Our 5 Favorite Storylines To Follow During The Summer Olympics
Expect the unexpected.
Photo: Unsplash
(Podcast length - 4:50 mins)
The Olympics are filled with thousands of stories, with over 11,000 athletes competing. It was hard to narrow it down, but here are five storylines worth following during the Tokyo Olympics.
Transcript
1. Wondering why it seems like the Olympic coverage appears to be overly female-friendly? The abundance of media coverage is seemingly because they’re the names we’re most likely to hear announced on the podium. Women have won more than 50% of Team U.S.A.’s medals at the last two Summer Olympics. GET IT GIRLS
2. Keep an eye on Sungjae Im and Si Woo Kim, golfers from South Korea. The two PGA (Professional Golfers Association) golfers dropped out of the British Open earlier this month to focus on their preparation for the Olympics. An Olympic medal for these two athletes (or any other South Korean athlete) would not only make their country proud but would provide the Olympian with an exemption from mandatory two-year service in the South Korean military. This exemption is something that not even the members of international sensation K-pop group BTS are able to achieve. EYES ON THE PRIZE
3. With the topic of transgender children in sports being hotly debated in the U.S., Laurel Hubbard, a weightlifter from New Zealand, will represent her country and proudly carry the title of the first openly transgender athlete to compete at the Olympics. After failed efforts from neighboring countries to ban her from the Commonwealth Games, Hubbard pushed on, with support from her fellow New Zealanders, and landed a spot on the Olympic team. SHINE ON
4. They were, and then they weren’t. The Japanese government was prepared to allow fans, Japan residents only, at Olympic competitions. Then earlier this month, they changed their mind, declaring a state of emergency due to COVID and will no longer allow fans at any of the Summer Olympic competitions in Tokyo. This ban on fans includes family and friends of the athletes competing as foreign fans were banned back in March. CHEERING FROM AFAR
5. There are five sports taking place in the Olympics for the first time. Look for your favorite men’s and women’s athletes to compete in surfing, sport climbing, skateboarding (park & street), karate (kumite & kata) and softball/baseball. While softball/baseball was voted out of the Olympics in 2006, they’re back and will bring the most new athletes to the Games, with 144 men and 90 women participating in the sport. GOING FOR GOLD
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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
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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A Pigeon Chasing Hawk, The Loudest Grunter And Pimm's - What You Need To Know About Wimbledon 2021
What you need to know and what you never expected.
Photo: Unsplash
(Podcast length - 5:03 mins)
The oldest tennis tournament in the world may be steeped in history, but that doesn’t stop the common folk like us from enjoying a match, traditional Pimm’s or donning our Wimbledon whites.
Transcript
1. There’s a strict dress code at the prestigious tournament, requiring players to wear all white. (Rumor has it was that it was because it didn’t show sweat like other colors). Now we all know that nothing ruins your summer whites like bird poop. Luckily you don’t have to worry about that at Wimbledon. Rufus is a specially trained hawk that keeps those pooping pigeons away from the grounds. Like a good predator, Rufus flies above the grounds for one hour (9.00 am) most mornings before the gates open to keep the birds away. EYES LIKE A HAWK
2. Did you know that Wimbledon is the largest single annual sporting event in Europe from a catering perspective? In previous years, spectators consumed over 276,000 glasses of Pimm’s to wash down 18,061 servings of fish and chips. Although this year, those numbers might be a little lower as fan capacity is limited to 50% occupancy until the men’s and women’s finals, when the stadium will be at 100% capacity. The tournament has served 4,242 servings of sushi and 6,147 of pasta to their racket-wielding athletes. WHO’S HUNGRY?
