Podcast Summary: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Episode: Hour 2: The Biggest Choke Job In NBA History
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, the hosts delve deep into what they deem the most significant choke in NBA history. Occurring during a high-stakes playoff game between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers, the episode dissects every facet of the dramatic turnaround that left fans and analysts alike in disbelief.
Historic NBA Choke: Knicks vs. Pacers
The centerpiece of the discussion revolves around the Knicks' stunning 17-point lead in the third period, only to watch it evaporate in the final minutes.
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Dan Le Batard opens the conversation by highlighting the improbability of the Pacers' comeback:
"[...] this is the first time this has happened in the playoffs." ([Stugotz, 02:03])
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Stugotz expresses admiration for Tyrese Haliburton's performance:
"He makes those shots a lot more than anybody does. Like, the stats are 12 for 14 late in games." ([Mike Ryan, 03:47])
Tyrese Haliburton vs. Jalen Brunson
A significant portion of the episode contrasts the stellar clutch performance of Tyrese Haliburton with the unexpected meltdown of Jalen Brunson.
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Mike Ryan lauds Haliburton's consistency:
"He did the same thing against Cleveland where he looped back, went back, shot a three." ([Jeremy Tache, 08:56])
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Conversely, Brunson's faltering under pressure is critiqued:
"He had the inbound pass. I think it was on a side out of bounds where Josh Hart slips." ([Mike Ryan, 35:35])
Statistical Analysis of the Choke
The hosts provide a detailed statistical breakdown of the Knicks' collapse, emphasizing the rarity of such an event in NBA playoffs history.
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Greg Cote emphasizes the sheer improbability:
"It's the luckiest shot in the history of basketball." ([Jeremy Tache, 03:57])
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Roy Bellamy adds context with historical comparisons:
"Prior to last night, teams leading by nine plus points in the final one minute of the fourth quarter of an NBA playoff game were 14-34." ([Roy Bellamy, 12:07])
Psychological and Team Dynamics
The episode explores the psychological impact of the loss on both teams and their fanbases.
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Stugotz reflects on Haliburton's persona:
"He's willing to put on that black hat and mix it up a little bit and be a little bit of a dick." ([Chris Cote, 18:10])
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Chris Cote discusses the intense pressure within Madison Square Garden:
"There's no other arena... where catastrophe is hit and it's just like, shock." ([Chris Cote, 37:13])
Comparisons to NBA Legends
The discussion draws parallels between Haliburton's modern choke sign and historic moments from NBA legends like Reggie Miller.
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Stugotz:
"Reggie's back in the hard Skinner." ([Chris Cote, 18:52])
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Mike Ryan muses on the potential legacy:
"We're going to do a 30 for 30 and associate somewhat Halliburton, like we associate Reggie Miller for all time with, with those nine seconds." ([Mike Ryan, 43:16])
Broader Sports Context
While the primary focus remains on basketball, the hosts briefly touch upon a significant collapse in hockey, highlighting the universality of such dramatic reversals in sports.
- Amin Elhassan mentions the Oilers' collapse:
"The Oilers are up 31 headed into the third period. They blow that lead then five goals." ([Amin Elhassan, 09:25])
Notable Quotes
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Mike Ryan on Haliburton's clutch performance:
"He makes those shots a lot more than anybody does." ([03:47])
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Stugotz on the impact of the choke sign:
"It's gonna take the rooting again." ([02:44])
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Chris Cote on historic chokes:
"Yeah, eight points in nine seconds. That’s crazy." ([41:12])
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the implications of the Knicks-Pacers game for the future of the NBA. They ponder whether such moments will redefine player legacies and influence team strategies moving forward.
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Stugotz summarizes the significance:
"This is the biggest choke in the history of the sport." ([20:18])
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Mike Ryan emphasizes the lasting impact:
"This moment that went down as one of the most historic chokes in the history of all of sports." ([40:35])
Key Takeaways:
- Historic Choke: The Knicks' loss after a 17-point lead is unprecedented in NBA playoff history.
- Player Performances: Tyrese Haliburton's exceptional clutch shooting contrasted with Jalen Brunson's uncharacteristic failures.
- Statistical Rarity: The comeback defies traditional win probability metrics, showcasing the unpredictability of sports.
- Psychological Impact: The game underscores the immense pressure athletes face and its effect on performance.
- Legacy and Comparison: Haliburton's actions draw comparisons to legendary moments, potentially cementing his legacy.
- Broader Implications: Such chokes have ramifications beyond basketball, affecting team dynamics and fan sentiments across sports.
This episode serves as a comprehensive analysis of one of the most dramatic turns in recent NBA history, offering listeners a multifaceted exploration of the game's intricacies and its broader significance in the sports landscape.