Podcast Summary: "We’ll Still Have the Toothpaste" on The Tony Kornheiser Show

Episode Details:

• Title: We’ll Still Have the Toothpaste
• Release Date: February 28, 2025
• Host: Tony Kornheiser
• Guests: Jay Bilas (College Basketball Analyst), Dave Sims (Yankees Broadcaster)

1. Introduction and Listener Emails [00:00 - 03:54]

Tony Kornheiser kicks off the episode by briefly mentioning upcoming discussions about college basketball with Jay Bilas and insights from Dave Sims on his new role calling Yankees games. He then transitions into reading listener emails, highlighting appreciations from fans who connect deeply with his and Michael Wilbon's on-air dynamic.

Notable Quote:

• Annie Lopez from Boston writes:
  “I was out to dinner with two of my friends a couple of weeks ago on a Friday night, and I saw you and Will Bond on TV doing the show... I have said this for years. Yes, that we are the Muppets. We are the Muppets.”

2. Gene Hackman’s Death and Initial Reactions [03:20 - 16:13]

Tony shares the shocking news of actor Gene Hackman's passing at the age of 95, initially believing it to be a tragic accident due to a gas leak. He reflects on Hackman's illustrious career, particularly his role in Hoosiers, and contemplates the initial misconceptions surrounding his death. Upon receiving more information revealing possible foul play, Tony decides to refrain from speculating further, emphasizing the importance of waiting for official reports.

Notable Quotes:

• Tony Kornheiser at [10:14]:
  “There is no suspicion of foul play. So what must have happened? Well, gas leak.”

• Tony Kornheiser at [14:23]:
  “I don't want to say yet. It's shocking, but it has the potential, right? This is why you don't mention...”

3. Conversation with Jay Bilas on College Basketball [16:22 - 31:49]

Tony welcomes Jay Bilas to discuss the current state of college basketball. The conversation delves into Jay’s alma mater, Duke University, and his detached yet appreciative stance towards the team's performances. Jay emphasizes his priority for compelling and well-played games over team loyalties.

They discuss the evolution of college basketball conferences, with Jay highlighting the Southeastern Conference (SEC) as the premier conference this year, surpassing historical giants like the ACC during its peak in the 1980s. The dialogue touches on the commercialization of college sports and the balance between athletic success and ethical considerations, referencing coaches like Rick Pitino.

Notable Quotes:

• Jay Bilas at [20:12]:
  “When I go to a game... I don’t care who wins. All I’m really rooting for is a close, compelling game that people enjoy.”

• Jay Bilas at [25:19]:
  “When somebody's losing, you don't make excuses for them. You just point it out and analyze it the way you're supposed to.”

4. Discussion with Dave Sims on Yankees Broadcasting [32:14 - 45:16]

After a brief musical interlude, Dave Sims joins to share his excitement about his new role as a Yankees broadcaster. The conversation humorously explores the potential introduction of robot umpires in baseball, with both Tony and Dave expressing reservations about removing the human element from the game.

Dave reflects on his journey to becoming the voice of the Yankees, recounting his early aspirations to call Dodger games and his eventual fulfillment of his dream. He discusses the logistical advantages of broadcasting from New York compared to his previous stint in Seattle, highlighting the reduced travel fatigue.

The duo also touches on team dynamics, player performances, and the enduring legacy of the Yankees as a storied franchise.

Notable Quotes:

• Dave Sims at [33:11]:
  “Robots pitching, robots hitting. That's the real deal. Robot line drives a robot can of corn. Robot double play combo, robot round the horn.”

• Tony Kornheiser at [36:02]:
  “Isn't it true the Yankees are the greatest sports franchise in the United States of America?”

5. Listener Emails and Humorous Segments [46:00 - 56:28]

Tony transitions into the mail segment, reading a series of humorous and creatively exaggerated emails from listeners. These contributions often play on Tony's anecdotes and on-air stories, blending fact with fiction for comedic effect. Themes include exaggerated shopping tales, playful jabs at local establishments, and nostalgic references to personal and military experiences.

Notable Quote:

• Tony Kornheiser at [48:20]:
  “Peter Ginn or Gwin in Littleton, Colorado was Wade Boggs in line as well, stocking up for another flight? These are 40 beers.”

6. Closing Remarks and Planetary Parade Update [56:28 - End]

As the episode nears its conclusion, Tony and Michael Wilbon provide updates on the upcoming Planetary Parade—a rare astronomical event where seven planets are visible simultaneously. They discuss the visibility of each planet and the necessity of using telescopes for some, adding a lighthearted note to wrap up the show.

Notable Quote:

• Michael Wilbon at [46:40]:
  “We'll still have the toothpaste.”

Conclusion: In "We’ll Still Have the Toothpaste," Tony Kornheiser expertly weaves through a tapestry of personal anecdotes, listener interactions, and in-depth discussions with guests Jay Bilas and Dave Sims. The episode balances humor with insightful commentary on sports, entertainment, and current events, all while maintaining the signature conversational style that fans cherish.