3. The tennis balls are replaced every seven to nine games to ensure they’re kept in perfect shape. It’s no wonder more than 54,000 tennis balls are used during the two-week tournament. But did you know that tennis balls used to be white or black, not yellow? They were changed to yellow to make it easier for the TV viewer to see the ball, but Wimbledon was a late adopter to the color change, waiting until the 80s. HOLY BALLS
4. Grunting is something no longer left to gremlins and grumpy old men. Even the classiest of tennis players vocalize their play. While you may think this is a new thing, Monica Seles and Jimmy Connors are known as the original creators of the tennis grunt. The loudest one on the court? Russia’s Maria Sharapova at 105 decibels – the equivalent of standing next to an accelerating motorcycle. THAT’S NOT AWKWARD AT ALL
5. The biggest news about Wimbledon is who isn’t going to be there. Naomi Osaka and Rafael Nadal have both dropped out of the tournament. But instead of looking at the glass half empty, let’s talk about how Serena Williams will be there to go for her record-tying 24 Grand Slam win. Or the two of the biggest names in men’s tennis, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, will take the court. Djokovic has won the first two Grand Slam tournaments (aka majors) this year. (Wimbledon is the third major of the year). BE THERE OR BE SQUARE
Bonus: Last year’s tournament was cancelled but don’t feel too bad. The All-England Lawn Tennis Club had been paying pandemic insurance for 17 years, and it finally paid off with a rumored payout of $141 million.
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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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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Episode 5: Women Ask All - Bachelorette Preview, Best Ballpark Foods And Petunias...
Picking our Bachelorette brackets, talking ballpark food and laughing all the way.
(Podcast length 1:01 mins)
The gang is back together discussing “The Bachelorette” premiere, Summer Olympics and (oddly) petunias.
Show notes
Our guests
Lincee Ray: The brilliant and witty host behind the “I Hate Green Beans” podcast. (If you don’t listen already, go subscribe ASAP). Since we have Lincee on here and we’re all Bachelor franchise fans, we’re going to have to ask about the hot mess that is the Bachelorette this season. She can say the ABCs backward, really does hate green beans and is "a little too enthusiastic about Netflix, mixtapes and holiday-themed Oreos.”
Lisa Alberti: The Connecticut gal turned Los Angeles resident has a slight addiction to buying clutches and hats and is currently listening to Heather Dubrow’s World (podcast). All while dreaming of drinking champagne in Cabo, or really anywhere slightly exotic at this point. Thanks COVID.
Kourtney Brooks: The world needs more Kourtney Brooks. Kourtney has never met a martini she didn’t like and yet still manages to get more done in one day than most do in a week. This really fun and motivated gal created TINGE, a body beauty brand that launched their first product, the TINGE tint, in April.
Scott Buchan: The Last Night’s Game co-founder is the man who knows all. He’s online to conquer those hard-hitting sports questions that might come our way as well as provide comic relief. Don’t worry he takes notes and in this episode he shares about his love for gardening (what?) and finally his review of Hallmark Channel movies. Next thing you know he’ll be staring in a rendition of “What Women Want” after all he’s learned on this podcast.
Amy Siegfried: Our hostess with the mostest and Last Night’s Game co-founder turned podcast host. She’s in charge of asking the questions you submit, keeping the panel on topic (her hardest job yet) and making sure everyone’s bios say something nice. (And yes in case you’re wondering, Scott is her brother hence the hilarious family references).
Links to things we talked about:
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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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.
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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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?
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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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
Links:
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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Athletes Who Own Professional Sports Teams
Only the best will do.
Photo: Instagram/David Beckham
(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!
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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Moms Who Made The Sports World Up Their Game
Don’t mess with these rockstar mamas.
Photo: Instagram/Alex Morgan
(Podcast length - 5:06 mins)
When being forced to choose between a family and their job, these women picked both and then paved the way for others to do the same.
