The Best of the Sports Shop

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the Timberwolves loss to the Thunder and the Knicks matchup tonight against the Pacers.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured their spot in the 2025 NBA Finals with a commanding 124-94 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals last night. This decisive win clinched the series 4-1, propelling the Thunder to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012. The Timberwolves struggled throughout the game, unable to match the Thunder's intensity and execution. Despite the efforts of key players, Minnesota couldn't overcome the deficit, leading to their elimination from the playoffs. What do we think about Anthony Edwards? Is he immature?

In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals Tuesday night, the New York Knicks fell to the Indiana Pacers with a final score of 130-121. This loss gave the Pacers a 3-1 series lead, placing the Knicks in a must-win situation for Game 5. The Knicks will need to win tonight to avoid elimination and force a Game 6 back in Indianapolis. Can the Knicks stay alive and force a Game 6?

Reese, Pam and Alex speak with Dr. Deborah Stroman.

Dr. Stroman gives the Sports Shop crew a quiz on The French Open. How did they do?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the ACC basketball schedule changes and Greg Sankey's comments on the SEC.

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) recently announced a significant change to its men's basketball schedule, reducing the conference slate from 20 to 18 games starting with the 2025–26 season. This adjustment aims to provide teams with more opportunities to schedule high-profile non conference matchups, thereby enhancing their NCAA Tournament prospects. This strategic move comes in response to the ACC's declining representation in the NCAA Tournament, with only four teams receiving bids in the previous season—the fewest since 2013. What exactly does the schedule change do?

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized the Southeastern Conference's (SEC) support for the expanded 12-team CFP, highlighting that it could potentially reduce the SEC's representation compared to the previous four-team model. Sankey also addressed the broader governance of college sports, supporting more autonomy within the NCAA structure while acknowledging internal frustrations. What should we think?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the Thunder advancing to the NBA Finals and if Anthony Edwards is immature.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured their spot in the 2025 NBA Finals with a commanding 124-94 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals last night. This decisive win clinched the series 4-1, propelling the Thunder to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012. The Timberwolves struggled throughout the game, unable to match the Thunder's intensity and execution. Despite the efforts of key players, Minnesota couldn't overcome the deficit, leading to their elimination from the playoffs. What do we think about Anthony Edwards?

The Carolina Hurricanes were eliminated from the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs last night, May 28, after a 5-3 loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Final. This defeat ended their postseason run and allowed the Panthers to advance to their third consecutive Stanley Cup Final.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the Thunder advancing to the NBA Finals and the Hurricanes being eliminated from playoffs.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured their spot in the 2025 NBA Finals with a commanding 124-94 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals last night. This decisive win clinched the series 4-1, propelling the Thunder to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with an impressive 34 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds, Western Conference Finals MVP honors. The Thunder's dominance was evident throughout the game, as they overwhelmed the Timberwolves, who were outmatched in this series.

The Timberwolves struggled throughout the game, unable to match the Thunder's intensity and execution. Despite the efforts of key players, Minnesota couldn't overcome the deficit, leading to their elimination from the playoffs. What do we think about Anthony Edwards?

The Carolina Hurricanes were eliminated from the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs last night, May 28, after a 5-3 loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Final. This defeat ended their postseason run and allowed the Panthers to advance to their third consecutive Stanley Cup Final.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss why Shedeur Sanders slid in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Initially projected as a potential first overall pick, Shedeur Sanders, the Colorado Buffaloes quarterback, fell dramatically to the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round at pick No. 144. This unexpected drop resulted in a substantial financial difference compared to earlier selections. Why did Shedeur Sanders slide to the 5th round in the 2025 NFL Draft?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss college football, if Tyrese Haliburton is overlooked and more.

The college football season is less than 90 days away. How do Reese and Kmac feel about Georgia and Alabama?

In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals last night, the New York Knicks fell to the Indiana Pacers with a final score of 130-121. This loss gives the Pacers a 3-1 series lead, placing the Knicks in a must-win situation for Game 5.

Tyrese Haliburton recorded a triple-double with 32 points, 15 assists, 12 rebounds, and zero turnovers. This was his second triple-double in postseason play. Does Haliburton get enough respect? Game 5 is scheduled for Thursday in New York. The Knicks will need to win to avoid elimination and force a Game 6 back in Indianapolis. Can the Knicks win an NBA Title with Jalen Brunson?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Aaron Rodgers, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bill Belichick and more.

