Colin Cowherd Podcast - Best of Nick Wright: Buss Family Sells Lakers, Baker Mayfield Deserves More Love, Are Chiefs “America’s Team”?

Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Colin Cowherd Podcast - Best of Nick Wright: Buss Family Sells Lakers, Baker Mayfield Deserves More Love, Are Chiefs “America’s Team”?
Release Date: July 9, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Colin delves into a selection of key sports topics, including the Buss family’s sale of the Los Angeles Lakers, advocating for greater recognition of NFL quarterback Baker Mayfield, and debating whether the Kansas City Chiefs have earned the title of "America’s Team." The discussion is enriched with insights from Nick Wright and other sports analysts, providing listeners with a comprehensive exploration of these pressing issues in the sports world.

1. Buss Family Sells the Los Angeles Lakers

[02:29 - 05:39]

Colin Cowherd opens the discussion with the significant news of the Buss family selling the Los Angeles Lakers, evaluating the team's new valuation at approximately $10 billion. He posits that sports franchises are generally undervalued, highlighting that the Dallas Cowboys, for instance, are valued at $7 billion but could fetch up to $13 billion under different economic conditions.

Key Points:

Undervalued Franchises: Colin argues that many sports teams are undervalued compared to their true market potential. For example, he states, “Nick, all these sports franchises are undervalued” ([02:29]).
Historical Perspective: He references how, historically, only a few top companies have survived long-term, drawing a parallel to the longevity and lasting value of sports franchises like the Cowboys.
Lakers’ Management: Colin criticizes the Lakers’ management post-Dr. Buss, suggesting that they have not maximized the team’s market and brand despite having a legacy of championships and star players like LeBron James and Luke Walton. He states, “I think they've squandered a lot of opportunities” ([03:46]).

Notable Quote:

“The Lakers just sold for a $10 billion evaluation which I’ve believed for a long time. Nick, all these sports franchises are undervalued.” — Colin Cowherd [02:29]

2. Baker Mayfield Deserves More Love

[15:06 - 22:51]

Transitioning to the NFL, Colin passionately defends quarterback Baker Mayfield, arguing that he is often underrated despite his consistent performance and leadership on the field.

Key Points:

Performance and Value: Colin asserts that Baker Mayfield deserves recognition as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, outperforming peers like Dak Prescott and Geno Smith. “I think Baker is a prime example. You see this a lot in the NBA where a guy comes in and he just needs the maturity” ([15:36]).
Underappreciation: He criticizes the media and public for not giving Baker the credit he deserves, mentioning Baker’s impressive statistics and durability. “Baker is a really good NFL quarterback. I don't think that's disputable” ([16:36]).
Contract and Future: Colin discusses the financial undervaluation of Baker, who earns significantly less than his counterparts while delivering high performance, making him a tremendous asset for any team. “He makes around 60% of what the other guys in that top 10 make, his value is massive” ([16:59]).

Notable Quote:

“Baker is a really good NFL quarterback. I don't think that's disputable.” — Colin Cowherd [16:36]

3. Are the Chiefs “America’s Team”?

[26:25 - 29:47]

The debate intensifies as Colin evaluates whether the Kansas City Chiefs have rightfully claimed the title of "America’s Team," a designation traditionally held by the Dallas Cowboys.

Key Points:

Viewership and Popularity: Colin argues that the Chiefs currently surpass the Cowboys in terms of viewership and fan engagement, primarily due to star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. “I think Kansas City is actually America's team. Absolutely. I don't think there's any question.” ([27:51]).
Team Performance: He points out the Chiefs' consistent performance and the dynamic presence of Mahomes, which attracts a broader audience. “The team that is the biggest draw on the most interesting is the Chiefs.” ([28:51]).
Marketing and Media: Colin acknowledges that Fox’s marketing prowess has traditionally boosted the Cowboys’ visibility, but emphasizes that on-field performance and star power are now tipping the scales in favor of the Chiefs.

Notable Quote:

“I think Kansas City is actually America's team. Absolutely. I don't think there's any question.” — Colin Cowherd [27:51]

4. Additional Discussions

A. Valuation of Sports Franchises [05:39 - 14:59]

Colin expands the conversation to include a broader evaluation of sports franchise valuations across different leagues.

