Stephen A's Quick Hitters: Colin Cowherd on Lebron/Bronny. Houston Rockets have arrived!

Summary

The Stephen A. Smith Show: Episode Summary Episode Title: Stephen A's Quick Hitters: Colin Cowherd on LeBron/Bronny. Houston Rockets Have Arrived!
Release Date: February 2, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Co-Host: Michael Wilbon
iHeartPodcasts

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1. Houston Rockets' Emergence as a Western Conference Contender

Overview:
Stephen A. Smith and Michael Wilbon kick off the episode by discussing the recent nail-biting game between the Houston Rockets and the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite missing key players like John Morant for Memphis and Shagun for Houston, the Grizzlies narrowly defeated the Rockets with a score of 120-119. This tight contest has sparked conversations about the Rockets' potential in the Western Conference.

Key Points:

• Performance Analysis: The Rockets demonstrated resilience and competitiveness, even without some of their star players.
• Player Highlights:
  • Jalen Green is highlighted as an emerging star with significant potential.
  • Amen Thompson is praised for his defensive skills, rebounding, and competitive nature, showcasing his blossoming game.
• Coaching Praise: IME Udoka is lauded as one of the best coaches in the league, with Shabazz Napier (referred to as Jenkins) also receiving commendation for his coaching prowess.

Notable Quote:

"I'm telling y'all, Houston is gonna make some noise." – Stephen A. Smith [02:13]

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2. Controversies Surrounding All-Star Game Selections

Overview:
The discussion shifts to the recent All-Star game selections, focusing on perceived omissions and the criteria used for selection. LaMelo Ball's exclusion despite leading his position in fan voting, Kyrie Irving's absence despite stellar performances, and Norman Powell's snub despite significant contributions are scrutinized.

Key Points:

• LaMelo Ball's Omission: Despite leading fan votes, Ball was excluded because media and player votes did not support his selection. His impressive averages of 28 points per game and shooting percentages were highlighted.
• Kyrie Irving's Snub: With averages of 24.2 points, 48% shooting from the field, and 42% from three-point range, Irving's absence is puzzling, especially given his impact on the Dallas Mavericks' performance.
• Norman Powell's Exclusion: Powell's consistent performance with the Clippers, averaging around 24 points and 43% from three-point range, is deemed the biggest snub. His work ethic and reliability make his omission controversial.

Notable Quotes:

"Norman Powell, to me, that's the biggest snub of them all." – Michael Wilbon [04:18]
"When your team is 20 games under .500, that's the way it goes." – Stephen A. Smith [03:27]

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3. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's Proposal to Shorten Game Duration

Overview:
Adam Silver's recent appearance on the Dan Patrick Show, where he proposed reducing NBA game lengths from 48 minutes to 40 minutes, becomes a focal point. The hosts debate the implications of this change on the league, players, and overall game dynamics.

Key Points:

• Commissioner's Rationale: Silver suggests that shorter games align better with modern television viewing habits, potentially increasing consistency with broadcast schedules.
• Critique of the Proposal:
  • Impact on Player Effort: Concerns are raised that reducing game time won't effectively curb load management or players resting during crucial games.
  • Seasonal Implications: A reduction could equate to approximately 15 fewer games per season, affecting statistics and player records.
• Cultural Shift: The move is seen as part of a broader trend where players view the league as a transactional relationship ("like a bank") rather than a partnership.

Notable Quotes:

"I get that part. I get a part about the modern day era of television watchers and how it appears to be viewer friendly with what he was suggesting." – Michael Wilbon [05:49]
"The players look at the league like a bank, not like partners." – Stephen A. Smith [07:27]

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4. Tribute to the Late NBA Commissioner David Stern

Overview:
A heartfelt segment honors the legacy of David Stern, the former NBA Commissioner known for his authoritative and no-nonsense approach. The hosts reflect on his impact on the league and contrast his style with that of the current commissioner, Adam Silver.

Key Points:

• Leadership Style: Stern was respected for his directness and ability to enforce standards, ensuring the league's integrity and competitiveness.
• Personal Anecdotes:
  • Michael Wilbon shares stories illustrating Stern's firmness, including instances where Stern maintained strict professionalism with network executives and players alike.
  • Stephen A. Smith emphasizes the close relationship he had with Stern, highlighting the personal and professional respect they shared.
• Contrast with Adam Silver: While Silver is praised for being player-friendly and maintaining good relations, there's a sentiment that he lacks Stern's commanding presence.

