What Sports And An Episode Of 'Real Housewives' Have In Common
Drama, fights and shady sh*t aren't only reserved for Bravo.
Photo: Instagram/Bravo (RHOOC season premiere is December 1).
(Podcast length - 6:05 mins)
They all have game, but some motives are more questionable than others.
Transcript
1. What do Lisa Vanderpump and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson have in common? They want you to think of them at happy hour. Both Vanderpump and Johnson were successful, she as a restaurateur and he as a WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) wrestler, but they have used their platform to launch incredibly successful careers. Vanderpump has gone from “Housewives,” to “Vanderpump Rules” to a new show, “Overserved.” She’s added author, owner of a pet accessory company to her list and of course, her restaurant PUMP is on the must-see in Los Angeles list. We all know Johnson wants you to buy his Teremana tequila, watch his movies and indulge in his line with Under Armor, Project Rock. WHAT CAN’T THEY DO?
2. Our next two are known for doing some shady sh*t. Enter in Jen Shah and baseball’s own Lenny Dykstra. We all know that Shah was indicted for her alleged role in a long-running telemarketing scheme. If convicted, she could go to jail for up to 50 years. Dykstra went from the top of the world as a World Series winner to prison. Long story short, post-baseball he claimed to have a 100% hit rate at picking winning stocks and convinced people to jump on board his bandwagon, including the money man himself - Jim Cramer. Eventually, Dykstra filed for bankruptcy and went to prison. DOWNWARD SPIRAL
3. The “Malice at the Palace” makes the infamous Teresa table flip look like child’s play. A 2004 tussle on the court led to a fan throwing a beer on Detroit Pistons’ Ron Artest (NBA – National Basketball Association). Instead of having security take care of it, Artest charged up into the stands and beat the crap out of said beer thrower. As you can imagine, the league didn’t think highly of this and Artest was suspended for the rest of the season (and the incident was about four weeks into the season). THERE’S NO “I” IN TEAM
4. You’d never thought we’d compare Ramona Singer and Heather Dubrow to an NBA star but the resident fashionistas and Russell Westbrook have a lot in common with their own clothing/accessory lines. Russell Westbrook is known for his sometimes over-the-top postgame looks. He launched Honor The Gift, featuring athleisure-driven clothing as well as high-end athletic wear called Westbrook XO for Barneys. Other proud owners of a fashion-related business are Serena Williams (Serena), Tony Hawk (Birdhouse and Hawk Clothing), Venus Williams (EleVen) and Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7). FASHION MEETS FITNESS
5. “The Scum Bunch” might be how fans feel about some of the men on the series, but they had nothing on the dastardly deeds of the 1986 New York Mets team. (“The Scum Bunch” was the nicest thing that was said about the team that we could put in print). There were tales of members of the team destroying airplanes by throwing cake and steaks (different flights), doing performance-enhancing drugs and massive lines of cocaine, drinking, chasing women, fighting and the list goes on. Somehow they still managed to get their butts on the field, play baseball and win a World Series. HEATHER DUBROW COULD TEACH THEM A THING OR TWO ABOUT CLASS
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Five Reasons To Tune Into The World Series
Pearl necklaces, drinking for good and the circle of life.
PHOTO: Unsplash
(Podcast length - 4:20 mins)
The Fall Classic is upon us, and no, we don’t mean pumpkin spice lattes.
Transcript
1. They may be in it for the World Series ring, but for Joc Pederson, it's all about the pearls. The Atlanta Braves outfielder has been wearing a pearl necklace during the playoffs. Why? He hasn't given a straight answer, but his latest answer of "he's a bad b—" is good enough for us. YOU SO FANCY
2. The Houston Astros have home-field advantage, and that means they host four of the games in the best-of-seven series. More games means more alcohol sales. In Houston, sales at Minute Maid Field are on pace to be the most the park has seen in the last five years, with the taxes collected on alcohol alone hitting $1.9 million. The State of Texas, Harris County and the city of Houston thank you for contributing to the $12.8 million of beer, wine and liquor sold so far this season. DRINKING FOR GOOD
3. What were you doing in 1999 - a whopping 22 years ago? That was the last time the Atlanta Braves appeared in the World Series. On Tuesday, they will meet up with the Houston Astros in Game One of the World Series. The Fall Classic is back, and the Astros have a lot to prove. The last time the Astros won a World Series in 2017, they were caught cheating. The team kept their title, but they're trying to prove they don't need to cheat to win it all. THE MORE YOU KNOW
4. Manager (i.e., head coach) for the Houston Astros, Dusty Baker's baseball career has come full circle. He started in the major leagues with the Atlanta Braves at 19 years old. Now at 72, he will face his first team in the World Series in what could be his last season coaching. OH THE IRONY
5. It's a family affair for Braves manager Brian Snitker who will face his son Troy in the Fall Classic. Troy is the hitting coach for the Astros. Hopefully, the result won't equal an uncomfortable holiday season in the Snitker household. ALL IN THE FAMILY
Bonus: One thing to remember when watching the World Series is that the two leagues in baseball have different rules. In the American League (Astros), pitchers do not hit for themselves and instead, a designated hitter hits for the pitchers. At games in the National League ballpark (Braves), the pitcher will have to hit for himself, changing the strategy significantly. SWITCHING IT UP
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Why You Should Give A Crap About The MLB Playoffs
Who you should cheer for and why?
Photo: Unsplash
(Podcast length - 4:16 mins)
After a 162-game season (oof), it all comes down to this.
