Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron – Episode: Hour 2: Matt Loves the Tour de France Release Date: July 6, 2025

Hosts: Myron Medcalf and Matt Jones from ESPN Radio

Introduction

In this engaging episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron," hosts Myron Medcalf and Matt Jones delve into a variety of sports topics, blending insightful analysis with their characteristic humor. The discussion spans from the Tour de France to the NFL preseason, MLB controversies, WNBA expansions, and NBA team strategies. Below is a detailed breakdown of their conversations, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.

Tour de France: Excitement and Insights

Discussion Highlights:

• Rider Dynamics and Race Strategies ([00:19] - [01:01])

  Myron begins the episode by expressing his fascination with the Tour de France, particularly the intense efforts of riders chasing each other uphill. He remarks, “It's very exciting. Now they're about to go downhill. … when they go downhill, you know, they can get up to 60 miles an hour. And that's very scary stuff” ([00:19]).

• Downhill Dangers and Rider Conditioning ([01:01] - [02:33])

  Matt echoes concerns about the dangers of high-speed descents, especially when riders are fatigued. The conversation touches upon the historical context of doping in cycling, referencing Lance Armstrong’s return to the sport. Myron notes, “I don’t think they’re juiced up anymore. … Plus now they've let Lance Armstrong back” ([01:12]).

NFL Preseason and Team Analyses

Key Topics:

• Steelers and Dolphins Trade Analysis ([01:20] - [05:26])

  The hosts discuss a significant trade where the Steelers acquire Jalen Ramsey from the Dolphins. Myron questions the motives behind the trade, while Matt emphasizes the ongoing importance of John Smith and the implications for Aaron Rodgers. Matt states, “I just think we're giving the Steelers credit in ways that we wouldn't if another team had made similar moves” ([03:30]).

• T.J. Watt’s Potential Holdout ([03:30] - [04:26])

  The conversation shifts to T.J. Watt’s dissatisfaction with the Steelers, contemplating whether he might sit out training camp for a new deal. Matt highlights Watt’s value, asserting, “This is a dude who's going to go down as one of the all-time defensive players ever. You got to pay him” ([04:26]).

• Top AFC Teams Performance Predictions ([04:26] - [10:23])

  Myron and Matt evaluate whether top AFC teams like the Chiefs, Dolphins, Broncos, Chargers, Bills, Bengals, Patriots, Jets, Browns, Texans, Jaguars, Colts, and Raiders are better or worse compared to the previous season. They exchange differing viewpoints on teams’ prospects, often referencing key player performances and potential roster changes. For instance, Matt opines that the Chiefs might be worse due to Travis Kelsey’s declining performance ([06:03]), while Myron believes they’ll be better, anticipating continued success ([06:15]).

MLB Controversy: Dodgers vs. Astros

Discussion Points:

• Oral Hershiser’s Comments on Astros ([17:54] - [20:10])

  The hosts address a recent Dodgers game loss to the Astros, focusing on Oral Hershiser’s controversial remarks about the Astros’ ongoing advantage from the 2017 sign-stealing scandal. Myron expresses skepticism about the lasting impact of the scandal, saying, “I never understand why people got so mad at this at the Astros” ([18:20]). Matt counters, recognizing the severity of the incident, “That's the whole thing” ([18:41]).

• Moral Implications and Accountability ([19:52] - [20:32])

  The conversation evolves into a broader discussion on whether teams should be perpetually held accountable for past misconduct. Myron argues for moving past the scandal, while Matt feels justified in maintaining long-term resentment towards the Astros. Matt remarks, “I think you should be able to knock the Astros for that cheating scandal forever” ([20:03]).

Tour de France Headlines and Incidents

Notable Incidents:

• Crash on Cobblestone Streets ([15:32] - [17:37])

  James reports a dramatic crash during the Tour de France where two cyclists collided on cobblestone streets during a sprint, leading to both riders falling. Myron elaborates on the challenges of racing on cobbles, stating, “In Europe, we call them cobbles… they race on the cobbles. Makes it hard” ([16:01]). The incident sparks a debate between Matt and Myron about appropriate responses to such crashes, with Matt humorously suggesting, “I think I get up and fight him” ([17:10]), while Myron advocates for contacting authorities.

