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Dan Le Batard
You're listening to Giraffe Kings Network.
Stugotz
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Dan Le Batard
This is the Don Levatar show with the Stugats podcast. Mike Bryan has fled the studio the way that Amin once fled the court when Tim Duncan roared after making a game winning shot. Mike Ryan has laughed. He's seen this face. He's seen this name. It's a 14 time NBA All Star, MVP, Finals MVP, NBA champion. And when I look on it, Adam, on behalf of Miami, I think Izzy will vouch for me on this. It is the highest compliment you can give in sports, which is. I do not dislike this man. Even though he broke my heart, I must respect it. His excellence was such. I saw what those Miami teams became and he slayed him. Not by himself, but. But it damn sure looked like it was. By himself with him and JJ Beret on his back like a spider monkey. Like a how? Like a howler monkey carrying them and beating Dwayne. Dwayne lebron and Chris Bosh. Izzy, am I wrong? When you see this face, all you can give it is like with Kawhi Leonard. It's like, look, man, that one year nobody was going to stop you 100%. So thank you. Thank you, Dirk. No, but you know that. You know that that's what you did to Miami that year. People were, Dirk, people were questioning you.
Dirk Nowitzki
Yes, that's true. But you know, after 2006, I had to, I had to come back and do something, right? That was, that was a tough year where, you know, we were up to all on you guys and we were in a great position to win it all. And there's just that whole week, you Know, back in the days it was still the 2, 3, 2. And that whole week in Miami where we lost three straight was like a week from hell. So that'll never, never let me down. But I'm glad we got back in 2011, had the chance to, to redeem ourselves.
Dan Le Batard
I'd be curious, Dirk, given how that went in, in 2006. Like, I know a lot of people in retrospect will say, ah, we were the better team, but you'd have a pretty good argument if you thought those three games, Avery Johnson never stopped doubling Shaq. Like if some things had changed there, it felt like Dallas was the better team. Would you ever say that having lost.
Dirk Nowitzki
I mean, I don't know, we were up 2, 0 and we were up what, over 10 points in the, in the third game with 5, 6 minutes left. So I mean we, we made a pretty good case over, over the almost three games that we were the better team. But you know, you can never not close and say you were the better team. Now you can say maybe in a series of one game where you, you lose, you can say we were a better team, but you can't say that in a seven game series that's the better team usually win. So I can't sit here and say we were the better team. I think we, we definitely had our chances. But once, once, I think our experience wasn't quite there yet. Once we, once we lost game three, they came back, game four was a complete blowout. And then there was so mental. I mean you guys were in our heads, we hotels. I mean it was, that whole week, like I mentioned earlier, was just, was just one of the toughest weeks I've ever been a part of in the NBA. So that's, that was a week to forget. And then we came home down three, two, still have two home games. All we had to do was, was win game six, force into a game seven, have a home game for game seven. And, and we just couldn't stop the bleeding and win game six.
John Amici
So yeah, that's when you guys switched hotels. It was over.
Dan Le Batard
It was over.
John Amici
The Miami Heat knew it was over at that point, wasn't it?
Dirk Nowitzki
Yeah, that was, I think that was just something coach every tried after, after game four, which is so ugly. We got, we got blown out. It wasn't even close. And so, you know, he's like, pack your stuff, we're leaving right now. We're leaving. And so we all had to go upstairs and pack our bags and basically checked in somewhere in Fort Lauderdale somewhere. It was. Yeah, once. Once it got that, that was pretty tough. You guys were in our heads.
John Amici
Derek, I've never been more upset with players that wear Heat uniforms than I was when Dwayne and LeBron mocked you for supposedly not being sick. Like, why would you fake being sick? It's ridiculous. But that was part of the relationship between you and Dwayne. He also said something, I think, where you maybe weren't a great leader or something like that. Could you describe sort of the relationship between you and Dwayne? Cause you are two superstars who shouldn't be disliked by anybody, but for a stretch there, you disliked each other.