Transcript
1. With some of the highest TV ratings we’ve seen in years, the University of Arizona Wildcats women’s basketball team lost to the Stanford women in the March Madness championship game. Leading those Wildcats was former WNBA player, head coach Adia Barnes. Barnes, who inspired women everywhere in her quest for her dream job, coaches alongside her husband and is a mom to two children. During halftime, she was not only giving a pep talk to her team but also pumping as she’s still nursing her six-month-old daughter. Barnes shed light on the NCAA’s rules that have stifled working moms. Coaches’ children, such as Barnes’ six-month-old daughter, counted against a team's limited traveling party numbers, which means she had to choose between her children and a member of her staff. MAKING IT HAPPEN
2. Mom was the word last year at the U.S. Open (tennis), with nine moms qualifying for the tournament. Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka and Tsvetana Pironkova made history as the first trio of mothers to reach the quarterfinals of the same Grand Slam. The WTA (Women’s Tennis Association) has stepped up with new policies to support new moms (or expecting), including a new ranking policy and adjusting the dress code. Women on the tour will not be penalized or prohibited from wearing leggings or compression shorts without a skirt, dress or shorts over them at WTA tournaments. REAL HEROES WEAR LEGGINGS
3. 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, it 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. Because of players like Diggins-Smith, the new collective bargaining agreement features full salary on maternity leave, a childcare accommodation and new, progressive family planning benefits. CUT THE GAL SOME SLACK
4. 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 previously Nike-sponsored athlete took on the company, saying that she would be financially penalized for having a child per her contract. (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. Felix isn’t the only athlete worried about being dropped for having a child – it’s a far too common practice. NIKE has since changed its policies and they will not apply any performance-related reductions for 18 months if an athlete becomes pregnant. A FORCE FOR CHANGE
5. U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team co-captain Alex Morgan was one of the few athletes that were okay with the delay in the Olympics because it gave her more time with her newborn baby. The co-captain isn’t slowing down, signing with Tottenham Hotspur in England and then returning home to the Orlando Pride (NWSL – National Women’s Soccer League). She’s racking up the goals for both her club team and the USWNT as they prepare for the Summer Olympics in Tokyo. Players like Morgan will be able to utilize the new maternity policies put in place by FIFA (the governing body of international soccer). IT’S A START
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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6 Reasons Why The Kentucky Derby Is Our Favorite Event Of The Year
From the outfits to the cocktails to the horses with naughty names.
(Podcast length - 5:35 mins)
Grab your bonnet, official mint julep and let’s go.
Transcript
Here’s why it’s one of our favorite events:
BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS IT
The Derby is often referred to as the “most exciting two minutes in sports” because that’s how long it takes for the horses to run the 1¼ mile track at Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY. It’s the first race of the famed Triple Crown. It's followed by the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. SHORT AND SWEET
THE NAMES OF THE HORSES
What’s in a name? Well, try naming a horse – it’s not as easy as it seems. There are so many rules set forth by the Jockey Club to abide by when naming a horse. Of course, nothing racy is approved, but names like Sexy Pork Chop, Hoochiecoochiemama, Bodacious Tatas and Hardawn (say it aloud) have slipped past the reviewers. WE’D PAY TO HEAR ANNOUNCERS READ THOSE NAMES ON TV
THE OUTFITS
After last year’s Derby was postponed until September and with only a few fans, this year’s race will include fans, albeit a smaller than usual crowd. Around 45,000 fans will don their Derby hats to watch the race. (Normal capacity is 165,000). Speaking of Derby hats, the long-standing tradition started with a goal to have high-class spectators attend the race. The Derby hat as we know it didn’t come around until the 1960s when fashion norms loosened up and big, bright and festive colors were socially acceptable. THE BEST CELEBRITY DERBY HATS
PS - If you’re attending a Derby party and need something to wear, check our friend Amy Ann over at Straight A Style for some Derby dress ideas.
PLACE YOUR BETS
The horses in the Derby are all three-year-old males. You’ll never see a horse win the Derby twice because they’re only allowed to race when they’re three, and that’s it. Keep an eye on the favorite in the Derby, Essential Quality. Other horses with cool stories (or names) include Hot Rod Charlie, owned by a few former Brown football players who named their horse after a drinking game they played in college. Then there’s Midnight Bourbon, which hopefully, unlike choosing a bourbon as the clock strikes twelve, is a good choice. COCKTAILS ANYONE?
Curious how one bets on horses? It's simple - let us show you how. PONIES 101
LIFESTYLES OF THE RICH AND FAMOUS (HORSES)
Ever wonder how these high-priced horses get from one race to another? Air Horse One. No, really. They fly on a Boeing 727 cargo plane nicknamed “Air Horse One.” It’s equipped with stalls built around the horse and even inflight snacks. Tex Sutton Equine Air transports about 2,500 horses per year. AND YOU THOUGHT BUSINESS CLASS WAS EXPENSIVE.
