Cringeworthy Freak Accidents That Occurred During An Athletic Competition

(Podcast length - 4:45 mins)

We realize you have to pay the bills somehow, but these five athlete partnerships make us a little confused.

Transcript

David Beckham for Young Fish Sticks

Nothing makes you want to fire up dinner faster than David Beckham's face on the side of a box of fish sticks. Beckham, who modeled Calvin Klein skivvies on billboards and Adidas endorsed Young Fish Sticks in 2010, complete with his picture on the side of the box. IN THE FREEZER SECTION

Wilt Chamberlain for Fletcher's Castoria for Children

Wilt the Stilt's endorsement of a children's laxative was undoubtedly more uncomfortable than a stopped-up system. What's better? His mom was in the commercials too. In the commercial, she talked about how when her son was feeling sluggish, Fletcher's made him feel like himself again. MAMA KNOWS BEST

OJ Simpson for Hertz Rental Car

Oh, the irony. The man who was part of this century's most notable police chase was the spokesperson for a rental car company. Granted, the partnership was during Simpson's football career, and the high-speed chase was later but still. Simpson graciously offered to be the spokesperson again for the company in 2020 after they filed for bankruptcy. DON'T CALL US, WE'LL CALL YOU?

Brett Favre and Wrangler Jeans

The partnership is one you're not likely to forget – cowboy meets NFL quarterback. And nothing says, let's play a game of football like a pair of jeans. The partnership became a little more awkward (and a target for "Saturday Night Live") after Favre got into trouble sending lewd photos to women. NOT IDEAL

Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom for Unbreakable Bond Perfume

A public breakup is tough when you're a celebrity, but what about when you share a booming business like Unbreakable Bond unisex perfume? The perfume, which features images of the couple all over the packaging, wasn't exactly a best seller like Kylie's lip kits. However, there was a second perfume made just for the holidays – Unbreakable Joy. THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

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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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/2/21 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/2/21

Why June Is This Year’s Hottest Month

Thanks to COVID rescheduling, June is going to be action-packed.

LISTEN ON Apple Podcasts

(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?

Links:

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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 5/12/21 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 5/12/21

Athletes Who Own Professional Sports Teams

Only the best will do.

LISTEN ON Apple Podcasts

(Podcast length - 5 mins)

Have money make money?

Transcript

1. Athletes and the biggest names in Hollywood love investing in women’s sports, especially the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League). Angel City FChas the most notable investors, including Jennifer Garner, Natalie Portman, Eva Longoria and athletes Mia Hamm, Serena Williams, Candace Parker and her daughter Lailaa and tennis icon and activist Billie Jean King. Not to be outdone, NHL (National Hockey League) superstar Alex Ovechkin (Washington Spirit) and the No. 2 tennis player in the world (and the highest-paid female athlete ever) Naomi Osaka, is now an owner of North Carolina Courage. SMART INVESTING

2. The hot ticket item (after an NWSL team) is buying a stake in a NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) team. Both Michael Jordan and Mr. Worldwide himself, Pitbull, became owners of a NASCAR team before this year’s season started. Jordan’s team is a new team led by the only Black driver in the pro circuit of NASCAR, Bubba Wallace. The car features Jordan’s longtime jersey number No. 23. Pitbull is the co-owner of the Trackhouse Racing Team, which has the No. 99 car of Daniel Suarez. FAST MONEY

3. Joining Justin Timberlake as an NBA (National Basketball Association) owner are the NFL’s (National Football League) Larry Fitzgerald (Phoenix Suns) and Aaron Rodgers (Milwaukee Bucks). Former NBA players Shaquille O’Neal (Sacramento Kings) and Dwyane Wade (Utah Jazz) have diversified their assets with team ownership. HOOP DREAMS

