Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Episode: Draymond Green w/ Baron Davis - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Takeover & Pacers NBA Finals Collapse

Release Date: June 14, 2025

In this compelling episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, Draymond Green engages in an in-depth conversation with guest Mo Williams, alongside co-host Zoe Saldana. The discussion delves into the intricacies of the recent NBA Finals, focusing on the Pacers' unexpected collapse, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's rising influence, and broader topics affecting both professional and collegiate sports.

1. Introduction and Personal Connections

Timestamp: [02:13 – 04:08]

Zoe Saldana kicks off the episode by introducing Mo Williams, highlighting his NBA championship experience and longstanding friendship with Draymond Green. Draymond expresses heartfelt gratitude towards Mo, reminiscing about their shared experiences during "Grind Week" at Michigan State:

Draymond Green [04:08]: "I'm forever grateful for your friendship. Always have, always will be proud of you, man."

2. Analyzing the NBA Finals Collapse

Timestamp: [04:51 – 10:37]

The conversation shifts to the recent NBA Finals matchup between Draymond's team (likely the Oklahoma City Thunder) and the Indiana Pacers. Draymond critiques Indiana's pacing and defensive strategies, emphasizing how their approach disadvantaged Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Shai):

Draymond Green [08:06]: "Indiana has an unbelievable pace that OKC was trying to match, but it doesn't benefit Shai. He needs flow more than a specific pace."

Zoe draws parallels between the series and a boxing match, illustrating the sudden shifts in momentum:

Zoe Saldana [07:55]: "It looked like a boxing match. Earl caught Bud with his best shot, and Bud pressed forward because he knew he could walk through it."

3. Coaching Decisions and Tactical Adjustments

Timestamp: [14:31 – 21:01]

Draymond delves into coaching strategies, particularly criticizing Rick Carlisle's adjustments during critical moments of the series:

Draymond Green [13:42]: "They made every mistake possible to get a game away 1,000%."

Zoe echoes these sentiments, pointing out missed opportunities for strategic timeouts and lineup changes:

Zoe Saldana [10:35]: "They should have called a timeout or made adjustments when leading by seven points with nine minutes left."

4. Financial Challenges Faced by HBCUs in Collegiate Sports

Timestamp: [52:14 – 74:24]

The discussion broadens to address the financial struggles of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), with a focus on Jackson State. Draymond emphasizes the necessity of fundraising to support athletic programs:

Draymond Green [65:03]: "At Jackson State, we have to fund our own budget by playing high-profile non-conference games, which is financially taxing but necessary for visibility and revenue."

Zoe adds by highlighting the disparities between major programs and smaller institutions, advocating for systemic changes:

Zoe Saldana [62:55]: "We need a system where smaller schools receive the support they need to compete on equal footing."

5. Impact of NIL and Transfer Rules on Smaller Programs

Timestamp: [69:13 – 75:20]

The conversation shifts to Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) regulations and transfer rules within NCAA sports. Draymond expresses concerns about the financial pressures these rules place on smaller programs:

Draymond Green [76:34]: "Some schools now have to give large sums by a certain date, which creates another issue rather than solving existing ones."

Zoe suggests potential solutions, such as implementing transfer fees to support smaller schools when players move to larger programs:

Zoe Saldana [75:20]: "Maybe there should be transfer fees that help support smaller schools when their players move to bigger programs."

6. Defining a Superstar in the NBA

Timestamp: [78:57 – 91:59]

Draymond and Zoe engage in a lively debate about the criteria that define a superstar in the NBA. Draymond emphasizes on-court performance and the ability to elevate an entire franchise:

Draymond Green [78:09]: "A superstar is someone who can galvanize a whole franchise, overcoming any opposition."

Zoe agrees, highlighting players like Kevin Durant and Allen Iverson for their consistent performance and cultural impact:

Zoe Saldana [89:52]: "Kevin Durant and Allen Iverson are superstars not just because of their skill, but also their influence on the game's culture."

They share anecdotes that underscore the traits distinguishing true superstars from merely marketable players.

7. Mo Williams' Transition from Player to Coach

Timestamp: [95:12 – 104:22]

Mo Williams shares his journey from being an NBA player to a coach at Jackson State. He discusses the challenges of funding, scheduling, and building a competitive program within an HBCU:

Mo Williams [103:31]: "I want to build this program and provide opportunities for my players just as techniques were shared with me by legends like Mo Williams."

Draymond and Zoe express admiration for Mo's dedication to mentoring young athletes and improving the infrastructure of HBCUs, emphasizing the importance of giving back.

8. Closing Remarks and Future Outlook

Timestamp: [104:23 – 106:56]

Zoe Saldana wraps up the episode by summarizing the key takeaways, emphasizing mentorship and financial support in sports leadership. Draymond and Mo reiterate their commitment to advancing athletic programs and supporting young athletes through education and coaching.

Draymond Green [104:50]: "I love what I do. I love where I'm at. I want to build this thing and I want to be able to do that for my city."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Draymond Green [08:06]: "Indiana has an unbelievable pace that OKC was trying to match, but it doesn't benefit Shai. He needs flow more than a specific pace."

• Zoe Saldana [07:55]: "It looked like a boxing match. Earl caught Bud with his best shot, and Bud pressed forward because he knew he could walk through it."

• Draymond Green [13:42]: "They made every mistake possible to get a game away 1,000%."

• Draymond Green [65:03]: "At Jackson State, we have to fund our own budget by playing high-profile non-conference games, which is financially taxing but necessary for visibility and revenue."

• Zoe Saldana [62:55]: "We need a system where smaller schools receive the support they need to compete on equal footing."

• Draymond Green [78:09]: "A superstar is someone who can galvanize a whole franchise, overcoming any opposition."

• Draymond Green [104:50]: "I love what I do. I love where I'm at. I want to build this thing and I want to be able to do that for my city."

This summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, highlighting the critical analysis of the NBA Finals, the financial struggles of HBCUs in collegiate sports, the impact of NIL and transfer rules, and a nuanced discussion on what constitutes a superstar in the NBA. Notable quotes are included with precise timestamps to provide listeners with key insights and memorable moments from the conversation.