First Ballot: The Hall of Fame Podcast

Above the Rim

Fri, 24 May 2024 00:59:00 -0000

Can you recall your favorite sports movie of all time? (No, the Karate Kid doesn't count, stop it.) Well one of our favorites, an underrated and forgotten gem, is Above The Rim. A 1994 classic that may very well have the best basketball played in a sports film ever. But is it good enough to be the first sports movie ever inducted into the First Ballot HOF? A special guest joins to help us make the call on our season finale.

Timecodes:

(3:30) Why talk about Above The Rim?

(4:45) Your memory is like Mary Lou Henner

(6:50) Are you certain this movie is good?

(10:00) Top movies that came out in 1994

(18:00) This movie could never be made today

(24:30) RIP Nutso

(29:35) “And thats WITHOUT baby oil”

(35:00) The great sports movies

(44:50) Eric Nies joins the pod!

(56:30) Dunking in front of Pamela Anderson

(58:35) Strength Shoes!!

(01:04:31) Re-using basketball highlights

(01:06:15) This movie is about family

(01:13:00) Airing out a brotherly grievance

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Inside the NBA with Tim Kiely

Thu, 16 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Inside the NBA isn't just a show, it's an institution. In an extra special episode, long-time Inside the NBA producer Tim Kiely joins the pod to talk about his career, working with Shaq and Charles Barkley, and if any iconic Inside the NBA moments are First Ballot Hall of Fame worthy.

Timecodes:

(03:54) There's no "I" in Team, but there's one in TIM

(05:21) Recruiting Charles Barkley

(11:39) Breaking the formula with Ernie Johnson Jr.

(16:47) Leaving ESPN and Tim's Dream

(22:52) Bringing in Kenny "The Jet" Smith

(28:55) Shaq's Mumble

(33:23) The Best Cast on TV

(38:10) Inside the NBA: Honorable Mention Moments

(39:25) The Champions Club

(42:54) The New Year's Eve Party

(44:42) Shaq's Gasoline Logic and Flying to the Moon

(48:46) Chuck Holding his Breath in a Fish Tank

(51:33) "One, two... back to one"

(53:54) The Race

(57:36) Shaq Falling

(59:04) Shaq Hot Chip Challenge

(01:00:27) Kenny's Jersey Retirement

(01:04:51) The X-Factor behind Inside the NBA

(01:09:15) David joins for a guest question

(01:10:05) The time TK almost got fired

(01:11:54) Inside the NBA Trivia

(01:14:35) The demise of Inside the NBA

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LeBron Buries Jason Terry with Niles Abston

Thu, 09 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000

In 2013, fueled by two years of resentment after losing to Jason Terry and the Dallas Mavericks in the 2011 NBA finals, LeBron James pulled off one of the most incredible casket dunks ever. Comedian and writer on DAVE, Niles Abston joins the pod to discuss his journey to Hollywood (10:30), working with Lil' Dicky (39:40), and if the Miami Heat burying Jason Terry is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame.

Showtime Codes:

(5:40) The King of all "ad reads"

(9:09) Bo Jackson vs Deion Sanders

(10:30) D1 Athlete to Writer

(13:42) Lebron James destroyed stats

(18:35) Jason Terry got JUMPED

(22:40) Niles' start in stand-up

(27:51) The dream stand-up line-up

(35:10) Writing on DAVE

(37:19) The defining moments of Niles' career

(39:40) Is Lil' Dicky hateable?

(42:15) The best LeBron James moments

(47:47) The untouchable topics in comedy

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The 1988 3 Point Contest with Dale Ellis

Thu, 02 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000

"Which one of you guys is playing for second?" In 1988, Larry Bird shot the lights out to win his third straight 3-point contest... in his warm-up jacket. Dale Ellis, a 17-year NBA veteran, 1987's NBA Most Improved Player, a 1989 NBA All-Star and All-NBA Selection, and the Godfather of the 3-point shot joins the pod to break down competing with Larry Bird in 1988, playing Michael Jordan, his advice to young shooters, and his love of butter pecan ice cream.

Timecodes:

(9:37) Dale's All-star experience

(11:06) Critiquing the modern all-star game

(13:39) Returning to Milwaukee and playing with Ray Allen

(15:55) Competing against Michael Jordan

(17:30) Dale's favorite city to play in

(19:43) Wanting the last shot

(22:00) Dale's favorite announcer

(23:09) The biggest trash talker in the NBA

(24:04) Dale's love of Tennis

(27:50) Adding the 3-pt shot to his game and the origin of the 3-pt game in the NBA

(31:12) Dale Ellis' advice to young shooters

(35:06) Dale's favorite shooters

(37:54) Losing to Larry Bird

(41:38) Larry Bird's warm-up jacket and "Who's coming in second?"

(50:07) Larry's confidence and shooting form

(52:09) The beauty of Dale's shooting form

(53:19) Controlling your emotions on the floor

(57:16) Craig Hodges 19 straight 3's

(59:57) "This or That" with Dale Ellis

(1:05:36) Dale Ellis' Late Night Snack

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Jordan and Pippen Part 2 with Madeline Hill

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000

All sports news may just be...gossip! Breaking down Marcus Jordan and Larsa Pippen's relationship is Impersonal Foul writer Madeline Hill, who also talks about the best reality tv shows, how Rich Paul is an athlete, America's Royal Family, and her substack (a newsletter that is the lovechild of Bravo and ESPN).

Showtime Codes:

(3:30) The four best reality tv shows

(13:19) The latest greatest sports gossip is happening in the rugby world

(16:00) Sports betting scandals are taking off

(22:13) Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift: our version of the Royal Family

(33:20) Madeline's favorite "athlete": Rich Paul

(34:44) Neil's love for movies about big businesses

(36:45) Neil's predicts that Bronny will get drafted to the Lakers

(40:20) The history of Marcus Jordan and Larsa Pippen

(45:45) A secret relationship has to be at least 2 years long

(47:50) Will they get back together?

(48:48) Percentage that they get married

(56:50) Similar gossip / scandals: Tiger Woods and OJ

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Caitlin Clark's Record Breaker with Mike Corbett

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 06:09:59 -0000

There was no doubt that Caitlin Clark would make history by becoming the all time NCAA leading scorer. It was only a matter of how and when she would do it. Here to discuss the moment is Dunk Comp's Creative Director Mike Corbett, who joins the pod to talk about Caitlyn’s record breaking moment, the impact of Vince Carter, and the greatness of a hoop sound.

Showtime Codes:

(8:05) What inspires Mike's work

(15:50) How Dunk Comp and Facundo Campazzo are forever intertwined

(20:40) Thoughts on the SNL performance

(26:46) Is this era the golden age of women's basketball?

(32:43) The timeline of the moment

(35:50) The savageness of the moment

(38:20) Calling timeout during runs

(40:38) Great hoop sound

(48:53) What makes Kelsey Plum so good

(55:35) Is this the best Caitlin Clark moment?

(01:00:05) Is Caitln Clark the best female basketball player?

(01:06:00) How Caitlin Clark is going to inspire young girls and boys

(01:09:00) This was never a long shot

(01:16:28) Favorite passes

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The Vomiting Umpire with Michael Torpey

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Iconic sports moments can happen anywhere and to anyone. In this episode of the First Ballot Hall of Fame Podcast, friend of the show, comedian, and actor Michael Torpey breaks down one umpire's effort to leave it all on the field. Torpey also dissects the sweet relief of a barf and the most iconic vomits throughout his life.

Timecodes:

(10:11) Torpey's role on the "Young Rock"

(26:09) The universality of vomiting

(28:10) Torpey's vomiting experiences

(34:53) Neil's experience driving in Manhattan

(39:12) The SNL fire hose of vomit

(42:14) "We're in white water rapids baby"

(42:56) Neil is a multiple time all-star at not vomiting

(44:23) The sweet relief of a barf

(49:07) The catcher's quick escape

(49:57) Torpey's 4th grade barfing story

(55:06) Vomiting is the "body working in reverse"

(58:00) The crowd reaction

(1:02:03) The Michael Torpey call of the vomiting umpire

(1:05:44) The vomiting testicle technique

(1:08:10) The question we've all been waiting for

(1:10:23) Vomiting in India

(1:15:45) Brian O'Nora's Vomiting Story

(1:32:07) A great baseball name

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Ray Allen's Game 6 Three with Julio Manteiga

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 06:04:00 -0000

With 5 seconds left on the clock, Ray Allen hit a clutch three from the right corner, tying the game and forcing overtime in a moment that would change NBA championship history. Here to talk about the moment is the Head of Content and Communications at the National Basketball Retired Players Association Julio Manteiga, who talks about what he saw at the game, getting starstruck by Metallica, and going to Cuba with the NBA.

Showtime Codes:

(5:15) What was it like working for the NBA for 18 years?

(9:27) What was David Stern like?

(11:20) The biggest moment of Julio's career--going to Cuba

(14:20) Who is the best former player to hang out with?

(18:58) Getting starstruck by Metallica

(24:13) How Ray Allen's age helped with the shot

(30:35) What did Julio see?

(37:09) The undersold part--the Chris Bosh tip

(46:00) Training for this shot

(52:00) New credential: butterfly effect

(56:46) Best teammate of all time

(01:05:20) The Heat's culture

(01:07:30) The best diner in Miami

(01:08:00) Favorite pass

(01:09:00) Best sports' branding

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The 2016 NBA Dunk Contest with Hanif Abdurraqib

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:13:33 -0000

In 2016 Zach Lavine and Aaron Gordon went head to head in what is now regarded as potentially the greatest dunk contest in NBA history. Featuring a free throw line windmill dunk, a free throw line 'tween the legs dunk, and a miraculous "sitting in the air" dunk. Here to discuss is poet, essayist, and cultural critic Hanif Abdurraqib (@NifMuhammad). On this episode we talk getting lost in vowel sounds, the underappreciated aesthetics in a Zach Lavine dunk, and the surprising beauty and force of an Aaron Gordon dunk.

Timecodes:

(06:44) Anticipating the Greatness of Caitlin Clark

(10:28) Living Long Enough To Have A Favorite “Tyrese” In The NBA

(12:11) The Way That Whitney Houston Lands The “T” Sound in “Heat with somebody”

(18:17) Deep Dive Into NBA Mascot Salaries

(23:26) Aaron Gordon is 6’9” 240lbs

(28:20) The Controversy of This Contest

(30:09) Is This The Best Dunk We've Ever Seen?

(33:40) The High Art and Effortlessness of a Zach Lavine Dunk

(42:40) “Lets go home! It’s Over!”

(47:23) Appreciating Aaron Gordon’s Evolution

(58:18) Greatest NBA Game Winners with 0 Seconds Left

(01:01:23) Lebron Lying About Reading a Book

(01:08:15) Facundo Campazzo’s Absurd Mixtape

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Anthony Edwards' Block vs. Anthony Edwards' Dunk with Zach Harper

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 09:48:00 -0000

Our first true emergency podcast! Two monster plays in two weeks from one rising superstar, Anthony Edwards. And who better to help us navigate which of these two plays should be in the FBHOF than Zach Harper (@talkhoops) of The Athletic. On this episode we talk sp5der hoodies, horse noises, thrunks, and the perfectly balanced omegablade that Thanos carries around on his index finger.

Timecodes:

(06:57) Appreciating the Eriq La salle Punch in ER’s Theme

(09:07) Can The Timberwolves Win A Chip This Year?

(12:05) “How Can That Profitable For Frito Lay?”

(17:00) Ant’s Performance Vs. The Pacers

(19:55) When A Basketball Fan Can Feel An NBA Player’s Rhythm

(20:50) Ant’s Performance Vs. The Jazz

(24:00) Breaking Down Ant’s Block in 4 Parts

(32:10) “The Audacity To Jump From There With Someone In Your Way Is Insane... It’s Rude”

(35:50) Dislocating Your Finger HURTS

(37:30) Top 3 Reactions to Ant’s Dunk

(42:40) He Only Had a Plan to Block The Shot and After That He Was All Out of Ideas

(45:40) “Have You Ever Been Skydiving?”

(47:30) Neil’s Life Changing Observation

(56:00) Please Give Us Free Merch Sp5der

(01:02:50) Aktshually, It Wasn’t Technically A Dunk

(01:06:25) How Does Ant’s Block and Dunk Stack Up Against History

(01:16:05) The Candor of Anthony Edwards

(01:26:01) Horse Noises

(01:33:54) The Perfectly Balanced Nature Of These Plays

(01:35:30) The Voting Committee Weighs In

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The Greatest Playoff Round You Don't Remember with Ashtyn Butuso

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 06:51:00 -0000

A 4-OT Game, the peak of CJ McCollum's career, and Evan Turner flipping off Michael Porter Jr. are just a few reasons that make the 2019 second round match-up between the Portland Trail Blazers and Denver Nuggets special...But is it worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame? Writer, producer, and founder of Flagrant Magazine, Ashtyn Butuso joins the pod to break down this iconic series for Portland, the tears she shed for Damian Lillard, and some of the best branding in sports.