Aaron Rodgers is still without an NFL team. The Steelers have expressed interest in signing Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP and future Hall of Famer, to bolster their quarterback position. However, Rodgers has yet to commit, leading to speculation and internal discussions within the team.

Pittsburgh's current quarterback roster includes Mason Rudolph, who rejoined the team on a two-year, $7.5 million deal, rookie Will Howard, and Skylar Thompson. Rodgers' potential arrival would significantly impact the depth chart, with Rudolph acknowledging the "constant noise" surrounding the situation but focusing on his role during OTAs.

Rodgers has a deadline of June 10-12, 2025, to decide whether to sign with the Steelers, coinciding with the team's mandatory minicamp. Steelers president Art Rooney II remains optimistic, expressing confidence in Rodgers potentially joining the team

Terry Bradshaw, a Hall of Fame Steelers quarterback, criticized the idea of signing Rodgers, labeling it as "a joke" and questioning the logic of bringing in a 41-year-old for a short-term deal. Why isn't Aaron Rodgers a Pittsburgh Steeler? Will Rodgers make a decision soon? Will the Steelers get Kirk Cousins?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the Pacers win over the Knicks in Game 4.

In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals last night, the New York Knicks fell to the Indiana Pacers with a final score of 130-121. This loss gives the Pacers a 3-1 series lead, placing the Knicks in a must-win situation for Game 5.

Tyrese Haliburton recorded a triple-double with 32 points, 15 assists, 12 rebounds, and zero turnovers. This was his second triple-double in postseason play. Pascal Siakam added 30 points, and Obi Toppin's late three-pointer sealed the game.

Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 31 points but struggled with three turnovers. Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 24 points and 12 rebounds, while OG Anunoby added 22 points. Despite these efforts, the Knicks couldn't overcome the Pacers' sustained lead. Game 5 is scheduled for Thursday in New York. The Knicks will need to win to avoid elimination and force a Game 6 back in Indianapolis. Can the Knicks win an NBA Title with Jalen Brunson?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex preview Game 4 of Knicks vs Pacers and discuss Caitlin Clark's injury.

In Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the New York Knicks secured a crucial 106-100 victory over the Indiana Pacers, narrowing the series deficit to 2-1. Karl-Anthony Towns erupted for 20 points in the final period, leading the Knicks' comeback from a 20-point deficit. His performance was instrumental in the team's resurgence.

Coach Tom Thibodeau made strategic changes, including inserting Mitchell Robinson into the starting lineup and staggering the minutes of Towns and Brunson to enhance defensive stability while also playing more guys off the bench. Game 4 is tonight at 8:00 PM Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Can the Knicks win game 4 tonight?

Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever's star guard, is sidelined for at least two weeks due to a left quadriceps strain. This injury occurred during the Fever's narrow 90-88 loss to the New York Liberty over the weekend. Clark had been averaging 19.0 points, 6 rebounds, and leading the league with 9.3 assists per game before the injury. This marks the first significant injury of Clark's career, as she had previously played 183 consecutive games across college and professional basketball.

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss if Anthony Edwards has been disappointing and if Shai Gilgeous Alexander is a free-throw merchant and earned his MVP honors.

In Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, the Minnesota Timberwolves narrowly lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder, 128-126, at home. This defeat puts the Timberwolves on the brink of elimination, trailing the series 3-1. SGA delivered a career playoff-high 40 points, leading the Thunder to victory. 

Despite a strong bench performance from the Timberwolves contributing 64 points, Minnesota's star duo, Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle, combined for only 21 points on 6-of-20 shooting. The Timberwolves will look to regroup and force a Game 6 in Oklahoma City on Wednesday night. Should people feel differently about Anthony Edwards? What's going on with Ant and Julius Randle? Is this series over? Did Shai Gilegeous Alexander deserve MVP? Is Shai Gilgeous Alexander a free-throw merchant? Who is the worst flopper: James Harden, Shai Gilgeous Alexander or Jalen Brunson? Has Anthony Edwards been disappointing?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss John Haliburton's ban being removed, Travis Hunter's wedding gift, the Knicks Game 3 win and more.

