fake it?
Alan Hahn
Yes, 100%. By the way, the man is a living legend. He's an American treasure. And he listens to our show and calls in and he's actually funny. Treat the man with respect. And he's telling his truth.
Don Hahn
His delivery was great. Like, and we were here. It was a conversation for us to be entertained. And we were. We found it entertaining and we reacted accordingly. Whereas reporter and interviewer, that, that, that. That relationship is not supposed to be entertaining. But I will say this, though, in fairness. There are times I have been in a scrum and there's a certain person that you've. John Torella is funny. John, you know this.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah.
Don Hahn
Torts will say something and, you know, you'll laugh because he's. He's funny. Mike Milbury. Like, it wasn't a day that went by that there wasn't something he said. It was sarcastic, whatever it was, and you just. You just crack up because you're like this dude. Like. And you know, this is gold. You're writing it down. That's my lead quote. It's gold. Like you do it. Like sometimes you aren't fake laughing Sometimes these guys are funny.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, I agree, I agree. But when I do it, it's usually because that wasn't funny. And yet you would think that they were Carlin at the Garden. And when I say Carlin, I mean George, not Chris, right?
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
So sorry. Just suffering, Jim. You thought you got us out. Didn't try again.
Don Hahn
This Father's Day, give your dad the.
Peter Rosenberg
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Don Hahn
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Alan Hahn
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Don Hahn
Or your money back. Save up to 40% your first year by visiting lifelock.com podcast terms apply. Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Alan Hahn
I didn't listen to anything you just said.
Don Hahn
Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.
Peter Rosenberg
Eric Church is coming to Barkley center on Saturday, September 20th. ESPN New York has your chance to score tickets on the ESPN New York. ESPNNewYork.com Just find the contest town. Submit your entry. Tickets are on sale today. They actually went on sale at 10 o' clock this morning. Head to ericchurch.com for more info. 1-800-919-3776. You guys ready?
Alan Hahn
For what?
Peter Rosenberg
Richard in Manhattan. Richard.
Don Hahn
I've been doing 45 years.
Caller
Hi, Don. Yes, Peter.
Peter Rosenberg
You've been doing this for 45 years, huh?
Caller
Oh, I'm sorry, fellas. Sorry, guys. I was just talking to a lady. I'm sorry. All right. Biggest story in baseball. Biggest nobody talks about. All we hear is Aaron Boone.
Don Hahn
Aaron Boone.
Caller
Aaron Boone. Biggest story in baseball. Detroit Tigers have the best record in baseball now. Alan, thanks for. I'm sorry. Peter, acknowledging me for the Max Reed. The Yankees are 13 and 16. When Max Freed doesn't pitch, he's 80 with a 1.0 ERA. Fellas, I've seen Colfax, I've seen Ford, I've seen Guidry, I've seen Siva, I've seen Gibson. These guys were the MVPs of their team. Elite starting pitching. And I'M talking about elite, which Max Freed is this year is more valuable, in my opinion. Now, that's all I'm saying. But more valuable than any everyday player. Anunabi is a descendant, direct descendant of Dave DeBusscher and Charles Oakley. No question about it. Same kind of game. Now, as far as the Miguel, the Mikhail Bridges issue, here's the story. Let's wait, let's play it out. If the Knicks get to the Finals this year. Okay, here's the thing. You would say the Nets are a pretty mismanaged organization. Since the merger 50 years. Well, they've been just in as many NBA Finals two as the New York Knicks two. So that means with all the players the Knicks have brought in these 50 years, Mikhail Bridges is one of the few players who had a direct result in bringing the Knicks to the Finals. Now, it's a big job. We still got to beat Boston and then whoever, Indiana maybe, and then get to the Finals and play maybe. Ok, okc. But if he does, there is no question in my mind it's been worth five draft choices and to pay him whatever it takes to keep him on the team. My opinion, only because the Knicks getting into the Finals would be that important. And you see how to listen, fellas. 69, 70 was the greatest thing I've ever seen as far as a love affair of a team, that Knick team. And that's what it'll be this time if it happened just to even get to the Finals. Pleasure, fellas. Thank you, guys.
Peter Rosenberg
I don't think there's any question people will forget about the regular season. First of all, it's the NBA regular season, which might be the least important of the four major sports. And if he's able to contribute to a run to the Finals, Richard's right. You're not going to care about those five picks. You're not going to care about what happened in the regular season. Kind of like Pete Alonso, right?