Transcript
1. Should you need a little direction on which team to cheer for, how about selecting by their biggest celebrity fan? Here are the matchups so you can pick accordingly:
AL (American League) Wild Card (Oct. 5): Boston Red Sox (Stephen King) vs. New York Yankees (Billy Crystal)
* Yankees were eliminated Tuesday night by the Red Sox
NL (National League) Wild Card (Oct. 6): Los Angeles Dodgers (Mila Kunis + Ashton Kutcher) vs. St. Louis Cardinals (Jon Hamm)
*Cardinals were eliminated Wednesday night by the Dodgers
AL Division Series (starts Oct. 7): Chicago White Sox (Barack Obama) vs. Houston Astros (Dan Rather)
ALDS (Oct. 7): Tampa Bay Rays (Hulk Hogan) vs. Boston Red Sox (Stephen King)
NLDS (Oct. 8): Atlanta Braves (Ludacris) vs. Milwaukee Brewers (Colin Kaepernick)
NL Division Series (starts Oct. 8): San Francisco Giants (Metallica) vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (Mila Kunis + Ashton Kutcher)
2. A few of these playoff teams have strong traditions to tune into when you watch the game. The Astros have the train that goes back and forth after every home team home run. The Brewers have Bernie Brewer, the beloved mascot of the Milwaukee Brewers, who slides down a giant yellow slide above the outfield after every Brewers' home run. And the karaoke trend that you love goes sporty at a Red Sox game where fans sing "Sweet Caroline" just before the bottom of the eighth inning of every home game. GOOD TIMES NEVER SEEMED SO GOOD
3. It's all about the Benjamins, and not everyone is spending it all to reach the playoffs. The Yankees have the second-highest payroll in baseball and the Rays have the fourth lowest in the league. Despite the over $135 million differential in salaries, the Rays still have the best record in the American League, which earns them home field advantage. SPEND IT ALL
4. If you pick your team to cheer for based on their title drought, the playoffs are kind of a mixed bag. The Dodgers are the defending champions, and the Astros won a few years ago. Then there are the Rays, who haven't won in 23 years or the Brewers, who haven't taken home a championship in 53 years. The Rays are hoping to follow in the footsteps of the city's other professional sports teams that have won titles this year – the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL – National Football League) and Lightning (NHL – National Hockey League). TITLE TOWN?
5. If you want to talk shop with the best of them, here's one for you. MLB changed the composition of the baseball this season to reduce the number of home runs. That change has resulted in a record number of pitchers throwing no-hitters this season. Will that continue into the playoffs? WE SHALL SEE
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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What You Need To Know About Sports Most Fashionable Night - The ESPYs
Athletes ditch their jerseys for couture this Saturday, July 10.
Photo: Instagram/Lindsey Vonn
(Podcast length - 5:10 mins)
The ESPYs are like the Golden Globes – you get the best of both worlds. It’s the one night of the year where athletes and celebrities gather to celebrate the achievements in the world of sports while giving us the summer red carpet we’ve all been missing.
Transcript
1. Typically, the awards show takes place on a Wednesday in July after the MLB (Major League Baseball) All-Star Game, referred to as “Black Wednesday,” the one day a year where there are no live sports. This year, with leagues playing COVID adjusted schedules, there is no dark day to hold the event. So that means there will likely be no Olympians, MLB (Major League Baseball) or WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) players or members of the Phoenix Suns or Milwaukee Bucks who are playing in the NBA (National Basketball Association) Finals in attendance. There’s a chance the Stanley Cup Finals (NHL - National Hockey League) will be over by then, but it’s not a sure bet. ZOOM CALL
2. Just because there will be no Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird sighting on the red carpet, it doesn’t mean you’ll be disappointed. The fashion game will undoubtedly be impressive when Lindsey Vonn, Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union, Russell Wilson and Ciara and LeBron James (likely promoting Space Jam 2) step into the spotlight. BEST ESPY LOOKS
3. Unlike the Oscars, where you’ve never heard of most of the movies, the fans get a say who receives some of the awards like the best athlete in women’s sports, best game and best team. EVERY VOTE COUNTS
4. ESPN can put together a video package that’ll pull at your heartstrings while leaving you inspired, and the awards at the ESPYs are no different. Here’s a quick summary of each of the major awards:
Chris Nikic, the first person with Down syndrome to complete a full IRONMAN triathlon, will receive the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance.
Four-time WNBA champion and two-time Olympic medalist Maya Moore will receive the Arthur Ashe Award Courage Award. She is being recognized for her work to free Jonathan Irons, who she felt was wrongly convicted of a crime. She stepped away from her career to work to free him. (Ultimately, he was released).
Manchester United (European soccer) star Marcus Rashford rallied Parliament during COVID to support children who received free lunch pre-pandemic, securing a $556 million grant to provide meals into 2021. For his work that impacted 1.7 million children, he will receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service.
5. Actor Anthony Mackie, known for his many movie roles but especially in the Marvel series, will add ESPY host to his lengthy resume. Mackie is expected to poke fun at some of the best athletes on the planet in his opening monologue, which could be scarier than any script he’s encountered. Unlike most red carpet events, this one will take place at The Rooftop at Pier 17 at the Seaport in New York City. GET YOUR GAME FACE ON
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Famous Fathers And Their Super Athletic Offspring
The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree for these sons and daughters.
Photo: Instagram/Vashti Cunningham
(Podcast length - 5:03 mins)
These sons and daughters are following in their fathers’ footsteps while making their own name.
Transcript
1. Her dad, two-time Hall of Famer Rick Flair, is considered one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time, and Charlotte Flair is living up to his legacy. The college volleyball player turned WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) star has been a trailblazer for women in WWE, with nine championships to her name. “The Queen” was also the first WWE star to grace the pages of ESPN The Magazine’s Body Issue.
2. You can’t have a list of famous fathers and their kids without mentioning the ultimate trio – the Manning crew. Dad, Archie Manning, was an NFL (National Football League) quarterback for 15 years. His quarterback sons Peyton and Eli have both won two Super Bowls. Their third brother Cooper is ‘only’ a partner in a law firm and a TV personality. Cooper’s son, Arch, is keeping the family name alive as an impressive high school football prospect.
3. You’ll not likely be able to miss the 6’6” Vashti Cunningham in next month’s Summer Olympics. The high jumper is the daughter of Hall of Fame quarterback turned pastor Randall Cunningham. This will be the second Olympics for Vashti, who competed in Rio. She has long discussed how her dad is her rock as she competes at the highest levels.
4. Laila Ali had big shoes to fill when she followed in her dad’s footsteps. Her father was the one and only - the “World’s Greatest” boxer Muhammed Ali. A boxing champion herself, she's also a television personality and fitness guru who has appeared on shows such as American Gladiator and Dancing With The Stars. But she doesn’t stop there. Laila has her own line of seasonings (including the G.O.A.T seasoning), a skincare line and her own clothing line at Nordstrom.
5. The future of baseball lies in the hands of the 22-year-old offspring of two baseball (MLB - Major League Baseball) legends. Vladimir Guerrero Jr, the son of Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero, follows in his father’s footsteps, leading the league in home runs and all-star voting. Then there’s San Diego Padres Fernando Tatis Jr (son of former MLB player Fernando Tatis). At a young age, he has already been on the cover of the “MLB The Show” video game, landed his own Gatorade commercial and is the leading vote-getter amongst shortstops for the all-star game.
