Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Best of The Herd (June 16, 2025)

The "Best of The Herd" episode, hosted by Colin Cowherd and featuring insights from Jason McIntyre, Rachel Nichols, and Rick Carlisle, delves into standout moments in sports over the weekend. This comprehensive summary captures the key discussions, remarkable performances, and critical analyses presented during the episode.

1. Caitlin Clark’s Historic WNBA Performance

Jason McIntyre opened the discussion by highlighting Caitlin Clark’s extraordinary display on the basketball court. Describing her performance, he remarked:

“Caitlin Clark in 38 seconds. I don't know what second place is. That's the greatest 38 seconds in WNBA history. A mesmerizing 38 seconds. A 33 footer, a 31 footer, a 27 footer.”
(07:32)

Clark's ability to score multiple three-pointers within a short span captivated both fans and casual viewers alike. McIntyre drew parallels to iconic sports moments, such as Kobe Bryant’s 81-point game and Reggie Jackson’s three home runs in the 1977 World Series, emphasizing the historical significance of Clark’s achievement.

2. Impact on WNBA Ratings

McIntyre discussed the substantial decline in WNBA ratings during Clark's absence:

“Caitlin Clark had played high school every week and college every game and the WNBA every game. And then she misses five games and the ratings plummet 55% league wide.”
(06:45)

He compared this downturn to episodes like when "Saturday Night Live" omits a major star, underscoring Clark’s pivotal role in driving viewership and interest in the league. Upon her return, ratings rose significantly, reaffirming her status as the league’s marquee player.

3. Christian Pulisic: The Premier American Soccer Talent

The conversation shifted to soccer, with McIntyre advocating for Christian Pulisic as America’s premier soccer talent:

“Christian Pulisic is our LeBron. You don’t have to be a soccer expert. Turn the sound down. Watch. He’s our LeBron.”
(08:26)

He emphasized Pulisic’s impact on the sport in the U.S., comparing him to basketball legends and arguing that his presence elevates the visibility and competitiveness of American soccer on the global stage.

4. Team USA’s Gold Cup Performance and Pulisic’s Commitment

McIntyre critiqued Team USA's performance in the Gold Cup and Pulisic’s decision to prioritize club commitments over international duty:

“If Jokic and LeBron aren’t going to play in the FIBA World Championships, why in the world am I playing in the Gold Cup?”
(09:58)

He supported Pulisic’s stance, highlighting the importance of star players balancing national and club responsibilities. Landon Donovan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for strong leadership to navigate such decisions.

5. Indiana Pacers vs. OKC: Scott Foster’s Officiating Under Scrutiny

The episode featured an in-depth analysis of the Indiana Pacers' game against Oklahoma City, focusing on referee Scott Foster's controversial non-call:

“I brought back the Brian Russell, mj, no call. And I said, folks, because Russell leaned into it and Michael touched him. It looked like he shoved him.”
(28:37)

Rick Carlisle defended Foster, asserting his professionalism and the NBA’s trust in his officiating capabilities:

“Scott Foster is one of the most respected referees in the league. ... if there is a game 7, it is most likely Scott Foster will be on that game.”
(29:26)

The discussion highlighted the challenges officials face in high-stakes games and the fine line between maintaining control and allowing the game’s natural flow.

6. NBA Trades and Future Implications

McIntyre dissected recent NBA trades, particularly focusing on the Orlando Magic’s strategic moves:

“I love what Orlando did in the trade ... we still have a ways to go for the trade deadline.”
(31:00)

He debated whether the trades would prove beneficial, drawing comparisons to past successful and unsuccessful trades. Rick Carlisle added insights into potential future impacts on the Eastern Conference, suggesting that the league might see more competitive balance next season.

7. New York Knicks Coaching Changes

A significant portion of the episode was dedicated to the Knicks’ recent decision to fire Tibbs and the ensuing coaching search:

“The New York Knicks by firing Tibbs, I think it's inarguable. Will now end up with the worst head coach.”
(19:30)

Rick Carlisle discussed potential candidates for the head coach position, mentioning Taylor Jenkins and Mike Brown as leading contenders. The conversation also touched upon the complexities surrounding Jason Kidd’s possible involvement and the broader implications for the Knicks’ future.

8. Officiating Consistency in the NBA Playoffs

The hosts and guests debated the consistency and flow of officiating in playoff games, particularly in high-pressure scenarios:

“Officiating wise, it just didn’t have that consistency. It didn’t have any officiating flow.”
(29:26)

Rick Carlisle maintained confidence in referees like Scott Foster, emphasizing their experience and the NBA’s respect for their capabilities, despite occasional controversial calls.

9. Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead

In wrapping up, the panel reflected on the season’s developments and what to anticipate moving forward. They expressed optimism about the evolving competitive landscape in both the WNBA and NBA, driven by standout players and strategic team decisions.

Jason McIntyre concluded:

“She's totally unique and totally transcendent. But I’m watching live on television and my takeaway is, oh, this is once every two or three years, like when LeBron made that block in the finals, you're like, oh, that's going to be an all-time play.”
(28:43)

This encapsulated the episode’s essence: celebrating exceptional athletic performances while critically examining the factors that influence sports viewership and team dynamics.

Notable Quotes:

• “Caitlin Clark in 38 seconds. I don't know what second place is.”
  — Jason McIntyre (07:32)

• “Christian Pulisic is our LeBron.”
  — Jason McIntyre (08:26)

• “Scott Foster is one of the most respected referees in the league.”
  — Rick Carlisle (29:26)

• “Officiating wise, it just didn’t have that consistency.”
  — Rick Carlisle (29:26)

Conclusion

The "Best of The Herd" episode provided a dynamic blend of exhilarating sports highlights and thoughtful analysis. From Caitlin Clark’s record-breaking performance to critical discussions on officiating and team strategies, Colin Cowherd and his panel delivered an engaging narrative that underscores the ever-evolving landscape of professional sports.