Timecodes:

(3:54) The Origins of Flagrant Magazine

(6:01) The importance of physical media

(8:45) Ashtyn's biggest supporter

(10:13) Flagrant's Best Moment

(12:17) Is Caitlin Clark the GOAT of Women's Basketball?

(20:33) Rapping with Damian Lillard

(23:01) The 4-OT Game

(25:20) Hating Wemby and other NBA greats

(30:17) CJ's Game 7

(33:15) Dame winning a title

(35:14) Evan Turner flipping off Michael Porter Jr.

(38:05) The Best Sports Branding

(40:32) Neil's sense of fashion

(42:13) The Best City's Branding

(51:35) "I'm Trying Jennifer"

(53:34) Ashtyn's 10 PM Snack

(1:04:03) LAST MINUTE EVIDENCE

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The Search for the Funniest Sports Moment Pt 1 with George Anagnostakos

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

In this episode of the First Ballot Hall of Fame, we're on the search for the funniest sports moment of all time. TV writer and producer, George Anagnostakos rejoins the pod to break down the Isaiah Thomas Frosty Freeze Out Ejection and Gregg Popovich's Hack-A-Shaq special and help decide if either moment is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame. George also talks his favorite chicken sandwich, getting free food in NYC, and parallel parking for David Letterman.

Timecodes:

(5:22) Asking a Muppet for a remote

(9:11) Interning with David Letterman

(15:34) "We don't give a shit about your kids"

(22:05) The Isaiah Thomas Frosty Freeze Out Ejection

(29:10) Disrespecting a professional athlete for FREE ice cream

(35:01) The Kevin Harlan Frosty Call

(36:14) The cost of a Frosty

(40:11) The non-dairy chocolate shake from Shake Shack

(41:30) George's attempt to get free food in NYC

(1:02:14) Working with Marshawn Lynch

(1:04:25) Gregg Popovich's Hack-A-Shaq Special

(1:12:24) The game doesn't matter

(1:18:32) The origin of the Hack-A-Shaq joke

(1:25:07) Hack-a-Shaq is unbearably cruel

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March Madness Moments with Nick Bernstein and Michael Torpey

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000

March Madness is arguably the best part of college basketball and generates iconic moments year after year. SVP of Late Night West Coast at ViacomCBS and the Official College Basketball Fan of the First Ballot Hall of Fame Podcast, Nick Bernstein and Actor and Writer Michael Torpey join the pod to break down some of NCAA's most iconic moments and if any of them are worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame. Together they break down "The Shot" in 1998's first-round match-up between Ole Miss and Valparaiso and #16 UMBC's upset over #1 seed Virginia.

Timecodes:

(8:05) How Nick and Torpey first met

(10:41) Torpey's Best Late Night Television appearance

(12:31) A Great Baseball Nickname

(14:08) Nick and Torpey's Celebrity BFF's

(19:10) Nick's Submission for the First Ballot Hall of Fame - "The Shot" (Ole Miss vs Valparaiso)

(33:34) Playing against identical twins

(35:31) Overcoming a sibling's shadow - the story of Scott Drew

(38:41) Playing for your Dad and the Drew family dynamic

(47:09) The feeling after hitting "The Shot"

(50:50) Torpey's Submission for the First Ballot Hall of Fame - #16 UMBC vs #1 UVA

(1:07:02) Fighting for the moment

(1:08:27) "Kids are stupid"

(1:28:51) Odd's on Favorite

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Steph's 32-Footer in OKC with LaJethro Jenkins

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 05:28:04 -0000

Stephen Curry is one of the greatest shooters of all time. In 2016, with just 0.6 seconds on the clock, Curry hit a game-winning three against the Oklahoma City Thunder and got a Double Bang from Mike Breen. Is this shot the moment that changed the NBA? Producer and co-host of the Jenkins and Jonez podcast, John "LaJethro Jenkins" Nichols joins the pod to decide if this moment is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame, pick out the best St. Lunatic, and his favorite beverage.

TImecodes:

(6:53) The best St. Lunatic

(7:40) Lajethro's Super Bowl takes

(11:15) Bob Cousy played basketball when basketball wasn't basketball

(13:36) Neil's NBA Top 75 Hot Take

(16:24) The moment Steph changed the NBA

(18:43) The cold calculation of Steph's jog

(25:47) The blessing of seeing greatness

(28:57) It ain't safe with Steph out there

(35:15) Those "god-damned" sleeved jerseys

(39:55) Mike Breen's Double Bang

(42:17) Lajethro's relationship with Cool Papa Bell and his baseball journey

(46:07) Boxing's next level and Lajethro's latest sparring experience

(52:58) The Internet's Best Tweets on Steph's shot

(56:40) The impressiveness of post-flight greatness

(58:15) Lajethro Jenkins' Favorite Beverage

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Ben Simmons Passes Up Dunk with Anthony Moore

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000

In the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Philadelphia 76er Ben Simmons infamously passed up a wide-open dunk over Trae Young. Comedian, Philadelphia native, and host of the We Want Moore podcast, Anthony Moore joins the pod to break down this infamous play and decide if it is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame. Anthony also breaks down Wemby's build, being the face of a viral meme, and his go-to bodega snack.

Timecodes:

(4:45) Joel Embiid's 70-point game

(6:36) Wemby's built like a churro

(11:08) The build-up of Ben Simmons hating

(12:47) Anthony's Ben Simmon's draft day tweet

(17:21) Pat Bev energy

(18:51) Philly wants effort

(26:11) Ben Simmon's record-setting in Philly

(31:04) Anthony's best Ben Simmons tweets

(34:47) Being the face of a meme

(48:36) Markelle Fultz vs Ben Simmons

(51:24) "What about my mental health?"

(52:24) The end of "The Process"

(54:50) Anthony's go-to late-night bodega snack

(1:02:30) An infamous moment in Philly basketball history

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The Jump that Never Happened with Joe Posnanski

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 07:05:00 -0000

One of the greatest sports journalists in the country and New York Times bestselling author of seven books, Joe Posnanski joins the podcast to talk about the longest jump never recorded and Mike Powell's long jump record. Plus, Joe's favorite baseball moments, how he and Michael Schur started their podcast, and things that kick ass.

Timecodes:

(7:58) Joe is writing a book about football

(15:50) Are First Ballot moments in Joe's book?

(17:20) Joe's favorite baseball moment

(30:10) The reason Carl's jump was never measured

(34:30) Carl Lewis stats

(41:05) Why has no one ever gotten close to this record?

(45:28) Putting the jump lengths into relatable terms

(1:00:10) The butterfly effect of the jump

(1:03:00) How Joe and Michael Schur met

(1:08:20) Joe's favorite career moments

(1:13:45) Joe's favorite sports writer

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SLAM Magazine Tribute with Ben Osborne, Russ Bengtson, and Lang Whitaker

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 06:32:32 -0000

In this very special edition of the First Ballot Hall of Fame Podcast, legendary SLAM contributors Ben Osborne, Lang Whitaker, and Russ Bengtson join the pod to celebrate SLAM magazine's 30th anniversary. They go into all the gritty details of working at one of the most important publications in basketball history from Shawn Kemp's emails to fist bumps with Patrick Ewing.

Timecodes:

(8:45) The next generation learning about sneakers

(10:54) Shawn Kemp's Emails

(11:17) The start of Slam Online

(14:55) Russ' first piece on Shawn Bradley

(18:01) SLAM's editorial freedom

(24:43) Getting sucked into the moment

(29:42) Shooting the Allen Iverson cover

(32:34) The types of players that worked with SLAM

(38:04) Getting in trouble with the League

(43:59) The best SLAM moments

(54:17) Russ' fist bumps with Patrick Ewing

(57:28) Connecting with Kenny Anderson

(1:02:42) Watching NBA Kids grow up

(1:05:12) Celebrating SLAM's 30th Anniversary

(1:08:27) The group's favorite covers

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Dirk's Game 2 Layup with Jason Gallagher

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 09:09:00 -0000

In 2006 the Dallas Mavericks lost in the NBA finals to the Wade and Shaq led Miami Heat. (Thanks in large part to an astounding 97 free throws by D-Wade…) Later in the 2011 NBA Finals, Nowitzki would find himself on the precipice of rewriting NBA history with one fateful lefty lay. Jason Gallagher, of The Old Man and The Three, joins the pod to discuss the ugliest jerseys in the NBA, the hubris of the Heatles, and the handful of moments that define one’s legacy.

Showtime Codes:

04:50) On Men’s Hair

(06:45) Love for Dirk and Love for Texas

(08:54) Discussing The Ugliest Jerseys in the NBA

(13:32) We Will Never Forgive the NBA for Sleeved Jerseys

(16:35) Nikola Jokic Independence Day Presser

(19:58) Attack of the Clones is Wemby’s Favorite Star Wars Movie

(22:08) Talking Career and Guiding Philosophies: Stay Opportunistic

(30:05) The Dread of Being a Mavs fan in Game 2

(33:24) How Much It Meant To Be A 2011 Mavs Fan

(40:40) Dissecting Dirk’s Lefty Lay

(44:42) In Praise of Basketball Photography

(45:54) Brainstorm: How To Fix The Dunk Contest

(52:03) The Brilliance of Mike Breen

(55:38) “It felt like we exercised a demon”

(58:30) The Moments That Completely Reshape A Legacy

(01:08:50) Remembering the Hubris of the Heatles

(01:15:16) Every Championship Team Needs An Irrationally Confident Jason Terry

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The Best Shattered Backboard Dunk of All Time Part 2 with Dan Devine, @DUNKCOMP, and David Astramskas

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 06:18:00 -0000

Dan Devine, Paul from @Dunkcomp, and David Astramskas are back for Part 2 of determining the greatest shattered backboard dunk. This week they break down Shaq's 1992 dunk on NBA Inside Stuff and Darryl Dawkins' OG back-board shattering dunk against the Kansas City Kings and decide which of these dunks are worthy of induction into the First Ballot Hall of Fame.

Timecodes:

(4:15) David's Submission: 5/10/1992, Shaq on NBA Inside Stuff

(6:48) Ahmad Rashad's legendary line to Shaq

(9:25) David's history of getting investigated by the NBA

(12:26) Behind the Scenes audio of the dunk

(14:02) Shaq was Orlando's iPhone

(18:57) This dunk was a trailer to Shaq

(21:07) U MAD: New York Times edition

(22:36) Blame the engineers for broken backboards

(25:31) Neil's Submission: 11/13/1979, Darryl Dawkins and the 76ers vs the Kansas City Kings

(29:37) Craig Sager's interview with a pissed old white guy

(33:50) The "Chocolate-Thunder-Flying, Robinzine-Crying, Teeth-Shaking, Glass-Breaking, Rump-Roasting, Bun-Toasting, Wham-Bam Glass-Breaker-I-Am Jam"

(36:07) A Tribute to Darryl Dawkins

(41:04) Shaq's study of "rimology"

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The Best Shattered Backboard Dunk of All Time Part 1 with Dan Devine, @DUNKCOMP, and David Astramskas

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 06:43:00 -0000

Legends of the industry, Dan Devine, Paul from @Dunkcomp, and David Astramskas join the pod as the first-ever First Ballot Hall of Fame voting committee panel to determine and induct the greatest shattered backboard dunk into the First Ballot Hall of Fame. In part one of the first ever two-part episode, the panel breaks down Jerome Lane's thunderous dunk at Pittsburgh and Michael Jordan's legendary 1985 dunk in Trieste, Italy.

Timecodes:

(6:26) Why broken backboards are so special

(11:29) There is almost no comparison to a shattered backboard

(15:33) David has broken a backboard

(17:57) Dan's submission: Jerome Lane, 1/25/88, Pitt vs. Providence

(30:30) Jerome never got a piece of that glass

(31:03) Jerome's glass set in an antique golden ring: the best gift ever!

(34:13) Sports trivia: where did Jerome go to high school?

(36:30) Paul's submission: 1985, Michael Jordan in Trieste

(44:02) Neil's Conspiracy Theory

(45:22) Was Shaq tearing down the backboard staged?