Travis Hunter, the Jacksonville Jaguars' No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, married Leanna Lenee over the weekend.The couple, who have been together since high school, celebrated their union with a lavish black-and-white-themed ceremony.Just moments after the ceremony, Travis surprised Leanna with a six-figure vehicle. While the gift received praise from fans, some expressed concern over the lavish spending.This gesture adds to a history of extravagant gifts between the couple.Travis Hunter's Lavish Wedding and Gift to Fiancée

Tyrese Haliburton's father, John Haliburton, was banned from attending Indiana Pacers games due to an incident during the first-round playoff series against the Milwaukee Bucks. John Haliburton has now been reinstated and is now allowed to attend Pacers home games. Initially, the Pacers and the NBA imposed a ban on John attending both home and away games for the foreseeable future. However, after serving the suspension, the Pacers have reversed the decision for home games only. John Haliburton is expected to be in attendance for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks tonight. Should John Haliburton be allowed back?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Travis Hunter's wedding gift and Caitlin Clark's injury.

Travis Hunter, the Jacksonville Jaguars' No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, married Leanna Lenee over the weekend. The couple, who have been together since high school, celebrated their union with a lavish black-and-white-themed ceremony. Just moments after the ceremony, Travis surprised Leanna with a six-figure vehicle. While the gift received praise from fans, some expressed concern over the lavish spending. This gesture adds to a history of extravagant gifts between the couple.

Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever's star guard, is sidelined for at least two weeks due to a left quadriceps strain. This injury occurred during the Fever's narrow 90-88 loss to the New York Liberty over the weekend. Clark had been averaging 19.0 points, 6 rebounds, and leading the league with 9.3 assists per game before the injury. This marks the first significant injury of Clark's career, as she had previously played 183 consecutive games across college and professional basketball.

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the Hurricanes Game 4 win and John Haliburton being allowed to attend Pacers games again.

In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Carolina Hurricanes secured a crucial 3-0 victory over the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. This win prevents a series sweep and keeps the Hurricanes' playoff hopes alive, reducing the Panthers' series lead to 3-1. The Hurricanes will aim to extend the series in Game 5, scheduled for Wednesday night at PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Tyrese Haliburton's father, John Haliburton, was banned from attending Indiana Pacers games due to an incident during the first-round playoff series against the Milwaukee Bucks. After the Pacers' Game 5 victory, John Haliburton entered the court and confronted Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, leading to a heated exchange. This behavior prompted the Pacers and the NBA to impose a ban on his attendance at games for the foreseeable future.

John Haliburton has now been reinstated and is now allowed to attend Pacers home games. Initially, the Pacers and the NBA imposed a ban on John attending both home and away games for the foreseeable future. However, after serving the suspension, the Pacers have reversed the decision for home games only. John Haliburton is expected to be in attendance for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks tonight. Should John Haliburton be allowed back?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the Knicks win in Game 3 and the Timberwolves loss in Game 4.

In Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the New York Knicks secured a crucial 106-100 victory over the Indiana Pacers, narrowing the series deficit to 2-1. Karl-Anthony Towns erupted for 20 points in the final period, leading the Knicks' comeback from a 20-point deficit. His performance was instrumental in the team's resurgence.

Coach Tom Thibodeau made strategic changes, including inserting Mitchell Robinson into the starting lineup and staggering the minutes of Towns and Brunson to enhance defensive stability while also playing more guys off the bench. This victory has revitalized the Knicks' playoff hopes, showcasing their resilience and strategic adjustments. Game 4 is tonight at 8:00 PM Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pacers currently lead the series 2-1. With the series now at 2-1 in favor of the Pacers, Game 4 is crucial for both teams as they look to take control of the series. Can the Knicks win game 4 tonight?

In Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, the Minnesota Timberwolves narrowly lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder, 128-126, at home. This defeat puts the Timberwolves on the brink of elimination, trailing the series 3-1. SGA delivered a career playoff-high 40 points, leading the Thunder to victory. 

Despite a strong bench performance from the Timberwolves contributing 64 points, Minnesota's star duo, Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle, combined for only 21 points on 6-of-20 shooting. The Timberwolves will look to regroup and force a Game 6 in Oklahoma City on Wednesday night. Should people feel differently about Anthony Edwards? What's going on with Ant and Julius Randle? Is this series over?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the best cookout dishes for Memorial Day.

Memorial Day is Monday, May 26. With Memorial Day approaching rapidly, what are the best cookout dishes? What are your favorites?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the meaning behind and importance of Memorial Day. 

