Podcast Summary: "Stephen Presents: Jalen Brunson | Prove It!"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert
• Host/Author: CBS
• Episode: Stephen Presents: Jalen Brunson | Prove It!
• Release Date: April 23, 2025
• Description: The #1 show in late night delivered straight to your ears, every day. Featuring sharp writing, hilarious monologues, and revealing conversations with celebrity guests.

1. Introduction: Setting the Stage

The episode kicks off with Becca introducing herself and Stephen Colbert, who both work behind the scenes of the show. They delve into the unique aspects of translating the visual components of "The Late Show" into an engaging podcast format.

Notable Quote:

• Stephen Colbert (01:16): "Watch on TV, it's a visual experience."

2. Waste Paper Basketball: A Competitive Tradition

Stephen and Becca reminisce about their ongoing friendly rivalry in "waste paper basketball," a humorous segment where they compete using crumpled paper and waste bins.

Key Highlights:

• Stephen boasts about his competitive edge, having tied the score with Jalen Brunson at seven to seven.
• Stephen Colbert (03:04): "No relationship. Hand eye. No judging distance. Consistency of form."
• Recounts his victories over notable figures like President Obama and Michelle Obama, and his rare loss to Steph Curry.
• Becca (05:19): "Our segment producer Asher Dunk."

3. Asher Dunk: The "Prove It" Challenge

Becca introduces the "Asher Dunk" segment, where writer Asher Perlman attempts to dunk a basketball after six months of training, inspired by a spectacular dunk from Ja Morant.

Notable Quote:

• Stephen Colbert (07:36): "One of the things that we like to do here at the Late Show is we don't like to just talk to basketball players. We like to play a little basketball."

4. Soothing Industrial Footage: A Visual Delight

Stephen shares his appreciation for industrial processes, highlighting their mesmerizing and calming nature. He describes various manufacturing techniques, from metal lathing to cake frosting machines, emphasizing the beauty in mechanical precision.

Notable Quote:

• Stephen Colbert (08:10): "We used to put it on the show. I love soothing industrial footage."

5. Guest Interview: Jalen Brunson

The highlight of the episode is an in-depth interview with Jalen Brunson, a two-time NCAA basketball champion and current captain of the New York Knicks.

Topics Discussed:

• Championship Wins: Reflecting on his 2016 and 2018 NCAA titles with Villanova.

  • Jalen Brunson (13:41): "Amazing. Short and sweet."

• Memorable Moments: The dramatic buzzer-beater by Chris Jenkins against North Carolina.

  • Jalen Brunson (15:15): "I still get goosebumps every time I see that."

• Injury and Recovery: Returning to the court after an ankle injury.

  • Jalen Brunson (15:59): "It's not fun... I'm itching to get back out there."

• Family Influence: The impact of his father, Rick Brunson, a former Knicks player, on his career.

  • Jalen Brunson (17:12): "Seeing him work tirelessly every single day... that had the biggest impact on me."

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Colbert (16:37): "And your dad. What's your dad's first name?"
• Jalen Brunson (17:57): "He was putting in the work every single day, and that inspired me to do the same."

6. Friendly Competition: Stephen vs. Jalen

In a lighthearted exchange, Stephen challenges Jalen to a game of waste paper basketball. The attempt ends humorously midway, highlighting the playful rapport between host and guest.

Notable Quote:

• Jalen Brunson (18:29): "I would, but one quick thing."
• Stephen Colbert (19:58): "What is it? What's the score now?"

7. Prove It: Asher Perlman's Dunk Attempt

The segment concludes with Asher Perlman taking on the challenge to dunk like Ja Morant. Despite his age and recent shoulder surgery, Asher's determination is evident as he begins his training journey.

Key Highlights:

• Asher Perlman's Background: Homeschooler and cartoonist with a passion for basketball.
• Training Beginnings: Documenting day one of his 180-day dunk training challenge.
• Stephen's Encouragement: Emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance.

Notable Quote:

• Jalen Brunson (25:16): "We have you legally covered here at the Paramount Corporation. Well, it's time for the Late show's newest long-running segment."

8. Closing Remarks and Future Segments

Stephen wraps up the episode by promoting additional content available on "The Late Show" YouTube channel and hints at upcoming segments, maintaining the show's signature blend of humor and celebrity interaction.

Notable Quote:

• Stephen Colbert (27:19): "If you want to see more of me, come to The Late Show YouTube channel for more clips and exclusives."

Conclusion: This episode of "The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert" masterfully blends humor, sports anecdotes, and engaging conversations with Jalen Brunson. From playful competitions to in-depth interviews, listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of content that captures the essence of the televised show while offering unique insights suitable for the podcast format.