Links:
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Meet The Athletes Vying For Bachelorette Katie Thurston's Heart
From baseball players to gym owners, this season is going to be spicy.
PHOTO: ANDREW ECCLES/ABC
(Podcast length - 4:38 mins)
Because finding love on TV is a sport.
Transcript
Andrew S.
The chivalrous and humorous Andrew S. is no stranger to good competition. As a college football player, Andrew was a first-team All-American defensive back for the Winona State Warriors. Today, he plays for the Dacia Vienna Vikings in the Austrian Football League. The Vikings just re-signed Spencer, so if he captures Katie’s heart, it looks like she’ll be spending some time in Austria (not too shabby if I say so myself). When he’s not playing in Austria, Andrew lives in Chicago and coaches football. Andrew is also the self-proclaimed champion at making margaritas.
Conor C.
Conor C. is also hoping to hit it off with Katie on Monday night. A former baseball player, Conor pitched for Oklahoma State University when they won the Big 12 Conference with the best regular-season record. After college, Conor played for the Odgen Raptors, a minor league affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB - Major League Baseball). Conor retired from professional baseball in 2018 and now lives in Southern California.
Landon
Nicknamed “Sunshine,” Landon rocks flowing hair and a big smile. Landon played college basketball for the University of Houston Cougars and helped lead the team to two AAC (American Athletic Conference) championships. He now acts as an assistant coach for his former high school’s basketball team. Though Landon has two AAC championship rings under his belt, he hopes to give Katie a ring at the end of the season.
Marty
Marty Hargrove of Reno, Nevada, seems to be well-versed in many areas. Sources say that the 25-year-old is currently a model and actor. Meanwhile, his official Bachelorette profile says he is a dancer. Marty also played college football for the University of Nevada. They always say that football players should practice ballet! Clearly, Marty is multi-talented, but how will he fare in the competition for Katie’s heart?
Mike P.
Watch out, Conor C., The Bachelorette season 17 has another baseball star! An Arizona native, Mike Planeta played minor league baseball for several teams affiliated with the Baltimore Orioles (MLB). Since retiring from professional baseball in 2013, Mike is now a gym owner who helps high school athletes achieve their dreams. But, like a typical gym fanatic, Mike claims that he does not like dessert.
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Why June Is This Year’s Hottest Month
Thanks to COVID rescheduling, June is going to be action-packed.
Photo: Unsplash
(Podcast length - 5:05 mins)
Suppose there’s a silver lining to COVID rescheduling sports events because June is shaping up to be the hottest sports month of 2021. But don’t worry, no matter the sport, or even if you’re not into sports at all, there’s something for you.
Transcript
1. Something we never thought we’d report on – boxing legend Floyd Mayweather returning to the ring to fight YouTube star Logan Paul on June 6 in Miami. It could be spicy after Logan and his brother got into it with Mayweather’s entourage at their pre-fight press conference. After that, Paul had to hire round-the-clock security. It’s bound to be a one-sided fight, but that won’t stop us from tuning in. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BENJAMINS
2. After being canceled in 2020, the Baseball College World Series heads back to Omaha (June 19-30). The teams are, of course, happy to be back. Still, the City of Omaha is excited to have the economic driver of a tournament back. According to a study conducted by Creighton University, the tournament had an economic impact of $88.3 million and supported 1,103 year-round jobs in 2019, up from $63.7 million and 777 jobs in 2014. HOME RUN
3. Not to be outdone, the College Softball World Series is headed back to Oklahoma City (June 3-9). Don’t be surprised if you see the G.O.A.T. Tom Brady in the stands as his niece Maya Brady plays for UCLA, and he hasn’t been shy about his loyalty to the Bruins women. Oklahoma, Alabama, Oklahoma State, Florida State, Arizona, Georgia and James Madison all join UCLA in the hunt for a national title. LADIES WHO LOVE THE LONG BALL
4. Getting us excited for next month’s Summer Olympics, the U.S. Women’s National Team (soccer) will play in a Summer Series. They’ll play Portugal, Jamaica and Nigeria between June 10-16. Their matchup against Nigeria will be the first event to christen the new Austin FC stadium, of which the Minister of Culture himself, Matthew McConaughey, is an owner. BRING ‘EM OUT
5. Don’t forget the sports that are in the midst of the playoffs this month.
The NHL (National Hockey League) playoffs are in full swing, and so many teams with big-name players like Sidney Crosby (Pittsburgh Penguins) are out, so it’s getting exciting. Last year's champions, the Tampa Bay Lightning, are looking to repeat when the Stanley Cup playoffs end July 15.
The NBA (National Basketball Association) playoffs are in full swing (they wrap July 23), and the rowdy and debaucherous fans have nothing on the drive on the court. So will defending champions LeBron James and his Los Angeles Lakers hoist the trophy again, or can the Brooklyn Nets, with their three superstars James Harden, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, win it all?
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Milk Chugging, Women Racing Alongside The Men and Snake Pits – Why The Indy 500 Is Worth Watching
Memorial Day’s favorite sporting event.
(Podcast length - 5:05 mins)
Start your summer by cruising with the windows down, the wind blowing through your hair and a smile on your face. That’s how Indy fans prefer their Memorial Day too.
Transcript
1. Move over Gatorade; milk is the drink of the winners at International Motor Speedway. The tradition that involves the winner swigging milk began in 1936 with Louis Meyer, whose go-to drink after a win was a refreshing glass of milk. An overjoyed milk executive spotted the act, and the rest is history. MILK…IT QUENCHES YOUR THIRST, SAID NO ONE EVER
2. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is also known as the Brickyard. It’s called the Brickyard because the track used to be made of bricks, which are still exposed under the asphalt at the start-finish line. It’s a tradition for the drivers to kiss these bricks before the race. We cannot confirm or deny if that’s where cold sores come from. YOUR KISS IS ON MY LIPS
3. The race isn’t just for men. In its history, 10 women have raced at Indy, with Danica Patrick setting the record for the highest finishing position for a woman with a third-place finish in 2005. She is also the first woman to ever lead a lap at the Indy 500. Making history this race is the Paretta Autosport team with driver Simona de Silvestro. The team, which consists of mostly women, became the first female driver/owner duo in IndyCar Series history to qualify for the Indianapolis 500. MOVE OVER, COMING THROUGH
4. While you might not be familiar with the Indy 500, there will be familiar faces on the broadcast with retired IndyCar and NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) driver Danica Patrick joining Mike Tirico and retired NASCAR (and current Indy Car road course driver) Jimmie Johnson in the booth. This year’s race is all about the youth movement, but six-time Indy 500 winner Scott “Iceman” Dixon beat out Colton Herta, the 21-year-old American, and Rinus VeeKay, 20, for pole position (i.e., the best place to start the race). EAT MY DUST
5. Something you never thought you’d want to know, yet here we are. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is considered one of the world’s largest spectator facilities with more than 250,000 permanent seats and average attendance at the Indy 500 of 300,000. Only 135,000 fans will be in attendance for this year’s race. The infield is 253 acres, which usually (in non-COVID years) hosts an EDM concert in the Snake Pit and includes a golf course. Churchill Downs, Yankee Stadium, Rose Bowl Stadium, Vatican City, the Taj Mahal, the White House, Liberty Island and the Roman Colosseum could simultaneously fit inside the Speedway. THE BIG HOUSE
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Summer book list
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Five Unwritten Rules Of Sports
We made these mistakes so you don't have to.