What Is Memorial Day?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the NBA Playoffs.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a commanding 118-103 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals last night. This win gives the Thunder a 2-0 series lead as the teams head to Minnesota for Game 3.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 38 points just one day after being named the NBA MVP. The Thunder's defense was suffocating, forcing 14 turnovers from the Timberwolves and limiting them to just 41.4% shooting from the field. A decisive 35-21 3rd quarter run pushed Oklahoma City's lead to 22 points, effectively sealing the game.

With the Thunder now leading the series 2-0, the Timberwolves face an uphill battle to regain momentum. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday in Minnesota, where the Timberwolves will look to defend their home court and avoid falling into a 0–3 deficit. Why are the Timberwolves struggling so much? What do they need to do differently? Is the series over already?

The New York Knicks suffered a stunning 138-135 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday night. The Knicks held a commanding 14-point lead with just 2:39 remaining in regulation but faltered in the final minutes, allowing the Pacers to force overtime and eventually secure the victory.

Despite strong performances from Jalen Brunson (43 points) and Karl-Anthony Towns (35 points, 12 rebounds), the Knicks' late-game collapse overshadowed their efforts. Can the Knicks recover from this loss? Is the series over already? The Knicks will look to rebound in Game 2 tonight at Madison Square Garden. What do the Knicks and Timberwolves need to do differently? Are the Knicks in trouble? Is tonight a must-win game for New York?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss the altercation between Caitlin Clark and Rhyne Howard.

A notable on-court incident occurred between Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever and Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream during a WNBA game. Late in the first quarter, following a foul called on Howard, Clark made contact by shoving her shoulder into Howard. This action led to a brief confrontation at center court, characterized by shoving and exchanged words. Cameras captured Clark mouthing, "I'm not scared of you," while giving a sarcastic thumbs-up.

Despite the tensions, the Fever secured an 81-76 victory, avenging a narrow loss earlier in the week. In the aftermath, Clark addressed the incident, downplaying its significance and emphasizing that her intent was not malicious. She described the altercation as a routine basketball play and expressed confusion over the referees' decision to upgrade the foul. What is going on? How do WNBA players feel about Clark?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss what the Knicks and Timberwolves need to change.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a commanding 118-103 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals last night. This win gives the Thunder a 2-0 series lead as the teams head to Minnesota for Game 3.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 38 points just one day after being named the NBA MVP. The Thunder's defense was suffocating, forcing 14 turnovers from the Timberwolves and limiting them to just 41.4% shooting from the field. A decisive 35-21 3rd quarter run pushed Oklahoma City's lead to 22 points, effectively sealing the game.

With the Thunder now leading the series 2-0, the Timberwolves face an uphill battle to regain momentum. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday in Minnesota, where the Timberwolves will look to defend their home court and avoid falling into a 0–3 deficit. Why are the Timberwolves struggling so much? What do they need to do differently? Is the series over already?

The New York Knicks suffered a stunning 138-135 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday night. The Knicks held a commanding 14-point lead with just 2:39 remaining in regulation but faltered in the final minutes, allowing the Pacers to force overtime and eventually secure the victory.

Despite strong performances from Jalen Brunson (43 points) and Karl-Anthony Towns (35 points, 12 rebounds), the Knicks' late-game collapse overshadowed their efforts. Can the Knicks recover from this loss? Is the series over already? The Knicks will look to rebound in Game 2 tonight at Madison Square Garden. What do the Knicks and Timberwolves need to do differently? Are the Knicks in trouble? Is tonight a must-win game for New York?

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss the Thunder's win over the Timberwolves and the Hurricanes loss to the Panthers.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a commanding 118-103 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals last night. This win gives the Thunder a 2-0 series lead as the teams head to Minnesota for Game 3.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 38 points just one day after being named the NBA MVP. The Thunder's defense was suffocating, forcing 14 turnovers from the Timberwolves and limiting them to just 41.4% shooting from the field. A decisive 35-21 3rd quarter run pushed Oklahoma City's lead to 22 points, effectively sealing the game.

With the Thunder now leading the series 2-0, the Timberwolves face an uphill battle to regain momentum. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday in Minnesota, where the Timberwolves will look to defend their home court and avoid falling into a 0–3 deficit. Would OKC vs Indiana be a bad finals matchup? Would you watch?