COCKTAILS GALORE
The mint julep has been the official cocktail of the Derby since 1938. The drink is made with Woodford Reserve bourbon (the official sponsor of this year’s event). On a normal year, over 120,000 juleps are sold every year at the Derby. BOTTOMS UP
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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How The Sports World Is Saving Mother Earth
From sheep lawnmowers to vegan-only concession stands.
(Podcast length - 4:15 mins)
How far are you willing to go to save Mother Earth? Well for these teams, the sky’s the limit.
Transcript
1. The Green Rovers, a soccer team from Western England, is 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
2. From medals made of recycled consumer electronics to recycled cardboard beds, expect the Tokyo Summer Olympics to set the bar high when it comes to a sustainable Games. Anyone can reduce their carbon footprint by using fuel-efficient vehicles and existing venues, but Japan is taking it one step further using post-consumer plastic packaging collected throughout Japan to create the medal podiums. Not to be outdone, organizers are aiming to achieve 100 percent renewable energy for the electricity used to power the Games. DOING THEIR PART
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 they have 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. Home field advantage for some sports teams is an urban farm. Fenway Park, one of the oldest stadiums in baseball, was granted its LEED certification. The home of the Boston Red Sox (MLB) also has a rooftop farm that generates 5,900 pounds of produce annually to be used in the stadium. The home of the San Francisco 49ers boasts a 27,000-square foot rooftop farm that generates 500 pounds of produce monthly. BATTING FOR BROCCOLI
5. The Cleveland Indians were the first MLB (Major League Baseball) team to install a wind turbine to power their stadium. Others have since followed. Although the Indians can boast that their stadium is 100 percent powered by renewable energy from wind power. BLOWN AWAY
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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You Can Thank These Athletes For Your Next Hangover
Cocktails and sports? We’re here for it.
Photo: Instagram/Danica Patrick
(Podcast length - 5:54 mins)
Whether you’re ready to hit the town or looking to stay in, these athletes will have you saying, pass the Advil.
Transcript
1. There’s nothing Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson can’t do. From college football to wrestling to acting he’s now added the founder of Teremana tequila to his list of accomplishments. His tequila is one of the fastest-growing celebrity spirits in history. While The Rock seems to have the corner on the celebrity tequila market, look out for LeBron James (Lobos 1707) and Michael Jordan (Cincoro), both investors in the tequila market. GUAC IT TO ME
2. Former NBA (National Basketball Association) player Amare Stoudemire was known for bathing in red wine to help his post-game recovery. Hence, it’s no surprise that the former member of the Phoenix Suns and Israeli citizen created his own kosher wine. MAZEL TOV
3. Like a fine wine, Danica Patrick only gets better. The retired racecar driver has gone from breaking the glass ceiling in racing to wine. One might say her career drove her to drink, but she’s accomplishing a dream in retirement. No, really. Her Napa Valley vineyard Somnium means “dream” in Latin. FROM THE FINISH LINE TO THE GRAPEVINE
4. A glass of fine wine and announcer Jim Nantz have something in common. They’re both smooth and are likely to put you to sleep (in a good way in Nantz's case) after consuming for an hour or two. Nantz, the soothing voice of the Masters and NFL on CBS, is behind the Healdsburg, CA winery The Calling. Also known for their time on the golf course and in the wine world are veteran golfers Ernie Els (Ernie Els Wines) and Greg Norman (Greg Norman Estates). CLOSEOUT THE DAY AT THE 19TH HOLE (AKA THE BAR)
5. LeBron James doesn’t shy away from his admiration for wine (or apparently tequila) and neither do retired NBA players Dwyane Wade and Yao Ming. Ming is one of the tallest ever to play the game and the Shanghai native is fully invested in his St. Helena, CA vineyard. However, Yao Family Wines aren’t your daily drinkers at around $100+ a bottle. Dwyane Wade’s brand, Wade Cellars, resides in Napa Valley. Wade knew he always wanted to be in the wine industry, so here’s the chance to toast him with the fruit of his labor. WE’LL DRINK TO THAT
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 Everyone Loves The Masters (And Why You Should Too)
Here's what to say, what not to do and why a green blazer is a coveted fashion statement.