(Podcast length 5:57 mins - the transcript is below)
If you don't know, then now you know.
Transcript
1. Don’t walk across the green. Have you ever seen golfers squat behind the ball before they putt? They’re lining up their shot - imagine an actual line from the ball to the hole. That’s why you NEVER EVER walk across the green. If you walk across the green and end up walking through another golfer’s line, their ball could rollover your footprint and possibly change direction. While walking through someone’s line is disrespectful and annoying, it’s best to stay off the green as much as possible. Better to be safe than sorry!
2. Kick the ball out of bounds if an opposing player is hurt. This is one of the more sincere and compassionate unwritten rules of sports. In soccer, when a player gets hurt, the referee usually blows the whistle to stop play. However, the ref doesn’t always see it, therefore it is customary to kick the ball out of bounds. (This is assuming the player who hurt is actually down and not faking one of those Academy Award-winning performances we sometimes associate with soccer). Most of the time, the team that kicked the ball out will get it back, but even if your team doesn’t, it’s the right thing to do and you can pat yourself on the back for being a respectful opponent.
3. Don’t bunt during a no-hitter. It’s no secret that being on the opposite side of a no-hitter in baseball sucks. It’s pretty dang embarrassing for the other team. But for the pitcher, it’s a feat unlike any other. The first thought for the team up against the pitcher would be to bunt -just an easy little tap and then an all-out sprint to first base. Simple, right? Just one hit, and the frustration ends? No. Nope. Can’t do it. Why? Well, even though there’s no written rule for it, it’s a respect thing, so don’t do it.
4. Don’t shoot a last-second basket when your team is up. This one might seem like a no-brainer when your basketball team is up by a lot, and the other team is dragging a bit because they know they’re not going to win. It would be super easy to run the length of the court and hit the most impressive slam dunk of all time. Don’t do it. There’s no reason to do it except to embarrass yourself and the losing team. It’s disrespectful and adds nothing to the game itself. Although nobody can technically stop you, an earful from your coach and some snide remarks from opposing players will be sure to follow.
5. Don’t even think about an onside kick if you’re demolishing the other team. This unwritten rule in football is similar to not shooting a last-second basket when you’re up by a lot. An onside kick is a kickoff strategy that involves the kicking team kicking the ball more laterally and a shorter distance so their team can more easily retrieve the ball. When you’re up by a lot in football, an onside kick is flashy, obnoxious, and there’s really no reason for your team to need the ball back when they’re not receiving. Not onside kicking when you’re up by a lot is just a respect thing. Just like running up the score a bunch just because you can is disrespectful, so is this. Be a good sport.
Sports Curious, presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon, so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table, or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Like us? Share us with your friends.
The 5 Most Memorable Moments Of 2020
Sports transcended real life this year and, in many cases, led the charge for change.
(Podcast length 6:47 mins - the transcript is below)
2020 - a year unlike any other. Here are the moments to remember, for better or for worse.
Transcript
1. The year started with a punch to the gut when basketball legend Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others died in a morning helicopter crash. The shock wave was felt around the world, impacting the greatest of athletes to the everyday person. Their legend lives on through the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation and their work in making sports accessible to all. We hope in 2021 that Orange County (where the Bryant family still calls home) will continue the tradition of “Kobe Bryant Day” on August 24 (8/24 - his two jersey numbers). In a bittersweet moment, the Lakers won their first championship since the Kobe era this year. THE LEGEND LIVES ON
2. 2020 was a tough year for many, but it was a year filled with milestones for women in sports. From the hiring of Kim Ng by the Miami Marlins as the first-ever female general manager in MLB (Major League Baseball) to Callie Brownson of the Cleveland Browns, who became the first woman to coach an NFL (National Football League) position group during a regular-season game. Brownson again made history when she and Jennifer King, Washington Football Team's full-year coaching intern and NFL official Sarah Thomas were part of the first regular-season game in NFL history to have a female coach on both sidelines and a female official. We can’t leave out DC United (MLS - Major League Soccer) hiring Danita Johnson as president of business operations, making her the first Black woman or man to serve as a team president and one of the highest-ranking female club executives in league history. CAN’T STOP, WON’T STOP
3. The topic that dominated 2020 and the world of sports, COVID-19. We’ll never forget March 11, the day sports stopped when Rudy Gobert of the NBA (National Basketball Association) tested positive for COVID, and it subsequently spread through the league. The sports world will remember the look of shock and disbelief on Mark Cuban’s face when he received notice courtside that the basketball season had been suspended. There were plenty of unknowns that led to a lack of confidence in any sports proceeding this year but led to playing in a bubble for some leagues and cancelled/rescheduled games in others. This year also brought us brilliant acts of COVID kindness from the sports community, new champions and, of course, resilience. WE SHALL PREVAIL
4. After the unexplained death of George Floyd, Brianna Taylor, Jacob Blake and so many countless others, athletes had had enough. The Milwaukee Bucks (NBA) led the movement that stopped sports in protest of the racial injustice in America. The movement that started in Milwaukee quickly spread across the NBA and the sports world. We saw NASCAR’s (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) Bubba Wallace become a household name after a noose was found in his garage at a race track. Wallace is the only Black driver on the professional circuit. The drivers came together and it led to changes, including NASCAR outlawing confederate flags at races. Superstars like LeBron James started “More Than A Vote,” a non-partisan organization to combat systemic, racist voter suppression. Their efforts included rallying sporting facilities to become polling places. While there is still a long way to go, leagues, owners and athletes across sports have listened to their communities. They have pledged millions of dollars to support programs, implement best practices and start a movement that will lead our country in the right direction. BETTER TOGETHER
5. While we were all quarantined, we binged watched a lot of TV. On the heels of the “Tiger King” phenomenon came Michael Jordan’s “Last Dance.” Because we were all at home glued to the TV for any sense of normalcy, the production of the series was moved up by a few months and it was a hit. Sports fans and non-sports fans rejoiced in Jordan’s victories and felt the pain of his perils. Since you haven’t made it until you’re a meme, there were plenty of Jordan memes to go around, like the one about him eating an entire pizza himself - and subsequently coming down with food poisoning. If you haven’t seen the series yet, you’re in for a treat. (Also, where have you been)? FOR THE WIN
Sports Curious, presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon, so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table, or a networking event switches to sports.