Dirk Nowitzki
Yeah, I think it started with competition, and with competition, every now and then, you know, emotions run a little high. And I think what. What started his. His comment was when I said we shouldn't have lost that series. No, I think I said, obviously I was frustrated afterwards. I said they stole. I think they said he stole this and we gave it away. Something like that. And I think that really triggered him because he felt like that this was disrespectful to. To their efforts, and rightfully so. So that was totally me after losing the series, saying something that, you know, obviously wasn't true. And they. He played an unbelievable serious. And so they. They obviously deserved it. I just. I just felt like we didn't quite execute. We didn't have experience, we didn't know how to close. So I think that triggered it all. And then he said some stuff that I didn't appreciate. And so there was, you know, there was some. I would say, heated. There was just some. We kind of ignored each other for a couple years, and there was just no relationship. There was no. No. No talking or even when we saw each other somewhere, there was no conversation. So. And then. And then, yeah, in 2011, it's kind of fitting then that we saw each other again and. And, you know. You know, I. It's always good now to say we're one and one with the Miami Heat and the Finals, and so that's. That's all it matters. But we're super cool now. We don't, obviously, win the hall of Fame together last summer, and that was an incredible experience and kind of a bonding thing. And on his podcast, we actually had a little moment where we. We talked about the. Or aired out some of the stuff that was said. And so I think everything was kind of, you know, obviously in the heat of the moment and emotions and. But I don't have a problem with. With. With obviously Dwayne as A person, that's.
Dan Le Batard
Fine, but I want the innermost thoughts. When you're in a room together and you see him and you're like, I'm not going to talk to him. And if he comes over here, I'm not going to talk to him. Like, I want your innermost thoughts in there.
Dirk Nowitzki
I think it was just like, you know, we kind of both acted. The other person doesn't exist, I think, to this day. And was it 07, maybe in the All Star Game? In, In. In Vegas, we were the only All Star starters that didn't high five, I think, in the history of the All Star Game. So I think that was that kind of. That kind of.
Dan Le Batard
So, so wait a minute. So you're pretending he's invisible. You're like, I'm not going to. Like, I'm not going. I'm competing with him at not letting him know I know that he exists over there.
Dirk Nowitzki
We were both acting like the other person wasn't there. It was. It was just awkward. And like I said, it was just something silly, but it just. It started with. With both sides saying something that wasn't appreciated, and then just. We had. I wouldn't even say there was just no relationship. Nobody. Neither guys wanted to talk to the other or wanted to have a conversation, and we left it at that.
Dan Le Batard
Well, perhaps I can make you giggle with this and bring you closer to your good friends, because insults and laughter are the shared intimacy of our language among men in sports. So here you go. I'm going to tickle you a little bit. Give me all your honest thoughts here at this Dwayne Wade statue.
Dirk Nowitzki
Well, he chose this moment. You know, this is my house. And, you know, it's actually, it's the same artist that did mine in Dallas, so I can't be too critical.
Dan Le Batard
You can't say that that looks like Ryan Reynolds in Deadpool after he's been burned.
Dirk Nowitzki
Oh, man, the weather is. It's cold outside here in Europe right now. But no, it's. I. You know, Dwayne was obviously involved from the beginning, so that's obviously the most important thing. If, if he's happy and he feels like this represents him the right way, then. Then. Then we all should be. Should be moving on.
Dan Le Batard
Mitch, what are you laughing about?
Mike Ryan
It's just incredibly diplomatic.
Dan Le Batard
It was so good. It was so nice. I tried to bait him into it. He wouldn't do it. John Amici is here. Dirk, do you remember ever playing against John Amici?
Mike Ryan
Absolutely does not. I would have been on the bench. He Would have been on scoring and I would have been on the bench.
Dirk Nowitzki
Yeah, I obviously remember you from. From Orlando. When. When. So when I got in the league, were you still in Orlando or.
Mike Ryan
I think, I think I may have been last year in Orlando.
Dan Le Batard
I mean, can you find for me please some head to head stats in Amici's games against.
Mike Ryan
Why would they do that? One of these, one of the two of us talking has a statue and the other one does not.
Tony
The other one is a statue, which.
Stugotz
Is why I beat his ass.
Mike Ryan
Yeah, I noticed that Tony is not brave enough to suggest he could beat you in one time.
Stugotz
To Dirk.
Mike Ryan
Yes.
Stugotz
Dirk is a childhood idol of mine. I wore 41 as a kid because of Dirk.
Mike Ryan
I was a bigger kid that evaded answering the question.
Stugotz
I'm talking to childhood hero really quick though. I was a bigger kid that had a jumper and I always looked at Dirk and be like, if I can hit like a one legged fade away in the JCC at 5 years old, like I was a guy, I didn't.
Mike Ryan
Hear an answer to the question.
Dan Le Batard
What was the question he was asking you? We didn't want to hear from what your jump shot was at 5 years old. We wanted to see whether you could, whether you feel like you. If you played Dirk right now, how do you think you would do?
