Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
Fred and Art wonder about the thinking processes behind some of the choices under consideration in the sports world. Should the US exchange a Russian gun runner for Brittney Griner? Will Andrew Benintendi get vaccinated so he can join the Yankees on the road? Is Kevin Durant packing his bags? And what new venture is in store for Brent Musburger?
From the ESPYs to the All-Stars
Fred and Art think Steph Curry scored a slam dunk at the ESPYS as host of the annual sports award show. Will this role springboard him into other parts of the entertainment arena? Money matters are on the minds of Charles Barkley and James Harden, but how has the lure of a better deal put UCLA at odds with Governor Gavin Newsom? And what can MLB do to bring viewers back to the All-Star Game?
Stuck in a Moment (and Place) You Can’t Get Out of
Fred and Art ponder WNBA star Brittany Griner’s predicament in Russia. How is it possible that she was not informed of their laws regarding drug possession before traveling? Damien Lillard has signed a huge contract extension, the Lakers are still in Kyrie Irving limbo, and Dave Roberts is playing musical chairs with the Dodger lineup. And what will All-Star game attendees’ reactions be to the high prices at Dodger Stadium?
Losses, Changes, and Trades
Fred and Art mourn the passing of legendary actor James Caan and remember his heartbreaking portrayal of Brian Piccolo in Brian’s Song, the true story of the Chicago Bear and cancer victim’s friendship with fellow teammate Gayle Sayers. How will the NFL view the recent moves made by Mark Davis and Dan Snyder after they and their teams face allegations? And what does the future hold for Baker Mayfield and the Carolina Panthers?
The Big Shakeup in the Pac-12
Fred and Art are concerned about the future of the Pac-12 now that UCLA and USC are heading to the Big 10. What will happen to the traditional matchups and rivalry games that fans have looked forward to for decades? What did Larry Scott have to do with it? Will free agency bring Kevin Durant westward, what new rules does Rob Manfred have in store, and how does Trevor Bauer affect the overall image of the Dodgers?
The 50th Anniversary of Title IX
Fred and Art laud the athletes that have benefitted from 50 years of the landmark civil rights given by Title IX. How have sports changed in the last half-century? The world mourns the loss of football great Hugh McElhenny, Kyrie Irving is eying a move, Jeanie Buss is considering the best interests of the Lakers, and are fans growing increasingly unimpressed by the NBA draft?
The Big Kerfuffle in the World of Golf
Fred and Art weigh in on the continuing backlash over golf’s new LIV League, with Phil Mickelson seeming to be the target for most of the barbs. Where does PGA Commissioner Jay Monahan stand? Can the Golden State Warriors clinch the NBA finals in Game 6, or will it go to Game 7? How many pitches did Tyler Anderson throw, and does Austin Ekeler really want fewer snaps?
Controversy on the Course
Fred and Art handicap this week’s big-ticket sporting events, with the inaugural LIV League tournament kicking off the Saudi-funded pro golfing tour in London. What impact will this have on Phil Mickelson’s career? Will Tiger Woods be the next pro to join up? Were the Phillies right to let Joe Girardi go? And which horse will claim the third jewel in the Triple Crown at the Belmont Stakes?
The NBA Finals are Here at Last
Fred and Art debate the pros and cons of professional golfers opting to play outside the country and independently of the PGA tour. Should players like Dustin Johnson be able to compete anywhere in the world? The Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics are poised to battle it out for the NBA title as the Finals begin – will Steph Curry or Jaylen Brown score the most points? And what NBA team is Phil Knight eyeing?
A Devastating School Shooting and Goodnight to a Goodfella
Fred and Art reflect on the tragedy of a horrific school shooting in Texas where 21 children and teachers lost their lives, with several others injured. They also mourn the sudden passing of Ray Liotta, remembered for his roles in Goodfellas and Field of Dreams. What advertising deal did Bronny James just land? Will Chip Kelly make good on his contract extension? And should the NFL keep the Pro Bowl?
