Podcast Summary: The Dan Patrick Show – Episode Hour 3 “Hall of Very Good” Caller Input, Gilbert Arenas

Release Date: May 6, 2025
Host: Dan Patrick
Guest: Gilbert Arenas

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick delves into a variety of basketball-related topics, blending insightful analysis with humor. The third hour centers around the intriguing concept of the "Hall of Very Good," highlighting notable NBA players who, while not enshrined in the Hall of Fame, have made significant impacts in their careers. The segment features a special guest, former NBA star Gilbert Arenas, who shares personal stories and discusses his recent projects.

Recent NBA Games and Player Performances

Dan Patrick kicks off the discussion by recapping the latest NBA games, highlighting surprising outcomes and standout performances:

• Knicks vs. Celtics: The Knicks made a remarkable comeback against the Celtics, who struggled by missing 45 three-pointers. Dan notes, "The Celtics missed 45, three-pointers and the Nuggets beat OKC at the buzzer," (00:00) emphasizing the Knicks' resilience.

• Nuggets vs. OKC: The Denver Nuggets secured a buzzer-beater against the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking the third instance this season where OKC lost a double-digit lead to Denver. Nikola Jokic's exceptional performance, achieving 42 points and 22 rebounds, is particularly lauded: "Jokic went for 42 and 22," (00:45).

• Pacers vs. Cavs & Warriors vs. Timberwolves: Other game highlights include the Pacers' attempt to secure a two-game streak against the Cavaliers and the Warriors overcoming the Timberwolves by seven points. Dan remarks, "The Warriors are getting seven at the Timberwolves," (00:10).

Introducing the "Hall of Very Good"

Dan introduces the innovative concept of the "Hall of Very Good," a playful take on the traditional Hall of Fame, intended to honor players who have had commendable careers without reaching the pinnacle of NBA legacy.

• Paulie's Attempt with Aaron Gordon: Dan shares, "Paulie was trying to put Aaron Gordon in the Hall of Very Good," (01:05), but contests the nomination, asserting Gordon belongs in the "Hall of Good" instead. This distinction sets the tone for the episode's deeper exploration of player legacies.

• Foundational Members: The discussion lists foundational members like Joe Johnson, Latrell Sprewell, and Penny Hardaway, with Dan humorously noting, "It's not an insult, but like you could be up for Hall of Very Good," (14:39).

Guest Segment with Gilbert Arenas

Personal Insights and Projects

Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas joins the show, bringing a mix of personal anecdotes and professional updates:

• Son’s Health Scare: Arenas recounts a harrowing experience when his son was mistakenly reported to have an accident at the gym due to a malfunctioning Tesla app. "He had some angels with him that morning," (03:50), Arenas explains, highlighting the ordeal and his son's subsequent recovery.

• Podcast and Documentary: Arenas promotes his podcast, Gill's Arena Podcast, which has recently surpassed one million subscribers on YouTube. He also discusses his documentary, Untold Shooting Guards, now available on Netflix. Arenas shares the inspiration behind the documentary, emphasizing the desire to present the authentic story of his locker room altercation with Javaris Crittenden. "I never wanted to tell it without Javaris aside," (06:52).

Basketball Strategies: The Celtics’ Offensive Approach

The conversation shifts to tactical analysis, particularly critiquing the Boston Celtics' reliance on three-point shooting:

• Shooting vs. Strategy: Arenas critiques the Celtics' strategy, questioning at what point they should diversify their offensive plays. "There has to be someone or some strategy at a certain point, let go of the three-point shot in attack," (11:48) he asserts, suggesting that overreliance on three-pointers can be a vulnerability.

• Impact of Consistency: Emphasizing the importance of consistency, Arenas warns that inconsistency in three-point shooting can lead to losses, especially in tightly contested series: "You're going to give two games to the New York Knicks just off of just a seven-game series on how shooting goes," (12:00).

In-Depth Discussion: Hall of Very Good Nominations

Dan and Arenas engage in a lively debate over various NBA players' standings within the "Hall of Very Good":

• Notable Candidates:

  • Robert Horry: Dan suggests Horry deserves his spot for winning seven rings with three different franchises. "He possibly should make the Hall of Fame for winning seven rings," (02:00).

  • Jamal Crawford and Stefan Marbury: Both players are discussed, with Arenas expressing surprise at Marbury's exclusion: "I'm still confused why he's not actually in the Hall of Fame," (17:28).

  • Jermaine O'Neal: Arenas advocates strongly, stating, "He should be in the Hall of Fame... he's probably the best one that's not there," (18:08).

• Additional Mentions: Other players like Aaron Gordon, Jalen Brunson, Latrell Sprewell, Antoine Walker, and Jason Williams are evaluated for their contributions and potential nominations, with varying degrees of endorsement.

• Humorous Interlude: The segment includes playful banter about players' nicknames and the playful "Hall of Very Good" ceremonies, adding a lighthearted twist to the analytical discussion.

Interactions with Callers

Audience participation adds depth and variety to the episode, with callers sharing their perspectives and engaging in debates:

• Carrie in Alabama: Supports Aaron Gordon's prowess, citing his dunk contest performance: "He has the best dunk in the history," (25:12).

• O.J. in Austin: Praises Dan's calm demeanor and shares thoughts on current NBA stars like Anthony Edwards and AE Anthony Edwards, comparing them to legends: "AE Anthony Edwards has got me watching basketball again," (26:00).

• Misty in Portland and Bobby in San Antonio: Offer personal anecdotes and additional nominations for the Hall of Very Good, including Manu Ginobili and Ricky Waters, respectively.

Historical Nuggets and Fun Facts

Dan Patrick enriches the conversation with historical sports moments tied to the date, such as:

• Babe Ruth's Debut Home Run (1915): "He also got the win as the pitcher," (39:13).

• Roger Bannister’s Sub-4 Minute Mile (1954): Celebrates his groundbreaking athletic achievement: "Roger Bannister became the first person to run a sub 4-minute mile," (39:22).

• Kerry Wood’s Dominant Pitching Performance (1998): Recounts Wood's 20-strikeout game: "Kerry Wood strikes out 20 Astros," (39:25).

Closing Remarks and Future Topics

As the episode nears its end, Dan and Arenas reflect on the day's discussions and tease upcoming topics:

• Hall of Very Good Continuation: The concept is set to evolve, with future episodes promising deeper dives into player evaluations and legacy discussions: "We continue the conversation of Hall of Very Good," (35:08).

• Final Thoughts: The show wraps up with lighthearted exchanges, acknowledging the show's interactive nature and hinting at more engaging content to come.

Notable Quotes

• “The Celtics missed 45, three-pointers and the Nuggets beat OKC at the buzzer,” — Dan Patrick (00:00)

• “Jokic went for 42 and 22,” — Dan Patrick (00:45)

• “Paulie was trying to put Aaron Gordon in the Hall of Very Good,” — Dan Patrick (01:05)

• “I never wanted to tell it without Javaris aside,” — Gilbert Arenas (06:52)

• “There has to be someone or some strategy at a certain point, let go of the three-point shot in attack,” — Gilbert Arenas (11:48)

• “He should be in the Hall of Fame... he's probably the best one that's not there,” — Gilbert Arenas (18:08)

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a compelling mix of basketball analysis, personal storytelling, and interactive discussions centered around the innovative "Hall of Very Good" concept. With insightful contributions from Gilbert Arenas and lively interactions with callers, the show provides both depth and entertainment for basketball enthusiasts. Whether debating player legacies or reflecting on memorable sports moments, Dan Patrick ensures a rich and engaging listening experience.