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Sports Love Stories Destined For The Hallmark Channel
The meet-cutes that led to love. Cue the snowfall.
(Podcast length 6:30 mins - the transcript is below)
Holiday love stories are bringing home the bacon for the Hallmark Channel and Netflix this holiday season, so it’s only a matter of time before ESPN jumps on board.
Transcript
1. Timing is everything. A few divorces and a handful of years couldn’t keep these two star-crossed lovers apart. Jennifer Lopez and former MLB (Major League Baseball) player and broadcaster Alex Rodriguez had been friends for years. They dated, married and divorced other people and then they were both single. Then there was the text that changed everything. ARod was nervous during a dinner together so he excused himself and went to the bathroom to readjust his thoughts. Then and there he sent his dinner date JLo a text that said “You look sexy AF” and the rest is history. WHY HAS HALLMARK NOT MADE THIS MOVIE?
2. We’ve all heard it before, a girl falls in love with a bad boy and then the bad boy breaks the girl’s heart. That and one bad pickup line bring us to our next couple. After a very public relationship with golfer Tiger Woods, skier Lindsey Vonn was introduced to NHL (National Hockey League) player P.K. Subban at the ESPYs. It was at that event that he told a reporter "It's hotter outside than Lindsey Vonn looks today, which is pretty hot." Well, the line worked. The two, who started dating in 2018 and were engaged in the summer of 2019. The wedding is on hold thanks to COVID. The couple’s passion for each other and their charitable efforts are something to admire. HEART EMOJI
3. Do you know that plotline where two members of royalty happen to run into each other at a coffee shop? This is the same but different. Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe are the unofficial first couple of women’s sports. The two have been dating since meeting at the 2016 Summer Olympics and are a fixture in the Seattle sports scene. They’ve been featured on the cover of InStyle Magazine and were the first same-sex couple to grace the cover of ESPN’s Body Issue. The outspoken and seriously fashionable duo seem to have it all including a plethora of championships and safety deposit boxes for all their gold medals. The two, who were engaged in 2020, also have each other’s backs. During the Women’s World Cup, Bird, who plays for the Seattle Storm (WNBA - Women’s National Basketball Association), came to Rapinoe’s defense in her battle with President Trump, penning an essay titled “So the President F—ing Hates My Girlfriend.” ROM-COM WRITTEN ALL OVER IT
4. The love story that started with an awkward first dance. Tennis greats Steffi Graff and Andre Agassi started dating after the French Open in 1999 but their story goes back years before that. In 1992 both Graff and Agassi (who tried to pick up Graff the year before at the French Open) were winners at Wimbledon. It used to be a tradition for the two winners of Wimbledon to dance with each other at the Wimbledon Champions’ Ball. But as luck would have it, that was the year they decided to cancel the dance due to “lukewarm receptions from modern players.” It all worked out in the end as the two married in 2001 and are still together. FATE WORKS IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS
5. Our final story is a modern storyline of a virtual, long-distance relationship. Together Julie and Zach Ertz have a Super Bowl championship, two World Cup victories and what do they have to prove it? A Visa commercial. The Philadelphia Eagles tight end (NFL - National Football League) and the soccer star met at a Stanford baseball game in 2012 when he offered her sunflower seeds. They had their first date at Chipotle and the rest is history. Married since 2017, together they too have bared it all for ESPN’s Body Issue. With both of them being at the pinnacles of their careers, they live the saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” They say they’re lucky to have three months a year in the same city. WHEN FACETIME IS YOUR FRIEND
1. Timing is everything. A few divorces and a handful of years couldn’t keep these two star-crossed lovers apart. Jennifer Lopez and former MLB (Major League Baseball) player and broadcaster Alex Rodriguez had been friends for years. They dated, married and divorced other people and then they were both single. Then there was the text that changed everything. ARod was nervous during a dinner together so he excused himself and went to the bathroom to readjust his thoughts. Then and there he sent his dinner date JLo a text that said “You look sexy AF” and the rest is history. WHY HAS HALLMARK NOT MADE THIS MOVIE?
2. We’ve all heard it before, a girl falls in love with a bad boy and then the bad boy breaks the girl’s heart. That and one bad pickup line bring us to our next couple. After a very public relationship with golfer Tiger Woods, skier Lindsey Vonn was introduced to NHL (National Hockey League) player P.K. Subban at the ESPYs. It was at that event that he told a reporter "It's hotter outside than Lindsey Vonn looks today, which is pretty hot." Well, the line worked. The two, who started dating in 2018 and were engaged in the summer of 2019. The wedding is on hold thanks to COVID. The couple’s passion for each other and their charitable efforts are something to admire. HEART EMOJI
3. Do you know that plotline where two members of royalty happen to run into each other at a coffee shop? This is the same but different. Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe are the unofficial first couple of women’s sports. The two have been dating since meeting at the 2016 Summer Olympics and are a fixture in the Seattle sports scene. They’ve been featured on the cover of InStyle Magazine and were the first same-sex couple to grace the cover of ESPN’s Body Issue. The outspoken and seriously fashionable duo seem to have it all including a plethora of championships and safety deposit boxes for all their gold medals. The two, who were engaged in 2020, also have each other’s backs. During the Women’s World Cup, Bird, who plays for the Seattle Storm (WNBA - Women’s National Basketball Association), came to Rapinoe’s defense in her battle with President Trump, penning an essay titled “So the President F—ing Hates My Girlfriend.” ROM-COM WRITTEN ALL OVER IT
4. The love story that started with an awkward first dance. Tennis greats Steffi Graff and Andre Agassi started dating after the French Open in 1999 but their story goes back years before that. In 1992 both Graff and Agassi (who tried to pick up Graff the year before at the French Open) were winners at Wimbledon. It used to be a tradition for the two winners of Wimbledon to dance with each other at the Wimbledon Champions’ Ball. But as luck would have it, that was the year they decided to cancel the dance due to “lukewarm receptions from modern players.” It all worked out in the end as the two married in 2001 and are still together. FATE WORKS IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS
5. Our final story is a modern storyline of a virtual, long-distance relationship. Together Julie and Zach Ertz have a Super Bowl championship, two World Cup victories and what do they have to prove it? A Visa commercial. The Philadelphia Eagles tight end (NFL - National Football League) and the soccer star met at a Stanford baseball game in 2012 when he offered her sunflower seeds. They had their first date at Chipotle and the rest is history. Married since 2017, together they too have bared it all for ESPN’s Body Issue. With both of them being at the pinnacles of their careers, they live the saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” They say they’re lucky to have three months a year in the same city. WHEN FACETIME IS YOUR FRIEND
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
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Women Ask All
Talking life, dating and answering your sports questions. Yep, it’s that much fun all in one podcast episode.