(Podcast length - 6:15 mins)
The famed tournament starts Thursday. Here's what to say, what not to do and why a green blazer is a coveted fashion statement.
Transcript
Quick recap - If it seems like the Masters was just yesterday, you’d almost be correct. The famed tournament was delayed from its traditional spring 2020 date until the fall (November), with Dustin Johnson taking home the famed green jacket.
1. The Masters is the only one of the four Major tournaments in the PGA (Professional Golfers Association) that doesn’t change locations - it’s always at Augusta National Golf Course. Although there are calls for the PGA to pull the Masters out of Georgia based on the new voting laws. To become a member of this iconic course is somewhat of a mystery. There are no criteria listed for membership, and the list of members is not public. Ron Townsend was named the first Black member in 1990, and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice became the first woman member in 2012. (There are now only six women members). TEEING OFF
2. Longtime broadcast partner of the tournament, CBS, admitted they edit in melodic bird sounds during the telecast to enhance the programming and make it feel more like a “natural paradise,” even though spectators have noted the lack of birds on the course. Apparently, CBS admitted to doing this for other tournaments as well. At least nothing will swoop down and steal your $3 popcorn or poop in your $5 beer (see below). TWEET TWEET
3. The famed green jacket became a tradition in 1949. Members of the club decided on the color green so fans in attendance at the tournament could spot them if they had questions. The Masters’ winner also receives a green jacket. The winner is allowed to have the green jacket for one calendar year. After that year, they’re only permitted to wear it when they’re on the grounds of Augusta. NO TAKE BACKS
4. The famed Champions Dinner happens on Tuesday evening before the tournament. It’s tradition for the previous winner to select the menu for the famed feast between all the former Masters winners. Dustin Johnson’s menu will make you hungry, but it has nothing on the Masters’ cheap concessions of $1.50 pimento cheese sandwiches and a $5 beer. The dinner included filet mignon, miso-marinated sea bass and pigs in a blanket. One notable attendee was missing from the dinner, the five-time Masters champion himself, Tiger Woods. Woods is recovering from injuries sustained in a car accident earlier this year. GREAT FOOD, GREAT COMPANY
5. Two players for the fans in person and watching on TV to watch for are:
Brooks Koepka – The newly engaged Koepka had knee surgery less than a month ago and has been spending 7+ hours a day in physical therapy to return in time for the Masters. He’s never won the tournament. WORTH A SHOT
Jon Rahm – Rahm is entering the tournament with new motivation, his newborn son. Rahm was telling people not to bet on him because he would leave The Masters to be there for his first child's birth. Luckily, he was born on Saturday, so now he can watch his dad play for the green jacket. DAD STRENGTH
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.
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Step Up To The Plate - Baseball Is Back. Here’s What You Need To Know.
Grab those peanuts and Cracker Jacks.
(Podcast length - 6 mins)
With Opening Day around the corner, it’s always good to be up to speed so you can join the baseball conversation and then steer it over to something baseball-related like beer, hot dogs and giant ballpark pretzels with cheese. Now we’re talking.
Transcript
Quick recap. Last season was a season shorted by COVID. There was no all-star game nor international play. In the end, the Los Angeles Dodgers were crowned World Champions, beating the Tampa Bay Rays.