4. One sport that you might not think of is Esports. The sport is the fastest growing sport globally, with viewers watching more than 2.1 billion hours of Esports videos worldwide. You may have heard of cities across the country building dedicated Esports arenas, and that’s why. David Beckham, also the owner of Inter Miami CF (MLS), launched Guild Esports in 2020. The company has already gone public on the London Stock Exchange. He joins the long list of athlete investors in Esports, including Steph Curry (Team SoloMid), Alex Rodriguez (NRG Esports), Michael Jordan (aXiomatic), Michael Strahan (NRG Esports) and Mike Tyson (Team Fade 2 Karma). NUMBERS DON’T LIE

5. LeBron James has his hands in everything and it all seems to be turning to gold with his stake in Liverpool FC, who won the UEFA Championship in 2019. Also looking for a return on their investment is the NBA’s Kevin Durant, an owner of the Philadelphia Union (MLS – Major League Soccer). GOAL!

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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 12/2/20 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 12/2/20

Sports Love Stories Destined For The Hallmark Channel

The meet-cutes that led to love. Cue the snowfall.

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(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

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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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/25/20 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/25/20

Everyday They're Hustlin'

Athletes and the unique ways they make money off the court.

(Podcast length 4:53 - transcript is below)

Athletes make millions for their time spent on the field, but it’s how they parlay that into side hustles that ensures them a comfortable retirement.

Transcript

1. Just because they wear uniforms doesn’t mean these athletes aren’t into fashion. (It just takes them less time to get dressed for work than most of us). Led by Megan Rapinoe, four members of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team launched a gender-neutral clothing line earlier this year called Re—inc. On the men’s side, Russell Westbrook is known for his sometimes over-the-top postgame press conference 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

2. These athletes have an appetite for a return on investment. Enter in pizza. Yes, everyone’s favorite dinner is also a hot investment for these NBA players. If you eat at Blaze Pizza (LeBron James), Pieology (Kevin Durant), 800* (Dwyane Wade) or order from Papa John’s (Shaq) you’re supporting the cause. FAST CASUAL FTW

3. If sports are your life, why not buy part of a team? Diversifying their assets into an NBA (National Basketball Association) team, L arry Fitzgerald of the Arizona Cardinals bought into the Phoenix Suns and Aaron Rodgers owns a share of the Milwaukee Bucks. It seems like everyone joined Will Ferrell in buying a stake in a soccer team. Kevin Durant, Russell Wilson and Ciara, James Harden, Oscar De La Hoya and David Beckham are all partial owners of an MLS (Major League Soccer) team. LeBron James took it to another level investing $6.5M in Premiere League team, Liverpool FC in 2011. IN IT FOR THE GATORADE

4. Even though they’re used to being in the spotlight on the court, these basketball players are behind the scenes when it comes to movies. Chris Paul, Kevin Durant, LeBron James and Steph Curry are all involved in production and entertainment companies that have their hands in movies. You might remember Steph Curry’s most recent work as executive producer of “Jump Shot: The Movie.” (Great movie BTW). ON THE SILVER SCREEN

5. Last year, people watched 6.6 billion hours of esports videos worldwide. Jumping on that trend with their wallets in hand are celebrities from Michael Jordan to Mark Cuban to Alex Rodriguez. These esports teams are so popular that they resemble a race car driver covered in sponsor logos when they play. 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. HOPE IT PAYS DIVIDENDS

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.

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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/10/20 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/10/20

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?

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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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/3/20 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/3/20

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.

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?

LAST NIGHT'S GAME 5/27/20 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 5/27/20

Athletes And Their COVID Acts Of Kindness

Who’s up for some good news?

(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.

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

LAST NIGHT'S GAME 5/13/20 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 5/13/20

Five Of The Weirdest Things Athletes Have Autographed

Awkward doesn’t even begin to describe it.

(Podcast length 2:40 - summary is below)

Never a dull moment in the life of an athlete.

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.