Stugotz
Do I get ball first or no.
Mike Ryan
See, this is absurd.
Dan Le Batard
Dirk, that guy in the back is.
Dirk Nowitzki
A big question with me too. Is it make you take it? Who gets the ball first?
Stugotz
Exactly.
Dirk Nowitzki
If you can't defend, then it's very important as it may take it or who has the ball first. So I get that. I ask that all the time too.
Dan Le Batard
Okay, but he is in my studio in the back row and he thinks he can beat you.
Dirk Nowitzki
Yeah, I'm not quite sure about that. But you know, I do have some. I do have some health issues. So my mobility is, is more than suspect these days. But listen, I'll just take two dribbles, put you down the block and it's night night.
Mike Ryan
There you go.
Stugotz
The one legged fade away.
Mike Ryan
And there it is.
Stugotz
That's what I grew up watching.
Mitch
He'd hit it on me.
Dan Le Batard
But what if you miss one? Is what the but. But Dirk, what if you miss one?
Mike Ryan
He's got a missile.
Dirk Nowitzki
So if I miss one, I'm gonna play. I'm gonna use my length and my experience and so I'm gonna give you a little cushion. I'm gonna watch if you can hit the first couple and then if you make one that I gotta make you, you know, do something else. You know, I just, I use my length at seven feet with a long reach and, and see where this is taking me.
Stugotz
We're going to test the lateral quickness for sure. Give you maybe an up and under, see if you can get around.
Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk, I feel like lateral.
Dan Le Batard
Dirk, I don't feel like you're moving all that well these days. 20 years of running up and down at that size.
Dirk Nowitzki
You know what, Lateral movement was an issue at 25, so it sure is an issue at 45.
John Amici
Still has.
Dirk Nowitzki
I wasn't known, I wasn't known for getting out there and showing on pick and rolls and that was tough for me. 20. You don't want to see my lateral movement now.
Dan Le Batard
Dirk, do you have one moment? I'm not talking about winning the championship, but at any point in any of these games, do you feel one moment that feels better than all the others, that at the end of a game something you did where you were like, this is the best that this can feel. Trying to be excellent at this all.
Dirk Nowitzki
My life, honestly, I wouldn't say 2011 was a great run, but some of the best playoff runs that I've had in my. Maybe the best run I've ever had was probably in 06 when, when, when we got to the finals. To beat, to beat the spurs in that seven game series and win game seven on the road at the spurs was probably one of my greatest wins and greatest achievements. They were always the big brother, the big rivalry, and they always beat us. And so through there was just an amazing feeling, you know, to beat that team. Obviously we all know how good the team was, how well coached they were. And so to get through there was probably the best series that I've been a part of over the whole seven games and probably the best I've played over seven game stretch in my life.
Dan Le Batard
We will tell the people about what you're doing with December 21st, World Basketball Day. But I mean, just get me the head to head stats between Dirk Nowitzki and John Amici.
Dirk Nowitzki
Did you find it?
Mike Ryan
What a joke.
Tony
I got him right in front of me. You guys met seven times. Seven times.
Dirk Nowitzki
Seven times.
Mike Ryan
I must have been on the bench a lot.
Tony
You played quite a bit. A few minutes in the last meeting when you were playing for the Utah jazz. You played 20 minutes. You were over four in that game.
Mike Ryan
Nice, nice.
Tony
Zero points, two fouls, four rebounds. Dirk had 21 and six. So pretty good job right there.
Dirk Nowitzki
Yeah, I mean, not bad.
Mike Ryan
I feel like that's, that's A pretty indicative matchup.
Dan Le Batard
Yeah, but you were, you were three.
Tony
And four against Dirk in, in your career. So you can hold your head high now if you. The average is. Dirk averaged 21.6 points, 8.9 rebounds and almost a block a game. You average 1.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and almost a turnover and a half a game.
Mike Ryan
What's amazing about that is that that 2.3 points, that must be almost higher than my actual average.
John Amici
It is.
Dan Le Batard
You. You also held Dirk.
Dirk Nowitzki
You raised your average those nights.
Mike Ryan
I really picked it up on those days.
Dan Le Batard
And you also held Dirk below his averages. Like, those numbers are not as good as Dirk numbers. You're basically a D. Dirk stopper as far as I can tell.
Mike Ryan
That's nice.
Dirk Nowitzki
I would say. Let's leave it at that. Let's leave it at that.