Notable Quotes:

"David Stern would say that to anybody. He pulled no punches." – Stephen A. Smith [09:22]
"Adam Silver doesn't have to be that. But he cares so much about the players." – Stephen A. Smith [10:54]

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5. Health Update: Dwyane Wade's Surgery

Overview:
The hosts share news about Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade, who underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from his kidney. This segment serves as a tribute to Wade's resilience and contribution to the sport.

Key Points:

• Medical Details: Wade had 40% of his right kidney removed after doctors identified the tumor as cancerous.
• Personal Reflections: Stephen A. Smith expresses deep relief and admiration for Wade, highlighting his character and professionalism both on and off the court.
• Support and Well-Wishes: The hosts convey their support and wish Wade continued health and recovery.

Notable Quotes:

"Thank God he's okay. Thank God he's feeling well. Wishing him nothing but continued health moving forward." – Stephen A. Smith [11:52]
"One of the best people I've ever covered in professional sports. Just a good-hearted, soulful, decent at his core human being." – Stephen A. Smith [11:54]

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Conclusion

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, Stephen A. Smith and Michael Wilbon delve into pressing NBA topics, offering insightful analysis and personal reflections. From the Houston Rockets' promising trajectory and contentious All-Star selections to the potential overhaul of game formats under Adam Silver and a heartfelt tribute to David Stern, the discussion is both comprehensive and engaging. The episode also underscores the human side of sports with an update on Dwyane Wade's health, reminding listeners of the athletes' resilience beyond the court.

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For more in-depth discussions and updates, tune into future episodes of The Stephen A. Smith Show on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred podcast platform.

Transcript

[Greg Rosenthal]

What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal, and I'm teaming up with the king of spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs, mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday, keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Julie Swerbinks]

What's up, everyone? Julie Swerbinks here along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.

[Nate Thompson]

We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.

[Julie Swerbinks]

The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.

[Nate Thompson]

Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?

[Julie Swerbinks]

Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.

[Nate Thompson]

Julia's pretty well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe.

[Julie Swerbinks]

Listen to Energy Line with Nate and JSB on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Let me get to some quick hitters. We'll continue in the NBA.

[Michael Wilbon]

Did y'all see that game last night? Houston Rockets, Memphis, Grizzlies. Did you see it? I know I saw it. Grizzlies edged the Rockets 120 to 119 in the battle between the two and three seeds in the Western Conference. Ladies and gentlemen, if this is the Western Conference finals matchup, I'd love it. I'd love it. John Morant didn't play last night. Shagun didn't play last night for the Houston Rockets. I don't give a damn. That kid Jalen Green is going to be a star. That kid Amen Thompson. Remember, I keep telling y'all, this brother turned 22 January 30th. This brother, amen Thompson, special, special. Fierce defender, rebounder, competitor. And he's got a game that's just blossoming. IME Udoka, to me, is one of.

[Stephen A. Smith]

The best coaches in the game.

[Michael Wilbon]

He's going to win a championship in Houston. Houston Rockets. I mean, Jenkins can coach his butt off. Memphis is Memphis to be respected. John Moran brings his game. Make no mistake about it, Memphis is formidable. But the Houston Rockets, I'm telling y'all.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm telling y'all, Houston is gonna make some noise.

[Michael Wilbon]

Houston, I'm not even sure it's right to say they're a piece away. I just think they're Experience away.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I love what I'm seeing in Houston. I love what IME Udoka is doing. Keep your eyes on it, y'all. Houston Rockets, they coming, y'all, they coming.

[Michael Wilbon]

Now let's talk about the All Star game, please.

[Stephen A. Smith]

The Eastern and Western conference teams have been named, but there's a glaring omission on the Eastern roster in some people's eyes. Anyway, it's LaMelo Ball.

[Michael Wilbon]

Ball is now the first player to lead his position group in fan voting that is not named an All Star. The voting, the voting format changed in 2016, 2017 season to factor in fans, media and players, okay? And that's why LaMelo Ball didn't get in, because the media and the players didn't have him as the top guy. The fans did because they want to see a brother put on the show. He averaging like 28 points a game, but he's shooting like 42% from the field, like 33% for three point range. He's a volume shooter. I'm not questioning Lamelo's game.