1. History was made this off-season when the Miami Marlins hired Kim Ng, the first woman to ever serve in the general manager role for an MLB team. (A general manager handles all team operations – think player relations, the draft, scouting, etc.). Ng has served as an assistant GM with both the Yankees and the Dodgers and the executive suite with the White Sox. Hall of Famer and Miami Marlins CEO/owner Derek Jeter led the breakthrough hire. LET’S GO, GIRLS
2. There’s a new kid in the Big Apple. Steven Cohen beat out the investor group led by Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez to buy the New York Mets, and this season is his first full season behind the wheel. And he’s already kicking butt and taking names. He fired the team’s general manager Jared Porter after Porter admitted to sending lewd texts to a female reporter. Cohen stood firm, saying, “I spoke about the importance of integrity, and I meant it. There should be zero tolerance for this type of behavior.” So far, he has our vote regardless of how the team does on the field. NO THANK YOU
3. A few outside-the-box games to look forward to include the all-star game and the “Field of Dreams” game. The home run derby and the all-star game will take place in Atlanta on July 12-13. COVID halted the league’s dreams of having two teams play on the “Field of Dreams” field in Iowa last season. This year the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees will channel their inner Kevin Costner as the big leaguers to play amongst the corn on August 12. The game will also be the first-ever Major League game to be played in Iowa. HOW ‘BOUT THEM APPLES?
4. All teams will open their seasons on Thursday with fans in the stands. However, 11 stadiums around the league have been hosting fans for quite some time as mass vaccination centers. Those stadiums have distributed over 1 million vaccines, and some will remain open during the regular season. The league is encouraging its players, coaches and staff to get vaccinated and are using the promise of relaxed restrictions as the carrot. When 85% of tier 1 members of a team get vaccinated, players will be able to eat out at restaurants, bring their families on road trips and carpool with each other. DON’T CALL IT A COMEBACK
5. Do you remember the old Nike commercials featuring one of the home run kings from the steroid era and the saying, “chicks dig the long ball?” Well, the league sorted out that steroid situation, but after a recent sharp rise in home runs, the league commissioned scientists to examine the current baseballs. This study resulted in changing how baseballs are made. While the league won’t admit the balls were “juiced,” they are making undisclosed changes. The inner workings of making a baseball are so secretive that the league won’t even share the color code for the red laces. PROPRIETARY INFORMATION
Honorable mention: “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” ranks right up there with “Happy Birthday” as a song that’s trickled off your tongue. But did you know the song was written by a guy who had never been to a baseball game? YOU DON’T SAY
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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Your Favorite Everyday Products That Started With Sports
You don’t say?
(Podcast length - 6:10 mins)
Whether or not you like sports, the industry has created products that are right under your nose.
Transcript
1. The age-old question of “why aren’t my football players peeing during games” resulted in the development of Gatorade. In the summer of 1965, a University of Florida football coach sat down with a team of physicians to understand why the heat affected his players. The team of doctors soon determined that the Gators players were losing fluids and electrolytes from sweating, and they weren’t being replaced by water. They created Gatorade, and it powered the team to reach their first-ever Orange Bowl appearance the following season. Word soon spread about this magical drink, and the rest is history. The first “Gatorade Shower” took place after Super Bowl 21 on January 25, 1987, when the famed drink was dumped over the winning coach’s head. The brand wasn’t without controversy. Its ad featured in Playboy Magazine certainly turned some heads. WELL, THAT’S SPORTY
2. Many inspirational quotes tell you to look through your windshield, not your rearview mirror, but those authors were clearly not race car drivers. The mirror that we take for granted in our cars every day was a product of Indy Car racing. Instead of having a riding mechanic (aka a spotter) sit behind him in the car in the 1911 Indy 500, driver Ray Harroun chose to mount a mirror above his dashboard to see what was going on behind him. (Spoiler alert: the aerodynamic advantages of being a one-person vs. a two-person car led him to the win). Rearview mirrors began to be standard equipment in consumer cars in the 1970s. AND HERE WE THOUGHT IT WAS FOR CHECKING FOR FOOD IN OUR TEETH