(46:43) Trying to stop Jordan in an exhibition game

(53:05) Jordan's grainy footage is like "listening to vinyl"

(54:58) The beauty of low quality footage

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Jordan's Flu Game with Scoop Jackson

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 08:04:56 -0000

The Flu Game. Game 5 of the tied 1997 NBA Finals and Michael Jordan, despite being ravaged by the flu… drops 38 points to secure a miraculous win. Joining the pod is ESPN sports journalist, author, and cultural critic Scoop Jackson, who breaks down the moment, talks about almost quitting SLAM, and discovering NSYNC.

Timecodes:

(5:56) Scoop almost quitting SLAM magazine

(10:04) Kobe's Philly Homecoming

(15:47) Scoop getting his flowers

(24:14) Why 38 points matter

(27:07) Michael's "reserve" defense

(29:40) MJ looked like doo-doo brown

(31:02) Auctioning the Flu Game Jordans

(32:30) Scoop's take on Jordan's sickness

(35:06) The beauty of the lunacy of this moment

(38:01) Jordan spit on the pizza

(40:10) Seeing MJ sick in person

(43:11) The mythicality of Michael Jordan

(45:00) What Rodman said about Mormons

(48:39) Jordan's performance when he's sick or injured

(55:02) Growing up with Tim Hardaway

(57:17) MTV Rock N' Jock and discovering NSYNC

(01:00:42) Isiah Thomas and the bad ankle

(01:14:56) MJ vs Lebron

(01:20:33) Annie Sarnblad's analysis of MJ's face

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Meet Me in Temecula with @SnottieDrippen

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 15:53:00 -0000

A First Ballot classic, we're throwing it back today. On Christmas Day 2014, a fight on twitter became a scheduled fight in Temecula, California, and signaled a change in modern sports fandom. @SnottieDrippen vs. @MyTweetsRealAF. You cannot make this up. Plus, who’s the most underrated player in all of basketball history?

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Michael Jordan's Shrug with Trill Withers

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000

In game one of the 1992 finals, Michael Jordan put together one of the greatest 3-point shooting performances of his career and hit the most iconic shrug of all time. NBA Twitter Legend and host of the Trill Withers Show, Trill Withers re-joins the pod to discuss if MJ's shrug is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame, the conspiracy behind NBA fines, and the beauty of 90s era basketball.

Timecodes:

(05:48) Stromile Swift Dunk on Tyrus Thomas

(09:15) Working with Rasheed Wallace

(10:33) The Conspiracy of NBA Fines

(15:09) Shrugging in Sports

(18:15) The presentation of 90s Basketball

(29:40) "You remember the shrug though"

(33:55) A KD Green-light

(48:09) "I took offense to that" -MJ

(57:14) The authenticity of the shrug

(58:10) Ahmad Rashad the GOAT of sideline reporting

(01:01:00) George Koehler's life-changing phone call

(01:02:53) MJ's McDonald's Order

(01:04:13) The James Jordan Ad Read

(01:10:25) Trill's Favorite 90s TV Show

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The Paul Pierce Wheelchair with Osman Noor and Michael Torpey

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000

We may never know what truly happened to Paul Pierce when he came crumbling down in Game 1 of the 2008 NBA Finals but we can speculate. Here to discuss Paul's exit in a wheelchair, his return 10 minutes later, and the mystery of whether he actually pooped his pants is producer, writer, and director Osman Noor and multiple time guest and co-host Michael Torpey.

Showtime Codes:

(7:30) How Charlie Sheen inadvertently helped Torpey's career

(10:26) The etymology of the word dipshit

(15:50) Weird Hollywood moments

(28:45) The Bubble Gut Scenario

(34:45) Is it wrong to root when athletes get injured?

(36:10) A win is a win

(49:57) The absurdity of calling for a wheelchair

(55:00) Paul Pierce's Confession

(01:07:44) Was Oral Roberts back there?

(01:14:26) You mad: Torpey might be

(01:21:23) Paul "Poo" Pierce Video Evidence

(01:24:40) Favorite late night bits

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Wembanyama's Breakout Game with Robert McRae

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000

The most anticipated NBA prospect since Lebron James, Victor Wembanyama was drafted to the San Antonio Spurs. And against the KD led Phoenix Suns just 5 games into his young career, the french phenom lived up to the hype. To discuss Wemby's 38-point breakout game is writer, producer, and Twitter Legend Robert McRae. Rob also breaks down his NBA finals predictions, working on Desus & Mero, and the best cereal of all-time.

Timecodes:

(10:00) NBA Surprises

(12:00) Ime Udoka trash-talking Lebron James

(13:16) NBA Finals Predictions

(17:31) The rise of Tyrese Haliburton

(20:45) Rob as a 19 year-old

(23:45) Wemby's current rookie campaign

(27:20) The no-name Spurs

(33:04) On Wemby's Big Hands

(38:27) The most fascinating Wemby video

(45:43) The NBA In-Season Tournament

(51:53) Working on Desus & Mero

(55:04) This or That: Chet vs Wemby!

(1:00:35) The best Breakfast Cereal of all-time

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Dennis Smith Jr.'s Buzzer Beaten Dunk with Matt Hollister and Michael Torpey

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000

In 2017, NC State stole away their first win on Duke’s home court in 22 years when Dennis Smith Jr. stole the final possession, dribbled down the court, and dunked it… after the buzzer went off. Here to talk about the dunk is Senior Visual Designer at Google and two time First Ballot Executive Producer Matthew Hollister and First Ballot's first guest co-host Michael Torpey. Plus, incredible breakfast orders, how Coach K must've felt, and a new game segment.

Timecodes:

(2:20) Introducing First Ballot's first guest co-host

(14:20) Basketball is inherently a creative sport

(19:00) What is the right word to describe this dunk?

(36:00) One of the strongest ear tests on the show so far!

(35:30) New Segment: White Talk

(48:05) The best sports branding

(51:55) New Game: Best Jersey to Buy

(1:08:20) Why it's important to get daughters into basketball

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Capturing Moments: Andrew Bernstein Part 2

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000

The First Ballot Hall of Fame Podcast has a lot to be thankful for this year, and today we're incredibly thankful for Andrew Bernstein's return to the pod. The NBA's First Official photographer, LA Lakers photographer, and Legends of Sport podcast host, re-joins the pod to discuss the answers to Neil's burning questions, working with Kobe Bryant, and getting laid out by Shaq.

Timecodes:

(6:34) Andy's Pre-Game Routine

(10:25) Andy's Interview Process

(17:08) Transitioning from film to digital

(21:12) Shooting the 1985 NBA Finals

(27:11) Andy getting his Championship rings

(30:28) Landry Shamet's Photography

(32:14) Ken Griffey Jr. and Randy Johnson's Sports Photography

(37:55) Photographing the Dream Team

(39:52) The pictures we don't see

(42:45) Going to China with Kobe

(43:20) Working with Kobe on THE MAMBA MENTALITY: How I Play

(49:40) The one time Kobe asked Andy not to take a picture

(51:07) Watching Kobe grow up

(53:38) Getting laid out by Shaq

(1:00:39) Andy's Favorite Sports Photographer

(1:04:19) Andy's Favorite Dunk

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Aldo vs McGregor with Brian Campbell

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Precision beats power, and timing beats speed. In 2015 at UFC 194, Conor McGregor took on José Aldo and executed the fastest finish in UFC title fight history. CBS Sports Writer, Showtime Sports Analyst, and host of the Morning Combat Podcast, Brian Campbell joins the pod to determine if McGregor's 13 Second Knock Out is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame. Along with breaking down the moment, Brian outlines his career, ranks the Rocky movies, and identifies his least favorite animal.

Timecodes:

(3:31) Neil's Jollibee Experience

(7:38) Brian's Grandma's Larry Bird Rule

(11:35) MMA vs Boxing

(14:30) Brian's First Ballot Boxing Moment

(20:26) Brian's Life Dream

(22:20) Ranking the Rocky Movies

(35:00) "HE SLEPT HIM"

(36:30) The "fix" was in

(40:04) Joe Rogan's Exquisite Color Commentary

(41:24) Aldo's Tears

(49:20) McGregor's Best Microphone Moments

(59:51) McGregor's Ali Comparison

(01:04:28) McGregor's Magic

(01:08:56) Brian's McGregor Tweets

(01:09:41) Neil's X-Factor: The UFC Doc Series

(01:13:15) Brian's Least Favorite Animal

(01:23:40) The Best Drug in the World

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Chris Webber's Timeout with Bryan Tucker

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 06:35:00 -0000

The Fab Five is arguably one of the greatest and most influential recruiting classes in college basketball history. Chris Webber, Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, Jimmy King, and Ray Johnson led Michigan to consecutive NCAA Championship games in 1992 and 1993, with the 1993 title game against UNC being most remembered for Webber's infamous "timeout". Esteemed actor, comedian, and co-head writer of Saturday Night Live, Bryan Tucker joins the pod to determine if the 1993 NCAA Championship Game is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame, his favorite athletes to host SNL, his UNC Mount Rushmore, and his favorite "Big White Lunk".

Timecodes:

(7:27) Bryan's Best SNL Sports Sketches

(10:16) SNL Athlete Standouts

(11:37) Bryan "hates" Funny Athletes

(13:00) Bryan's Childhood and Comedy vs. Sports

(15:34) Gerald Henderson bashing Tyler Hansbrough's nose

(17:20) UNC beating Duke in Coach K's last game

(20:53) Surviving the SNL schedule

(24:13) Bryan's Favorite "Big White Lunk"

(31:41) The superstitions of sports fans and the UNC bench creating bedlam

(38:28) The cleanest aesthetics in college basketball

(45:44) The chaos of being a fan

(47:12) The greatest NCAA Championship moments

(48:03) Bryan's big break

(51:21) Neil's proposition to Bryan

(55:37) Bryan's Favorite Breakfast Sweet

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Jim Abbott's No Hitter with Alison Agosti

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 05:08:00 -0000

In 1993, Yankees' pitcher Jim Abbott became a baseball legend throwing a no-hitter with ONE HAND. Legendary comedy writer Alison Agosti re-joins the pod to talk about Abott's one-handed no-hitter, what she would do if she was rich, and her favorite item at Trader Joe's.

Showtime Codes:

(04:38) Alison Agosti Returns!

(05:40) Surviving the Writers Strike

(07:11) If You Were Rich…

(08:35) Neil’s Restaurant Timbs

(15:47) Manny Ramirez Deserves the HOF

(17:57) More Stats on Jim Abbott

(18:50) Jim Abbott Got Rocked and Ran Away!

(22:42) Did The Yankees Bad Hitting Help Jim Stay Hot

(25:27) Neil’s World Changing Revolutionary Baseball Idea

(28:25) Jim's Baseball Reference Page

(30:27) Jim Abbott Deserves A Movie

(33:14) Admiring Jim’s Hand Glove Transfer

(36:14) Jim’s High Fives

(37:07) In Appreciation of Your Hands

(40:37) The Crowd Gets Into The Moment

(43:10) Do You Like Unwritten Baseball Rules

(45:10) Mike Mussina’s Perfect Game Gets Broken Up

(46:15) The Call: Final Out Of Jim’s No-Hitter

(47:09) “We’re Not Gonna Take It”

(52:20) Different Shoes and Tiger Sharks

(57:22) Burning Questions: Was Jim Born Left-Handed?

(01:01:29) Happy Father's Day from Jim Abbott

(01:05:26) George Steinbrenner’s Comments

(01:09:02) Alison loves Wendy's Baked Potato

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Larry Johnson's 4-pt Play with Adam Pally

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000

In the 1999 NBA Playoffs, Larry Johnson became a Knicks legend after completing a skillful 4-pt play against the Pacers. Here to discuss the moment is actor, writer, producer, and comedian Adam Pally, who talks about the vulnerability of trash talking, being a Knicks fan, and an underrated pizza combo.

Showtime Codes:

(6:55) Sitting courtside at the Knicks game

(8:52) Exchanging phone numbers with celebs

(14:38) Adam's basketball game

(20:20) Adam's fan and champion: Nick Bernstein!

(26:36) The shaky camera test

(28:25) Adam hated the Pacers at the time

(29:13) The vulnerability of trash talking

(31:10) Larry Johnson does not get enough credit

(34:00) The game today vs 90s games

(36:27) Adam's favorite Knicks phases

(38:59) Being in Chicago and being a Knicks fan

(39:00) Unwritten Knicks fan rules

(41:50) The most gracious fan base

(44:22) Did Larry Johnson get fouled

(55:35) Game: Twitter Fingers!