(Podcast length 48 mins)
Try to resist the urge to open a bottle of rosé as we chat with three of the most talented and kick#ss ladies about life, sports, the Bachelor franchise and the all important question of if/when we will ever return to wearing pants with a real waistband. #YogaPantsForever
Special guests:
Kourtney Brooks, Lincee Ray and Lisa Alberti
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
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5 Things You Need To Know About An Unprecedented MLB Season
Here’s what you can expect from the boys of summer.
(Podcast length 4:20 - transcript is below)
Major League Baseball is the first of the four major professional sports to return to play. Who knows what might happen a month from now (or heck tomorrow) but here are the important things you need to know about the return to the field for the boys of summer.
Transcript
Remind me what happened last year
The Washington Nationals won their first World Series and everyone in sports still hates the Houston Astros for stealing signs. And no, we’re not talking about billboards.
1. The biggest talk of this season is obviously COVID but unlike many other professional sports, MLB (Major League Baseball) isn’t requiring their players to live in a “bubble.” They will be playing 60 games instead of 162 games and only playing regional games. Then there’s the Toronto Blue Jays who aren’t allowed to play at home per the Canadian Government, because the government didn’t want players coming back and forth into the country from the COVID hotspot that is the U.S. HOWDY NEIGHBOR
2. There may be no bubble but that doesn’t mean there aren’t A LOT of safety rules to follow. Some include no spitting (um have you ever watched a game? They all spit), no brawls, no showers and no licking fingers (this is something most pitchers do). Because of social distancing rules, games will start with some players sitting in the stands instead of the dugout. CHEER SQUAD
3. Since there will be no fans at the games, the league has found an interesting way to fill the silence. Fans can boo or cheer on their team via the MLB app and ballpark staff will adjust the sound accordingly in the stadium for the live game. Unlike attending a game in person, fans can boo their rival team from the bathroom. FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME
4. Filling the stands with compliant, well behaved fans has never been so easy. A handful of teams are selling personalized cardboard cutouts that will be placed in the stands during home games. Some have taken it to another level by benefitting a charity with each sale and others will send you the ball if it hits your cutout. WHAT WILL THEY THINK OF NEXT?
5. The first game of the season will be on Thursday, July 23 when the Washington Nationals take on the New York Yankees. Tune in early to see Dr. Anthony Fauci throw out the first pitch for his beloved Nats and stay for the highly anticipated pitcher’s duel between the two teams. STRIKE OUT COVID
If you want more about the new rules of the game for this season or our frequently asked questions, check out our baseball 101.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
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True Crimes - Athletes Edition
True stories of real crimes.
(Podcast length 5:00 - transcript is below)
They might be invincible on the field, but not in the eyes of the law.
Transcript
1. During his career, Chicago Bears (NFL – National Football League) wide receiver Sam Hurd was the head of a high-level, drug dealing operation and it appeared he thought he was invincible. How so? Long before he was arrested, one of his associates was pulled over with $88,000 in cash while driving Hurd’s car. Hurd had the guts to ask for the money back. He knew the cops were onto him but he refused to believe that cell phones that came from Mexico could be wiretapped. Needless to say he’s serving out a 15-year sentence in Texas. NEW PHONE WHO DIS?
2. Currently serving out his 25-year sentence in a Moroccan prison is former UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) fighter Lee “Lightning” Murray. He was charged with being the mastermind in the largest bank heist in history - $100M. While the plan was flawlessly executed – the robbery took place without any injuries or even a bullet being fired – they weren’t so smart afterward where flubs like abandoned guns and cars and snitches were prevalent. Don’t think this half-Moroccan citizen has let the downtime go to waste, he tried to escape using tiny saws that were snuck in inside of biscuits. WHERE THERE’S A WILL
3. We’ve all stepped out of the house in our favorite outfit only to get something on it. The same happened to former NFL player Ray Lewis at a post-Super Bowl party. He and some friends got into a fight that left two people dead. Lewis was a suspect because had blood on his suit and in his limo. The cream-colored suit became the storyline of the trial. Lewis said his suit was too nice to have committed murder but the suit disappeared not long after the crime and is still M.I.A. today. No one was charged with the murder and Lewis ended up going to jail for obstruction of justice because he instructed his friends to not speak of the incident. SNITCHES GET STITCHES
4. We all know the story of former NFL player O.J. Simpson and his trial for the 1994 murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ron Goldman. From the white Bronco freeway chase, to the black leather glove that didn’t fit the story blazed across the headlines. While he was acquitted in that trial, exactly 13 years to the day of when he was famously acquitted, he wasn’t so lucky. He was sentenced to prison for kidnapping and robbery after he tried to take back his memorabilia. He served nine years in prison and was released last year. You can follow his post-prison adventures on his (slightly whacky) social media. IF THE GLOVE DON’T FIT
5. Lenny Dykstra went from the top of the world as World Series winner with the New York Mets (MLB - Major League Baseball) in 1986 to prison. Long story short, post-baseball he claimed to have a 100% hit rate at picking winning stocks and convinced people to jump on board his bandwagon, including the money man himself - Jim Cramer. Then he failed at starting a magazine, meanwhile pissing a lot of people off. Eventually he filed for bankruptcy, owing an obscene amount of money to creditors. Life finally caught up with him when he was arrested and served time in prison for bankruptcy fraud. He hid a bunch of assets during his bankruptcy filing and decided to sell them afterward for cash. Shocking, he got caught. THEY KNOW EVERYTHING
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
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Betting On Sports To Save The Economy
Why your state could fast track sports betting to combat the COVID-driven recession.