1. Let’s just say this one is 50 shades of shady. Hockey player Karl Alzner penned his name on a woman’s leather whip at an autograph signing. Why a whip? He didn't ask and she didn't say. WE HOPE HE HAD HAND SANITIZER

2. David Price of the Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB – Major League Baseball) once signed a Twinkie. Rumor has it the sweet treat will survive the apocalypse, so why not? Said Twinkie then went for $56 on eBay. A NEW TAKE ON “SIGNATURE DESSERT”

3. Where would we be without our furry friends? Without an autograph apparently. NASCAR (National Association For Stock Car Auto Racing) driver Kasey Kahne signed a fan’s dog. The pup didn’t have much hair so its owner thought it would be the perfect place for Kahne to leave his mark. No word if the dog agreed. THERE BETTER HAVE BEEN TREATS INVOLVED

4. Los Angeles Kings (NHL – National Hockey League) goalie Jonathan Quick’s oddest item is a little cheesy. He once signed a fan’s grilled cheese sandwich. What’s worse? The sandwich already had two bites out of it and was “oozing with saliva.” SLOPPY SECONDS

5. Golden State Warriors’ Klay Thompson (NBA - National Basketball Association) once signed a toaster. Apparently, the fan was memorable because Thompson later invited the gadget guy to the Warriors’ championship parade. TOAST OF THE TOWN

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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 5/6/20 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 5/6/20

These Athlete Mamas Are Making Things Happen

Not all superheroes wear capes.

(Podcast length 4:31 - summary is below)

Need proof moms are superheros? Look no further than these athletes.

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.

1. We’re seeing the progress in women’s sports in adopting maternity policies for their players. Before these policies were put into place you had stars like Skylar Diggins-Smith, who played an entire WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) season while pregnant and didn’t tell anyone. In fact, was such a great season for her that she was named to the all-star team. After the birth of her son, she was criticized for taking two months off from the season due to postpartum depression. CUT THE GAL SOME SLACK

2. Olympic track star Allyson Felix made an impact on the track, winning six Olympic gold medals but it’s what she did off the track that has shaped her legacy. The NIKE sponsored athlete took on the company saying per her contract, she would be financially penalized for having a child. (Her daughter was born via emergency c-section in 2018). She was so fed up with their lack of support for female athletes that she left NIKE for Athleta. NIKE has since changed their polices and they will not apply any performance-related reductions for 18 months if an athlete becomes pregnant. CHANGE MAKER

3. When Candace Parker was drafted, everyone thought she’d be the Michael Jordan of the WNBA, and she was, winning attention from big sponsors like Gatorade and Adidas. After her rookie season where she was named rookie of the year and MVP, she returned to the court just 53 days after having her daughter. She did whatever it took to make the best of fitting her new role as a mom in with her career, including nursing at halftime. Parker played 12 seasons in the WNBA. Like many of her peers, during that time she played basketball overseas in the off-season where she earned a bigger paycheck. BRINGING HOME THE BACON

Side note – Parker was the first female to dunk in an NCAA Tournament game. What can’t she do?

4. Serena Williams hasn’t let a life shift like motherhood slow her down. You might remember when she won her 23rd Grand Slam tournament at the Australian Open while pregnant. (The record is 24 wins). After serious medical complications resulting from a c-section birth of her daughter, she’s continued to be a force to be reckoned with on the court. She has launched a clothing line and stays active as a Unicef Goodwill Ambassador, with Serena Ventures where she invests in businesses with diverse founders and doing charity work that benefits causes around the world. GIRL ON FIRE

5. U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team co-captain Alex Morgan is ready to give birth any minute but don’t think that has stopped her from sneaking in impressive workouts to keep her skills game day ready. She was prepared to represent her country in the Tokyo Olympics just three months after having her baby. But with the Olympics being rescheduled it’s a silver lining for Morgan who will have a chance to recover from childbirth and spend some time adjusting to her new role as mom. Although there’s no rest for the weary as she and her teammates continue to fight U.S. Soccer in a legal battle over fair pay. THE GOOD WORK IS NEVER DONE

LAST NIGHT'S GAME 2/18/20 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 2/18/20

The Top 5 Sports Power Couples

While most normal people meet online, they meet at the Olympics.