Dan Le Batard
Tell us about what you're doing, Dirk, because you've become an ambassador for the game, World Basketball Day. You've always been an ambassador for the game. The global impact of basketball unity through the game. You are doing what now in terms of selling the game? Because right now you're. The NBA is taking quite the hit when it comes to. People are saying ratings are indicative that the sport isn't as interesting as it used to be.
Dirk Nowitzki
Yeah, I saw that too. And I'm not quite sure what to say to that. What, you know, whether if it's. If it's young guys or young people don't really watch that much TV anymore or don't sit in front of a TV for two and a half, three hours anymore. I'm not quite sure. Is it really the game? Is it really that, you know, we're shooting too many threes? I just don't see that being the main reason why people don't watch our game anymore. I don't really believe that. I'm sure there's lots of other things or factors going into that. If I knew the answer, I would probably work in New York in the, in the commissioner's office. But, you know, for World Basketball Day, Luca is launching his foundation. And, you know, for one of his things that he wants his foundation to do is help basketball worldwide. So he put together like a committee of guys that, that help out and want to, you know, give back and grow the game and give back to the, to the future players. And so it's going to be interesting, I think, how he wants to do it. I'm going to let him tell his story when it launches in a couple days. But there's some cool guys and cool Basketball minds. Steph Curry's on the committee. Me, Steve Nash, Gran Hill, lots of others. So I think we're. We're just trying to help the game grow and develop in the right way. And so we'll see what we come up with in the next few years and then how we take this, which direction this will go. But excited to be a part of it. And I'm surprised that Luca would make that one of his missions of the foundation, which is amazing at that age, that he's already thinking about what can I do for the next generation? So I'm super glad and honored to be a part of it, and we'll see where this goes, where this grows.
Tony
Derrick, you're good friends with Steve Nash. You guys played together in Dallas, and then Steve obviously went on to Phoenix. Did you guys ever talk about what would have happened had you guys stayed together?
Dirk Nowitzki
Yeah, I know. That's your guy. You know, I. Steve, I sometimes, you know, go back and think a little bit. What if. I think there were a couple years there where some championships were for the taking. You know, we're starting in 05, maybe 06, 07. You know, obviously the spurs were great, and then, you know, and when Powell went to Lakers, obviously then they took over. Before that, KG and Paul Pierce went to Boston. I mean, KG and Ray Allen joined Paul Pierce. So that. That would have been tough squads to beat. But right before then, I think there were some years where it would have been possible. But hey, you know, you just never know. I think at the end of the day, us, you know, separating was probably also good for our careers. We. We both had to take on more responsibility. We probably grew in ways that we might have not grown together because. Because of the responsibility we had to take without each other. And, you know, that Phoenix team was just perfect for him, for his. For his skill set, for the speed he played the game at and, you know, the athleticism around him, which is perfect. And so. I don't know. I don't know. Like I said, there were some few years where.
Dan Le Batard
Oh, stop it, Dirk. Stop it with. I don't know. Stop it, Dirk. I'm so tired. I'm so tired of this, Dirk. I'm so tired. After 20 years, like, always the diploma at like, Stop. All right. We love watching those teams. You can say, yeah, we would have won a couple of championship. We should have stayed together. Yeah, yeah, you were great together. We loved watching it together. Ever the diplomat. Ever the. I'm sorry to yell at you. Why am I yelling at you?
Dirk Nowitzki
No, no, no, it was good. I needed it to wake up. But no, we had, we had a great squad and we, we loved playing with each other and we had great chemistry. And so with that, it translated with, you know, we have stayed healthy together. I mean, who knows? There's a thousand questions, but I think we would have had a good shot.
Dan Le Batard
He is being basically brought to you on behalf of basketball. He's sponsored by basketball. It is December 21, is Saturday. It's World Basketball Day. It's brought to you by Dirk Nowitzki and basketball. Dirk, thank you for being on with us. We appreciate the time.
Bob Kraft
Sir.
Dan Le Batard
Always good seeing you. Maximum respect, sir.
Dirk Nowitzki
Always good to see you guys. All the best.
Mitch
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Mike Ryan
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Mitch
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Dan Le Batard
Folks.
Stugotz
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Bob Kraft
Don LeBatard, Bob Kraft. The only reason your organization is good is because of Bill Belichick.
Dan Le Batard
Stugats.
Bob Kraft
Belichick has done nothing since. Since Brady left. He made the playoffs once. I think at the very least he should not be a first ballot hall of Famer. They should make him wait like 10 years to get it. He's an overrated coach.