(Podcast length 4:17 - transcript is below)
Who would’ve thought an activity that is sometimes frowned upon could save your state’s economy?
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Transcript
1. The economic impact of COVID has states across the country reeling from a lack of tax revenue. One solution many states are looking at is fast tracking legal sports betting. The Supreme Court struck down a federal law in 2018 that restricted sports gambling on a state level (with the exception of Nevada that already had legal sports betting). Since then, a handful of states have opened for betting and have achieved a notable revenue boost. HERE’S WHERE YOUR STATE STANDS
2. Despite other states being able to participate in sports betting, Nevada had a record setting year in 2019. The state saw a total of $5.32 billion placed in bets and a record $329 million in revenue, which produced $22.2 million in state tax revenue. Now this won’t replace all of the tax revenues lost, but many states are looking at it as an option because some tax revenue is better than nothing. SEEKING A SOLUTION
3. Now let’s talk a little more about betting to give you some context. The commissioners of the four major sports (baseball, basketball, football and hockey) have met to discuss integrating their leagues with sports betting entities. We've seen some movement on this but concerns over fixing games and gambling addiction are some of the reasons this isn’t an easy decision. NOT A SIMPLE SOLUTION
4. You’ve probably heard of online sites FanDuel or DraftKings. Where they differ from a casino is that those platforms provide you with an opportunity to wager money on a player’s performance in a game instead of the outcome of the game. This is similar to how you would win if you had a fantasy football team. CLEAR AS MUD?
5. The two most popular sporting events to bet on are the Super Bowl and College Basketball’s March Madness tournament. The Super Bowl went on as planned this year with over $6.8 billion wagered on the big game, but March Madness was cancelled. Twice the number of people bet on March Madness compared to the Super Bowl. Last year, Americans wagered $8.5 billion on the tournament and a big chunk of that was bet illegally through activities like office pools or via a bookie. DON’T TELL THE LEGAL DEPT.
Here’s a few resources for you should you want to know more: sports betting 101 and the five things you need to know about fantasy football.
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5 Strange Sports Superstitions
The list starts with lucky shimmery undergarments and ends with Skittles and vodka.
(Podcast length 3:09 - transcript is below)
Superstitions - they’re only strange if they don’t work.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Transcript
1. Anyone who has ever slipped into a pair of Spanx knows a good undergarment is the foundation of success. That brings us to the golden thong. The golden thong was worn by former MLB (Major League Baseball) player Jason Giambi to help him break out of hitting slumps. Rumor has it that said tiny undergarment was left in the lockers of his teammates and they all began to hit well. WASH ME
2. In order to prepare for the World Cup (soccer) England’s Jamie Vardy ditched his habits of nicotine pouches, drinking half a bottle of port wine on the night before a game and his concoction of Skittles and vodka. Although, he drew the line at breaking his good luck gameday routine of three Red Bulls and black coffee. NO ONE IS PERFECT
3. Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL - National Hockey League) has so many ‘traditions’ that we can’t list them all. Some include wearing the same jock strap for years and not calling or seeing his mom or his sister on gameday because every time he does, he ends up with an injury. PHONE HOME
4. Superstitions are part of soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s routine. He must be the last one to leave the locker room and he always puts his right foot on the field first. BEST FOOT FORWARD
5. Head coach of the University of Alabama Crimson Tide football team, Nick Saban, fuels his fire with a Little Debbie Oatmeal Crème Pie before each game. DOESN’T THAT BRING YOU BACK TO YOUR CHILDHOOD?
Athletes And Their COVID Acts Of Kindness
Who’s up for some good news?
Instagram: Shaun White
(Podcast length 4:41 - summary is below)
In times of crisis, so many people have stepped up to do what they can to help. Even the smallest acts of kindness have a lasting impact.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Transcript
1. Fanatics founder and Philadelphia 76ers (NBA -National Basketball Association) minority owner Michael Rubin started the All-In Challenge to provide food to those in need – kids, elderly and frontline heroes. So far they have raised over $51 million for COVID relief efforts. Rubin tapped into his famous friends like author and speaker Gary Vaynerchuk and actor Kevin Hart who then challenged their famous friends by donating once in a lifetime raffle and auction items. Some examples include a double date with Ciara and Seattle Seahawks (NFL – National Football league) Russell Wilson, which went for $240,000, New England Patriots (NFL) owner Robert Kraft’s Super Bowl ring (sold for $1.025M) or you could be eaten by a dinosaur in the next Jurassic Park movie (sold for $250k). The list is long and includes something for everyone. SHOPPING FOR GOOD
2. Teams like the Dallas Mavericks (NBA) joined together to provide meals to first responders and help local small businesses at the same time. Players took turns purchasing meals from local restaurants to feed first responders in hospitals, clinics and on the road like paramedics. Mavs owner Mark Cuban took it a step further, reimbursing Mavs staff who purchased meals from local establishments as well as reimbursing the Mavs’ nonprofit partners who fed their volunteers and staff when they chose local. HELPING WHERE IT HURTS
3. Olympic snowboarder and skateboarder Shaun White drove by some kids who were out in their yard skateboarding. The kids had made him a sign asking if he would skateboard with them. Donning a mask, he hopped out and did a little safe distance skateboarding with the neighborhood crew. MAKING MEMORIES
4. With the Summer Olympics postponed, Team USA no longer had to feed its athletes but what to do with the 18,000 pounds of food they already had? They donated the pallets of food to the food bank in Colorado Springs, CO which is home of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee. FIGHTING FOOD INSECURITIES
5. Many of us don’t think about the challenges of online schooling as we have access to a computer or a tablet. For so many students, this was one of the big hurdles to overcome when it came to successful home schooling. Russell Westbrook of the Houston Rockets (NBA) donated laptops to Houston area students for online classes. He also delivered meals to nurses in a Los Angeles hospital and provided masks and PPE to hospital workers in hard hit communities. MAKING AN IMPACT
Honorable mentions for athletes like Lionel Messi (soccer), Novak Djokovic (tennis) and Drew Brees (NFL) who along with their colleagues and their leagues, teams and team owners donated millions of dollars to relief efforts. WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER
5 Sports Teams That Are Saving The Planet
Doing their part for future generations.
