Podcast Summary: No Dunks – Episode: "SQUAD | Viva Las Vegas"
Release Date: July 12, 2025 | Host: Skeets, Tas, Trey, JD
1. Live from Las Vegas
In this special live episode of No Dunks, hosted by Skeets, Tas, Trey, and JD, the team takes the show to the vibrant city of Las Vegas. The hosts set the stage for an engaging discussion about the NBA's summer league events and their experiences in Sin City.
JD [03:51]: "Let's keep it down. There's people betting over here."
The atmosphere is lively as the hosts interact with attendees at the Mandalay Bay sportsbook, showcasing the bustling energy that Vegas brings to the podcast.
2. Analyzing Cooper Flag's Debut
A significant portion of the episode delves into Cooper Flag's inaugural game in the summer league. The hosts dissect his performance, highlighting both his strengths and shortcomings.
Tasmelas [05:15]: "It felt like he played awesome."
Despite a challenging box score—Flag recorded 10.6 rebounds, four assists, but struggled with shooting (5 for 21 from the field)—Tas emphasizes the excitement Flag brought to the game, especially his interactions with Las Vegas superstar Bronny James.
Trey Kirby [07:04]: "Cooper Flag wanted to put the entire team on his back like he was mad."
The discussion pivots to comparing Flag's first game to other rookies, notably Wembanyama, with Trey asserting that Flag's performance, though not statistically impressive, showed a commendable level of effort and passion.
3. Spotting NBA Personalities in Las Vegas
The hosts share amusing anecdotes about encountering various NBA players outside the arena, offering a glimpse into the off-court lives of these athletes.
Tasmelas [08:38]: "I have respect for him, but I think he should act above it."
They recount sightings of players like Jeremy Sochan, Evan Vassell, and Mamu Skelashvili handling their luggage independently—a trait they appreciate in professional athletes.
JD [10:27]: "As usual. Biggest person I've seen, you guys."
These interactions add a personal and humorous touch to the episode, showcasing the camaraderie among the hosts.
4. Introducing the SQUAD: Las Vegas Edition
The highlight of the episode is the introduction of the SQUAD segment, where the hosts engage in a live draft-style game, selecting various Las Vegas-themed categories. This interactive segment is a first for the podcast, adding a dynamic and entertaining element to the show.
Jay Skeets [12:09]: "We're going to do the perfect Vegas experience."
The seven categories drafted include:
- Hotel Casino
- Classic Live Entertainment
- Casino Game
- Vegas Movie
- Non Gambling Activity
- Throwback Jersey
- No Dunks Summer League Bit
5. The Drafting Process: Picks and Banter
Each host takes turns selecting their top choices in each category, leading to lively debates and playful banter.
Round 1: Hotel Casino
- JD [16:11]: "My first pick is the Cosmopolitan Hotel. It's highly recognized."
- Trey Kirby: "After that, I want to take the Cosmo myself."
- Tasmelas: "Let's go with Excalibur."
- Jay Skeets: "I'll take Mandalay Bay."
The discussions reflect personal preferences and humorous insights into each hotel's unique offerings.
Round 2: Classic Live Entertainment
- Tasmelas [26:21]: "Nothing beats Absinthe."
- JD: "I’m with you there."
- Jay Skeets: "Piff the Magic Dragon."
- Tasmelas: "Tom Jones."
Each selection sparks conversations about the distinct entertainment styles Vegas is renowned for, from acrobatic shows to legendary music performances.
Round 3: Casino Game
- Jay Skeets [31:40]: "I’m taking the Electromechanical horse derby game."
- Tasmelas [33:05]: "I like roulette."
- JD [34:29]: "I'm going craps."
- Trey Kirby: "I'm playing Pai Gow."
The hosts share their preferences and experiences with different casino games, adding a layer of relatability for listeners familiar with Vegas gaming.
Round 4: Vegas Movie
- Tasmelas [37:01]: "Ocean's Eleven."
- JD: "Swingers."
- Trey Kirby: "The Hangover."
- Jay Skeets: "Casino."
The movie selections highlight iconic films that depict Las Vegas, with each host explaining their personal connection and fondness for these cinematic representations.
Round 5: Non Gambling Activity
- JD [41:00]: "Chilling by the pool."
- Trey Kirby [42:07]: "Going to the Chandelier Bar and trying the Verena cocktail."
- Tasmelas [44:23]: "Neon Boneyard."
- Jay Skeets [43:17]: "Summer league events."
These picks showcase the diverse array of activities Vegas offers beyond gambling, from luxurious poolside relaxation to immersive cultural experiences.
Round 6: Throwback Jersey
- Trey Kirby [49:30]: "Old school Houston Rockets jersey."
- Jay Skeets [50:30]: "Damon Stoudemire Raptors jersey."
- Tasmelas [51:17]: "Cream City Bucks jersey."
- JD [53:46]: "Matt Barnes Clippers jersey."
The throwback jersey selections lead to nostalgic conversations about past NBA eras and favorite players, enriching the episode with sports history.
Round 7: No Dunks Summer League Bit
- JD [57:05]: "Showgirls costumes during a summer league game."
- Tasmelas [56:32]: "Cirque du Summer League performances."
- Trey Kirby [59:31]: "Giving players personalized cakes."
This final round encapsulates the unique and often humorous aspects of the hosts' experiences in Las Vegas, highlighting memorable moments and creative interactions.
6. Determining the SQUAD Winner
After all rounds, the hosts recap their selections and audience applause determines the winner of the SQUAD draft.
Jay Skeets [65:22]: "Congratulations to Trey Kirby on the squad."
Trey Kirby emerges as the victor, securing the top spot with his well-rounded selections and engaging storytelling throughout the draft.
7. Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to the live audience, sponsors, and participants, emphasizing the success of their biggest Vegas-themed show to date.
Jay Skeets [66:33]: "We really appreciate it. It's awesome."
The hosts encourage listeners to engage with the podcast through likes, subscriptions, and reviews, fostering a sense of community and anticipation for future episodes.
Notable Quotes
- Jay Skeets [12:09]: "We're going to do the perfect Vegas experience."
- Tasmelas [26:21]: "Nothing beats Absinthe."
- Trey Kirby [31:40]: "I’m taking the Electromechanical horse derby game."
- Tasmelas [37:01]: "Ocean's Eleven."
- JD [57:05]: "Showgirls costumes during a summer league game."
Conclusion
This live episode of No Dunks successfully blends insightful basketball analysis with entertaining segments that celebrate the essence of Las Vegas. The interactive SQUAD draft not only engages the hosts but also invites listeners to immerse themselves in the multifaceted experiences the city offers. Through candid conversations, humorous exchanges, and a structured yet fun segment, the podcast delivers a memorable episode that both die-hard NBA fans and casual listeners can enjoy.