Don Hahn
Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
Alonzo did not have a great regular season, but meanwhile he hits a home run to win a playoff series and has a big postseason and then he gets a contract. Yeah, the postseason is way more valuable.
Don Hahn
It's always been. It's the same thing with Soto. Right. We always measure the player about how much it costs to get the player and then we sit there and then we expect, okay, well, you better exceed the cost. Otherwise we paid too much for you and we don't wait it out. Like, you know, Bridges looks like he's figuring it out. You could see how competitive he is. Like when the game on the line kind of player, I think about, just think about game one real quick. The play he made it like he's a skinny dude and people think he's, you know, like he fades away, he doesn't like contact. You know, they suggest that he's not tough. He ripped the ball out of the hands of Jaylen Brown who physically looks like a guy that can handle himself, right? And he's, he's, nobody's ever questioned Jaylen Brown's toughness and yet Bridges ripped the ball out of his hands in a game winning situation. That's a, you know that when guys play in big moments like that, that's to me, when you start deciding what did it cost, is it worth it? Because really, in the end, that's all that matters. Can, can I rely on you in the biggest moment? Not, you know, a game in February against the Hornets. In that moment, can I rely on you? And he let you know back to back games. Yes, you can. And oh, by the way, game six as well.
Peter Rosenberg
1-800-919-3776 Don Hahn and Rosenberg take it with 630. And then it's Mets, Cubs on 880, ESPN New York and the ESPN New York app.
Don Hahn
Oh, I got something for you guys fellas because I'm excited about this. Actually, Stephanie is because it's Alan on here. My wife is Stephanie. And we want to tell you about our friends at Bath Fitter. So they remodeled a bath in our house. Stephanie's so excited about this because it was embarrassing. This bathroom that we have that is down in the by where we had a pool put in in our house, not in the house. The pool's outside the house. The bathroom's in the house. But at this bath, we didn't pay attention to it. The bathtub was old, disgusting. No one wanted to use it. And when you have a pool right there, usually you want to wash off the chlorine. You have sleepovers. The kids always like to sleep over downstairs right by the pool, like nobody wanted to use it. So we decided we need to fix this. A bath fitter consultant took us through the process with their free and home consultation. And they picked out a style and color Stephanie did, as well as all the specifics and accessories, things that I couldn't even think of that updated this bath customized just the way Stephanie wanted. It's done. It is gorgeous. A Bath Fitter worked fast on this. They delivered the highest quality work with no delay. It took two days just to take a bathtub and turn it into a shower. Fantastic. Bath Fit is a permanent solution. By the way. It's a one piece, seamless wall with a watertight fit and most importantly, lifetime guarantee. You can trust the Bath Fitter name like we did. They've been in business for over 40 years with millions of happy customers, and right now it's your turn. You can save up to $500 and start designing your bath like we did. So visit bathfitter.com for more details. There is only one bath fitter. Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast. I don't want to know how the sausage is made, man. I just want to know. It's good. Hear more of Don Allen and Peter Weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 8 80, ESPN, the ESPN New York app and your smart speakers.
Don Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary
Episode: Hour 2: Fraud Alert Friday
Release Date: May 9, 2025
In this episode of the Don Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into the evolving landscapes of sports environments, fan behaviors, and the concept of "fraudulent fandom." Titled "Fraud Alert Friday," the episode weaves through insightful discussions, listener interactions, and candid opinions on contemporary sports culture.
The conversation kicks off with Peter Rosenberg reminiscing about the intense and often hostile environments of past sports arenas compared to today's more subdued atmospheres.
Peter Rosenberg [00:24]: "There was a time where Draymond would have to suck it up and listen to it. They weren't gonna throw anybody out of the building. It wasn't gonna become a national story."
Don Hahn concurs, highlighting the shift from physically hostile venues to verbally charged yet less dangerous settings.
Don Hahn [01:48]: "But it's a good thing."
They reflect on historical instances of fan aggression, such as the 1980 Islanders facing hostile Philadelphia crowds, illustrating the personal fears athletes harbored when playing away games.
Don Hahn [02:40]: "Imagine feeling that way. Your team's on the verge of winning its first championship, and you're so afraid that if they win, we're going to get our ass kicked."