Dan Le Batard
This is the Dan Lebatar show with the Stugats. In the history of South Florida, there have not been a lot of enemies like that dude that the echo and the enduring thing is, ooh, I really have to respect everything. That was because he beat the respect out of me. Like I knew the squad I had. It's I. I knew what I had and, and Dirk beat them and holy, how did he beat them like that? What a great presence to walk in a room with. Like, I wish I Could carry something that felt like that around. Walk into a city and it's like, no, I. I took down your dragon. Like, you were really proud of that team.
John Amici
And he couldn't even move laterally instead of himself.
Dan Le Batard
Couldn't. Couldn't move laterally. And go ahead and recognize the second best player I had on the. On that team in the strength. Like, that's crazy what that dude did. Yeah. Can we do Stump the Meech? It's long overdue. People love Stump the Meech. We got to go out to Rose. People love Rose. She's becoming a star quickly around here. And she's got some legitimate toys now, finally. So we could show off some toys. I told them to hurry up and buy all of those. They're making us pay.
John Amici
You'll have to match those.
Dan Le Batard
I'm not going to match what. I already just paid to put those out there. Can you please just. Do we have imaging for Stump the Meech? We don't have imaging. I. This deserves imaging. How do we not have imaging for this? All right, let's begin. Chris, Cody. How much do you dread this Meech? Are you excited, right?
Mike Ryan
Not at all. I've won many times.
Dan Le Batard
You've not.
Stugotz
Debatable.
Dan Le Batard
Maybe a couple.
Mike Ryan
But this is. This is the problem that. Anyway, I've won many times.
Dan Le Batard
You have not won many times. It's an impossible game to win. He's never won. Let's go. Let's play the first Stugot's mispronuncification Drummer Brimmer. Brimmer?
John Amici
No idea.
Dan Le Batard
Brillmert.
Mike Ryan
Is this the easy one that we're starting off?
Dan Le Batard
This is the easy one.
Stugotz
It actually is.
Dan Le Batard
Brillmer. That's not fair to go this. This hard. I'm.
Mike Ryan
One more time. One more time. One more time. No, I don't know.
Stugotz
See, I know what it is, and I hear it clearly. It's one of those ones. Once I tell you, you're gonna hear it.
Mike Ryan
Is it one word or two words?
Stugotz
One word. Word.
Dan Le Batard
I. I thought it was plumber.
Stugotz
I don't like when we guess before me.
Mike Ryan
Don't. Don't guess because otherwise it pollutes the street.
Stugotz
I will say, though, it's not plumber just to make take all the confusion.
Mike Ryan
So go on.
Dan Le Batard
Remember.
Dirk Nowitzki
I. I.
Tony
It's one of two things. I think.
John Amici
I don't think anybody knows what you're saying.
Stugotz
Let's get amici's guess and then everybody else can try.
Mike Ryan
So one more time. No, I've got nothing. I think Bloomer. But that's all I can hear.
Stugotz
Remember Roy Got it right.
Dan Le Batard
Hey, Remember.
Mitch
Hey, I know my guts now.
Stugotz
Once I say it. No, now you hear it.
Mike Ryan
Now you can hear it.
Stugotz
No, I can't hear it.
Dan Le Batard
No, it just sounds like a frog.
Mike Ryan
All right.
Dan Le Batard
If I told you, you were sleeping at night.
Stugotz
Where is that thing? Get it out of here.
Mike Ryan
It is frog.
Dan Le Batard
It is a frog.
Stugotz
Actually, that's a really good call.
Dan Le Batard
Outside your window. I want you to imagine. Is it. Is it. Is it moving? You're. You're hearing. It's ribbit.
Tony
It looks like stugats. That's in my mind.
Mike Ryan
This.
Dan Le Batard
Let me hear the second one. This is not great for me to come out.
Mike Ryan
No, no, It's. Everything's fine. Pieces. Is it one word or two words?
Stugotz
One word.
Dan Le Batard
That is someone who's been electrocuted.
Mike Ryan
This is the same. This is the same swamp scene. The frog is outside. That is a mosquito hitting one of those electrical things.
Dirk Nowitzki
Yes.
Dan Le Batard
This is an animal. The world's most terrifying farmer. That's a toad. That is a toad that doesn't have two of its legs. Falls off on its side. Right. Be a.
Stugotz
Any guesses?
Mike Ryan
Pieces.
Stugotz
Is that your final answer?
John Amici
Be. The mosquitoes are dying here, John. You got to give an answer.