Key Points:

Celtics vs. Lakers: The Boston Celtics are valued at $6 billion, but Colin believes the Lakers' overall market in Los Angeles justifies their higher valuation. “The Lakers own their arena,” he explains, adding significant real estate value to the team's worth ([06:03]).
Dodgers' Brand Growth: Colin highlights the Los Angeles Dodgers as a rising powerhouse in sports branding, attributing their growth to ownership changes and strategic investments. “I think the Dodgers, over the last eight since they've been purchased from the Mark Walters group, have become a step ahead of the Yankees.” ([08:00])

Notable Quote:

“The Dodgers have become a step ahead of the Yankees... They own their arena. So that's an important part.” — Colin Cowherd [06:03]

B. NBA Player Behavior and Impact [29:36 - 41:56]

Shifting focus to the NBA, Colin discusses the impact of player behavior on the game, using Draymond Green as a prime example.

Key Points:

Draymond Green’s Defensive Prowess: Colin praises Green’s defensive abilities, stating he might be the best defensive player ever due to his ability to disrupt opponents. “Draymond has moved the line... he just waves the white flag on Jokic” ([33:44]).
Referee Interactions: He examines how Green’s interactions with referees often result in technical fouls rather than flagrant ones, demonstrating a strategic advantage. “Draymond right now has two flagrant foul points... he can get away with all of it.” ([36:19])
Comparisons with Luka Doncic: The discussion contrasts Green with Luka Doncic, noting differences in how referees perceive their on-court behavior. “Draymond is saying, I’m innocent. Luka is saying, you’re guilty.” ([38:39])

Notable Quote:

“Draymond has moved the line that he did something... nobody would get away with him.” — Colin Cowherd [35:12]

5. George Pickens and the Cowboys’ Future

[44:19 - 48:21]

Colin addresses the ongoing debate surrounding Cowboys’ wide receiver George Pickens, critiquing his performance and impact on the team.

Key Points:

Overvaluation Concerns: Colin argues that George Pickens is overrated, emphasizing his inconsistent performance and lack of significant contribution despite high expectations. “He has been a pain in the ass every step of his football life... he’s not going to contribute to winning the way his talent says he should.” ([44:19]).
Draft and Contracts: He criticizes the Cowboys for trading draft picks for players like Pickens, who have not proven their worth, thereby jeopardizing the team’s future flexibility and financial stability. “Trading a third-round pick for a player with one year left on his contract means you probably should give him a contract extension.” ([46:49]).
Coach and Team Dynamics: Colin discusses the challenges Cowboys face with coaching and player development, suggesting that poor decisions in these areas have hindered the team’s progress. “Jerry is saving, that he’s giving people jobs that they need him... that’s why the Cowboys are where they are.” ([48:21])

Notable Quote:

“George Pickens is one of the more overrated players in the whole league... he’s never been the top 10 in the NFL of anything.” — Colin Cowherd [44:19]

Conclusion

Throughout this episode, Colin Cowherd provides a critical and insightful analysis of major sports developments. From the significant sale of the Lakers and the potential for their future success under new ownership, to advocating for Baker Mayfield’s recognition in the NFL, and debating the rightful holder of “America’s Team,” Colin offers a comprehensive perspective on each topic. Additionally, his discussions on franchise valuations and player behaviors in the NBA add depth to the conversation, making this episode a must-listen for sports enthusiasts seeking a nuanced understanding of these issues.

Notable Quotes Compilation:

Colin Cowherd [02:29]:

“The Lakers just sold for a $10 billion evaluation which I’ve believed for a long time. Nick, all these sports franchises are undervalued.”
Colin Cowherd [03:46]:

"I think they've squandered a lot of opportunities."
Colin Cowherd [05:39]:

“But this is a massive net positive for the Los Angeles Lakers for their fans.”
Colin Cowherd [15:36]:

“Baker is a really good NFL quarterback. I don't think that's disputable.”
Colin Cowherd [16:36]:

“Baker is a rare NFL player and quarterback.”
Colin Cowherd [27:51]:

“I think Kansas City is actually America's team. Absolutely. I don't think there's any question.”
Colin Cowherd [33:44]:

“Draymond has moved the line that he did something... he just waves the white flag on Jokic.”
Colin Cowherd [44:19]:

“George Pickens is one of the more overrated players in the whole league... he’s never been the top 10 in the NFL of anything.”

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the episode, providing a clear and engaging overview for those who haven't listened to the podcast.