Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: What's Wright - Thunder-Pacers Game 6 Reaction: Indiana BLOWS OUT OKC, who wins Game 7? Release Date: June 21, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosted by Nick Wright, the focus centers on the intense NBA Finals showdown between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Following Indiana's decisive victory in Game 6, the discussion pivots to analyze the players' performances, team strategies, and the looming decision of who will emerge victorious in the pivotal Game 7.
Game 6 Reaction
Nick Wright opens his analysis by expressing his surprise and acknowledgment of his miscalculations regarding the Pacers' performance. Initially expecting the Thunder to close out the series swiftly, Wright states:
“I have to admit, it's not just been I have been saying it hasn't been disrespect to the Pacers and it certainly hasn't been intentional disrespect to the Pacers. It has been massive respect to the Thunder...” (09:15).
He highlights key underperformances from the Thunder, noting Miles Turner's ineffective game and the overall struggle in controlling the Pacers' offense. Wright points out:
“Miles Turner went one for nine. You did absolutely stifle the Thunder offense. You made the Thunder look young...” (12:45).
The Pacers' strategic dominance is further emphasized as Wright details their consistent scoring and defensive prowess, leading to a significant halftime advantage:
“The halftime score was 64 to 42.” (15:30).
Implications for Game 7
Transitioning to the upcoming Game 7, Wright underscores the gravity of the situation, suggesting that Indiana is on the brink of orchestrating one of the greatest upsets in NBA history. He reflects on the Thunder's historic season and their unexpected downfall:
“This to me is more shocking. A Thunder team that was absolutely rolling... to just get annihilated like that and to now be on the brink of what would be an all-time missed opportunity...” (25:20).
Wright speculates on the possible outcomes, weighing the Pacers' hunger and cohesion against the Thunder's faltering defense and inconsistent performances. He maintains a cautious optimism about the Thunder's chances despite recent setbacks:
“I still believe the Thunder are going to win. I still believe the Thunder are the right side.” (30:10).
Historical Context of NBA Finals Game Sevens
In a comprehensive segment, Wright delves into the rich history of Game Sevens in the NBA Finals, providing a detailed recount of past pivotal moments that have shaped the league's legacy. He meticulously outlines each historic Game 7, emphasizing the high stakes and memorable performances that defined them.
For instance, he revisits the 1957 double-overtime clash between the Celtics and Hawks:
“Russell's rookie year. It's Russell versus Robert E. Lee Pettit Jr. Which is also known as Bullet Bob Pettit...” (35:50).
Further, Wright draws parallels between these historical games and the current series, suggesting that the intensity and unpredictability of Game 7 could potentially echo those legendary encounters.
Predictions and Final Thoughts
As the discussion concludes, Wright synthesizes his analysis to forecast the potential outcome of the upcoming Game 7. Acknowledging both teams' strengths and weaknesses, he expresses apprehension about the Thunder's ability to rebound from their recent defeats while recognizing the Pacers' formidable drive to clinch the championship.
“How can the Thunder hold them off? We'll do that in a moment...” (50:00).
Wright remains engaged and anticipative, promising listeners an in-depth recap of all 20 historical Game Sevens in the final moments of the episode, drawing on these narratives to frame the current series’ significance.
Conclusion
Nick Wright delivers a rich and engaging analysis of the Thunder-Pacers NBA Finals series, combining immediate game reactions with a deep dive into the historical significance of Game Sevens. His thoughtful commentary provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the stakes involved and the potential legacy of the upcoming Game 7.
Notable Quotes:
- “I have to admit, it's not just been I have been saying it hasn't been disrespect to the Pacers...” (09:15)
- “Miles Turner went one for nine...” (12:45)
- “The halftime score was 64 to 42.” (15:30)
- “This to me is more shocking...” (25:20)
- “I still believe the Thunder are going to win...” (30:10)
- “Russell's rookie year...” (35:50)
- “How can the Thunder hold them off?..." (50:00)
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from Nick Wright's analysis of Game 6 and sets the stage for the highly anticipated Game 7, all while providing historical context that enriches the listeners' understanding of the series' potential impact on NBA Finals history.