Stugotz
Any guesses around the room? Because.
Dan Le Batard
Is it. Is it former Panthers goalie John Van Beesbrough?
Stugotz
No. This is business.
Mike Ryan
Why is he saying it like that?
Dan Le Batard
What?
Mike Ryan
Like he's got his nut advice or something?
Dan Le Batard
What? This is not going well because he's 02.
Mike Ryan
It's fine.
Dan Le Batard
You're Owen 2. It's not fine. You're going to lose. You're going to lose.
Mike Ryan
Thank you for this. Thank you for being my friend.
Dan Le Batard
I want you to be in it at the end. I want it to be close. I don't want.
John Amici
He doesn't go home and cry after losing this day.
Mike Ryan
That's because I've won many times.
Dan Le Batard
He's very competitive.
Mike Ryan
I'm. Listen. I'm fine.
Stugotz
All right. Number three.
Dan Le Batard
This isn't fair.
John Amici
That's not a full word.
Mike Ryan
Is that one word or two?
Stugotz
It's one word.
Dan Le Batard
How's that gonna be two words?
Mike Ryan
No, no, don't do that. Don't let. Don't gaslight me about this. We've had many times where there's been an utterance that sounds like he's been shocked and it's ended up being a complete sentence.
Dan Le Batard
What animal is this in? This haunting.
Stugotz
It's like a rabbit.
Dan Le Batard
This haunting garbage. It.
I
Garden.
Tony
It's a different frog.
Mike Ryan
Dot.it is it is a different frog, different species.
Dan Le Batard
Let's do two frogs arguing with each other in the night. In the night. That one's so good groomer.
Mike Ryan
And then just occasionally a mosquito getting hit in the background.
Dan Le Batard
Okay, so you have that being the sound of a moth hitting that. The thing that kills them on the porch because they're attracted to life.
Mike Ryan
Exactly right. It's exactly right.
Dan Le Batard
You got a guess here?
Mike Ryan
Down to business.
Dan Le Batard
Dot, dot.
Mike Ryan
Just keep going.
Stugotz
You have no shot here. I'm just gonna play this one.
Dan Le Batard
This one.
Stugotz
I have the full context, so we can still Guts will tell you the answer. He actually doesn't say it, but you'll know what it is.
Bob Kraft
I mean, I imagine he searched far and wide. And he just somewhat clear me, please.
Stugotz
He said he means to say doctor. He's looking for some athlete to be cleared. And he just says doc.
Dan Le Batard
So that's Doc Rivers. That's Dr. And then him tast raised in the middle of.
Bob Kraft
I imagine he searched far and wide. Any. Just somewhat clear me.
Mike Ryan
I wouldn't have got that in context.
Stugotz
Any doctor.
Dan Le Batard
That's not fair. No, but listen to what he's saying.
Mike Ryan
Even when you give me the sentence. I didn't know that was Dr.
Dan Le Batard
Do you realize even if you told him it was Dr. You would stump him so much he would not know it is doctor that. That is.
Mike Ryan
I don't understand how he can make the noise. That's the piece that's odd because it's almost like I need to see his lips moving to know how do you make that? How does. What happens to you?
Dan Le Batard
Moneyball. If you get this one, we're tied. This will be a Moneyball. If you get this one, we will be tied. And. And then we will have a fifth one we can go to because everyone.
Mike Ryan
Enjoys this and everything's fine.
Dan Le Batard
Okay, I. I don't agree. Let's see what we have here, bro.
John Amici
Third frog up.
Mike Ryan
He really is.
Dirk Nowitzki
Because it is.
Dan Le Batard
It is. It is a frog. A frog farm. A. It is a farm of frogs.
Mike Ryan
I think it's. Is it one word?
Stugotz
One word.
Mike Ryan
Is it rumor?
Stugotz
Say it.
Mike Ryan
Rumor.
Stugotz
Rumor. That is incorrect. Any guesses from the room?
Dan Le Batard
Let me hear it again.
Stugotz
Protocol.
Dan Le Batard
I was going to guess protocol. Wow. Yeah.
Stugotz
Let's see.
Bob Kraft
That tool was going to be in concussion protocol.
Dan Le Batard
Oh, very good.
Dirk Nowitzki
You're right.
John Amici
It does feel good to win.
Dan Le Batard
It does feel good to win. I wish. I wish he'd ever felt it.
Mike Ryan
Yes, I have felt it.
Dan Le Batard
Let's see what we have here. Give me another one.
