Throwbacks with Matt Leinart & Jerry Ferrara Episode: Greatest Ever NBA Finals Shots, Caitlin Clark Controversy & Hanging Out with Joey Molinaro
Release Date: June 19, 2025

1. Introduction and Guest Spotlight

The episode kicks off with Matt Leinart and Jerry Ferrara discussing their latest merch ideas, specifically testing out new "Throwbacks" hats. Amid the playful banter about hat sizes and styles, they introduce their guest, comedian and impressionist Joey Molinaro. Joey is praised for his versatile impressions and creative sketches, notably his renditions of characters from "Entourage" and his satirical takes on sports media personalities like Colin Cowherd and Nick Wright.

Matt Leinart [02:27]: "If you don't know much about Joey, you should definitely check him out on Instagram. He does amazing impressions and writes his own sketches, covering everything from Seinfeld to Entourage."

2. The NBA Finals' Greatest Shots

The hosts delve into a passionate discussion about some of the most iconic shots in NBA Finals history. They highlight Ray Allen’s game-tying three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 Finals, emphasizing its pivotal role in salvaging the game for the Miami Heat against the San Antonio Spurs. Joey adds humor by impersonating Mel Kiper, delivering a satirical analysis of Matt Leinart’s athletic prowess.

Joey Molinaro [40:21]: "Here’s a guy that wants to play quarterback but he just can’t find himself off the buffet line. He’s got the size, certainly the width, maybe not the height."

Matt and Jerry share their favorites, including Steve Kerr's clutch shots and Kyrie Irving’s performances in Game 7, discussing how these moments have defined their careers and the teams they support.

3. Knicks-Pacers Rivalry and Key Players

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the intense rivalry between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers. Matt expresses his desire for a seven-game series, longing for the excitement it would bring to the fans. They analyze player performances, particularly focusing on T.J. McConnell's work ethic and Obi Toppin's emerging talent.

Matt Leinart [06:12]: "I really want to see the Pacers win because I want to see this go seven. I’m dying for an NBA Finals Game 7, which we haven’t had since that crazy LeBron versus the Warriors season."

Joey commends T.J. McConnell's dedication, describing him as the "perfect bench player" who seamlessly integrates into the game without needing to warm up.

Joey Molinaro [09:04]: "TJ McConnell has grinded 10 years in the NBA by just outworking everybody. He’s an undersized point guard, but he has a role and he’s a beast."

The discussion also touches on the strategic moves and coaching decisions that have shaped the current standings, including recent trades and player injuries like Halberton’s strained calf.

4. Caitlin Clark Controversy in the WNBA

Transitioning from the men's game, Matt and Jerry address the recent controversies surrounding WNBA star Caitlin Clark. They express concern over the physicality she's been subjected to during games, particularly an incident where Sophie Cunningham executed an uncalled body check.

Matt Leinart [59:25]: "Caitlin Clark is just continuing to get treated this way, and it's blatant. You can’t even defend it."

The hosts debate the implications of such actions on Clark's career and the broader perception of the WNBA. They compare the lack of protective measures for women athletes to the stringent rules in the NBA that safeguard star players like LeBron James.

Matt Leinart [64:34]: "The WNBA does not protect their star. Caitlin Clark is the reason people are watching, and you’re not protecting her."

Joey emphasizes the importance of supporting Clark, highlighting her role in elevating the league's visibility and inspiring a new generation of fans.

5. Hanging Out with Joey Molinaro: Impressions and Personal Stories

Joey Molinaro takes center stage as he shares insights into his creative process for impressions and sketches. He discusses his approach to mimicking personalities like Colin Cowherd and Nick Wright, emphasizing the blend of distinctiveness and authentic writing in his work.

Joey Molinaro [35:55]: "With my impressions, it's not so much about the impressions themselves as it is the scene and the writing together."

The conversation veers into personal anecdotes, including Joey's experiences at Pacers games and Matt's time auditioning for "Entourage," where Mark Wahlberg provided pivotal feedback that boosted Matt's confidence.

Matt Leinart [70:13]: "Wahlberg was always a super positive presence and woke me up out of essentially blowing my final audition for Entourage."

Joey humorously recounts his fluctuating relationship with invitations to suite games, reflecting on the challenges of balancing fandom and personal life.

6. Mailbag: Fan Questions and Reflections

In the mailbag segment, Matt and Joey address listeners' questions about their toughest sporting losses and memorable career moments. Matt reflects on significant losses, including setbacks during his time with the New York Giants and experiences in Hollywood acting roles.

Matt Leinart [66:35]: "I would say, well, we lost the Super Bowl... that was pretty tough."

Joey shares his own challenges, narrating a memorable first start in the NFL and the impact of near-trades on his career trajectory.

7. Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes

As the episode winds down, Matt and Joey recap the highlights, expressing enthusiasm for future topics and deepening their camaraderie. They tease upcoming discussions on sports history, cheating scandals, and athlete transitions into music and acting, promising listeners a blend of humor, insight, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Joey Molinaro [56:31]: "This is a tough 'Matty Ice' episode. Next one will be a lot easier."

The hosts encourage fans to engage with their content, fostering a sense of community and anticipation for forthcoming episodes.

Notable Quotes:

• Joey Molinaro [40:21]: "Here’s a guy that wants to play quarterback but he just can’t find himself off the buffet line..."

• Matt Leinart [06:12]: "I really want to see the Pacers win because I want to see this go seven."

• Joey Molinaro [09:04]: "TJ McConnell has grinded 10 years in the NBA by just outworking everybody."

• Matt Leinart [59:25]: "Caitlin Clark is just continuing to get treated this way, and it's blatant."

• Joey Molinaro [35:55]: "With my impressions, it's not so much about the impressions themselves as it is the scene and the writing together."

• Matt Leinart [70:13]: "Wahlberg was always a super positive presence and woke me up out of blowing my audition."

This episode of "Throwbacks with Matt Leinart & Jerry Ferrara" offers a compelling mix of sports analysis, personal anecdotes, and comedic impressions, making it a must-listen for fans of sports, pop culture, and engaging conversation.