Here’s to five stellar athletic duos who share the same craft and we don’t mean beer.

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. Aaron Rodgers and Danica Patrick became friends first when they met at the 2012 ESPYs but then became a hot item in 2018. They may be one of the best-looking couples around but they don’t take themselves too seriously. Like when a Green Bay Packers (NFL - National Football League) fan posted a video of her professing her love for Rodgers while under anesthesia for tonsil surgery. The couple sent her 400 popsicles to heal her ailment and clearly her broken heart since he’s already taken. CONSOLATION PRIZE

2. 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 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. TIMING IS EVERYTHING

3. We’re all for bad pickup lines and they’re even better when they work. 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, were engaged in the summer of 2019. The couple’s passion for each other and their charitable efforts are something to admire. HEART EMOJI

4. Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe are the unofficial first couple of women’s sports. The two have been dating since 2016 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. They also have each other’s backs. During the Women’s World Cup, Bird, who plays in the 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

5. 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) and the soccer star met at a Stanford baseball game in 2012 when he offered her sunflower seeds. They had their first date was 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

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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 12/26/19 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 12/26/19

The Most Talked About Sports Moments of 2019

It was memorable for all the right reasons.

Because you’re going to need something to talk about until midnight while sipping champagne.

You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com and make sure to leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.

[Transcript]

1. Clearly one of the most talked about sports moments of the year, even the decade, is the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team’s back-to-back World Cup wins. This year’s team turned their win from a moment into a movement, using the victory as a platform to elevate the inequities in the workplace for women. After facing their own pay dispute battle, they’ve seen how their world stage can have a larger sense of purpose. (Oh and did we mention the team’s jerseys became the highest-selling soccer shirts in Nike’s history)? STANDING UP FOR CHANGE

2. One word – Tiger. His April win at the Masters had the country on the edge of their seats. His comeback victory ended an 11-year drought since his last championship and it was sweet. REDEMPTION

3. We didn’t think there were any records left for gymnast Simone Biles to break and she went and proved us wrong. She landed a gravity defying triple-double to win her record sixth U.S. Gymnastics Championship national all-around title. The move, now called the “Biles,” consists of two flips and three twists. TO THINK, WE GET CONFUSED ORDERING A LATTE WITH MORE THAN ONE SHOT

4. Canadians proved they don’t have a one-track hockey mind, rallying around their Toronto Raptors as they won their first NBA (National Basketball Association) title. With superfan Drake as the president of the fan club, the Raptors became the first team based in or originating in Canada to win an NBA title. They also made history with the biggest championship rings ever. WE THE NORTH

5. It was the sign that made everyone laugh and then paid off big time. Carson King held up a sign during “College GameDay” asking viewers to Venmo him money for Busch Light. After a huge response, King decided to do something for good with the money. The beer company and Venmo matched donations and they ended up raising a ton of money for a children’s hospital in Iowa. Even though the story has a happy ending, it went off course in the middle. A reporter dug up tweets King posted when he was a teenager that caused Busch to cut ties with an apologetic King. In the end, the 24-year-old still raised over $3 million for the children’s hospital. YOU LIVE, YOU LEARN, YOU HELP OTHERS

Honorable mention - Former NFL player and Heisman trophy winner O.J. Simpson joined Twitter and then tweeted that he has "got a little gettin' even to do."

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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 9/19/19 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 9/19/19

Athletes Giving Back - The 5 Most Charitable Sports Stars

These athletes’ hearts are even bigger than their wallets.

If volunteering reduces depression and early mortality rates, these athletes are going to be the happiest centenarians around.

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 and make sure to leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.

