Pardon My Take: Dwyane Wade In Studio, Pacers' Insane Comeback At MSG, The Thunder Are A Wagon, Remembering Jim Irsay & Fyre Fest With Oldie
Release Date: May 23, 2025
1. Oklahoma City Thunder’s Championship Victory
The episode kicks off with Big Cat announcing an unexpected yet thrilling development: the Oklahoma City Thunder have clinched the NBA Championship. Both hosts, Big Cat and PFT Commenter, express their excitement and disbelief over this stunning achievement.
Notable Quotes:
- Big Cat [03:00]: "Today is Friday, May 23, and the Oklahoma City Thunder are NBA champions."
- PFT Commenter [03:50]: "Thunder."
The hosts dive into a playful banter about securing their championship tickets, highlighting the camaraderie and light-heartedness that characterize the show.
2. Analysis of Thunder’s Playoff Performance
Big Cat and PFT Commenter dissect the Thunder's remarkable playoff run, emphasizing their defensive prowess and efficient offense. They credit key players like Paul George (SGA) and Anthony Edwards for their significant contributions.
Notable Quotes:
- PFT Commenter [04:24]: "This was a great game by SGA. There's no doubt about it."
- Big Cat [05:18]: "He's really goddamn good."
The discussion highlights SGA's MVP performance, noting his dominance in recent games and his impact on the team's success. They also commend team dynamics and depth, recognizing players like Alex Caruso and Lou Dort for their roles.
3. Pacers’ Remarkable Comeback at Madison Square Garden
Shifting focus, the hosts recount the Pacers' stunning comeback against the Knicks at MSG. They analyze the sequence of events where the Pacers overcame significant deficits in the final minutes, marking this as one of the most exciting playoff games in recent history.
Notable Quotes:
- Big Cat [17:00]: "The Pacers are so much fun to watch because they have just guys with big balls who make big shots."
- PFT Commenter [19:02]: "Aaron Neesmith, a great performer."
They praise Tyrese Haliburton’s clutch shots and Aaron Neesmith’s explosive performance, crediting these moments for turning the tide in favor of the Pacers. The hosts also discuss Jalen Brunson's struggles and the Knicks' inability to capitalize under pressure.
4. The "Tush Push" Controversy in the NFL
The conversation transitions to NFL playoff play, specifically the contentious "Tush Push" play. Big Cat and PFT Commenter debate whether this play should remain in the rules, citing opinions from league officials and team owners.
Notable Quotes:
- PFT Commenter [44:43]: "The owners are saying it’s an ugly play, but it has great personality."
- Big Cat [46:13]: "Yeah, I think he's suffering from the fact that all fires from the hip, all of the games and box scores that he played in are readily available."
They reference comments from Jeffrey Lurie and others regarding the potential banning of the play, ultimately expressing support for keeping it to preserve excitement and unpredictability in the game.
5. Remembering Jim Irsay: Legacy and Philanthropy
A heartfelt moment arrives as the hosts pay tribute to Jim Irsay, the esteemed owner of the Indianapolis Colts. They delve into his philanthropic endeavors, eccentric personality, and the positive impact he had on the NFL community.
Notable Quotes:
- Big Cat [37:51]: "Jim Irsay is the closest to how I would want to live my life if I was a billionaire."
- PFT Commenter [38:24]: "He was loyal to his players and let Andrew Luck keep his money when he retired."
The hosts share anecdotes showcasing Irsay’s generosity, such as paying for funerals anonymously and his impressive guitar collection. They highlight his role as a benevolent and multifaceted figure in sports, despite facing personal demons.
6. Interview with Dwyane Wade
The highlight of the episode is an in-depth interview with basketball legend Dwyane Wade. Wade reflects on his illustrious career, championship victories, and the personal growth that accompanied his journey in the NBA.
a. Career Reflections
Wade discusses the significance of winning championships and the motivation behind seeking multiple titles. He emphasizes the competitive spirit that drove him to excel and continually improve his game.
Notable Quotes:
- Dwyane Wade [61:07]: "I was like, okay, I can do it, and I'll get another one."
- PFT Commenter [95:21]: "Michael Jordan's your goat. He's the best. Did you have to lie to LeBron about that when he was in Miami?"
b. Nicknames and Relationships
Wade shares insights into his nicknames, particularly "Flash," bestowed by Shaquille O’Neal, and his trademark moniker "D. Wade." He elaborates on the camaraderie and mutual respect among his teammates and how these relationships shaped his career.
Notable Quotes:
- Dwayne Wade [63:05]: "Wade is my brand."
- Big Cat [65:18]: "They are some of the guys you will never know."
c. Influence of Coaches like Tom Crean
Wade credits his college coach, Tom Crean, for his development as a player. He recounts how Crean’s relentless coaching pushed him to discover his potential and embrace a disciplined approach to basketball.
Notable Quotes:
- Dwyane Wade [133:01]: "Tom Crean pulled all of my greatness out, and you guys got a chance to experience."
- Big Cat [134:05]: "He is the best."
d. Thoughts on the GOAT Debate
Engaging in the perennial debate about the greatest basketball player of all time (GOAT), Wade expresses his admiration for both Michael Jordan and LeBron James. He acknowledges the subjective nature of the debate and emphasizes the unique qualities each player brings to the sport.
Notable Quotes:
- Dwayne Wade [93:45]: "LeBron James is arguably a goat."
- PFT Commenter [95:21]: "I do it all the time."
Wade concludes by emphasizing the importance of legacy and the continuous evolution of the game, highlighting his own place within basketball history.
7. Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, Big Cat and PFT Commenter reiterate their appreciation for Dwyane Wade’s insights and the engaging conversation. They touch upon upcoming shows and tease future guest appearances, maintaining the show's signature humor and energy.
Notable Quotes:
- Big Cat [135:20]: "Have to respect the troops."
- Dwyane Wade [141:02]: "It's basketball. I'm not afraid of you."
The hosts also briefly mention their excitement for future segments like "Fyre Fest" with Oldie, blending sports discussion with entertaining personal stories.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Pardon My Take masterfully weaves together high-stakes sports analysis with personal anecdotes, culminating in an enriching interview with Dwyane Wade. The hosts balance their enthusiasm for the Thunder’s unexpected success with a deep respect for Jim Irsay’s legacy, all while navigating the humorous and often unpredictable dynamics of sports broadcasting.
Key Takeaways:
- Oklahoma City Thunder's Dominance: The Thunder's strategic defense and versatile offense were pivotal in their championship win.
- Pacers' Resilience: The Pacers' ability to overturn substantial deficits highlights their tenacity and clutch performance under pressure.
- Jim Irsay's Impact: Beyond ownership, Irsay's philanthropic spirit left an indelible mark on the NFL and its community.
- Dwyane Wade's Legacy: Wade's reflections offer valuable lessons on teamwork, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of greatness in professional sports.
For fans seeking an engaging and comprehensive exploration of recent sports events, this episode delivers both depth and entertainment, solidifying Pardon My Take as a must-listen podcast in the sports talk arena.