[Stephen A. Smith]

The brother can ball.

[Michael Wilbon]

Here's what I would tell you. Your team is 12 and 32. That's what happens. You, you, you miss All Star games.

[Stephen A. Smith]

When your team is 20 games under.500.

[Michael Wilbon]

That's what happens.

[Stephen A. Smith]

That's the way it goes.

[Michael Wilbon]

And to me, that's not the biggest snub. Ladies and gentlemen, Kyrie Irving for the Dallas Mavericks. What about him? What about Kyrie Irving? I got an even better. You see what he's doing? 24.2 points, 48% shoot from the field, 42% from three point range, and they win. When he's on the court, even without Luka Doncic, Kyrie is special and he's made for All Star weekend. Why he ain't there? Here's another one, ladies and gentlemen, you ready for this? How about the Clippers? Norman Powell? I'm not in any way saying James Harden doesn't deserve it, because he does. He's had a great, he's had a.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Damn good season and he's really resurrected his, his career. And it was reminded us all of the respect that he deserves. James Harden I'm talking about.

[Michael Wilbon]

But how about Norman Powell, brother averaging about 24 game shooting about 43% from three point range. The Clippers are seven games over.500 and this dude has been a reserve his entire career and has worked his tail off, never cheats. You always comes ready to ball, always. Norman Powell, to me, that's the biggest snub of them all. Clippers are seven games over.500. Kawhi Leonard has missed about 38, 39 games and the Clippers are seven games over.500 and the top six seed in the Western Conference. Why the hell ain't Norman Powell there's. He deserves it. He deserves it.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm just saying.

[Michael Wilbon]

Let's talk about NBA commissioner Adam Silver.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Who made waves earlier this week by.

[Michael Wilbon]

The way, Silver appeared on the Dan Patrick show and said that he was in favor of the league shortening the game from 48 minutes to 40 minutes. Here's what the commissioner had to say. Quote, The NBA is the only league that plays 48 minutes. I am a fan of four 10 minute quarters. I'm not sure that many others are. I mean, putting aside what it means for records and things like that, I think that a two hour format for a game is more consistent with modern television habits. Incidentally, if you went to a 40 minute game with the minutes around load management and resting, it would be the equivalent of, I don't know exact Math, taking like 15 games off the season. I don't want to hear that. I get where Adam Silver's coming from.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Limit the minute minutes.

[Michael Wilbon]

It amounts to about 15 less games a year. When you take into account the minutes because you're chopping eight minutes off of regulation. I get that part. I get a part about the modern day era of television watchers and how it appears to be viewer friendly with what he was suggesting. Sir.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Commissioner, that is not the problem.

[Michael Wilbon]

The problem is the effort. How many concessions are you going to.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Make for players who just don't want to come to work?

[Michael Wilbon]

I mean, come on, come on now. You give them, do you chop it down to 40 minutes. It still ain't going to stop them from load managing. It's still not going to stop them from missing games. It's still not going to stop them from being lackadaisical at times. I'm not talking about all. I'm not talking about most, but some. It's still not going to get them to prioritize stuff like All Star Weekend. The commissioner somebody sent me a text yesterday and I thought it was very, very profound, especially when they were talking about All Star Weekend.

[Stephen A. Smith]

They said the players look at the league like a bank, not like partners.

[Michael Wilbon]

The bank has your money. We got to go to the bank.

[Stephen A. Smith]

To get the money.

[Michael Wilbon]

So okay, that's what we got to do. But we don't like going to the bank. We don't like dealing with them, but we have no choice because they got our money. The person that Sent me that text was absolutely right. That's how the players view the league. And the sad part about it is.

[Stephen A. Smith]

They get away with it only because.

[Michael Wilbon]

Adam Silver is an incredibly player friendly, nice man.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Y'all lucky as hell Commissioner David Stern isn't alive and in that seat, and you didn't have to deal with him. Y'all know good and well y'all wouldn't even try it.

[Michael Wilbon]

Let me tell y'all something, and I want everybody to listen. I want my whole team out there to listen. I want my team right here to listen. I want to tell you something about David Stern, and I'm not casting any aspergence on the man. I love the man. We had our battles and issues in.

