Pardon My Take – Episode Summary: May 19, 2025

On this episode of "Pardon My Take," hosts Big Cat and PFT Commenter dive deep into a diverse array of sports topics, featuring insightful discussions, guest interviews, and candid takes on recent events in the sports world. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key points covered during the episode.

1. NBA Playoffs: Thunder vs. Nuggets – A Game 7 Recap

Timestamp: 03:57 – 15:35

The episode opens with a critical analysis of the NBA Playoffs, focusing on the intense Game 7 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets. PFT Commenter criticizes the anticipation versus the actual performance, stating, “The anticipation for the Game 7 is way better than the actual Game Sevens” (04:00). Big Cat echoes this sentiment, expressing a preference for Game 6s over sometimes lackluster Game 7s, emphasizing the Thunder's growth and defensive prowess.

Hank provides an overview of Scotty Scheffler's impressive performance, highlighting his defensive skills and leadership: “Alex Caruso is like, their Thunder are great as a team. And Alex Caruso just takes that defense intensity to another level” (10:20). The hosts commend Scheffler’s ability to elevate the team's play, particularly his clutch performances in critical moments.

PFT Commenter critiques Nikola Jokić’s performance, arguing that despite being the best player in the world, Jokić underperformed in crucial games: “If he was the best player in the world, game four and seven, he could have played better, and they could have won this year” (12:14).

2. PGA Championship: Scotty Scheffler’s Dominance and Equipment Controversy

Timestamp: 16:02 – 23:18

Transitioning to golf, the conversation shifts to the PGA Championship, where Scotty Scheffler secured his third major title. PFT Commenter and Big Cat discuss Scheffler’s exceptional performance, noting his ability to maintain composure under pressure and his technical prowess on the course.

A notable controversy arises regarding equipment compliance. Scheffler admits that his driver failed a standards test due to an improperly thin face, necessitating the use of a backup driver during the tournament: “Scotty Scheffler, the champion, just admitted that his driver was also tested this week and did not comply” (17:41). This revelation sparks a discussion on the fairness and consistency of equipment testing protocols in professional golf.

Smiley Kaufman, a recurring guest and golf analyst, elaborates on the issue: "The protocol, there's a certain way they measure it... But for whatever reason, it's random. It just seems like a situation..." (17:41).

Despite the equipment issues, Scheffler's victory is celebrated as a testament to his skill and mental fortitude: “He could have played up to the standard, and that's a lot of credit to the Thunder” (12:14).

3. WNBA Controversy: Caitlyn Clark vs. Angel Reese

Timestamp: 30:05 – 36:14

The hosts tackle the heated discourse surrounding the WNBA, specifically the rivalry between stars Caitlyn Clark and Angel Reese. PFT Commenter expresses sympathy for Reese, acknowledging the challenges she faces against a more dominant Clark: “I actually feel bad for Angel Reese at this point. And it has nothing to do with, like, how she's handled herself or anything. It's just simply Caitlyn Clark is so much better than Angel Reese at basketball” (34:03).

Big Cat critiques the nature of the rivalry, emphasizing that it has escalated beyond the sport: “It's like, how do you deal with having a bunch of weirdos out there that now care very deeply about your sport” (34:34). The discussion highlights the broader implications of increased visibility and polarized fan bases in women's sports.

Smiley Kaufman adds depth to the conversation, noting the impact of media narratives on player perceptions and the importance of handling rivalries with maturity: “It's a tough one to call because it just...” (33:25).

4. Hockey Playoffs: Leafs vs. Panthers and Stars vs. Jets

Timestamp: 24:44 – 38:50

Shifting focus to hockey, the hosts review the recent Game 7s in the NHL. The Toronto Maple Leafs faced the Florida Panthers in a disappointing outcome for Leafs fans, with PFT Commenter lamenting the lack of playoff success: “If you get two quick goals on them, they just crumble” (25:13).

They also discuss the Dallas Stars' impressive performance, securing an overtime win against the Winnipeg Jets: “Tickets are going fast so lock yours in now” (26:17). The hosts commend the Stars' resilience and clutch performances, contrasting it with the Leafs' struggles.

Big Cat highlights personal interactions with fans, mentioning the emotional rollercoaster of playoff hockey and the camaraderie among team supporters: “They started putting on game t-shirts and everything else” (38:20).

5. Interviews: Kyle Stowers and Tyler Phillips of the Miami Marlins

Timestamp: 126:07 – 176:05

In a special segment, Big Cat welcomes Miami Marlins players Kyle Stowers and Tyler Phillips to the studio. The interview delves into their recent trades, experiences in Major League Baseball, and life as players transitioning from minor leagues to the majors.

Kyle Stowers shares his journey, recounting the unexpected nature of his trade and the challenges of adapting to a new team environment: “I mean, you never know” (129:17). He discusses the competitive spirit within minor league teams and the tough decisions athletes face when traded.

Tyler Phillips discusses the realities of summer ball, the pressure of performing consistently, and the mental aspects of pitching: “I think it's a little nerves, little butterflies, but it's a lot of just like the adrenaline” (160:04). Both players emphasize the importance of teamwork, resilience, and maintaining focus amidst the uncertainties of professional sports.

The conversation also touches on personal interests and coping mechanisms off the field, with Phillips highlighting his engagement with performance psychology and reading for mental fortitude: “I've been... trying to get better” (164:18).

6. Conclusion and Farewell to Mr. Bing Bong

Timestamp: 177:37 – End

The episode concludes with a lighthearted and humorous farewell to a recurring gag character, Mr. Bing Bong. The hosts engage in playful banter, highlighting the camaraderie and entertaining dynamics of the "Pardon My Take" team. This segment reinforces the podcast's signature blend of sports analysis and comedic relief, leaving listeners with a sense of community and anticipation for future episodes.

Notable Quotes:

• “[04:00] PFT Commenter: The anticipation for the Game 7 is way better than the actual Game Sevens.”
• “[12:14] PFT Commenter: If he was the best player in the world, game four and seven, he could have played better, and they could have won this year.”
• “[34:03] PFT Commenter: I actually feel bad for Angel Reese at this point. And it has nothing to do with, like, how she's handled herself or anything. It's just simply Caitlyn Clark is so much better than Angel Reese at basketball.”
• “[37:44] Tyler Phillips: I'm trying to groom him into a... the fanatic he's friendly with.”

This episode of "Pardon My Take" masterfully navigates through a multitude of sports topics, providing listeners with in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and engaging conversations. Whether you're a casual fan or a sports aficionado, the hosts ensure a comprehensive and entertaining experience.