The Carolina Hurricanes suffered a 5-0 defeat to the Florida Panthers in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Final last night. This loss puts the Hurricanes in a 2-0 series deficit as the teams head to Florida for the next games.

The Hurricanes faced challenges throughout the game, with Frederik Andersen being pulled after allowing four goals. The team's offense was stifled, and they were unable to generate significant scoring opportunities.

With the Panthers leading the series 2-0, the Hurricanes will need to regroup and adjust their strategies as the series shifts to Florida. The upcoming games will be crucial for Carolina to stay competitive in the series. Is the series over for both the Timberwolves and Hurricanes?

Reese, Kmac and Alex preview tonight's OKC vs Minnesota Game 2 matchup and discuss the Knicks loss to the Pacers last night.

Last night, the New York Knicks suffered a stunning 138-135 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The Knicks held a commanding 14-point lead with just 2:39 remaining in regulation but faltered in the final minutes, allowing the Pacers to force overtime and eventually secure the victory.

Tyrese Haliburton played a pivotal role, sending the game into overtime. In the extra period, the Pacers outscored the Knicks 13-6.

Despite strong performances from Jalen Brunson (43 points) and Karl-Anthony Towns (35 points, 12 rebounds), the Knicks' late-game collapse overshadowed their efforts. The loss marks a historic playoff meltdown. The Knicks will look to rebound in Game 2, which is scheduled for Friday at Madison Square Garden.

The Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the Minnesota Timberwolves 114-88 in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals Tuesday night. Despite entering the game on just two days' rest, the Thunder showcased a strong second-half performance to secure the victory. The Timberwolves will look to tie the series tonight in Game 2 at 8:30 PM in Oklahoma City. Who will win tonight? Who will win the series?

Reese, Kmac and Alex speak with Dr. Deborah Stroman.

Dr. Stroman discusses who should be the face of the NBA. Who should it be?

Reese, Kmac and Alex discuss Ryan Clark's comments on "The Pivot," the "tush push," Jim Irsay passing away and more. 

Ryan Clark and Robert Griffin III (RG3) are embroiled in a public feud that has escalated over recent days, involving alleged personal attacks and broader discussions on race and representation in sports media. The conflict began when RG3 criticized Angel Reese's behavior during a recent WNBA game, suggesting that her actions were driven by personal animosity toward Caitlin Clark. In response, Ryan Clark condemned RG3's remarks, accusing him of perpetuating negative narratives about Reese. Ryan Clark spoke about all this on his podcast titled, "The Pivot." What did Clark say??

The NFL has decided to maintain the legality of the "tush push" play for the 2025 season. At the recent owners' meeting in Eagan, Minnesota, a proposal to ban the play narrowly failed, receiving 22 votes in favor and 10 against, falling short of the required (24) two-thirds majority. Despite the majority of team owners supporting the ban, teams like the Detroit Lions opposed it. The play, popularized and perfected by the Philadelphia Eagles, has sparked intense debate among fans and officials regarding its impact on the game. Critics argue it gives an unfair advantage and is dull from an entertainment perspective, while proponents highlight the lack of direct evidence linking it to increased injuries and credit Philly's strategy and execution.

The Green Bay Packers had proposed the ban, citing concerns over player safety and the pace of play. Despite the failed proposal, the debate over the tush push is expected to continue, with discussions potentially influencing future league decisions.

Jim Irsay, the longtime owner of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 65. He died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Carmel, Indiana.

Reese, Kmac and Alex discuss the Knicks can comeback in this Eastern Conference Finals series. 

Last night, the New York Knicks suffered a stunning 138-135 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The Knicks held a commanding 14-point lead with just 2:39 remaining in regulation but faltered in the final minutes, allowing the Pacers to force overtime and eventually secure the victory.

Tyrese Haliburton played a pivotal role for the Pacers, scoring 31 points and dishing out 11 assists. His near game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer was initially ruled a three-pointer but was overturned upon review due to his foot being on the line, sending the game into overtime. In the extra period, the Pacers outscored the Knicks 13-6.

Despite strong performances from Jalen Brunson (43 points) and Karl-Anthony Towns (35 points, 12 rebounds), the Knicks' late-game collapse overshadowed their efforts. The loss marks a historic playoff meltdown. Can the Knicks recover from this loss? Is the series over already?

The Knicks will look to rebound in Game 2, which is scheduled for Friday at Madison Square Garden.