Stugotz
This is the final one. And this is two words. And I will say it's two small words.
Dan Le Batard
This is the only way you've won, and I will grant you the victory. If you get this. If you get this one, you win this one.
Mike Ryan
Can you remember that you say this, though.
Dan Le Batard
This one is worth six points. This. You never win this way. You've never won this way.
Mike Ryan
See, this is what I'm talking about.
Stugotz
Two short words. Here. Here.
Dan Le Batard
Also. A frog drowning.
Dirk Nowitzki
This is a frog diving.
Mike Ryan
It's bouncing around on. On the ground. It's just a very happy frog.
Stugotz
Remember two words.
Dan Le Batard
The Kimbe Mutumba.
Bob Kraft
The we.
John Amici
Small words.
Stugotz
Got a. Got a guess, John?
Mike Ryan
No. Come. Just keep playing it.
Stugotz
All right. Let's just say you're not.
Dan Le Batard
It's worth a lot. You want to take a guess? You might be able to win for the first time ever. Just take a guess. You. Maybe you'll get it right. Like we got lucky on protocol.
Mike Ryan
One more time.
Bob Kraft
Let me.
Mike Ryan
No, I've got nothing.
Dan Le Batard
Oh, wow.
Stugotz
All right. He is saying is a. Huh? Here it is.
Bob Kraft
Danism is a more relaxed person. Danism is a more relaxed person. Danism is a more relaxed person.
Mike Ryan
What two words do you say is? Oh, no, the is is not in there.
Bob Kraft
Danism is a more relaxed person.
Mike Ryan
Small. In the small sound he plays, is is not in there.
Bob Kraft
Dan is a. Is a more relaxed person.
Mike Ryan
You've missed a piece off it. You've missed a piece.
Dan Le Batard
You've missed a piece. Cheating. You've missed a piece.
Stugotz
I mean, listen to the short one again. Oh, you're right.
Dan Le Batard
Yes.
Dirk Nowitzki
Yes.
Dan Le Batard
You cheated him. Disqualified for cheating. He wins because you're disqualified.
John Amici
Seven points.
I
Hey, folks, it's Mike Ryan. The holiday season is upon us. Christmas is coming next week. So what are you doing for it? I imagine you're gonna have some family over. How do you entertain the family? How do you keep everybody happy? Well, I know one easy way. Make your holiday time, Miller time. Bring out a nice silver platter of that beautiful white can or bottle, whatever your preference. Heck, do it on draft. As long as it's got that beautiful amber color and was triple hops brewed, you know it's going to be a hit. Why? Because Miller Lite has tastes you know you can depend on. No games, no gimmicks, just great beer. For people who like beer, you'll take a sip, look around, see your family, and know you immediately made the best decision possible. Because Miller Lite is brewed for taste, it hits different than other light beers. Simple ingredients like malted barley for rich balanced toffee note flavors in the iconic golden color. The original light beer since 1975 and still the best me one making memories at year end gatherings. Tastes like Miller Time. Go to millerlight. Com Dan to find delivery options near you. Or you can pick up some Miller Light pretty much anywhere they sell beer. Celebrate responsibly. Miller Brewing Co. Milwaukee, Wisconsin 96 calories and 3.2 carbs per 12 ounces. Fewer calories and carbs than premium regular beer.
Podcast Summary: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Episode: Hour 2: Dirk Nowitzki And Stump The Meech
Release Date: December 19, 2024
In this engaging episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, hosts Dan Le Batard and Stugotz delve deep into the illustrious career of NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki. Recorded at the Elser Hotel in Downtown Miami, the episode not only revisits Dirk’s memorable battles on the court but also explores personal relationships, career highlights, and his ongoing contributions to the basketball community. The episode culminates with the entertaining segment, Stump the Meech, where hosts challenge each other with quirky questions.
The episode kicks off with Dan Le Batard lauding Dirk Nowitzki’s impact on Miami’s basketball scene. Dan reflects on the intense battles between Nowitzki’s Dallas Mavericks and the Miami Heat, highlighting Dirk’s exceptional performance that left a lasting impression.
Dan Le Batard (01:08): "It is the highest compliment you can give in sports... His excellence was such. I saw what those Miami teams became and he slayed him."
Dirk responds by reminiscing about the challenging 2006 playoff series against the Heat, emphasizing the difficulties faced during that intense week.
Dirk Nowitzki (02:24): "That whole week in Miami where we lost three straight was like a week from hell. So that'll never, never let me down."