[Transcript]

1. International soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo is known for his cover model looks, supreme soccer skills and the big payday those bring in. While he’s not afraid to write a significant check, he’s also been known to roll up his sleeves, literally, as a frequent blood donor. The father of four has made a huge impact on his young fans all over the world. In one instance, he invited a Syrian orphan, who lost both his parents in the war, to a game and spent time with him. He has also paid for numerous children’s lifesaving medical treatments. His signature move is auctioning off coveted trophies he’s been awarded with the proceeds going to charity. INTERNATIONAL MAN OF GOOD

2. John Cena’s heart is bigger than his biceps. The WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) wrestler’s mantra is “Never Give Up” and that’s what he’s told the countless Make-A-Wish kids he’s met with. There are so many moments to make you smile like the time he had a tea party with one Make-A-Wish visitor, while decked out in his full wrestling regalia. Because of the orchestrated nature of his sport, he’s even gone as far as to weave certain moves requested by the kids into his “performance” during a matchup. TINY UNIFORM, BIG HEART

3. Love him or hate him, LeBron James (NBA -National Basketball Association) has left the community better than he found it. His big project is the I Promise School in Akron, OH. The school serves 204 at-risk third and fourth graders and even though it’s only been open one year, they’re seeing positive results. The year-round school has seen growth among the 90% of students – who started the school year at least one year behind grade level – met or exceeded their expected growth in math and reading. CHANGING THE FUTURE

4. Newly engaged couple P.K. Subban (New Jersey Devils, NHL – National Hockey League) and Lindsey Vonn (former U.S. Olympic skier) have charity work in common. Both are a force for good on their own but together they just might change the world. She hosts an annual Strong Girls Camp, where she works to increase confidence in young girls.

Subban has left a mark for good in every community he’s touched. He gave $10 million to the Montreal Children's Hospital but his most impactful work might be his Blueline Buddies program. He provided tickets to each Nashville Predators game (his former team), one for an officer and one for a young person and their guests. He did this in hopes of creating unity between law enforcement and the community. We’ll see what he has in store for New Jersey when the season starts next month. POWER COUPLE

5. No act goes unnoticed and Virginia’s head men’s basketball coach made a selfless choice that will benefit so many others. After winning the first ever national championship for the school, coach Tony Bennett recently turned down a raise. In an unprecedented move, he asked that the money be given to his assistant coaches and the school. He also pledged $500,000 toward a career development program for current and former UVA basketball players. GOOD GUY

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LAST NIGHT'S GAME 7/3/19 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 7/3/19

The 5 Most Memorable National Anthem Performances

This isn’t your mama’s karaoke.

For better or worse….

You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com.

[Transcript]

1. College bands were originally called upon to play the Star-Spangled Banner before the Super Bowl. Diana Ross was the first pop star to sing the anthem before the big game in 1982. The longest rendition of the anthem at the Super Bowl? Alicia Keys at 156.4 seconds. Shortest? Billy Joel at 90 seconds. THAT WAS QUICK

2. Roseanne Barr’s performance at a San Diego Padres (MLB – Major League Baseball) game was not music to your ears. Her shrieking of the anthem (and crotch grab afterward) reminded us that she should never quit her day job. THIS IS WHY A MUTE BUTTON WAS INVENTED

3. Another not so fan favorite? Fergie’s “outside the box" rendition at the NBA (National Basketball Association) All-Star Game that had even the players trying not to laugh. LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK

4. That voice. The headband. The 90s jumpsuit. Whitney Houston’s performance of the anthem at the 1991 Super Bowl goes down as the best in the business. INSTANT CLASSIC

5. At 96-years-old, Pete DuPré dutifully represented the same country he pledged his life to by playing the national anthem on his harmonica. The WWII veteran, “Harmonica Pete,” as he is known, played a stunning rendition of the anthem before a U.S. Women’s Soccer game this year and of course brought the crowd to their feet. LEGENDARY

Thanks to ESPN and YouTube for the clips of these audio gems.

LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/5/19 LAST NIGHT'S GAME 6/5/19

The 5 Things You Need To Know About The Women's World Cup

Starting this Friday, it’s the U.S. vs. the world.