Podcast Summary: "Thunder Caps Historic Season With Title, SGA Wins Finals MVP, Haliburton's Devastating Injury"

Episode Release Date: June 23, 2025
Hosted by: Tas Melas and Trey Kirby
Podcast: No Dunks by The Athletic

1. Acknowledgment and Tribute

The episode begins with the hosts expressing heartfelt condolences for their co-host Skeets, who is absent due to the tragic passing of his father. Tas Melas shares:

"No Skeets today. He received some unfortunate, tragic news yesterday that his father passed away. So send your love to Skeets."
(02:12)

The hosts emphasize their support and express their intention to welcome Skeets back soon.

2. Merchandising Spotlight: "No Dunks" Championship Shirt

Tas and Trey introduce a unique Thunder championship shirt, distinct from typical team merchandise, featuring the tagline:

"Back to the pawn shop. No coins for you."
(02:34)

Trey humorously notes the design's resemblance to the Andrew Bogut "faceless basketball player" tattoo, adding:

"I don't know what the 'pawn shop' necessarily factors in, but if you've seen the show, you know what it means."
(03:33)

They encourage listeners to visit noDunks.com to purchase the exclusive shirt, available for 48 hours post-championship.

**3. Game Seven Analysis: Thunder vs. Pacers

The centerpiece of the episode is an in-depth analysis of the decisive Game Seven between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. Key highlights include:

**a. Key Moments and Performances

• Tyrese Haliburton’s Injury: Trey Kirby underscores the critical impact of Haliburton’s injury early in the first quarter:

  "The Halliburton injury is huge... The Thunder saw their opportunity in the third quarter and they seized it."
  (05:07)

• Thunder’s Third Quarter Dominance: Tas highlights the Thunder's explosive performance in the third quarter, outscoring the Pacers 34-20, fueled by strategic plays and sharp shooting.

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) MVP Performance: SGA’s stellar performance secured him the Finals MVP. Trey praises his all-around game:

  "He led the league in scoring, became one of four guys to win Finals MVP and MVP and a scoring title in the same season."
  (23:16)

**b. Strategic Insights

• Thunder’s Defensive Prowess: Both hosts commend Thunder’s defensive strategy, which forced seven turnovers from the Pacers, transitioning defense into offense seamlessly.

• Halliburton’s Absence: The discussion delves into how Haliburton’s injury deprived the Pacers of their primary playmaker, leading to increased turnovers and missed opportunities.

  "He is an awesome point guard. He sets everybody up and gets them into the right positions."
  (11:04)

**c. Player Spotlight

• Chet Holmgren’s Impact: Chet Holmgren’s defensive efforts, including a game-record five blocks in Game Seven, are highlighted as pivotal to Thunder’s victory.

  "He was an incredible defensive player in this game."
  (28:17)

• TJ McConnell’s Performance: McConnell’s clutch plays and emotional response to Haliburton’s injury receive commendation.

  "TJ McConnell goes in there to cry. Was crying in the hallway there and I don't know who he was with. It was just so emotional."
  (14:12)

**4. Random Notes and Highlights

Tas and Trey delve into various game highlights and off-court moments, including:

• Missed Dunk by Alex Caruso: A playful critique of Caruso’s ambitious but unsuccessful dunk attempt.

• Post-Game Celebrations: Discussion on the Thunder’s low-key celebration style compared to more exuberant teams like the Florida Panthers.

• Broadcast Replays of Haliburton’s Injury: The hosts touch on the controversial replay frequency during the injury, sparking listener complaints.

  "The bang bang calls like that, that doesn't ever get brought up as a bang bang call."
  (08:48)

**5. Future Implications

The hosts speculate on the future trajectories of both the Thunder and Pacers:

• Thunder’s Dynasty Potential: With their championship win and young roster, Thunder is poised to remain a dominant force.

  "They are the favorites for the title next season already. That makes sense. It would be surprising if we don't see him back in a finals in the next three seasons."
  (51:35)

• Pacers’ Challenges Ahead: Haliburton’s injury and Miles Turner’s impending free agency present significant challenges for the Pacers’ prospects next season.

  "Without Halliburton, just not quite the same team for sure."
  (56:04)

**6. Live Show Announcement

Tas and Trey announce their upcoming live show in Las Vegas during the Summer League:

"We've got details on our live show coming up in Las Vegas. We will be there for summer league. We will be in the Mandalay Sportsbook room on Friday, July 11th at 4pm. It's free, it's fun and baby, it's Vegas."
(50:10)

Listeners are invited to join for an engaging and entertaining evening with the hosts.

**7. Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with final thoughts on the Thunder's historic win, the emotional strains faced by key players, and a nod to future episodes discussing the NBA draft and upcoming seasons.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "No Skeets today. He received some unfortunate, tragic news yesterday that his father passed away." – Tas Melas
  (02:12)

• "Back to the pawn shop. No coins for you." – Tas Melas
  (02:34)

• "If Halliburton doesn’t get hurt in the first quarter, at least it’s, I am assuming a more competitive second half." – Tas Melas
  (56:04)

Conclusion

This episode of No Dunks offers a comprehensive and emotional recount of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s triumphant NBA Finals run, celebrating their first championship, honoring Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP performance, and grappling with the unfortunate injury of Tyrese Haliburton. Tas and Trey provide insightful analysis, heartfelt tributes, and engaging discussions, making it a must-listen for NBA enthusiasts.