Episode Summary: "Share & Cool & Tell with David Dennis Jr. and Mina Kimes"

Release Date: May 30, 2025
Hosts: Pablo Torre, David Dennis Jr., Mina Kimes
Podcast: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz

1. Introduction to Coolness in Sports

The episode kicks off with Pablo Torre introducing the central theme: exploring the concept of "coolness" among current athletes across major sports. Building upon a Substack article by the anonymous author "Oxportello," the hosts delve into the idea that the NBA playoffs are signaling a "crisis of cool." They aim to dissect what makes an athlete cool and how this perception has evolved in today's sports landscape.

2. Defining "Cool"

Authenticity and Originality:
David Dennis Jr. emphasizes that "cool is truly in the eye of the beholder" but identifies authenticity and originality as key components. He states, "I think cool is original... [Anthony Edwards] does not seem to be emulating anyone either." (09:56)

Effortlessness and Anti-Authority:
Pablo Torre adds that trying too hard can be counterproductive: "Try hardness, like somebody who really wants to be cool. Effort, transparency of effort feels like another anti-cool sort of aspect here." (10:47). Both Mina Kimes and Pablo agree that effortless demeanor contributes significantly to an athlete's coolness.

Cultural Impact and Personal Surroundings:
Mina Kimes points out that coolness is influenced by cultural surroundings and personal authenticity: "If they are on social media, we get to know the real them... These players just play basketball all the time." (11:13).

3. Drafting the Coolest Athletes

The hosts engage in a draft-style discussion to identify the coolest athletes across the NFL, NBA, and Baseball, incorporating their personal views and societal perceptions.

A. NFL

• David Dennis Jr. picks: Joe Burrow
  "He has these like, credible big moments. He's ice cold." (22:26)

• Pablo Torre picks: Jalen Hurts
  Despite Pablo's choice being contested by David, the discussion revolves around Hurts' demeanor and authenticity.

• Mina Kimes picks: Lamar Jackson
  "I was thankful that you guys had picked Lamar Jackson. I love Lamar Jackson just because he... is plainly spoken." (27:08)

B. NBA

• David Dennis Jr. picks: Stephen Curry
  Noted for his style of play and authenticity: "He is one of the coolest athletes alive." (30:04)

• Mina Kimes picks: Asia Wilson (WNBA)
  She highlights the coolness of WNBA players, stating, "There are so many cool ass WNBA players that are so much cooler than NBA players." (28:57)

• Pablo Torre picks: Ja Morant (with an asterisk)
  Pablo discusses the duality of Morant's coolness juxtaposed with his controversial actions: "He is going to stay on the court... he's one of the coolest dudes ever." (31:22)

C. Baseball

• David Dennis Jr. picks: Aaron Judge (though controversially labeled as "not cool")
  "Aaron Judge is too large to be cool." (40:27)

• Mina Kimes picks: Shohei Ohtani
  Praised for his mysterious aura and exceptional skill: "Shohei... is so private that it creates this aura of its own." (38:15)

• Pablo Torre picks: Ellie De La Cruz
  Celebrated for his athletic prowess: "An all-time athlete doing cool stuff." (39:08)

4. Insights and Cultural Reflections

Generational Shifts in Coolness:
Mina Kimes reflects on how coolness is often attributed to older generations: "People who grew up admiring athletes from the past tend to deem them as the epitome of cool." (15:09). This sentiment highlights a generational disconnect in perceiving current athletes as cool.

Role of Media and Exposure:
David Dennis Jr. discusses the paradox of exposure: "No matter how cool you are, the more we see of you, the less cool you're gonna be." (20:03). He argues that excessive visibility can dilute an athlete's cool factor.

Inclusion of WNBA Players:
Mina Kimes brings attention to the WNBA, advocating that female athletes often embody coolness more authentically than their NBA counterparts: "Agent Wilson is the coolest person in basketball." (28:57). This inclusion broadens the discussion beyond traditionally male-centric sports narratives.

5. Concluding Thoughts

The hosts conclude by acknowledging the subjective nature of coolness and the evolving landscape of athlete personas. They emphasize that authenticity, originality, and a balance between on-field excellence and off-field demeanor are critical in defining an athlete's coolness.

6. Notable Quotes

• David Dennis Jr.:
  "Cool is truly in the eye of the beholder." (09:56)

• Pablo Torre:
  "Effort... feels like another anti-cool sort of aspect here." (10:47)

• Mina Kimes:
  "There are so many cool ass WNBA players that are so much cooler than NBA players." (28:57)

• David Dennis Jr.:
  "No matter how cool you are, the more we see of you, the less cool you're gonna be." (20:03)

This episode provides a nuanced exploration of what constitutes "coolness" in the realm of professional sports, offering listeners a blend of personal opinions, cultural analysis, and lively debate on current athletic figures.