Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "Best of The Herd" (July 9, 2025)

The "Best of The Herd" episode serves as a comprehensive compilation of key discussions and insights from recent broadcasts. Hosted by Doug Gottlieb in Colin Cowherd's absence, the episode delves into prominent topics in the sports world, particularly focusing on the WNBA's rising star Caitlin Clark and significant NBA developments.

1. The Rise and Challenges of Caitlin Clark in the WNBA

Timestamp: 00:33 - 18:08

Doug Gottlieb opens the discussion by highlighting the meteoric rise of Caitlin Clark, attributing her influence as the primary catalyst for the recent surge in WNBA popularity. He emphasizes how Clark's exceptional performance has brought unprecedented attention to the league, leading to broader media coverage and increased fan engagement.

"There is no denying the WNBA's sudden rise in popularity. And for those of us who are honest with ourselves, it's because of Caitlin Clark."
— Douglas Gottlieb [12:45]

Gottlieb critically examines the dynamics within the WNBA, suggesting that Clark's prominence has inadvertently caused friction among other players. He posits that long-standing feelings of marginalization among players are surfacing as resentment towards Clark, drawing a parallel to the saying, "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned."

"The only logical conclusion as to why so many of these women have done everything in their power to marginalize her rise... is that you have women that feel like they've been scorned by media, by mainstream fans."
— Douglas Gottlieb [16:30]

He further explores the WNBA's strategic decisions, such as the recent introduction of a WNBA mode in the popular NBA 2K video game series. Gottlieb critiques the selection of Angel Reese over Clark, interpreting it as an attempt to shift focus away from Clark and appease other players, thus fostering division within the league.

"The WNBA forcing us to take on Angel Reese as some sort of rival to Caitlin Clark... makes it feel icky."
— Douglas Gottlieb [17:50]

Gottlieb underscores the historical lack of support and insufficient media coverage that the WNBA has faced over the past 25 years, arguing that Caitlin Clark's spotlight may be both a blessing and a source of internal conflict within the league.

"For 25 years we didn't pay attention to it in sports media. Nobody did."
— Douglas Gottlieb [14:10]

2. NBA Insights: Chet Holmgren’s Max Contract and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Future

Timestamp: 18:30 - 37:17

Transitioning to NBA-related topics, Doug Gottlieb engages in an in-depth conversation with Anthony Slater, a senior MLB writer for The Athletic. The primary focus is on Chet Holmgren, the promising young center for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who has recently agreed to a max contract.

"Chet Holmgren is going to protect the rim at a high level."
— Anthony Slater [28:00]

Slater praises Holmgren's defensive prowess and potential offensive improvements, though he expresses concerns about Holmgren's health and shooting consistency. The duo debates the long-term value of Holmgren's contract, considering his injury history and the Thunder's current roster dynamics.

Additionally, Gottlieb and Slater dissect Giannis Antetokounmpo's situation with the Milwaukee Bucks. Questions arise about whether Giannis intends to stay in Milwaukee or explore opportunities elsewhere, especially in light of recent statements by Rich Paul indicating potential dissatisfaction with the Lakers' championship prospects.

"It makes you questioning if he will finish his career with the Lakers."
— Anthony Slater [32:00]

Slater anticipates that Giannis is likely to remain with Milwaukee in the near term, barring any significant organizational changes or league dynamics that might prompt a move. The conversation also touches upon the strategic decisions of the Bucks in building a competitive team around Giannis.

3. NBA Summer League Hype: Cooper Kupp vs. Bronny James

Timestamp: 37:20 - 40:57

The episode shifts focus to the upcoming NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, spotlighting the high-profile matchup between Cooper Kupp and Bronny James. Gottlieb reflects on the historical hype surrounding figures like Zion Williamson and Victor Wembanyama, drawing comparisons to the current excitement.

"It's like the most expensive ticket ever. $2,500 courtside or something like that."
— Anthony Slater [39:50]

Slater comments on the event's escalating popularity, noting the packaged excitement around star newcomers and the strategic placement of marquee matchups to attract maximum attention. The duo reflects on past Summer League events, evaluating how the current season's hype compares to previous years.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: 41:11 - End

As the episode wraps up, Gottlieb teases upcoming discussions, including an interview with Keith Law, MLB Senior Writer, who will analyze the Los Angeles Dodgers' recent performance and other Major League Baseball topics. The episode concludes with a reminder to listeners to tune into live editions of "The Herd" for ongoing sports conversations.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "Hell hath no wrath like a woman scorned."
  — Douglas Gottlieb [17:10]

• "We just don't have the hundred years of history in the NBA."
  — Douglas Gottlieb [14:45]

• "Chet Holmgren's early prime into his prime."
  — Anthony Slater [28:15]

• "LeBron is feeling a level of organizational, philosophical shift."
  — Anthony Slater [35:50]

This episode of "The Herd" provides listeners with a thorough analysis of current sports dynamics, particularly highlighting the evolving landscape of women's basketball and pivotal NBA developments. Doug Gottlieb, along with guest Anthony Slater, offers nuanced perspectives that cater to both avid sports fans and casual listeners seeking in-depth coverage.