Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: The Favorites - Sports' Biggest Party
Release Date: June 27, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosted by Chad Millman of the Action Network, the spotlight shines brightly on the burgeoning world of professional darts. Titled "The Favorites - Sports' Biggest Party," the episode delves into the excitement surrounding the bet365 US Darts Masters at Madison Square Garden, a premier event that brings together the world's top darts talent for what is being hailed as sports' biggest party.

Rise of Professional Darts

Chad Millman opens the discussion by highlighting the significant growth of darts as a televised and bettable sport in the United States. He remarks, “[Chad Millman, 02:10]... darts has been televised here in the United States on Dazn... and it was a huge betting event that got us all catalyzed.”

Key Points:

• Television and Broadcasting: The introduction of darts on platforms like DAZN has played a pivotal role in increasing its popularity.
• Betting Enthusiasm: The excitement around betting on darts has paralleled its rise, attracting a new audience to the sport.

Sports' Biggest Party: The bet365 US Darts Masters

The centerpiece of the episode is the bet365 US Darts Masters held at Madison Square Garden. Chad Millman describes it as an “incredible party” that features the eight greatest darts players globally competing against eight of North America's best.

Notable Quote:

• “[Benjamin Leander, 03:25]… Professional darts have evolved from the traditional pub sport to the greatest party in the world... festival meets, carnival meets, sports match.”

Highlights:

• Atmosphere: The event combines the vibrancy of a festival with the competitiveness of a sports match, creating a unique and electrifying environment.
• International Appeal: The tournament attracts international attention, emphasizing darts' global reach and appeal.

Player Spotlights and Personal Stories

Guest Benjamin Leander provides in-depth insights into some of the star players participating in the US Darts Masters, discussing their backgrounds, struggles, and what makes them stand out.

Key Players Discussed:

1. Luke "The Nuke" Littler:

   • Youth and Talent: A teenage sensation and the current face of darts, Littler is lauded for his exceptional skill and potential.
   • Motivation: Recent defeats have fueled his determination, making him a formidable competitor this year.
   • Quote: “[Benjamin Leander, 08:30]... you cannot contain this lad's talent and ability and brute strength as a dart thrower.”

2. Graham "G. Price":

   • Background: A former rugby professional from Wales who transitioned to darts a decade ago and quickly rose to prominence.
   • Impact: Price is pivotal in elevating darts' status, comparable to Michael Jordan’s influence in basketball.
   • Quote: “[Benjamin Leander, 08:30]... Price is the face of what darts can also be.”

3. Jules van Dongen:

   • Challenges: Currently battling "dartitis," a condition affecting his ability to release darts, leading him to switch throwing hands in an effort to overcome it.
   • Perseverance: Despite his struggles, van Dongen remains a beloved figure in the American darts scene, garnering significant support.
   • Quote: “[Benjamin Leander, 11:49]... Jules has suffered from this dartitis and is definitely the guy that everyone in the American dart world will cheer for this week.”

4. Michael van Gerwen:

   • Achievements: A Dutch giant and multiple-time world champion facing personal challenges, including a recent divorce that may impact his performance.
   • Concerns: His mental state and personal issues pose questions about his readiness for the tournament.
   • Quote: “[Benjamin Leander, 22:50]... Michael van Gerwen... has been going through a divorce... his condition is very questionable.”

Betting Insights and Strategies

The conversation transitions into the intricacies of betting on darts, with Benjamin Leander offering valuable advice for both novice and seasoned bettors.

Comparison to Tennis:

• Gameplay Mechanics: Leander compares darts to tennis, noting similarities in serving and the strategic elements involved in both sports.
• Scoring and Finishing: Emphasizes the importance of finishing on a double in darts, which adds a layer of strategy not present in some other sports.
• Quote: “[Benjamin Leander, 19:29]... Just like in tennis... in darts, you have the ability of scoring... but you are only winning if you can finish on a double.”

Betting Tips:

• Player Form and Personal Issues: Highlighting the importance of considering players' mental and emotional states, such as van Gerwen’s divorce, which could affect performance.
• Tournament Structure: Discusses how recent changes in tournament structures may favor established players, making it challenging for newcomers.
• Potential Upsets: Suggesting bets against top players when facing inexperienced opponents and capitalizing on the rising stars’ momentum.
• Quote: “[Benjamin Leander, 27:37]... I would definitely like to take Adam maybe not to win the match, but then to cover it by a handicap.”

Economic Aspects of Professional Darts

The episode sheds light on the financial dynamics within professional darts, revealing how the sport has transformed into a viable career for many players.

Earnings and Sponsorships:

• Prize Pools: The US Darts Masters boasts a substantial prize fund of £100,000, reflecting the sport's growing financial stakes.
• Professionalism: Top players earn significant incomes through prize money and sponsorships, making darts a sustainable profession.
• Quote: “[Benjamin Leander, 24:44]... winning the World Championships is guaranteeing you £500,000... top 50 on the PDC tour can make a living of darts.”

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite its growth, professional darts faces several challenges that could impact its future trajectory, especially in the United States.

Key Challenges:

• Limited Geographic Growth: Darts' expansion beyond Europe has been slow, with other continents like Asia starting to see significant player emergence.
• Tournament Accessibility: High ticket prices for major events can be a barrier for some fans.
• Player Mental Health: Issues like dartitis and personal struggles among top players highlight the need for better mental health support within the sport.

Future Prospects:

• Global Expansion: There are ongoing discussions about hosting world championships outside Europe to foster global growth.
• Emerging Markets: Success in regions like Asia indicates a promising avenue for expanding the sport’s reach.

Conclusion

"The Favorites - Sports' Biggest Party" offers an engaging and comprehensive look into the vibrant world of professional darts. Through insightful discussions and expert analysis, the episode highlights the sport's meteoric rise, the personalities driving its popularity, and the intricate dynamics of betting within this exciting arena. Whether you're a seasoned darts enthusiast or a newcomer intrigued by the sport's energetic flair, this episode provides valuable perspectives and a deep appreciation for what makes darts truly the biggest party in sports today.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Benjamin Leander [03:25]: "Professional darts have evolved from the traditional pub sport to the greatest party in the world... festival meets, carnival meets, sports match."

• Benjamin Leander [08:30]: "You cannot contain this lad's talent and ability and brute strength as a dart thrower."

• Benjamin Leander [11:49]: "Jules has suffered from this dartitis and is definitely the guy that everyone in the American dart world will cheer for this week."

• Benjamin Leander [19:29]: "Just like in tennis... in darts, you have the ability of scoring... but you are only winning if you can finish on a double."

• Benjamin Leander [24:44]: "Winning the World Championships is guaranteeing you £500,000... top 50 on the PDC tour can make a living of darts."

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, providing listeners with a thorough understanding of the discussions on professional darts, the key players, betting strategies, and the sport's evolving landscape. Whether you're tuning in for the first time or seeking to revisit the lively discourse, this summary serves as a comprehensive guide to "Sports' Biggest Party."