(56:46) Adam's pizza hack

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Rolando Blackman's 1993 game-winner with Drew Dixon

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:45:36 -0000

Many people might not remember Rolando Blackman hitting the game winner for the Knicks but Drew Dixon does. The writer, producer, and activist joins the pod to discuss this nostalgic moment, working on some of the greatest musical hits, and the importance of fighting for survivors.

Showtime Codes:

7:34 - Drew's basketball career

12:25 - Making All I Need by Method Man and Mary J Blige

30:40 - Favorite moments in Drew's career

32:20 - Working with Lauryn Hill and Whitney Houston

32:50 - Being Q-Tip's one call

36:16 - Surviving being a woman in the music industry

39:20 - Discussing On The Record and the hurdles of sharing the truth

48:47 - Advice on separating art and artists

54:30 - The impact of memorializing abusers

55:28 - What Me Too can do

56:15 - Why Drew fought so hard for On The Record

59:28 - Why Drew chose this moment

01:02:09 - Drew starts bawling at Rolando Blackman's jumper

01:07:50 - Fun facts about bees

01:08:56 - Drew’s Guiding Philosophy: “Anybody can hit from anywhere.”

01:12:15 - Drew believes you can’t crowdsource culture

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Larry Bird’s Left Hand Game with Craig Kilborn

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0000

"I just saved my right hand for the Lakers." In 1986, bored of dominating opponents with his right hand, Larry Bird decided to shoot with his off-hand against the Portland Trailblazers. Legendary comedian and former host of Sportscenter, The Daily Show, and The Late Late Show, Craig Kilborn, joins the pod to discuss his basketball and comedy careers, balancing life between Minnesota and LA, and if Larry Bird's left-handed game is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame.

Showtime Codes:

(6:27) Craig Kilborn can shoot

(7:04) Breaking down D-Lo's Game and the Timberwolves

(14:23) The Northside Magicians

(18:05) Picking apart Neil's Lakers

(21:23) Craig's player comp

(24:28) The Genius of Five Questions

(27:39) Craig's dream of doing comedy

(29:48) Leaving Sportscenter

(34:10) Neil's interview with Mike Gibbons

(36:40) Craig's favorite late-night guests

(43:20) Meeting Larry Bird

(46:22) "What would Larry do?"

(51:41) NBA Trivia

(53:34) This or That!

(59:14) Craig's Favorite Beverage

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Inside the NBA with Tim Kiely

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 04:50:41 -0000

Timecodes:

(03:54) There's no "I" in Team, but there's one in TIM

(05:21) Recruiting Charles Barkley

(11:39) Breaking the formula with Ernie Johnson Jr.

(16:47) Leaving ESPN and Tim's Dream

(22:52) Bringing in Kenny "The Jet" Smith

(28:55) Shaq's Mumble

(33:23) The Best Cast on TV

(38:10) Inside the NBA: Honorable Mention Moments

(39:25) The Champions Club

(42:54) The New Year's Eve Party

(44:42) Shaq's Gasoline Logic and Flying to the Moon

(48:46) Chuck Holding his Breath in a Fish Tank

(51:33) "One, two... back to one"

(53:54) The Race

(57:36) Shaq Falling

(59:04) Shaq Hot Chip Challenge

(01:00:27) Kenny's Jersey Retirement

(01:04:51) The X-Factor behind Inside the NBA

(01:09:15) David joins for a guest question

(01:10:05) The time TK almost got fired

(01:11:54) Inside the NBA Trivia

(01:14:35) The demise of Inside the NBA

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NBA Ref's Forced Retirement with Mikey Wyllin

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 03:05:46 -0000

Normally retirements are celebrated with lots of fanfare, jerseys hanging in rafters, gold statues, and maybe even cake. But in August of 2023, NBA referee, Eric Lewis announced his abrupt retirement after NBA Twitter sleuths discovered the ref's burner account. @Mikeyyy_Wyllin, NBA Twitter Detective and newly appointed second-best Laker fan, joins the pod to discuss how his investigation caused an NBA ref to retire, meeting Eric Lewis, and the best NBA Twitter scandals.

Showtime Codes:

(7:22) @Mikeyyy_Wyllin's Integrity as a Detective

(13:50) Did the legalization of sports betting cost a man his career?

(20:05) Eric Lewis' following list

(22:24) Baiting Eric Lewis

(28:01) Eric Lewis ages himself

(31:43) The Humaness of Eric Lewis

(34:09) Eric Lewis still uses AOL

(46:45) Mikeyyy's theories on Eric's retirement

(50:48) Eric Lewis' Best Tweets

(1:04:58) #1 Brother Behavior

(1:06:49) The KD and Colangelo Burner Accounts

(1:09:06) Mikeyyy meeting Eric Lewis

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Shohei Ohtani's Double Header with Hannah Keyser

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 03:07:00 -0000

On July 23rd, 2023 Shohei dominated in a double-header against the Detroit Tigers, throwing a one-hitter in the first game and hitting two home runs in the second. Hannah Keyser, National Baseball writer at Yahoo Sports and creator of the Bandwagon podcast, joins the pod to discuss if Shohei's double-header is worthy of the First Ballot Hall of Fame, her favorite tri-colored pasta, and her Baseball Movie Dream Team.

Showtime Codes:

(06:27) The Best Tri-Colored Pasta in the Tri-State Area is in South Jersey?

(09:42) The Nacho that changed Neil's life

(10:17) The magic of unique baseball roles

(17:58) Going back in time: will Shohei get traded?

(21:50) Someone else did it first??

(24:15) We need more Japanese culture in baseball

(29:17) First Ballot Game: THIS or THAT

(32:07) Someone is MAD

(33:18) A "once ever player"

(38:17) Is Shohei better than Ichiro?

(40:39) Angels collide: Ohtani vs Trout

(45:45) Unpacking Neil's fear: fly balls

(47:10) Dream Team!! Baseball Movie Edition

(50:00) Are bat flips disrespectful?

(53:31) Cats kick ass

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Kareem in Airplane! with Nick Bernstein

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000

“I’m sorry son, but you must have me confused with someone else,” is a famous line from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 1980 appearance in the movie Airplane! Deciding whether Abdul-Jabbar’s piloting of the skies is First Ballot worthy is none other than First Ballot MVP and SVP of Late Night West Coast at ViacomCBS, Nick Bernstein. Nick and Neil talk the strike, Nick's movie basketball player dream team, and if Kareem was wearing a jockstrap. Plus, a special appearance from Rob the editor!

Showtime Codes:

(6:43) Recapping Nick's FBHOF W-L Record

(9:16) A special guest appearance: Rob the editor!

(11:30) More Important: Nick's surprising movie picks!

(12:48) Favorite Athlete Cameo in Film and TV

(16:56) Something that kicks ass? Nick's SHOCKING answer

(21:16) Interestings stats: negotiating for a rug.

(31:12) What never happened with famous people in sports

(34:35): "Busting my buns"

(36:45): Is Kareem wearing a jock?

(44:50): Kareem's acting credits

(53:00) Game Segment: Kareem movie trivia!

(55:23): Dream Team Game: The greatest movie basketball players

(01:02:26) Is Neil on the same level as Marc Maron?

(01:07:50) A special encore

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The Cleveland Summit with Michael Harriot

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 07:36:00 -0000

In 1967, some of the greatest athletes of all-time from Jim Brown to Bill Russell joined in solidarity to support Muhammad Ali's refusal to fight in the Vietnam War. Michael Harriot, writer and podcaster, joins the pod to discuss this historic sports moment, why Bill Russell is the GOAT, and how Twitter is the perfect place for an argument.

Showtime Codes:

(07:12) Discussing the History of the Term Drapetomania

(19:22) Do Neil and Michael Know Any 22 Year Olds?

(22:18) "There really is no comparison"

(27:20) What is the Cleveland Summit?

(34:09) Bill Russell is the GOAT

(34:41) Was Red Auerbach even a good coach?

(35:36) Is Bill Russell the greatest high jumper of all-time?

(40:12) Bill Russell walked so MJ could run

(40:55) The Butterfly Effect of Bill Russell

(45:18) The Dominance of Jim Brown

(49:38) The Trial of Muhammad Ali

(53:41) The most important clerical error in sports history

(57:43) Ali's return covered up an FBI break-in

(59:34) The magic of "not knowing"

(01:00:59) Athletes and Racial Justice

(01:07:47) Training with Bruce Lee

(01:11:09) Twitter is a place for an argument

(01:05:39) Michael's Favorite White Person

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Kobe Tell Me How My Ass Taste with ItsTheReal

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000

“Kobe, tell me how my ass taste" should have been the headline when TMZ broke Shaq's freestyle diss to his former teammate. Joining the pod, the legendary musical storytellers and hosts of of The Blog Era, Jeff and Eric Rosenthal from ItsTheReal break down the moment, talk about what makes a good roast, and if this was really a freestyle.

Showtime Codes:

(07:05) Best rapper to make mouth gun sounds

(07:53) Favorite rap comedy song

(14:35) ItsTheReal dream project

(15:03) This or That!

(27:50) How good of a rapper is Shaq?

(33:05) What makes a good roast

(40:19) Was this really a freestyle?

(01:03:07) Biggest moment of ItsTheReal's Career

(01:16:16) Most Important: Best White Rapper?

(01:17:00) Most Important: Funniest rap song

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Carmelo Collapses with Zach Harper

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000

After bumping into Kevin Durant's chest, Carmelo Anthony completely crumbled! His bizarre decision to continue laying down splayed on the court as the game continued became a hilarious moment in the NBA. Writer for The Athletic, Zach Harper joins the pod to discuss if the collapse is First Ballot worthy and the one player that extraterrestrials should see play. Also, two new game segments!

Showtime Codes:

(06:07) The best part of the entertainment business: laughter

(08:35) Praise for a First Ballot favorite: Julia Louis Dreyfus

(13:45) The beginning of Neil and Zach Harper's formal friendship

(15:50) How Jerry Seinfeld made Neil want to get into meditation

(19:58) The vocabulary of this moment: splayed!

(26:40) How J.R. Smith took advantage of the moment

(28:02) Special segment: The Name Game!

(54:11) Another Game: This or That!

(01:01:51) More Important: Quick Hitters

(01:04:11) The one player that extraterrestrials should see

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Kobe's Final Game with Van Lathan Jr.

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 04:29:55 -0000

Kobe Bryant's 60-point farewell was one of the greatest salutes to a career. Here to discuss Kobe's finale and whether it's First Ballot worthy is none other than the incredible co-host of the Higher Learning podcast, Oscar-winner, Van Lathan Jr., who discusses Kobe's legacy, great sports nicknames, and the moment that changed everything in his career.

Showtime Codes:

(12:20) What Van Lathan Jr. wanted to be when he grew up

(14:00) How the movie Do The Right Thing changed Van Lathan Jr.

(16:10) The movie that made Neil want to be a professional armwrestler

(18:40) Van's weight loss journey

(25:30) How Neil's mother inspires his inquiries into his own health and wellness journey

(32:10): Van describes his playing style

(33:13) Van Lathan Jr.'s player comp: Paul Pierce

(35:50) "I don't think that anybody has ever had a final game that is more emblematic"

(43:10) How Kobe makes people question their own mortality

(46:50) The autographs that Van has

(52:30) What Neil will remember from the game

(55:15) A moment that changed Van Lathan Jr.'s career

(58:15) The question Van has for the Warrior players

(01:00:48) "The trance of greatness"

(01:04:20) Van Lathan still watches the recording

(01:06:10) The game that made Neil cry

(01:07:15) Devil's advocate: Mamba Out

(01:09:48) Best sports nickname

(01:14:00) The part of the game that made Neil tear up

(01:17:28) The beverage Neil doesn't like (and it's not water)

(01:17:53) Neil shocked at Van's favorite movie

(01:19:20) Van's favorite dunk

(01:20:15) The criteria for a hall of fame

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Sammy Sosa's 20 HR month with Oz Rodriguez

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0000

In June of 1998, Sammy Sosa hit 20 home runs, setting the record for the most home runs in a month. Emmy award winning director Oz Rodriguez joins the pod to talk about Sammy Sosa's historic month, the most intimidating actors to work with, and working on SNL.

