Podcast Summary: PTI – "Are the Pacers in Control of the Series Now?"

Release Date: June 12, 2025

In this episode of PTI, hosts Tony Kornheiser and Mike Wilbon delve into the intense developments of the NBA Finals, touch upon the ongoing US Open in golf, analyze the Stanley Cup Finals, and discuss the current state of the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team. The episode is enriched by insights from Taylor Twellman, a seasoned soccer analyst.

1. Indiana Pacers' Dominant Performance in the NBA Finals

Timestamp: 00:32 – 04:00

The episode opens with an in-depth analysis of the Indiana Pacers' impressive performance in Game 3 of the NBA Finals against Oklahoma City. The Pacers clinched the game with a score of 116-107, securing a 2-1 series lead. A standout highlight was the Pacers' bench contribution, amassing 49 points and outperforming Oklahoma City's defense significantly.

Key Points:

• Tyrese Haliburton's Impact: Haliburton delivered a near triple-double with 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, marking a stark improvement from his subdued performance in Game 2.

  Mike Wilbon: "The person I want to give credit to most of all for calling this out is Brian Winhorst... Halliburton is not on the same page yet in consideration and perception as Gilgeous Alexander." (01:14)

• Bench Strength: Players like Ben Mather and TJ McConnell played pivotal roles, with Mather scoring 27 points off the bench. Rick Carlisle's coaching was praised for effectively utilizing the bench to counter Oklahoma City's strengths.

  Mike Wilbon: "Ben Matheran, yet another one of the Canadian, young Canadian stars in the world... They got guys that come at you in waves." (02:38)

• Predictions and Insights: While Tony initially favored Oklahoma City, recognizing their potential to win four consecutive games, Mike firmly believes that the Pacers have the upper hand moving forward.

  Tony Kornheiser: "I thought, honestly, Mike, that Oklahoma City... now they're not going to win the series at all." (03:43)

  Mike Wilbon: "I might disagree with you only in this. I think Indiana's going to win Game four." (04:00)

2. Early Highlights from the US Open Golf Tournament

Timestamp: 04:15 – 07:00

The conversation shifts to the US Open, with Tony and Mike discussing the surprising early scores at the challenging Oakmont Golf Course. Despite Oakmont's reputation for difficulty, several players finished under par in the morning rounds.

Key Points:

• Course Conditions: Tony expresses caution, suggesting that early under-par scores might lead to tougher pin placements in subsequent rounds.

  Tony Kornheiser: "What they'll do at Oakmont if a bunch of people are under par today is they'll change the pins tomorrow to such a degree..." (04:40)

• Notable Players: JJ Spawn and Rory demonstrated strong performances, while unfamiliar names like Thurston Lawrence and Nigard Peterson sparked curiosity.

  Tony Kornheiser: "Sporn is interesting to me... Thurston Lawrence. Don't know who he is." (05:00)

• Personal Anecdotes: Both hosts share personal experiences with Oakmont, highlighting its challenging nature.

  Tony Kornheiser: "I played it once. I'm a 20. I should not be allowed on that course." (07:00)

3. Edmonton Oilers' Struggles in the Stanley Cup Finals

Timestamp: 07:26 – 09:56

The hosts transition to hockey, focusing on the Edmonton Oilers' disappointing performance in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals against Florida. Connor McDavid underscores the importance of Game 4, labeling it as "pivotal."

Key Points:

• Performance Analysis: The Oilers were criticized for their lackluster play in Game 3, losing 6-1. Concerns were raised about their defensive strategies and overall commitment.

  Mike Wilbon: "There's no other way. I mean, we're not going to soft." (09:50)

• Goaltender Decisions: The discussion touches upon the decision to bring back goalie Skinner after his performance in Game 3, despite his historical struggles in Game 4 scenarios.

  Tony Kornheiser: "Skinner is called the king of game four... they're going to need that." (08:32)

• Championship Implications: Tony debates the necessity of every game being pivotal, drawing parallels with the NFL's playoff structure.

  Tony Kornheiser: "They don't have a short history in this Stanley cup and last year's..." (08:00)

4. Concerns Over the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team

Timestamp: 10:13 – 16:10

Taylor Twellman joins the conversation to address the declining performance of the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team. The team has faced four consecutive home game losses, the first since 1988, raising alarms as the Gold Cup approaches.

Key Points:

• Current State: Taylor expresses a state of "teetering on panic," highlighting recent defeats against teams like Panama and Canada.

  Taylor Twellman: "I'm not going to say panic, but I'm teetering on panic." (11:09)

• Christian Pulisic's Commitment: Pulisic defends his dedication to the national team amidst criticism, with Taylor supporting his stance.

  Taylor Twellman: "He's committed to the United States and he wants to play for the United States." (12:21)

• Coaching Evaluation: Mauricio Pochettino receives a critical assessment for his approach and inability to foster team identity.

  Taylor Twellman: "It's a D minus if I had to give him a grade." (13:43)

• Gold Cup Goals: Success is framed as reaching the Gold Cup final, irrespective of whether a B or C team is fielded, as a stepping stone towards the World Cup.

  Taylor Twellman: "They have to get to the final. And if you don't get to the final, then you can re ask me your first question." (15:18)

5. Celebrations and Updates in the Sports World

Timestamp: 16:10 – 19:52

The hosts take a moment to honor noteworthy figures and discuss recent sports updates.

Key Points:

• Marv Albert's 84th Birthday: Tony celebrates the legendary sportscaster's contributions to broadcasting across various sports.

  Tony Kornheiser: "Happy 84th birthday, Marv Albert... I'll call Marv tonight just to hear his voice." (17:34)

• Dirk Nowitzki's Anniversary: Reflecting on Nowitzki's Finals MVP performance 14 years ago and his ongoing relationship with the Dallas Mavericks.

  Tony Kornheiser: "Happy anniversary, Dirk Nowitzki... He has attended WNBA, Dallas Wings games." (18:23)

• Knicks' Coaching Pursuits: The New York Knicks face setbacks as the Bulls deny permission to engage with desired coaching candidates, including Billy Donovan and Jason Kidd.

  Tony Kornheiser: "The Bulls have denied the Knicks permission to talk to Billy Donovan." (18:52)

• Passing of David Greenwood: Acknowledgment of the passing of former UCLA star and Chicago Bulls player David Greenwood at age 68.

  Mike Wilbon: "David Greenwood passing at 68 is just tremendously sad." (19:22)

6. NFL and NHL Updates

Timestamp: 19:52 – 21:20

The episode concludes with brief updates on the NFL and NHL.

Key Points:

• Bengals' Defensive Moves: Discussion about former linebacker Jermaine Pratt's signing with the Raiders and concerns over Shemar Stewart leaving minicamp.

  Mike Wilbon: "Four and a half million bucks for a guy who led the Bengals in tackles last season." (20:06)

• Injuries and Roster Changes: Highlighting A.J. Wilson's injury and the potential impact on the Bengals' defense.

  Tony Kornheiser: "Don't need to lose Asia Wilson for any time ever." (20:28)

• NHL Award Show: A brief mention of the NHL award show's timing, though the hosts express limited interest.

  Mike Wilbon: "I'd have been intrigued a month ago." (21:03)

Conclusion:

This episode of PTI offers comprehensive coverage of major sports events, blending expert analysis with engaging commentary. From the Pacers' strategic triumph in the NBA Finals to pressing concerns in soccer and heartfelt tributes to sports legends, Tony Kornheiser and Mike Wilbon provide listeners with a multifaceted look into the current sports landscape.