[Stephen A. Smith]

The past, but in the years leading.

[Michael Wilbon]

Up to his passing, we cultivated a very close relationship. And I grew to just love him.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And respect the hell out of him.

[Michael Wilbon]

And I appreciated the advice and the.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Counsel and the straight, candid, no nonsense.

[Michael Wilbon]

Approach he had with me. Okay, let me tell y'all a little story.

[Stephen A. Smith]

David Stern once said this to a network head executive.

[Michael Wilbon]

I'm not gonna tell you which network. It wasn't mine. I'm not gonna tell you which network.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm not gonna tell you the name of the person.

[Michael Wilbon]

I'm not gonna tell you anything.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm gonna give you an example of who David Stern was. David Stern wanted somebody to come to.

[Michael Wilbon]

A game with him, fly out with.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Him, and go to a game with him. One of their network executives. And the executive said, dave, I appreciate it, and I will come with you, and I'll bring my kids, like, because Davis Turner asked him to bring his kids with him.

[Michael Wilbon]

Let's go. Let's go to the game.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And the executive said to him, only on one condition. You can't call me a dumb in front of my kids. That's a true story.

[Michael Wilbon]

What is the lesson appeal from that? David Stern would say that to anybody.

[Stephen A. Smith]

He pulled no punches.

[Michael Wilbon]

When we got in an argument one day early in my career, he called.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Me a piece of.

[Michael Wilbon]

And said, lose the number, and hung up on me.

[Stephen A. Smith]

And we didn't talk for two years. And ladies and gentlemen, I'm one of countless victims of his diatribes and wrath. Michael Jordan knows about his wrath. Allen Iverson knows about his wrath. Dwyane Wade knows about his wrath, along with countless others, players, coaches.

[Michael Wilbon]

I saw him walk up to a coach that was critical of the referees, and he walked up to the coach and smiled right at courtside as he was walking to his seat, and he says, do you like your job and the coach, of course I love it. He said, well you better shut the.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Fuck up if you want to keep liking it, because it won't be here for long if you don't learn to shut up, and walked away right in front of me and other media members. David Stern in play.

[Michael Wilbon]

Adam Silva doesn't.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Have to be that.

[Michael Wilbon]

I don't think he's capable of being that.

[Stephen A. Smith]

But he cares so much about the players.

[Michael Wilbon]

My advice to him would be care.

[Stephen A. Smith]

About those who care about you and leave the rest be to your discretion cause you got a lead to run. That would be my advice to Adam Silver, who I also have a great relationship with and I respect the hell out of and I think he does a great job.

[Michael Wilbon]

Our last quick hitter is a shout out to the one and only Dwayne Wade. The Miami Heat legend and hall of Famer revealed yesterday that he had surgery.

[Stephen A. Smith]

On his kidney in 2023 to remove a tumor.

[Michael Wilbon]

Wade said doctors removed 40% of his.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Right kidney and that test on that tumor showed it was cancerous.

[Michael Wilbon]

He also said he was thankful that he decided to go forward with the procedure, while acknowledging the decision itself was.

[Stephen A. Smith]

A low point in his life.

[Michael Wilbon]

I've been tight with D. Wade for years.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I had no idea about this. Nobody tells you everything. I'm just happy that my man seems well and in good spirits. He was out of the country a couple of days ago. He and I spoke. One of the best people I've ever covered in professional sports. Just a good hearted, soulful, decent at his core human being. Even when he was mad at you, he didn't come at you wrong. Class personified. One of the best human beings ever. Thank God he's okay. Thank God he's feeling well. Wishing him nothing but continued health moving forward. I love this brother. He's good people. One of the best people I know and I have ever covered in professional sports in my life. So I'm very, very relieved that he seems to be ok.

[Greg Rosenthal]

What's up everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101 free agents, we'll have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Julie Swerbinks]

What's up, everyone? Julie Swerbinks here, along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.

[Nate Thompson]

We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.

[Julie Swerbinks]

The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.

[Nate Thompson]

Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?

[Julie Swerbinks]

Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.

[Nate Thompson]

Julius picked well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe.

[Julie Swerbinks]

Listen to Energy Line with Nate and JSB on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.