Showtime Codes:

(2:15) The Best Bread

(6:07) Growing up in the Dominican Republic

(8:25) The Hype of Felipe López

(15:25) Pedro Martinez vs David Ortiz

(16:40) Working with Joe Pesci

(19:05) The most intimidating people to work with

(22:20) Oz and Wrestling

(30:06) Favorite Names for a Home Run

(33:14) Cable in the DR

(40:02) Sammy Sosa Fun Facts

(42:23) Sammy's Iconic Trot

(44:05) The 20th HR and fans on the field

(46:33) Oz's favorite internet sketch

(48:25) Working on SNL

(52:07) Pitching Lorne Michaels a sketch

(1:02:13) The Babe Ruth Bat Controversy

(1:05:52) The Steroids Question

(1:07:37) Oz's Proudest Project

(1:09:31) A top 25 Sports Name

(1:13:56) The funniest athlete of all time

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Anything Is Possible with Josh Gondelman

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 04:16:56 -0000

ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE! Will the BEST Lakers fan induct a Boston Celtics moment into the First Ballot: Hall of Fame? Comedian and writer, Josh Gondelman, joins the pod to discuss Kevin Garnett's impassioned speech after winning the 2008 NBA Finals, his Twitter Pep Talks, and his favorite cereal.

Timecodes:

(08:17) Neil Making Enemies

(11:34) KG is a CELTIC

(14:03) Breaking a sweat with KG

(16:17) KG's favorite movie

(19:27) Neil's 2008 Finals experience

(23:46) The Paul Pierce Wheelchair Incident

(34:08) Josh's favorite thing about the 2008 Celtics

(44:27) The Energy on the Floor

(47:18) So good, it has to be scripted?!

(53:48) Josh's Twitter Pep Talks

(58:22) The biggest moment in Josh's career

(01:05:33) "Going out to eat"

(01:07:10) Josh's best KG tweets

(01:09:18) Josh's Dream Team of NBA Friends

(01:13:36) Josh's Favorite Cereal

(01:18:10) The best late-night bit

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The Clippers' Secret Tunnel with Trill Withers

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 09:07:00 -0000

In 2018, Twitter nearly exploded when Chris Paul led the Houston Rockets through a "secret tunnel" into the Clippers locker room at Staples Center. NBA Twitter Legend and host of the Trill Withers Show, Trill Withers himself, joins the pod to discuss this iconic NBA moment, breaks down his favorite fast food joint, and Shaq's elite abilities.

Showtime Codes:

(11:44) Covering the One Championship

(12:59) Fast Food Bracket

(17:00) Neil's Shake Shack Offer

(22:04) A Round of Baseball Names!

(26:46) The Snarky Nature of Chris Paul

(28:52) Pat Beverly's loud silence

(33:36) Blake Griffin: a civil war survivor

(36:02) Who wrote that..?

(40:59) Inside the NBA

(42:07) Shaq's elite skill

(46:48) The SNL of the NBA

(49:42) Playing for your Dad

(53:00) The Best NBA Twitter Moments

(01:03:01) Trill's Favorite Fast Food Chain

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Dennis Rodman's 1998 Bash at the Beach with Peter Rosenberg and Andrew Goldstein

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 07:23:53 -0000

SEASON PREMIERE! Dennis Rodman skipped practice before an NBA finals game to go hit a guy with a steel chair. Esteemed guests, writer and producer Andrew Goldstein and DJ/WWE expert Peter Rosenberg join First Ballot's season premiere to discuss if the '98 Bash at the Beach is worthy of the Hall of Fame, the genius behind pro wrestling, and Shaq's greatest hits.

Showtime codes:

(11:51) Andrew's short stint at WWE

(14:25) Peter's dream job

(19:02) How Peter made Hot 97 a destination for WWE

(20:15) Peter's fashion trend

(24:26) How to do the nut shot

(20:08) Andrew breaks down the genius of pro wrestling

(34:39) Rodman skipping practice

(36:40) Shaq's Greatest Hit

(39:02) DDP and Karl Malone's matching purple pants

(52:00) "Wrestling" on the court

(55:22) Bad Bunny's reputation in wrestling

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Upon Further Review with Nick Bernstein

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 05:33:00 -0000

It's the season 1 finale of First Ballot! We're celebrating with 4x guest, CBS Vice President of Late Night, Nick Bernstein, who joins the pod to discuss the unimpeachable moments of the First Ballot: Hall of Fame and which moments should be revoked.

Showtime Codes:

(16:44) Will Neil get a co-host?

(20:51) Hardest part of the show

(26:26) Nick's review: the unimpeachable First Ballot episodes

(32:34) Why First Ballot is so nostalgic

(36:00) Why Nick went to Fargo, ND

(37:14) Is Neil too generous with dunks in the First Ballot: Hall of Fame?

(38:18) Neil and Nick take a closer look at First Ballot moments

(46:05) The first moment to be removed from the First Ballot: Hall of Fame

(55:15) What Neil believes could be the best college play in basketball history

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LET'S GO with Matthew Driscoll

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 04:55:00 -0000

Special guest University of North Florida's coach Matthew Driscoll joins the pod to talk about the surprising way that "Let's Go" got taken to the next level, the best "Let's Go", and a special live demo. Let's Gooooooo!

Showtime Codes:

(4:00) What would it take for Matthew Driscoll to be the winningest coach? (4:40) A live demo of Let's Goooooo! (5:15) How Let's Go got created (5:42) The different types of Let's Go (7:40) Matthew Driscoll teaching career (8:33) Matthew Driscoll's coaching style (9:39) The first Let's Go (14:42) How the team made SportsCenter Not So Top Ten (17:05) What coach likes doing and not doing during Let's Go (24:49) Rating Matthew's Driscoll's Let's Go! (25:40) Is he the best of at screaming Let's Go (27;00) When is Let's Go disrespectful (30:35) Favorite pep talk (35:45) Best player he's coached and best player he's ever seen played against (37:56) Great tweets about Let's Go (38:40) The surprising tweet that helped Let's Go go to another level

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Kimbo Slice vs. Seth Petruzelli

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 04:52:00 -0000

In just 10 seconds iconic street fighter Kimbo Slice was knocked out by Seth Petruzelli and potentially caused the demise of an MMA organization. Breaking First Ballot history, special guest Michael, Neil's brother, joins for a record THIRD (maybe second and a half) time to break down this fight, the greatest fictional athletes, and if Neil will ever get his Charles Barkley, Scottie Pippen, Karl Malone rookie cards back.

Showtime Codes: (15:25) Kimbo Slice vs Sean Gannon (24:57) The Greatest Upset in MMA History? (26:00) Petruzelli "walking off the street" (29:34) The "Big Foot" esque nature of the fight (35:03) The Story Behind the name "Kimbo Slice" (37:10) Kimbo's Iconic Hair (42:09) The conspiracy behind the fight (49:36) Jake Paul vs Kimbo Slice (52:35) What's the name of the show again? (59:59) Dream Team: Movie Athletes (01:07:79) Devil's advocate (01:09:38) Hear from the First Ballot Voting Committee (01:14:30) The movie that Mike associates with Neil (01:16:58) Why Neil could not be a Detroit Tiger's fan

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TJ Ford's Gigantic Uniform with TJ Ford

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 04:46:00 -0000

Every draft season, we are reminded of the 2003 NBA Draft for one iconic reason: gigantic shorts. First Ballot is joined by a very special guest, NBA icon, TJ Ford who talks about his rookie photoshoot, his dunk attempt on Kobe Bryant, and his favorite NBA teammates.

Showtime Codes:

(06:52) The Story Behind the Iconic Shorts (13:32) 2005 Swag (15:45) TJ's Best Game (17:21) TJ "Dunking" on Kobe Bryant (19:32) The Draft Day Experience (23:33) Great NBA Passers (24:57) Going through the Rookie Year Photoshoot (29:47) First Ballot's new popular game: Versus (33:35) Best NBA Trash Talker (35:13) Real or Fake: 2003 NBA Draft Edition (38:25) NBA Career Development (41:23) TJ's Favorite Cereal

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BONUS EPISODE: Behind the Mask!! The man who created the San Antonio Spurs Coyote mascot!

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 15:17:00 -0000

Tim Derk appeared in over 1,110 games as the San Antonio Spurs Coyote! In this bonus episode, First Ballot meets the man behind the mascot and learns about his contributions to the t-shirt cannon, his pact with Charles Barkley, plus a story you don't want to miss about his dedication to being a mascot.

Showtime Codes:

(01:39) The mascots who helped invent the T-shirt cannon (05:45) The story behind the coyote costume (06:28) How he became a mascot (09:50) Derk vs. Duncan champion rings (11:15) The move that made the crowd go nuts (14:41) Derk recounts the time he "fought" with a ref (17:14) The worst part of being an NBA mascot (22:35) His pact with Charles Barkley (27:05) The cost of the T shirt cannon (28:30) Iterating the T shirt cannon (30:30) His EXTREME dedication to being the mascot

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The Invention of the T-Shirt Cannon with Michael Torpey

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 04:41:00 -0000

Is there a greater feeling than catching a projectile from a mascot's T-shirt Cannon? Actor and Writer, Michael Torpey, joins the pod to explain why Tim Derk's contribution to the world of sports is First Ballot Hall of Fame worthy, his epic home run catches, and working with Michael Jordan.

(00:48) 2023 Nuggets vs "The Bubble" Lakers (06:09) Intro Take Two (07:38) A Special Ad Read (10:12) Fired from Applebees (15:30) The ups and downs of acting and Michael's dream job (17:47) Michael Torpey on Law and Order: SVU (21:02) Michael Torpey's Growth Spurt (26:27) Tim Derk NBA Legend (29:30) The importance of Mascot Names (36:05) Tim Derk becoming the Spurs Mascot (40:52) The Wild Wild West of the NBA (44:24) The T-Shirt Cannon Patent (47:55) Michael Torpey's epic home run catch (49:29) Michael Torpey catches ANOTHER home run catch and saves a woman's life (55:10) Legit weapons set to party mode (56:05) Australia confiscates T-shirt cannons (01:05:43) Neil's Free T-Shirt Story (01:11:12) The Universal Joy of Free Shirts (01:15:10) The Michael Jordan Hanes Commercial (01:21:47) Learning from Uzo Aduba (01:24:15) Being the President of the United States (01:28:48) Shooting Hot Dogs out of T-Shirt Cannons (01:33:31) Air Cannon Injuries (01:39:53) Torpey's Favorite Beverage (01:42:01) Comedy Actor Mount Rushmore (01:43:49) Torpey's secret ingredient for Peanut Butter & Jelly sandwiches

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Golf's Epic Collapse with Matt Goldich

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 03:30:00 -0000

In 1999, Jean van de Velde had one of the biggest uh-ohs in sports history. With a 3-stroke lead, "Jean Jean Jean" needed just a 6 on the 18th hole to clinch the British Open, but instead orchestrated one of the greatest meltdowns in sports history. Comedy writer Matt Goldich joins the pod to discuss why this collapse is crazy enough to enter the First Ballot Hall of Fame, if his wife thinks he's funny, and some of his greatest tweets. Showtime Codes: (3:00) Meat in a can? (6:10) Matt's journey in comedy (7:50) Matt's short-lived sports broadcasting career (13:30) The problematic nature of Golf (14:00) Matt's Love of the game (19:49) The Crime Scene (32:30) Oh Jean Jean Jean... (34:50) Jean showing off his bare feet (40:00) Does your spouse think you're funny? (49:00) Working on the Late Show with David Letterman (50:20) The life-changing moment in Matt's career (53:30) Neil's Jenny Jones Trailer Park Story (1:00:42) Matt's greatest Tweets (1:04:02) Best Sports Names (1:05:55) Matt's everyday snack

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Caitlin Clark’s 2023 March Madness with Trysta Krick

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Caitlin Clark put together perhaps the best March Madness Tournament run in college basketball history, but does she have one moment good enough for the First Ballot Hall of Fame? Host of BetMGM Tonight and The Heat Check podcast, Trysta Krick, asks and answers whether Clark is the best college player of all-time, discusses one of the most original basketball calls in the history of TV broadcasting, and gives her Philadelphia 76ers Hot Take!

Showtime Codes:

(3:08) BWAH

(4:38) Maybe the most important thing we’ve ever done on the show, and perhaps our editor's finest work to date

(14:23) Trade Damian Lillard? Trysta’s fool proof plan for the Portland Trail Blazers.

(21:14) The truly bonkers statistics behind the Caitlin Clark tourney run

(26:01) Is Caitlin Clark the best college player ever?

(35:08) Neil’s anti-college diatribe

(41:35) How could Caitlin Clark possibly care about college classes?

(44:20) What Trysta and Neil both saw in Clark’s eyes

(52:23) One of the most original basketball calls in the history of broadcasting. Have you ever heard this from an announcer before?