Transcript is below.
Superheroes aren’t the only ones to save the world. Here are five teams who are doing their part to save Mother Earth through innovation and one is even adopting a vegan diet.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com.
Transcript
1. The Cleveland Indians (MLB – Major League Baseball) were the first MLB team to install a wind turbine to power their stadium. Their stadium is now 100 percent powered by renewable energy from wind power. BLOWN AWAY
2. The Forest Green Rovers, a soccer team from Western England, are leading the charge to go green. They claim the title as the only vegan football (i.e. soccer) club in the world. Since 2015, there have been no animal products for sale in the stadium. Some of the players eat non-vegan outside of the stadium (and there are paparazzi photos to prove it), but some have adopted the vegan lifestyle. The team is also the world’s first U.N. certified carbon-neutral sports club. NO MEAT PIES FOR YOU
3. Pocono Motor Speedway’s (NASCAR - National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) green efforts not only benefit the earth but you. The raceway runs completely on solar power and has sheep for lawn mowers but has an industry specific problem – what to do with as many as 600 used tires after a race? Answer – recycle. The recycled residue from old tires is used in everyday items such as portable speed bumps, the anti-fatigue mat in your kitchen or playgrounds. WHERE THE RUBBER HITS THE ROAD
4. The Boston Red Sox (MLB) home field advantage is an urban farm. The rooftop farm generates 5,900 pounds of produce annually to be used in the stadium. BATTING FOR BROCCOLI
5. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons (NFL – National Football League) and Atlanta United (MLS – Major League Soccer), boasts 4,000 solar panels and features a 680,000 gallon cistern that collects rainwater to irrigate vegetation and helps prevent flooding. GREEN WITH ENVY
Athletes And The Stupid Crimes They've Committed
Seriously, we can’t make this stuff up.
(Podcast length 4:53 - transcript is below)
Common sense isn’t so common in this week’s episode.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
[Transcript]
1. Picture this. You’re out with your friends enjoying a night at the club when a gun goes off. Then you realize it was your gun and you’ve accidentally shot yourself in the leg. That’s exactly what happened to Plaxico Burress (NFL – National Football League). We forgot to mention that the club was in New York City, known for tough gun laws. Oh, and the gun wasn’t registered. Yep, that landed Burress in the slammer. NOT SHOOTING BLANKS
2. It’s definitely against the rules for a player to bet on the professional sport they play in. Enter Pete Rose. He’s MLB’s (Major League Baseball) all-time leader in hits and is banned for life from baseball (and from the hall of fame) for doing just that. Rose bet on Cincinnati Reds games while playing for and managing the team. While betting isn’t illegal in the eyes of the law, tax evasion is. Rose served five months in a minimum-security prison for federal income-tax evasion. You can find Rose most weekends signing autographs for a fee in a Las Vegas casino. A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME…WOULD STILL BET ON BASEBALL
3. Dallas Cowboys (NFL) player Nate Newton was arrested for being in possession of 213 pounds of marijuana. While he was out on bond, he was caught with another 175 pounds of marijuana. Newton served 2.5 years where he hopefully gained a little common sense. CAN’T MAKE THIS UP
4. Lenny Dykstra went from the top of the world as World Series winner with the New York Mets (MLB) in 1986 to prison. Long story short, post-baseball he claimed to have a 100% hit rate at picking winning stocks and convinced people to jump on board his bandwagon, including the money man himself - Jim Cramer. Then he failed at starting a magazine, meanwhile pissing a lot of people off. Eventually he filed for bankruptcy, owing an obscene amount of money to creditors. Life finally caught up with him when he was arrested and served time in prison for bankruptcy fraud. He hid a bunch of assets during his bankruptcy filing and decided to sell them afterward for cash. Shocking, he got caught. THEY KNOW EVERYTHING
5. We saved the best for last. You’ve probably seen the movie and know the story of Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan. When Kerrigan stood in her way of her Olympic dreams, Harding and her ex-husband orchestrated an attack on Kerrigan at 1994 Olympic Trials. A hit to the knee by a hitman with a collapsible baton might have taken Kerrigan out, but she still went on to win a silver medal at the Winter Olympics. Harding was eventually banned from skating but ultimately avoided jail time by pleading guilty to hindering the investigation of the attack. THE ORIGINAL DESPERATE HOUSEWIFE
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How Esports Saved The Day
While other sports are down and out, this sport is soaring. This isn’t your mama’s Mario Kart.
(Podcast length 4:35 - transcript is below)
Even with a massive fan base, this sport requires no social distancing. Prepare to have your mind blown.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
[Transcript]
1. Esports are based on multiplayer video games. The profession as we know it started off in a league of their own, but traditional sports leagues have jumped on the bandwagon (see below). Professional gamers play in tournaments and online. Online play will attract over 100,000 viewers who watch through Twitch, owned by Amazon, or YouTube. If you think that’s odd, on Sundays we all gather around to watch guys play football on TV. SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT
2. Last year, people watched 6.6 billion hours of esports videos worldwide. The best part is that competition often doesn’t require hand washing or social distancing. Tournaments are often dictated by the game (i.e. Call of Duty) or esports gaming leagues (i.e. NBA 2K or Major League Gaming). Games are categorized by PC (computer) or console (i.e. Xbox). THESE GROWTH NUMBERS ARE CRAZY
3. Everyone wants a piece of the sport. Players resemble race car drivers with sponsor logos all over their tournament clothes. Coke and Nissan are on board and Red Bull has a massive portfolio of esports teams. And these players are making a ton of money, with the top three players in the world pulling in $3.16M in prize earnings last year. If that's not enough, universities are now offering esports scholarships. THIS AIN’T YOUR MAMA’S MARIO KART
4. This week the NBA (National Basketball Association) will launch a NBA 2k (a video game) tournament featuring 16 NBA players in a 10-day video game tournament that will air on ESPN. The league is hoping to bring “live basketball” back to your living room since we’re all feeling the void of professional sports. HITTING THE HARDWOOD
5. F1 (Formula One), MLB (Major League Baseball) and NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) are all jumping on board with leagues of their own. NASCAR broke its own viewership records with their new eNASCAR iRacing Pro Invitational Series – real drivers racing on real racetracks…virtually. The series is being covered live on Fox Sports. LET’S GO CRAZY