Transitioning to the economics of sports, Don Hahn addresses the soaring resale prices of Knicks tickets, emphasizing how exorbitant costs attract a more entitled and potentially disruptive fan base.
Don Hahn [05:24]: "On the resale market, people that say the Knicks are charging it too much... the high end is like in the ten grand high end."
Peter Rosenberg elaborates on how high-paying fans often expect premium experiences and can become problematic when their expectations aren't met.
Peter Rosenberg [06:30]: "I think it's worse, not better saying if a guy that went out there, you know, and decided, you know what, this is a big game, I’m going to pay two grand, I don't think he's going to have an appetite to get kicked out in the first quarter."
The hosts discuss the recent trend of road teams excelling in high-stakes playoff games across the NBA and NHL, a shift from previous decades where home teams rarely lost in critical moments.
Peter Rosenberg [04:24]: "It's better saying if a guy that went out there... I don't think he's going to have an appetite to get kicked out."
Don Hahn contrasts this with the traditionally unyielding crowds in venues like Madison Square Garden, underscoring how modern players handle pressure differently.
Don Hahn [08:07]: "He's one of the tops in the league in deflections, which isn't something you notice watching a game, but that disrupts that just messes with your offense."
The discussion shifts to specific players who exemplify the current dynamics in sports:
OG Anunoby: Highlighted by a caller for his exceptional defensive skills and overall contribution to the Knicks.
Caller [15:00]: "...OG Anunoby... top three like defenders in the league without a doubt."
Jalen Brunson: Praised for his clutch performances, particularly his game-winning shot against a notoriously difficult crowd.
Don Hahn [08:28]: "When he hit that bucket, the one to win the series, and he does his three-point celebration, he kisses his hand and he pointed."
Max Fried & Mikhail Bridges: Discussed in the context of their value to their respective teams' postseason aspirations.
Don Hahn [48:02]: "He gave you trouble. He's... you know, that when guys play in big moments like that, that's to me, when you start deciding what did it cost, is it worth it?"
The segment "Fraud Alert Friday" invites listeners to question whether their sports fandom choices classify them as "frauds." The hosts evaluate each case, blending humor with genuine analysis.
JJ from North Carolina [14:56]:
Peter Rosenberg [17:06]: "Zero fraud."
Alan Hahn's Wife Incident [29:54]:
Peter Rosenberg [30:09]: "Frauds could be good people, too, Alan."
Dave from Detroit [26:33]:
Peter Rosenberg [27:02]: "He's not a fraud because he never rooted for the Lions."
TJ from Pennsylvania [28:08]:
Peter Rosenberg [29:01]: "Zero fraud."
Oscar [34:46]:
Peter Rosenberg [35:15]: "I don't think that's fraudulent behavior at all."
Javier from Queens [35:50]:
Peter Rosenberg [36:24]: "No fraud. That is very acceptable."
Phil's Fandom Choices [32:18]:
Peter Rosenberg [33:52]: "Zero fraud. All three of these were three for three."
Throughout the episode, several moments stood out, punctuated by humor and sharp insights:
Host Interactions: The playful jabs between hosts, especially when discussing fraudulent behavior, add a layer of camaraderie.
Don Hahn [24:24]: "Let's ask Dom McGregor."
Alan Hahn [24:38]: "She's a complete fraud. Fraud. A proud."
Guest Appearances: The discussion around Michael Wilbon's appearance on the show, where Don humorously recounts forcing him out after a trivia mishap.
Don Hahn [19:35]: "I drag him out and I did this swift kick in the ass as he went out the door. It was great."
FanDuel Promotion: A brief segment promoting sports betting through FanDuel, emphasizing live prop bets and bonuses.
Alan Hahn [21:17]: "If you don't already have FanDuel, it's not too late to get on the action."
The episode wraps up with reflections on fandom loyalty, the balance between personal lives and sports allegiances, and the hosts' humorous take on the "fraudulent" nature of fans' team choices. Despite the serious undertones regarding sports environments and player performances, the light-hearted banter ensures an engaging and entertaining listen.
This episode of Don Hahn & Rosenberg offers a comprehensive exploration of modern sports culture, fan dynamics, and the nuanced perceptions of loyalty within the sports community. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual listener, the discussions provide valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of sports fandom.