(53:51) Growing the legend of Caitlin Clark

(54:41) Trysta’s patented, Hall of Fame-worthy, play-by-play calling card

(55:48) Clark tells Van Lith to shut up

(59:47) Ogunbowale vs. Clark: who had the better March?

(1:02:51) Caitlin Clark’s unofficial nickname

(1:05:41) Trysta’s 2023 WNBA Championship prediction

(1:07:10) The racial undertones of the Tournament Finals between Iowa and LSU

(1:13:17) Trysta Krick’s 76ers Hot Take

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Freeway x 76ers Fan Cam with Cory Townes

Thu, 25 May 2023 08:17:00 -0000

When Freeway's What We Do played at a Sixers-Heat game in 2018, the fan cam displayed an incredible show of humanity from the audience. Here to discuss the impact of the moment is journalist, creative, DJ, and Philadelphia native Cory Townes, who also talks about meeting Jay-Z (42:00), songs that are potentially more Philadelphia than What We Do (46:45), and the cultural influence Philadelphia has on the world.

Showtime Codes:

(13:15) All he needed was a jump shot and heart to be a legend (16:00) What makes Philly so special and unique (20:00) Fan cams have the power to change the game and energy (27:58) Cory Townes breaks down the song. (31:42) What We Do is the audio representation of a basketball game (40:00) The first time Cory heard his father's music (42:00) A great short Jay-Z Story (43:40) Behind the scenes of Summertime (51:00) Comparing the great hip hop x NBA moments (01:00:00) Life lessons from Freeway's song (01:08:00) More important: water ice or slurpee

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Bowe vs. Golota with Rafe Bartholomew

Thu, 18 May 2023 05:21:00 -0000

In 1996, Riddick Bowe faced off against Andrew Golota in Madison Square Garden. Golota was well on his way to pulling off one of boxing's great upsets, before a series of heinous low blows led to his disqualification, and one of the craziest post-fight melees in all of boxing history. Rafe Bartholomew, writer and author of "Pacific Rims" and NYT Bestseller "Basketball: A Love Story", joins the pod to talk about Filipino culture (10:13), being teammates with Smush Parker (17:55), and if this moment is First Ballot HOF worthy.

Showtime Codes:

(12:50) The Best PBA Team Names (15:00) Rafe's Phillippines bucket list (17:55) Playing with Smush Parker (31:20) Boxing Nicknames (39:00) Throwing low blows (42:50) Golota's Jail Time (46:56) The chaos of the post-fight melee (58:30) The winner of the post-fight fight (1:09:05) The Fan Man

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LeBron Buries Jason Terry with Niles Abston

Thu, 11 May 2023 04:12:00 -0000

Showtime Codes:

(5:40) The King of all "ad reads" (9:09) Bo Jackson vs Deion Sanders (10:30) D1 Athlete to Writer (13:42) Lebron James destroyed stats (18:35) Jason Terry got JUMPED (22:40) Niles' start in stand-up (27:51) The dream stand-up line-up (35:10) Writing on DAVE (37:19) The defining moments of Niles' career (39:40) Is Lil' Dicky hateable? (42:15) The best LeBron James moments (47:47) The untouchable topics in comedy

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Bruins vs. Panthers Game 7 with Nick Bernstein

Thu, 04 May 2023 04:32:00 -0000

The 63-win Boston Bruins won more games this season than any team in NHL history. And then they faced the Florida Panthers in Round 1 of the 2023 Playoffs. David vs. Goliath, on ice. With hockey sticks. CBS Vice President of Late Night, Nick Bernstein tries to get another long shot into the First Ballot Hall of Fame.

Showtime Codes:

(8:30) Nick's relationship with hockey (14:50) Neil's attempt at pronouncing names and understanding hockey points (18:55) Explain this in Basketball terms (21:13) Greatest comeback upsets in sports (37:40) Nick celebrating the Panther's victory (39:30) The winning goal in Neil's own words (45:58) Other record-breaking teams (52:11) The worth and value of sports (55:29) A hockey expert's take (1:00:44) The "We Believe" Warriors (1:06:20) The Bill Simmons Impact

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Ferrell Takes the Field with Mike O'Gorman

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 03:30:00 -0000

First Ballot doesn't just celebrate the greatest moments in sports--we also celebrate the greatest sports movies of all time! Here to decide whether WIll Ferrell's Baseball documentary "Ferrell Takes the Field" is First Ballot worthy is comedic actor, True Lies star, the latest Ted Lasso "villain" Mike O'Gorman. He breaks down the funniest parts of the film, his TikTok fame (8:55), and his best impressions (53:08).

Showtime Codes:

(4:53) Neil's jumbotron pact

(7:39) Mike's favorite actor to work with

(10:32) A Live Performance of the viral hit "I'm a Building"

(17:30) Ted Lasso Easter eggs

(26:55) The best Will Ferrell Movies

(28:30) Behind the scenes of True Lies

(41:00) Mike's Artistic inspiration: The Oasis!

(50:33) The best sports movie?

(53:08) Christian Bale* joins the pod

(55:30) The secret to good impressions

(1:01:50) Will Ferell getting cut by the A's

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2022 World Cup Final with Isaac K. Lee

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 02:54:00 -0000

The pitch? Kits? Offsides? You don't have to know any soccer terms to know that the 2022 World Cup Final was an electric game. Here to break down soccer and this astonishing game is producer, audio engineer, and musician Isaac K Lee, who also talks about being a Clippers fan (12:00), sports and patriotism (51:00), and his favorite musican (01:08:28)

Showtime Codes:

(12:30) How people become Clippers' fans. (21:20) Who is the top dog in soccer? (32:50) The breakdown of all your favorite silly soccer terms (34:30) What is the world cup? (47:44) The lung capacity of Mbappe (52:30) New Segment: HOT TAKES! (52:40) The best looking trophy (54:20) Isaac's journey into the podcasting world (01:07:45) Best song parody artist of all time (01:08:50) Best nickname in sports

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Serena Williams’ Crip Walk w/ Chloé Hilliard

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:31:00 -0000

Serena Williams tore through the 2012 Summer Olympics tennis tournament like some sort of racquet. Discussing her iconic win and crip walk is none other than brilliant comedian and writer Chloé Hilliard, who also talks about the importance of crediting Black artists and culture (27:00), New York versus LA (49:40), and the magic of Julia Roberts (01:06:00).

Showtime Codes:

(08:45) How Chloé's volleyball dreams were thwarted by basketball (17:30) The power of the Williams' sisters (27:00) Black culture is the backbone of the world's culture (28:35) The importance of crediting Black artists (30:50) The best crip walks (34:27) Chloé's Emmy experience (40:00) What do white people do for joy? (49:40) NYC vs. LA (57:47) Dream Team: A Night of Stand Up (01:03:50) The best comedy set of all time (01:06:00) The magic of Julia Roberts

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The Best First Pitch in Baseball History? with George Anagnostakos

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0000

Jordan Leandre survived a rare cancer diagnosis as a child, became a beloved member of Red Sox Nation, and then threw perhaps the best first pitch in baseball history. TV writer/producer George Anagnostakos breaks down this moment in painstaking detail, discusses the importance of the stadium organ (55:50), and assembles his Dream Team of movie character basketball players (01:07:35).

Showtime Codes:

(13:13) AFV is YouTube before YouTube (19:41) Why shortstop is an excellent phrase (23:00) Jordan's pitch: cocky or comfortable? (25:50) Bad first pitches are the modern day public execution (32:00) "Yeeehk" - the sound Jordan's face made (39:23) Neil and George moonlight as foley artists (40:50) Wally the Green Monster can't take his eyes off the ball (46:40) "Marshawn Lynch correctly identified me as a coward" (46:49) George is the guy in Marshawn's prank videos at Ike's and the sneaker store (55:50) Did the organ player play a special note? (01:03:50) Devil's advocate: Other bad first pitches (01:05:50) Is Conor McGregor's first pitch the worst? (01:07:35) Brand New segment: DREAM TEAM (01:18:22) Special Guest Anthony Capobianco joins the pod! (01:19:25) Anthony pinpoints the place of impact on his body (01:28:00) Wally's burning question: "how close was it to the family jewels?" (01:32:49) George's impression of Jeffrey Tambor in Muppets from Space

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Magic Johnson’s Comeback with Nate Jones

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 06:06:00 -0000

No one thought that Magic Johnson was coming back after his announcement that he was retiring in 1991. When he returned in 1996 to play 32 Games for the Lakers, it was legendary. Determining whether this comeback is First Ballot worthy is NBA Agent and Marketer at Goodwin and Co-Founder of Move Insoles Nate Jones, who also takes time to talk about what it could have been like to watch Shaq play Magic (01:08:16), unknown facts about Dame (11:33), and his favorite players turned media personalities (01:17:07). Plus, his electric impression of wrestler Randy Savage (01:17:50).

Showtime Codes:

(8:55) Nate's favorite: Dame or DeRozan? (11:33) Unknown Facts About Dame (14:29) Nate Sets the Record Straight: He's NOT a Laker Hater (20:53) The Most Amazing Thing About Magic's Comeback (22:22) Kid Nate's Reaction to Magic's Diagnosis (22:58) Kid Neil's Reaction to Magic's Diagnosis (26:46) The New York Knicks Have the Best Production (33:33) The Premier Spring Break Destination: Lake Havasu, Arizona (39:44) The Three Current Players Who Could Playmake Better Than Magic (43:26) Weirder NBA Trajectory: Ben Simmons or Markelle Fultz? (46:55) Charles Barkley's Golf Swing (47:49) Crazier NBA Trajectory: Ben Simmons or LeBron James? (52:06) Wild A** Comebacks: Andre Agassi, Monica Seles, George Foreman (58:20) Neil's Best and Worst NBA Player Predictions (01:01:45) What Would've Had to Happen to Get Barkley to the Lakers (01:12:15) Nate Wonders How His Life Would Be Without Magic's Influence (01:16:25) In N Out vs. Shake Shack (01:17:50) Nate's Excellent Impersonation of Randy Savage

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Randy Johnson Kills A Bird with Alison Agosti

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 16:02:00 -0000

Randy Johnson is known for a lot of things: his perfect game, for being a hall of famer, his occasionally prickly personality...But, Randy Johnson will forever be infamous for his perfect pitch which ended a bird's life during spring training. Brilliant comedy writer (and animal lover) Alison Agosti joins the pod to help decide whether this moment is inducted and talks about witchcraft and destiny (15:28), potentially being anti-bird (52:10), and her love of Derek Jeter.

Showtime Codes: (06:40) The player who won Alison's heart (08:32) The pathway to dating a professional athlete (13:28) A Brand New Credential: Witchcraft! (15:28) Did a bird save a man's life? (27:48) An alternate bird story: Dave Winfield and the "Big Dead Bird" (29:55) Is this Randy's most famous pitch? (33:00) Assisted Bird Suicide--was the bird asking for it? (37:19) The case of premeditated bird murder (40:54) First Ballot's official veterinarian gives his medical opinion (44:53) The collective shock and the fakers in the crowd. (45:50) Neil's guilt of having perfect aim (52:10) Is Alison Anti Bird? (56:20) Fabio and the Bird Strike (1:08:53) Twitter Fingers: The Game! (1:15:50) Best Reality TV Show (1:18:19) Alison's The Office Hot Take (1:20:09) Blowing up her life for this special man

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The 6 OT Game: Syracuse vs. UCONN w/ Nick Bernstein

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 14:28:00 -0000

Perhaps the most apocryphal college basketball game of all-time gets its First Ballot Hall of Fame shot. Is this moment better than you remember? Why did this game stretch so deep into the night? CBS’s senior vice president of late night comes back on the show to discuss his alma mater, Syracuse, retell an amazing story about the Big East Commissioner’s retirement party, and finally tell us about volunteering to help children in the upstate NY area. Plus, the case for Jonny Flynn > Steph Curry, and two new FBHOF Credentials!!!

Showtime Codes:

(4:15) A First Ballot Podcast episode surprise right out of the gate!

(8:55) Nick guesses Neil’s Top 5 Favorite TV Shows

(10:20) The insane analytics behind the 6 OT Game

(17:45) What is the MVP of this game? Is there one?

(34:07) Amazing story about the Big East Commissioner's retirement party

(35:41) Stunning admission from Nick that highly affects his affection for this game

(43:08) The case for Jonny Flynn’s Greatness? The Comment Section a new FBHOF Credential.

(46:50) Where are they now?!? Another new FBHOF Credential!!!