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Dirk's relationship with Dwayne Wade, marked by competition and misunderstandings. Dirk candidly addresses past tensions and the path to mutual respect.
Dirk Nowitzki (05:49): "It started with competition... emotions run a little high... We kind of ignored each other for a couple years, and there was just no relationship."
Dan probes deeper into Dirk’s innermost thoughts during their strained interactions, prompting Dirk to reveal the extent of their disconnect during that period.
Dirk Nowitzki (07:56): "We were both acting like the other person wasn't there. It was just awkward."
However, Dirk notes the positive evolution of their relationship, especially after mutual achievements and honors.
Dirk Nowitzki (06:34): "In 2011... there's no relationship. But we're super cool now. We don't, obviously, win the hall of Fame together last summer, and that was an incredible experience and kind of a bonding thing."
Dirk shares reflections on his career's pinnacle moments, particularly the 2006 NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs. He describes the emotional and physical challenges of winning Game Seven on the road.
Dirk Nowitzki (13:20): "The best playoff runs... to beat the Spurs in that seven game series and win game seven on the road at the Spurs was probably one of my greatest wins and greatest achievements."
Dan prompts Dirk to recall moments where he felt his performance peaked, leading Dirk to highlight his strategic approach and personal excellence on the court.
Dan Le Batard (12:59): "Do you feel one moment that feels better than all the others...? That feels like, this is the best that this can feel."
Dirk discusses his role as an ambassador for basketball, particularly in light of declining NBA ratings. He elaborates on his involvement with Luca’s foundation aimed at fostering basketball growth globally.
Dirk Nowitzki (15:36): "For World Basketball Day, Luca is launching his foundation... Steph Curry's on the committee. Me, Steve Nash, Gran Hill, lots of others."
Despite uncertainties about the reasons behind changing viewership trends, Dirk remains optimistic about initiatives to nurture future generations.
The episode transitions into the fun and dynamic segment, Stump the Meech, where hosts challenge each other with unconventional questions. This segment showcases the camaraderie and competitive spirit among the hosts, filled with laughter and playful banter.
Highlights from "Stump the Meech":
Word Guessing Game: Hosts attempt to identify mysterious sounds, leading to humorous misunderstandings and creative guesses.
Dan Le Batard (25:00): "This is an animal. The world's most terrifying farmer. That's a toad that doesn't have two of its legs. Falls off on its side."
Competitive Edge: The hosts display their playful competitiveness, emphasizing the show's lighthearted nature.
Mike Ryan (25:00): "I've won many times."
Dan Le Batard (25:02): "You have not."
Dirk’s Participation: Dirk joins the fun, adding his unique personality to the segment, though he humbly acknowledges some of his current limitations.
Dirk Nowitzki (12:42): "You don't want to see my lateral movement now."
The segment culminates with humorous victories and light-hearted teasing, reinforcing the show's entertaining atmosphere.
The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks to Dirk Nowitzki for his time and contributions, celebrating his legacy and ongoing efforts to give back to the basketball community. Hosts reflect on the depth of Dirk’s impact both on and off the court, leaving listeners with a sense of admiration and respect for one of basketball’s all-time greats.
Dan Le Batard (20:20): "Dirk, thank you for being on with us. We appreciate the time."
The episode successfully blends in-depth discussions with playful segments, offering a comprehensive look into Dirk Nowitzki's career, personal relationships, and his continued influence on the sport of basketball.
Dan Le Batard (01:08): "It is the highest compliment you can give in sports... His excellence was such. I saw what those Miami teams became and he slayed him."
Dirk Nowitzki (02:24): "That whole week in Miami where we lost three straight was like a week from hell. So that'll never, never let me down."
Dirk Nowitzki (05:49): "It started with competition... emotions run a little high... We kind of ignored each other for a couple years, and there was just no relationship."
Dirk Nowitzki (13:20): "The best playoff runs... to beat the Spurs in that seven game series and win game seven on the road at the Spurs was probably one of my greatest wins and greatest achievements."
Dirk Nowitzki (15:36): "For World Basketball Day, Luca is launching his foundation... Steph Curry's on the committee. Me, Steve Nash, Gran Hill, lots of others."
Mike Ryan (25:00): "I've won many times."
Dan Le Batard (25:02): "You have not."
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, providing listeners and non-listeners alike with a vivid portrayal of Dirk Nowitzki's experiences, relationships, and contributions to basketball, all while maintaining the show's signature blend of insightful discussion and entertaining segments.