The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz: Hour 2 - Around the Popcorn Release Date: June 17, 2025

In this lively episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz titled "Around the Popcorn," hosts Dan Le Batard and Stugotz, alongside their charismatic team members, delve into a multifaceted discussion that seamlessly blends sports analysis, pop culture insights, and interactive entertainment. Filmed from the vibrant Elser Hotel in Downtown Miami, the episode delivers a rich tapestry of conversations, punctuated by humor and engaging debates.

1. Spotlight on Emerging NBA Talent

Jalen Williams vs. Chet Holmgren: Breaking Expectations

The episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of the NBA's rising star, Jalen Williams. Mike Ryan Ruiz sets the stage by highlighting Williams' remarkable performance, drawing unexpected comparisons to the legendary Scottie Pippen:

Mike Ryan Ruiz [02:09]: "Jalen Williams did something last night that now has ESPN comparing him to Scotty Pippen all over the place."

Wenzig Roy chimes in, emphasizing Williams' two-way prowess and defensive capabilities:

Roy [02:27]: "He's a really solid two-way player, so a good Defender, and this is the team they love to drive."

The hosts discuss Williams' trajectory from a 56th-round high school recruit to an NBA All-Star, underscoring his critical role in the Pacers' strategy and contrasting him with Holmgren's recent underperformance.

Mike Ryan Ruiz [02:52]: "He's the one playing downhill. He's the one hitting the three. That game last night was not won by Shay Gilgis Alexander. It was won with their number two option being their number one option."

The conversation delves into the strategic advantages Williams brings, questioning how opposing teams can effectively prepare against a player with such high usage and efficiency.

2. Art Heists and the Black Market

The Intriguing Case of "The Scream" Paintings

Transitioning from sports to art, Dan Le Batard spearheads a discussion on the notorious thefts of Edvard Munch's "The Scream" paintings. The hosts explore the challenges of selling such high-profile art on the black market, laced with their trademark humor.

Dan Le Batard [04:28]: "So enjoy the tequila that started it all."

Dan Le Batard [05:41]: "I'm definitely going to be put on a list for all this. Search."

The team breaks down the history of the stolen replicas, detailing incidents from 1994 and 2004, while mischievously speculating on the feasibility of stealing the Stanley Cup—a beloved sports trophy.

Dan Le Batard [06:10]: "You guys don't know what Phil looks like. Maybe they google him. All you need is a white-haired wig and some white gloves."

This segment blends factual recounting with playful banter about executing high-profile heists, showcasing the hosts' ability to entertain while informing.

3. Around the Popcorn: Interactive Movie Trivia

Testing Movie Knowledge with a Competitive Twist

Billy Gill introduces "Around the Popcorn," a dynamic movie trivia game designed to engage both the hosts and listeners. The game focuses on iconic films and challenges participants with questions ranging from casting to plot details.

Billy Gill [11:28]: "We're gonna play a game show today, ladies and gentlemen. And we've got around the horn popcorn music for you. Movie trivia."

The initial round centers on Ocean's Eleven, where participants swiftly name actors from the ensemble cast, accruing points through correct answers. The competitive spirit intensifies as the game progresses, incorporating escalating difficulty and strategic eliminations.

Mike Ryan Ruiz [14:25]: "Brad Pitt is correct. That's a point."

As the trivia advances, the hosts navigate through various movie genres and eras, showcasing their extensive knowledge and playful competitiveness. The segment is rich with humor, strategic gameplay, and spirited interactions, keeping listeners thoroughly entertained.

4. Debating the Greatest Action Movie Stars

Mount Rushmore of Action Heroes: A Heated Debate

The episode culminates in a passionate debate over the four greatest action movie stars of all time. Mike Ryan Ruiz takes an assertive stance, advocating for icons like Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tom Cruise, and Wesley Snipes.

Mike Ryan Ruiz [36:05]: "Bruce Willis, because they kept using him long after he had lost his faculties. Arnold Schwarzenegger... Tom Cruise because of the Mission Impossible franchise. And Wesley Snipes because I need a DEI group of action stars here."

In contrast, Dan Le Batard humorously monopolizes his argument in favor of Tom Cruise, listing his extensive filmography as the sole justification.

Dan Le Batard [36:34]: "Number one is Tom Cruise, obviously, for Mission Impossible. Number two is Tom Cruise because he saved the movie industry with Top Gun Maverick."

The debate reaches its peak as the hosts present their cases, blending earnest arguments with lighthearted jabs, ultimately crowning Mike Ryan Ruiz as the victor of the discussion.

Billy Gill [35:58]: "Mike Ryan Ruiz, dominating performance. You have won."

This segment not only highlights the hosts' differing perspectives but also their ability to engage in spirited yet respectful debate, enriching the episode's overall dynamic.

5. Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Events

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts reflect on the day's discussions and tease upcoming content, including playoff sports insights and future episode themes. The seamless transition from competitive games to reflective conversations underscores the show's versatility and the hosts' camaraderie.

Notable Quotes:

• Mike Ryan Ruiz [02:52]: "It's something that I don't think Carlisle or the Pacers could prepare for because how many times is Jalen Williams going to take more shots in a game and get a higher usage rate than the MVP of the league?"

• Dan Le Batard [05:48]: "I'm definitely going to be put on a list for all this. Search."

• Billy Gill [11:28]: "We're gonna play a game show today, ladies and gentlemen. And we've got around the horn popcorn music for you. Movie trivia."

• Mike Ryan Ruiz [36:05]: "Bruce Willis, because they kept using him long after he had lost his faculties. Arnold Schwarzenegger... Tom Cruise because of the Mission Impossible franchise. And Wesley Snipes because I need a DEI group of action stars here."

• Dan Le Batard [36:34]: "Number one is Tom Cruise, obviously, for Mission Impossible. Number two is Tom Cruise because he saved the movie industry with Top Gun Maverick."

Conclusion

"Hour 2: Around the Popcorn" encapsulates the essence of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz by blending insightful sports commentary with engaging pop culture discussions and interactive segments. Whether dissecting the rise of an NBA star, contemplating art heists, or competing in a spirited movie trivia game, the hosts deliver content that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. This episode stands as a testament to their ability to entertain a diverse audience, making it a must-listen for fans seeking a blend of sports, culture, and humor.