(50:18) Longest Game in college basketball history

(56:57) Nick finally tells us about the Summer Camp he volunteers at every year

(1:07:55) Neil’s challenge to the listeners

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Isaiah Thomas is Cold Blooded with Jake One

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 07:35:00 -0000

The formal introduction of the 5’9’’ inch assassin, Isaiah Thomas, to the national stage. Is a potent mix of IT, Gus Johnson and a sprinkle of March Madness good enough to make the First Ballot Hall of Fame? Music producer extraordinaire, and one half of the music group Tuxedo, Jake One joins to discuss Seattle sports, listening to Funk Flex drop bombs on his hit record in NYC, and what it’s like to perform a Tiny Desk concert. Highlights include:

Showtime Codes:

(6:20) The best and coolest song-production credit of all-time

(15:50) Talking yourself into players on your favorite team (18:23) The marvel of Isaiah’s height (21:12) The need for constant national rankings in all sports (24:23) Classic college kid move. How the Huskies lose to UNC in the NCAA Tournament (27:36) The power and majesty of Gus Johnson (30:00) Jake One with the perfect First Ballot addition: the importance of the sounds of a buzzer beater (34:03) What Isaiah Thomas means to Seattle basketball fans (34:53) How Jake’s career starts in the music industry (37:00) Jake One’s That Thing You Do Moment in NYC. (41:00) The songs that changed Jake One’s life (47:38) The beauty in rooting against other teams (54:16) What it’s like to do a Tiny Desk concert (56:06) Isaiah waves off head coach (58:49) The Mount Rushmore of Seattle Sports (1:00:13) The Isaiah Thomas Towel Story (1:01:21) Neil talks about working on The Jenny Jones Show (1:05:03) The Official College Basketball Fan of the First Ballot Podcast weighs in (1:08:00) Surprising answer to "which athlete is the best rapper?" (1:09:30) The power of good sports branding

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The Beastquake with Marshawn Lynch

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 18:38:00 -0000

Marshawn Lynch's Beast Quake is one of the greatest runs in NFL history. "Beast Mode" joins the pod to talk about his legendary 67-yard touchdown against the New Orleans Saints that registered on a seismograph, his favorite Filipino food (5:33), playing Ray Lewis for the first time (50:25), and why he would be studied by Aliens (35:31).

Showtime codes: (5:33) Marshawn's Favorite Filipino Food(6:03) Are Neil and Marshawn best friends? (6:17) Marshawn talks about not getting the ball at the end of the SB49

(7:38) What do people say to Marshawn when they see him? (12:33) Marshawn breaks down "hatfishing"(16:58) Marshawn tells the story of ruining a car by drifting (18:50) Marshawn’s surprising favorite sport and his favorite athlete of all time (29:26) Marshawn's thoughts on the legendary run (30:26) Marshawn’s favorite stat from the Beastquake (35:31) Why Marshawn would be studied by Aliens(43:38) “I played running back, but I hated running.” (44:19) Marshawn’s favorite football play of all time. (48:26) The defensive players Marshawn wished he could have played against (50:25) Marshawn’s story about playing Ray Lewis for the first time (52:26) A Beast Mode come back?(52:53) Marshawn on his memorable media quotes (58:25) Marshawn on what made the beast quake impressive (58:55) Marshawn addresses his infamous Beastquake celebration (1:01:45) Marshawn and The Scientist (1:03:07) Did Marshawn throw money on a table for his offensive linesman after the beast quake run? (01:04:44) Marshawn’s movie pitch! (01:06:11) Marshawn Lynch and the 2 liter bottle of root beer

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Steph Curry’s First Lookaway with Kirk Lacob

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 06:58:00 -0000

Steph Curry's lookaway jumper might be the best nonverbal trash talk in the NBA. Kirk Lacob, EVP of Basketball Operations for the Golden State Warriors, discusses Steph's original lookaway jumper during Game 4 of the 2013 NBA Playoffs vs the Denver Nuggets, how Steph changed how we watch Basketball (33:28), and the highly coveted snack of the Golden State Warriors--chocolate chip cookies (49:30).

Showtime Codes: (7:30) Kirk's Basketball playing career (12:48) The draft picks Kirk had a hand in (15:21) Bob Myers’ and Steve Kerr’s good looks (19:17) The best part of Steph Curry (20:00) Why this Steph Curry shot is forgettable (21:11) Steph Curry’s final level (21:49) What happened before and after the lookaway (22:35) Why Steph Curry doesn’t need a heat check (25:54) Neil takes down Steph Curry (26:22) The universality of the Steph Curry experience (30:48) Neil brings up the 2020 lakers (32:27) The fleeting nature of the first lookaway (33:28) How Steph’s shot changes the way we watch basketball (37:35) Kirk’s thoughts on his father getting booed by Warriors fans at Chris Mullin's jersey retirement (49:30) Golden State Warriors Cookies (1:00:00) Neil brings up the 2020 Lakers AGAIN

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The Carl Lewis National Anthem with Roy Wood Jr.

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 06:57:00 -0000

Carl Lewis the athlete is a national treasure. His rendition of the national anthem is not. Helping decide whether Carl Lewis' national anthem gets inducted is none other than The Daily Show's Roy Wood Jr., who also gives his take on home run chains (09:54), first pitches (17:03), and the most memorable national anthem performances (14:19). Showtime Codes: (08:38) The Ice Cube of Baseball (11:47) Roy on Rickey Henderson (14:06) Surprise First Credential: Burning Questions! (17:03) Roy Wood Jr.’s Botched First Pitch (19:50) Norm MacDonald’s First Pitch Idea (33:03) The New Jersey Nets’ New Jack City Moment (40:49) “The Roy Wood Jr curse” (22:39) Carl Lewis' National Anthem Performance (42:40) Roy Wood Jr.'s quote of the night! (43:30) Comparing the Worst National Anthem Performance (52:30) Roy’s Stirring Breakdown of the WKRP in Cincinnati Theme Song (54:50) More Important - America's Favorite Podcast segment (56:15) Roy’s Shocking Favorite Beverage Answer (1:00:32) Co-Sign (1:01:42) Induction Speech

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LeBron’s Runner vs Toronto with Dragonfly Jonez

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 06:52:00 -0000

Returning to discuss the first LeBron moment on the show is none other than the legendary Dragonfly Jonez! Neil and Dragonfly break down the fireworks display LeBron put on against the Raptors in 2018. Is the Game 3 runner the Point Leader’s most famous points? Plus, NBA predictions (06:57), and how to construct the perfect GOAT argument (43:30).

Showtime Codes:

(18:45) Getting into the moment (31:50) Comparing great buzzer beaters (33:59) Shitting on Paul Pierce (35:17) Lebron's greatest game winners (39:08) Dragonfly's Career Goals (55:35) Dragonfly Jonez Twitter Fingers (1:04:10) More Important - America's Favorite Podcast segment (1:10:04) Co-Sign (1:13:53) Induction Speech

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Glazed Donut Face Ass with Keith Fujimoto

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 06:45:00 -0000

Twitter was born in 2006, with few understanding the platform’s power and the repercussions that come from it. On the last day 2013, Carmelo Anthony got embroiled in a Twitter fight with one of his biggest fans, which lead to one of the great insults and collection of words that have ever graced the human ear. Keith Fujimoto, social coordinator at The Ringer, joins the pod to talk about this iconic tweet (11:03), getting blocked by Andre Drummond (14:50), and some of the best NBA tweets of all time (24:50).

Showtime codes: 01:36 - The First Ballot Theme Song 04:30 - NBA Trivia 14:50 - How Keith Got Blocked by Andre Drummond 24:50 - What are the Best NBA tweets of all time? 35:05 - Keith’s rap name 46:30 - MVP of the tweet 50:43 - More Important - America’s Favorite Podcast Segment 56:03 - Special Guest Cameo: The Guy Carmelo Anthony Called a Glazed Donut Face Ass! He gives his side of the story 1:07:04 - Voting Committee Deliberation 1:09:20 - Co Sign 1:10:25 - Induction Speech

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Luka’s 60 vs. Donovan’s 71 with Travonne Edwards

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 06:57:00 -0000

In a 126-121 overtime win, Luka Doncic’s 60 point triple double stunned NBA twitter. Similarly, in another overtime victory, Donovan Mitchell scored 71 points securing a win for his team and making history as the 12th time a player has surpassed the 70-point scoring mark in a single game. Both are incredible moments but are either First Ballot Hall of Fame worthy? Helping us decide is podcast entrepreneur, writer and podcaster at The Athletic, creative at Wieden Kennedy Travonne Edwards, who also talks about pivoting away from his own NBA dreams (05:00), being part of a NBA entourage (39:11), and Brandon Jennings gold knives (42:30).

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2022 HS Football Play of the Year: The Strip Six with Pranav Iyer

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 08:10:00 -0000

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The Van Gundy Leg Fight with Dan Devine

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 05:50:00 -0000

From defensive masterminds to offensive wizards, the NBA is full of legendary coaches. But how often do we see these coaches put their body on the line? After a heated 1997 Eastern Conference Semifinals, the New York Knicks and Miami Heat met again in the first round of the 1998 NBA playoffs. In the last few seconds of Game 4, former teammates turned heated rivals Larry Johnson and Alonzo Mourning threw punches causing Knicks Head Coach Jeff Van Gundy to run across the court and cling to Mourning's leg. Dan Devine, National NBA Writer for Yahoo Sports, talks about this iconic coaching moment, navigating the world of sports writing, the (limited) best moments in Knicks history, and his favorite NBA interview.

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Pippen Dunks on Ewing with Ben Osborne

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 17:04:00 -0000

In 1993, Scottie Pippen became the leader for the Chicago Bulls after Michael Jordan shocked the basketball world and announced his "retirement". During that season, the Robin to MJ's Batman had one of his best statistical seasons with career highs in points per game and steals per game leading the Bulls to 55 wins. In the playoffs, Pippen led the Bulls to the semi-finals against the Patrick Ewing led New York Knicks and in a win or go-home situation in Game 6, demolishing Ewing with one of the most savage dunks in NBA history. Ben Osborne, writer and former editor-in-chief of SLAM Magazine, breaks down this iconic dunk, how basketball has shaped culture, and the precarious relationship between the media and athletes.

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2022 Year End Wrap with Yannick Souvré

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 14:08:00 -0000

This year has been full of First Ballot Hall of Fame moments, from Kobe Bryant and the quarter inch to Rich Strike winning the Kentucky Derby. In this special edition of the First Ballot Hall of Fame we revisit Vince Carter's "Dunk of Death" with Yannick Souvré, French Basketball Hall of Famer and "U MAD" icon, to break down witnessing Vince Carter's "Dunk of Death" and talk about her storied French basketball career.

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The First Ballot Holiday Spectacular

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 05:20:00 -0000

A holiday celebration worth inducting into the First Ballot hall of fame! With over six special guests, Q&As with Neil, favorite holiday stories, and of course, caroling, join us for a spectacular episode you won't want to miss.

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Capturing Moments with Andrew Bernstein

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 15:11:00 -0000

Magic and Bird fighting for a rebound. Michael Jordan dunking on the Lakers. Kobe in an ice bucket. Behind nearly every iconic sports moment, there's a photo immortalizing that epic feat. No one understands this better than Andrew Bernstein, the FIRST official NBA photographer and the official team photographer for the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers. Andrew joins First Ballot to talk about capturing some of the NBA's greatest moments, his thoughts on cell phone photography, and pitching Kobe.

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Aaron Bleeping Boone with Patrick Monahan

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 17:19:00 -0000

In game 7 of the 2003 American League Championship Series between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, Aaron Boone made his mark on one of the greatest rivalries in all of sports. On the first pitch of the bottom of the 11th inning Boone hits an absolute dinger to send the Yankees to the World Series and become the hero in game 7. Comedian, lawyer, and co-host of "What a Time to be Alive" Patrick Monahan (@pattymo) breaks down this home run, baseball curses, and creating a wrestler on N64.

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Clippers vs. Jazz Game 6 with Payman Benz

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 04:55:00 -0000

For one half of basketball, a group of rag tag LA Clippers turned in one of the finest scoring performances in NBA history to defeat the Utah Jazz in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Listen to Hollywood new go-to director, Payman Benz, discuss watching this comeback live, what it’s like to direct LeBron James and HBO’s Winning Time series on the Lakers, as a devout Clippers fan. Plus, a cameo from Blake Lively!

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The 2001 Pepsi 400

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 07:54:00 -0000

This could genuinely be the best moment in any sport ever. Whether you watch racing or not, this story will move you. The Eanrhardts and Waltrips are NASCAR’s royal families, and those names intertwined in a special way in the 2001 Winston Cup Championship season. A very special guest breaks down every angle of this very special race, teaches us about stock car racing as a sport, and explain stealing my Charles Barkley rookie card.

