The Tony Kornheiser Show: “Did you see the rainbow?” – May 5, 2025

Hosted by This Show Stinks Productions, LLC

Episode Overview

In the May 5, 2025 episode of The Tony Kornheiser Show titled “Did you see the rainbow?”, Tony Kornheiser delves into a diverse array of topics ranging from unexpected natural phenomena to intense sports discussions. Featuring notable guests Michael Wilbon and Pat40, the episode seamlessly transitions between personal anecdotes, in-depth sports analysis, and engaging listener stories. This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, insightful commentary, and memorable quotes.

Rainbow Phenomenon

The episode kicks off with an unexpected conversation about the rarity of rainbows. Tony shares his surprise at witnessing a double rainbow without the usual summer storm backdrop.

• Tony Kornheiser [03:40]: “I don't know much about rainbows in my life. I have seen rainbows a number of times. I would say that they are a rare and unusual occurrence.”

• Guest 1 [04:11]: “Not just not to see rainbow, it had thin, thick bands of color that actually looked solid, which is why it felt so out of place in early May.”

• Guest 4 [05:20]: “I think it's a universal reaction when one sees that. To just be instantly happy.”

Tony and his guests reflect on the infrequency and beauty of rainbows, sharing personal observations and emphasizing the joyous reaction they evoke.

Baseball Update

Transitioning from weather phenomena, Tony discusses recent developments in baseball, particularly focusing on pitcher performances.

• Tony Kornheiser [06:23]: “Don't know much about rainbows in my life...”

• Guest 1 [06:52]: “It seems like since they brought up Chafe in the hour they brought him in the other day, that there actually has been a bit of a culture shift.”

Tony analyzes the performance of pitchers like Jorge Lopez and Jose Ferrer, expressing his opinions on their contributions and potential future with the team.

NBA Playoffs Analysis with Michael Wilbon

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the NBA Playoffs, featuring a dynamic discussion between Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon.

• Tony Kornheiser [10:25]: “And two road teams won yesterday in the NBA playoffs, which is a double that you don't expect.”

• Michael Wilbon [16:05]: “Yeah, yeah, yeah. On the road it was. But I told you I thought Houston could win Game 6 right on the road and digitized.”

Key Points Discussed:

1. Unexpected Outcomes: Tony expresses surprise at Golden State Warriors defeating the Houston Rockets and Cleveland Cavaliers losing to the Indiana Pacers.

2. Player Performances: Highlighting Buddy Heel's impressive performance, Michael notes, “Steph Curry and Buddy Heel... Buddy Hill did this, you know, a pretty good level for Sacramento.”

3. Future Predictions: Both hosts speculate on the potential outcomes of the playoffs, discussing team strengths and weaknesses.

   • Michael Wilbon [22:27]: “Golden State is like a six, four and under team... They know each other well...”

   • Tony Kornheiser [24:57]: “And it's something that the Pierce, Garnett, Ray Allen Celtics couldn't do. Is something that bird, McHale and Parish couldn't do.”

Their analysis provides listeners with a comprehensive overview of the playoff landscape, combining statistical insights with personal opinions.

Kentucky Derby Recap with Pat40

Pat40 joins the show to discuss Sovereignty's victory in the muddy Kentucky Derby, offering an insider’s perspective on the race.

• Tony Kornheiser [09:56]: “It was a wonderful race. Sovereignty beat journalism. Stretch run. My friend. Eddie had Sovereignty.”

• Pat40 [32:04]: “It was great. Even the gray horses were brown at the end of the race. It was great.”

Key Highlights:

1. Race Dynamics: Pat40 explains how Sovereignty managed to secure the win despite the challenging muddy conditions.

2. Horse Performance: Detailed analysis of Sovereignty’s performance and the strategies employed by the trainer, Bill Mott.

   • Pat40 [33:35]: “He played out almost exactly the way I thought it would...”

3. Future Prospects: Discussion on whether Sovereignty will participate in upcoming races like the Preakness or Belmont Stakes.

   • Pat40 [35:44]: “If it is fully Mott's decision, the horse will probably go to the Belmont and not the Preakness.”

Pat40’s insights provide a deeper understanding of the Kentucky Derby’s outcome and the implications for future races.

Swimmer Katie Ledecky’s Record-Breaking Achievement

The show shifts focus to the world of swimming, highlighting Katie Ledecky’s unprecedented record-breaking performance.

• Tony Kornheiser [38:15]: “Katie Ledecky did something that I don't want to say is unthinkable because it's Katie Ledecky... she broke the 800 record.”

• Guest 3 [39:00]: “Nobody's ever broken a record they once had... nine years, unheard of.”

Discussion Points:

1. Record Details: Katie Ledecky breaks her own 800-meter freestyle record at age 28, an extraordinary feat in competitive swimming.

2. Historical Significance: Pat emphasizes the rarity of athletes surpassing their long-held records, especially after a significant time lapse.

   • Guest 3 [39:00]: “It's just astounding. You never can say, oh, she can't do that, because she will find a way to do whatever it is.”

3. Future Implications: Speculation on Ledecky’s potential to compete in future Olympics and her training regimen that contributed to her success.

   • Guest 3 [40:16]: “She'll be in Los Angeles in 2028 and probably be a medal contender and a medal winner and maybe even a gold medal winner.”

Ledecky’s achievement serves as an inspirational highlight, showcasing perseverance and excellence in sports.

Listener Emails and Stories

Interspersed throughout the episode, Tony engages with listener-submitted stories and messages, adding a personal touch to the show.

• Email from Jeff Fishel [48:11]: Jeff shares a nostalgic story about his high school baseball days with Harvey Stenger, highlighting memories and the enduring legacy of their friendship.

• Email from Matt Abbott Ball [50:09]: Matt narrates an incredible experience with a beekeeper who removed approximately 60,000 bees from his home, emphasizing the importance of community helpers.

• Other Listener Notes: Stories range from personal anecdotes to humorous incidents, fostering a sense of community among listeners.

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, Tony reflects on the diverse topics discussed, from natural wonders to high-stakes sports events, while appreciative of the guests and listeners who contribute to the vibrant conversation. The episode encapsulates Tony Kornheiser’s signature blend of humor, insight, and relatability, making it a must-listen for fans seeking both entertainment and thoughtful discussion.

Notable Quotes

• Tony Kornheiser [03:40]: “I don't think you see them even once a year, but maybe you do. I don't.”

• Guest 1 [04:11]: “Not just not to see rainbow, it had thin, thick bands of color that actually looked solid.”

• Michael Wilbon [16:05]: “So it was if. If you like playoff Basketball or just sport at its highest level where you have people who understand how to play, even if they may be physically overmatched.”

• Pat40 [35:44]: “Bill Mott... thinks it's best for the horse and what people think is best for the sport.”

• Guest 3 [39:00]: “Nobody's ever broken a record they once had. As far down the road as nine years. There's been a few people done it seven years and eight years, but nine years, unheard of.”

These quotes capture the essence of the discussions, providing memorable insights and humorous takes that define the episode.

For listeners who missed this episode, The Tony Kornheiser Show offers engaging conversations on sports, current events, and personal stories, delivered with Tony’s trademark wit and depth. Tune in daily to catch the latest episodes exclusively on-demand.