• Matthew Vanderpoel’s Yellow Jersey Victory ([32:47] - [33:05])

  Myron shares the news of Matthew Vanderpoel taking the yellow jersey after a stage win, prompting Matt to question the promotion’s nature. Myron emphasizes its significance, “What's wrong with saying that Matthew Vanderpoel is… a big story in the news” ([33:05]).

WNBA Expansion: Detroit and Cleveland

Analysis and Promotion:

• Introducing New Teams ([35:17] - [38:55])

  The hosts discuss the WNBA’s expansion to Detroit and Cleveland, cities often unfairly criticized. Myron opens with, “Detroit and Cleveland listeners. So let's start with Cleveland” ([35:43]). Matt and Myron take turns highlighting Cleveland’s attractions, with Myron delivering a mock “tourism pitch” to celebrate the city’s cultural landmarks and vibrant downtown, saying, “Ladies and gentlemen of America, you need to visit Cleveland, Ohio” ([37:12]).

• Addressing City Stereotypes ([38:25] - [39:28])

  The conversation addresses common stereotypes about Detroit and Cleveland, with Matt promoting Detroit’s Motown legacy and Cleveland’s revitalized areas. Myron counters by comparing these cities to other major metros, asserting that every large city has its unique appeal and challenges.

NBA Focus: Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Future

In-depth Discussion:

• Bucks’ Roster Moves and Giannis’ Commitment ([26:03] - [32:18])

  Myron and Matt delve into the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent acquisition of Myles Turner and its implications for star player Giannis Antetokounmpo. They explore whether these moves sufficiently bolster the team to compete for championships. Matt metaphorically describes the situation as “the hourglass has started” for the Bucks and Giannis, indicating time is running out to secure another title ([30:07]).

• Evaluating Team Competitiveness ([27:33] - [32:18])

  The hosts debate the Bucks’ prospects, with Matt expressing cautious optimism about their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference but doubting their championship potential against teams like Cleveland and New York. Myron references analyst Sham Charania’s views on Giannis’ impending evaluation of his future with the team, leading to discussions on possible trade scenarios and the franchise’s long-term strategy.

NBA Summer League and Draft Prospects

Critical Insights:

• Summer League Performances ([41:00] - [45:07])

  Myron and Matt critique the significance of NBA Summer League performances, particularly in evaluating draft prospects. They reference a recent matchup between VJ Edgecombe and Ace Bailey, debating the reliability of Summer League as a predictor of future NBA success. Matt highlights the uncertainty inherent in translating Summer League success to the NBA, citing examples like Glenn Rice Jr., who excelled in Summer League but failed to sustain it professionally ([42:58]).

• Ace Bailey’s Potential ([44:21] - [45:18])

  The discussion narrows to Ace Bailey’s performance, with Matt optimistic about his future despite current struggles, while Myron remains skeptical, hinting at potential long-term disappointing outcomes. Myron humorously states, “I would call my broker and say let's skip this one” regarding Ace Bailey ([45:07]), contrasting Matt’s willingness to invest in Bailey’s potential ([44:59]).

Conclusion

The episode concludes with the hosts reflecting on the multifaceted nature of sports, from the thrill of cycling races and strategic team trades to the enduring impacts of past controversies and the excitement surrounding league expansions. Their balanced perspectives offer listeners a comprehensive overview of the current sports landscape, enriched by personal anecdotes and spirited debates.

Notable Quotes:

• Myron on Tour de France Drama ([16:12]): “In Europe, we call them cobbles… they race on the cobbles. Makes it hard.”

• Matt on Steelers’ Trade ([03:30]): “I just think we're giving the Steelers credit in ways that we wouldn't if another team had made similar moves.”

• Myron on WNBA Expansion Pitch ([37:12]): “Ladies and gentlemen of America, you need to visit Cleveland, Ohio.”

• Matt on Giannis’ Future ([30:07]): “I think the hourglass has started. … They are running out of time.”

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the dynamic discussions between Matt and Myron, offering listeners an informative and entertaining glimpse into the episode's key moments and themes.