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Derek Fisher's .4 with Amir Blumenfeld

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 07:46:00 -0000

In just four tenths of a second during the 2004 Western Conference Semifinals between the LA Lakers and San Antonio Spurs, Derek Fisher proved why that even in a league dominated by superstars, role players are the back bone of the NBA. Out of a timeout, following a Tim Duncan circus shot, D-Fish hits nothing but net to win Game 5 of the series. Comedian, entrepeneur, and HeadGum co-founder Amir Blumenfeld joins the pod to talk about pioneering internet comedy, punching your co-workers, and if this shot is First Ballot Hall of Fame worthy.

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Rickey Henderson’s 1989 ALCS with Jesse Thorn

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 07:27:00 -0000

Rickey Henderson could be both the best baseball player to ever play the sport and one of the most underrated athletes of our time. Impossibly talented, and completely different. Rickey is 1 of 1. Listen to the host of NPR’s Bullseye, Jesse Thorn, as he discusses what made Rickey’s play during the Fall of 1989 so unique, argues about the best sports team uniform of all time, and plays another rousing game of Baseball Names!

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Kobe Bryant and the Quarter Inch with Gerald Henderson Jr.

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 04:18:00 -0000

The first time 8-year NBA veteran Gerald Henderson Jr. guarded Kobe Bryant, his special moment facing an NBA legend was overshadowed by an even more special, and wholly unique moment with The Black Mamba before the game that’s almost too good to be true. Plus, Henderson finally addresses two of the most savage, infamous errant passes in recent NBA history, before fighting with another NBA legend live on the show. A very special episode of First Ballot.

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The Joakim Noah Steal and Dunk with Trey Kerby

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 03:16:00 -0000

Joakim Noah stole the ball from Paul Pierce, dunked on Paul Pierce, and fouled Paul Pierce out of the game. Oh, and it was in triple overtime! Here to talk about this win or go home moment is a co-host of the No Dunks podcast, Trey Kerby, who also reveals his favorite celebration candy, his favorite dunk, and whether James Harden stole his beard.

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The Giannis Block with Michael Starrbury

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 05:11:00 -0000

Giannis’s block on DeAndre Ayton in the NBA Finals is barely human, but that’s what makes it so special. Screenwriter, Producer and Filmmaker Michael Starrbury talks Giannis’ arrival as an NBA legend, and discusses what it’s like to have his work screened at the White House by Michelle Obama, and what movie he’s embarrassed to love.

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Kobe's 62 in 3 with Chris Manning

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 16:55:00 -0000

On December 20, 2005, Kobe Bryant dominated the Dallas Mavericks. In just three quarters of basketball, the Black Mamba scored 62 points, more than the entire Mavericks team combined. NBA 2K's Chris Manning joins the pod to talk about creating the greatest Lakers hype videos, his memorable interaction with Danny DeVito, and if this epic Kobe moment is First Ballot Hall of Fame worthy.

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Tony Hawk's 900 with Eunice Chang

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 05:17:00 -0000

900 degrees. Simple to explain, nearly impossible to land. But at the 1999 X Games, Tony Hawk spun two and a half times in the air and made history to land the first ever 900 on a skateboard. Trailblazing skateboarder/model extraordinare Eunice Chang (@notcheetos) discusses the greatness of this moment, finding community in skateboarding, and leaving the corporate tech world to pursue her passions.

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The DK Metcalf Chasedown with Mike Camerlengo

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 04:32:00 -0000

DK Metcalf went absolute horsemode to tackle Budda Baker and prevent a pick 6 touchdown. Comedian Mike Camerlengo discusses the truly insane stats behind the moment and compares DK’s run to famous runs from classic movies.

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Vince Carter’s “Dunk of Death” with David Astramskas

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 05:37:48 -0000

Vice Carter jumped over a 7’2” French dude for an Olympic dunk and maybe the best dunk of all-time. Social basketball pioneer and Ballislife veteran David Astramskas comes on the show to talk about pirating basketball footage across international waters, Tom Gugliotta and the basketball version of The Last Boyscout.

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Bartman with David Stassen

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 05:38:02 -0000

Steve Bartman tried to catch one foul ball during a Cubs playoff game and was then forced into hiding for 20 years. Comedy writer, executive producer and director extraordinaire, David Stassen talks about one of the most notorious sports moments of the 21st century, and then talks trash about the Chicago Bulls’ Randy Brown, baseball great Will Clark and his comedy partner Ike Barinholtz.

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Derrick Rose’s Game 3 Bank Shot with Ernest Wilkins

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 04:12:41 -0000

Derrick Rose’s Playoff buzzer beater was more than just a win. Listen as Twitter’s Ernest Wilkins makes an impassioned case for the Hall of Fame, and talks Frank Thomas pills and the Holy Grail of Starter Jackets.

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Notre Dame vs. Miami 2017 with FOS CEO Adam White

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 06:32:25 -0000

Notre Dame and Miami. The Fighting Irish face the Hurricanes. ND vs. The U. What’s so special about this historic matchup in 2017? The CEO of Front Office Sports talks about his South Beach alma mater and how he built a company valued at 25 million out of his dorm room. Plus, the rudest segment in podcasting: More Important!!!

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Rich Strike with Nick Bernstein

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 15:17:52 -0000

In the 2022 Kentucky Derby, Rich Strike overcame 80-1 odds to pull off one of the greatest upsets in horse racing history. Esteemed guest Nick Bernstein, SVP of Late Night Programming West Coast at Paramount, talks about one of the greatest sports stories you’ve never heard and the secret behind his luscious locks.

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T-Mac’s 13 in 35 with Alex Kennedy

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 23:19:59 -0000

On a cold December night in 2004, Tracy McGrady recorded one of the NBA’s great offensive binges, and stole a win from the San Antonio Spurs, by scoring 13 points in the last 35 seconds of the game. Guest Alex Kennedy passionately campaigns for one of his favorite moments, then chats Manu Ginobili with a full wig of hair, favorite dunks, and what makes a moment a First Ballot Hall of Famer.

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Mitchell vs Murray Duel with Claire De Lune

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 05:42:27 -0000

With a combined total of 475 points, 65 three-pointers, nine 30+ point games, and four 50+ point games, Donovan Mitchell and Jamal Murray’s match up in the first round Western Conference between the Jazz and Nuggets was one of the highlights of the 2020 NBA Bubble. Honored guest Claire De Lune talks about the songwriting process, whether Lebron James is better than Michael Jordan, and gives her take on if this moment is First Ballot Hall of Fame worthy.

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The Michigan vs Michigan State Punt Fumble with Phil Lewis

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 03:28:44 -0000

The Michigan Wolverines were 10 seconds and one punt away from winning college football’s sibling rivalry matchup against the Michigan State Spartans. But what happened during the game is only part of what makes this moment special. Plus, is guest @Phil_Lewis_ down with Woj or Shams, and his love of the 2004 Pistons

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28-3 with Jacques Slade

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 03:30:19 -0000

Incredible comeback or epic collapse? Who is responsible for what happened in Super Bowl 51 between the Falcons and the Patriots, and is this moment First Ballot Hall of Fame-worthy? Plus, our guest @kustoo plays the game that’s tearing up the podcast world — True or False — to find out which popular rapper owes their career to Mr. Slade. Finally, Sneaker Stumped!!! Find out which sneakers our host owned, that Jacques doesn’t even remember existing.

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Meet Me in Temecula with @SnottieDrippen

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 00:30:06 -0000

On Christmas Day 2014, a fight on twitter became a scheduled fight in Temecula, California, and signaled a change in modern sports fandom. @SnottieDrippen vs. @MyTweetsRealAF. You cannot make this up. Plus, who’s the most underrated player in all of basketball history?

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Bobby Valentine’s Mustache with Sean O’Connor

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 15:22:45 -0000

Bobby V spent 43 years in professional baseball and is 100% best known for getting ejected and returning to the Mets dugout in wearing a fake mustache. Comedian Sean O’Connor helps decide if the stache is headed to the Hall of Fame, and discusses life on the road with the legendary Norm Macdonald.

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The Helmet Catch with Jon Gabrus

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 05:16:39 -0000

What’s more impressive: Catching a football with your helmet, having the game of your life when it matters most, winning the Super Bowl or destroying your opponents’ shot at immortality? All that plus making eye contact with Charlize Theron with podcast Hall of Famer, @gabrus.

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The Lakers Don’t Care About Conference Championships with Ryan Bergara

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 04:11:51 -0000

Most teams celebrate making the Finals, but in 2010, the Los Angeles Lakers sent a message, and created one of the Coldest Moments in NBA History. Guest Ryan Bergara goes deep on Game 6, discusses his career, and shares some good old fashioned, real ghost stories.

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Klay’s 37 with Zach Harper

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 14:15:06 -0000

NBA Champion Klay Thompson scored 37 points. In about 10 minutes, during one quarter, of a professional basketball game. The rest of the game? Eh. Is one sterling quarter enough for the First Ballot Hall of Fame? Plus, guest Zach Harper (@talkhoops) breaks down Julia Louis Dreyfus, the Anthony Edwards Battle for Supremacy, and what makes an NBA run the best thing in the world.

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Shawn Kemp’s Lister Blister vs. The Gatling Dap with @Dunkcomp

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 04:15:07 -0000

Shawn Kemp’s dunks are fully electric. Shawn Kemp would have left the Internet in ribbons. It’s time we commemorate Shawn Kemp the right way, by deciding which of his dunks should make the First Ballot Hall of Fame: his most infamous, or his most underappreciated? A 90’s basketball geekfest with guest @Dunkcomp. Plus, the importance of the post-dunk celebration, and a conversation as to whether Kevin Calabro is the best NBA announcer of all-time.

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The Ogunbowale Final Four with Jordan Ligons

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 04:39:43 -0000

Arike Ogunbowale may have the most underrated sports moment of the last 30 years. Co-host of Spinsters podcast, Jordan Ligons (@_jordanligons) discusses whether Ogunbowale’s back-to-back game and National Championship winners are the Greatest Moment in NCAA Basketball History. Plus, Jordan shares details on the most insane college mascot that’s ever existed.

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Iverson Over Lue with Nick Wiger

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 03:47:49 -0000

All 6 feet and 165 lbs of Allen Iverson had to face the Best Duo in NBA History — Shaq and Kobe — and the Los Angeles Lakers, who were undefeated in the 2001 NBA Playoffs. What Iverson did that night was create one of the Most Enduring Sports Moment in the last two decades, but will two die-hard Laker fans allow it into the First Ballot Hall of Fame? Nick Wiger (@nickwiger) of the Legendary Doughboys podcast discusses Iverson’s heavy-looking shoes, how Iverson saved Ty Lue’s career, and his own wildly successful podcast career.

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They Don’t Love You Like That! with Josiah Johnson

Thu, 26 May 2022 02:55:42 -0000

Is Draymond Green’s ruthless berating of Paul Pierce Hall of Fame worthy? The King of NBA Twitter, Josiah Johnson (@KingJosiah54) helps decide whether Draymond is the King of NBA Trash Talk, and talks about visiting his dad on set of the classic movie White Men Can’t Jump.

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Bo vs. Deion with Joon Lee

Thu, 19 May 2022 03:38:56 -0000

Bo Jackson and Deion Sanders are ICONS of the highest order, two sport superstars and feisty rivals. You will not believe what happened the first and ONLY time they faced each other in professional competition. Plus, our guest, ESPN’s @joonlee, tells a world-class Reggie Jackson story and talks price tag on a Bo/Deion throwback t-shirt.

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Rudy F-ing Gay with Molly Morrison

Thu, 12 May 2022 03:41:28 -0000

A crushing loss for the Toronto Raptors gave birth to a legendary, #NBAtwitter viral video. We get the real story behind the moment, then guest Molly Morrison's (@mollyhannahm) theory that will change NBA fans forever.

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Hell in a Cell with Solomon Missouri

Thu, 05 May 2022 04:03:17 -0000

To Hell and Back! A deep dive on what might be the Greatest Professional Wrestling Match of All-Time — Hell in a Cell: Undertaker vs. Mankind — with our guest, the Reverend @solomonmissouri

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Shaq Attacks Dudley with Jason Concepcion

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 15:15:38 -0000

Honoring Shaquille O’Neal’s annihilation of Chris Dudley with Jason Concepcion (@netw3rk)

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The Damian Lillard Wave with Dragonfly Jonez

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 00:53:34 -0000

Premiere episode celebrating the majesty of the Damian Lillard Wave with @DragonflyJonez.

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