Pardon My Take – April 7, 2025: Coach Dan Hurley, Mark Hoppus, Ovi Breaks the Goal Record, an Incredible Final Four, and Duke's All-Time Choke

Hosted by Big Cat & PFT Commenter from Barstool Sports

1. Breaking NHL’s All-Time Goal Record: Alexander Ovechkin

Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals’ star forward, made history by breaking Wayne Gretzky's longstanding all-time NHL goal record. The hosts celebrate this monumental achievement, highlighting Ovi's dedication and remarkable consistency over his career.

• PFT Commenter ([03:21]): "Some call him a one trick pony. That's not the case. But he is very, very good at that one trick."

• Dan Hurley ([05:29]): "It's also awesome that Ovi's done it all in one jersey. This is something that doesn't happen often in sports as well."

Discussion points include Ovi's decision not to score an empty-net goal, ensuring his record-breaking goal's legitimacy, and the emotional significance tied to his family and the historic venue, where Gretzky scored his last goal.

• PFT Commenter ([05:28]): "He did it from his office. Perfect shot."

The conversation also touches on the challenges Ovi overcame, such as several strike-shortened seasons and a broken leg, underscoring his resilience and longevity in the sport.

2. Final Four Basketball Extravaganza

The Final Four delivered thrilling games, with significant attention on Florida vs. Auburn and Houston vs. Duke. The hosts delve into standout performances, strategic plays, and unexpected outcomes.

a. Florida vs. Auburn: Walter Clayton Shines

Walter Clayton of Florida showcased an outstanding performance, scoring 34 points, becoming only the second player since Larry Bird to score 30+ points in back-to-back Elite Eight and Final Four games.

• Dan Hurley ([14:07]): "Walter Clayton saved me one more time. That's how I'm going into this game."

Highlights include Clayton's unstoppable baseline three-pointer and his ability to consistently find the net despite Auburn's defensive efforts.

• PFT Commenter ([16:18]): "He's a problem. An incredible player."

b. Houston vs. Duke: The Ultimate Choke

In a dramatic showdown, Houston triumphed over Duke in what many consider the biggest choke in Final Four history. Despite Duke's analytical superiority—leading in field goal percentage, assists, and steals—they faltered in the final moments.

• PFT Commenter ([25:41]): "They're the only team to have a higher field goal percentage, more assists, fewer turnovers, more steals, and still lose in the NCAA tournament."

Criticism is directed towards Duke's Cooper Flag for missing crucial shots in the last minutes, emphasizing the importance of a true point guard in high-stakes games.

• Dan Hurley ([27:32]): "Duke gets all the hate. That was the biggest choke in Final Four history."

The hosts express mixed emotions—celebrating Houston's tenacity while lamenting Duke's missed opportunities.

3. Exclusive Interviews

a. Interview with Coach Dan Hurley

Coach Dan Hurley, celebrated for leading his team to back-to-back national championships, shares insights into his coaching philosophy, team culture, and preparation for the championship game.

• Coach Hurley ([75:22]): "Everything is pretty automatic by this time of year... you have a point guard who can bring the ball up the court."

He discusses the critical role of assistant coaches like Luke Murray in devising defensive strategies against formidable opponents and maintaining team morale during high-pressure situations.

• Coach Hurley ([77:07]): "We're riding with Florida. I'm not getting off that."

The conversation highlights the importance of trust and communication within the coaching staff to adapt strategies swiftly during tournaments.

b. Interview with Mark Hoppus of Blink-182

Mark Hoppus, bassist and vocalist of the iconic band Blink-182, discusses his new memoir, "Fahrenheit 182AMemoir," reflecting on his experiences with the band, personal challenges, and creative processes.

• Mark Hoppus ([108:41]): "When you're going through [cancer], just write... it's really helpful to me."

He recounts Blink-182's formation, creative milestones, and the evolution of their music, emphasizing the brotherhood and resilience that sustained the band through numerous reunions and challenges.

• Mark Hoppus ([117:28]): "We have a shorthand and a brotherhood and a friendship that we just come back together... it's like, okay, cool. What are we gonna do now?"

Mark also touches on his battle with cancer, detailing how writing and recording his memoir served as a therapeutic outlet during treatment.

• Mark Hoppus ([117:53]): "I think that people are going to discover that I'm smarter than people think that I am and that also, I'm a lot darker than people think that I am."

His reflections offer fans a deeper understanding of the man behind the music, highlighting his vulnerability and strength.

4. Concluding Thoughts

The episode wraps up with the hosts expressing excitement for the upcoming championship game between Florida and Houston, predicting a close and exhilarating match due to the comparable strengths of both teams.

• Dan Hurley ([44:59]): "I think it's going to be a great game because I think both of these teams are just really... they're amazing, awesome teams."

The combination of historic sports achievements and insightful guest interviews makes this episode a must-listen for sports enthusiasts and Blink-182 fans alike.

Notable Quotes:

• PFT Commenter ([04:02]): "He sucks. So I paid 20 bucks. I need to cancel that subscription immediately so I can get my money back."

• Coach Dan Hurley ([99:07]): "We feel like we've been honest that... we've been honest."

• Mark Hoppus ([140:30]): "I'm a lot darker than people think that I am."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the episode's key moments, providing listeners with a vivid overview of the discussions around Alexander Ovechkin's record-breaking achievement, the dramatic Final Four basketball games, and exclusive interviews with Coach Dan Hurley and Mark Hoppus. Through engaging conversations and insightful analysis, Big Cat and PFT Commenter deliver an episode brimming with sports passion and personal stories.