3. While athleisure is a relatively new fashion trend, Lululemon entered the scene in 1998 with the first yoga pant. The quarantine workday pant that we all love started as a high-end alternative to the available cotton leggings. The Luon fabric made of nylon and Lycra—synthetic elastic fibers morphed into a culture-shifting phenomenon, leaving pants, including jeans, scrambling. Lululemon was not without controversies, including a mouthy founder and the costly $67M mistake of see-through pants disaster. NAMASTE (WORKING IN MY YOGA PANTS)
4. Irvin Johnson, not to be confused with Ervin Johnson, aka Magic Johnson, was a bodybuilder and a scientist. In the early 1950s, he developed the first protein powder. His dissolvable protein, “Johnson’s Hi-Protein Food,” was a milk and egg-based concoction. Johnson changed his name to ‘Rheo Blair’ after a spiritualist told him he’d have more luck if his name contained more ‘R’s. Well, we guess it worked as Blair/Johnson started a $4.72B U.S. Market (2020) for protein powders. GOOD TO THE LAST DROP
5. If you’ve ever cruised down the street on your bike with your brilliant brain strapped into a helmet, you can thank football players. Lafayette player George Barclay commissioned the first known helmet. His teammates were growing out their hair for extra padding, but he asked a harnessmaker to create a head strap with earmuffs made of padded leather. The first sign of a football helmet as we know it was created in 1893 by U.S. Naval Academy player Joseph Reeve. After being kicked in the head too many times, he put together a moleskin hat with earflaps to prevent further injury. Paratroopers later used his invention during World War I. THAT’S USING YOUR NOGGIN
Honorable mention: One product, nutrition bars, you would assume started with sports but low and behold, the nutrition bar as we know it was formulated by NASA. OUTTA THIS WORLD
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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The 5 Things You Need To Know About March Madness
Leveling the playing field for this month’s hottest topic.
(Podcast length - 5:30 mins)
Whether you’re a bracket expert or could care less about who is hitting the hardwood, we’ll bring you up to speed and level the playing field when it comes to America’s favorite tournament, March Madness.
Transcript
1. The March Madness basketball tournament features 68 teams vying for the championship. For this year’s tournament, which is single-elimination, the NCAA will be hosting every game in Indiana, with most of the tournament's matchups taking place in Indianapolis. The women’s tournament will take place in San Antonio. Usually, the tournament’s different stages are held nationwide but with COVID, limiting travel is essential for safety. But there will be fans. Arenas will be allowed to operate at 25 percent capacity when the men’s tournament starts on Thursday, March 18 and the women’s tournament on Sunday, March 21, in San Antonio. The championship games are April 5 and April 4, respectively. ALL-IN
2. Are you feeling blue about your men’s bracket? That might be the ticket to winning. Louisville is the only national championship team in the past 17 seasons that did not have blue as a school color. Want to pick your bracket by the mascot or best celebrity alum? Fine with us! Join our bracket and choose however you want. (There’s even autofill). BLUE DANCING SHOES
3. When choosing your bracket in this single-elimination tournament, remember that the most likely upset is a No. 12 team over a No. 5. Only once in the tournament’s history has a No. 16 team upset a No. 1 seeded team. PICKING A WINNER
4. In previous years, we’ve seen more than $6.3 billion lost in workplace productivity. Who knows what that number will look like with so many people working from home. Many companies have turned the tournament into a team-building opportunity with various contests. Take Warren Buffet and his $1 million a year for life promise for an employee who picks a perfect bracket in the first round. The chances of picking a completely perfect bracket? 1 in 9.2 quintillions. You’re better off basing your retirement on winning the lottery. DON’T HOLD YOUR BREATH
5. In a year where major basketball programs like Duke and Kentucky didn’t make the cut for the tournament, everyone’s favorite underdog Gonzaga is thriving. They’re looking to do something that hasn’t been done in 45 years – finish the season undefeated. Gonzaga is the tournament’s top-ranked team with Illinois, Baylor and Michigan taking the other No. 1 spots. LEADERS OF THE PACK
On the women’s side, keep your eye on Page Bueckers, a freshman at UConn. She has had a phenomenal season but will be without her head coach Geno Auriemma for a few tournament games after testing positive for COVID. Auriemma has coached UCONN to 11 titles. Chris Daley will step into his shoes, which she has done during the regular season, and hopes to lead the Huskies to a win (or two).
Curious about how COVID will impact this single-elimination tournament? Need more pointers on picking your bracket? Check out our guide to making sense of March Madness.
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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The Stories Behind Baseball's Best Traditions
From “Sweet Caroline” to the mascot that swims in a beer barrel to “Take Me Out To Ballgame.”
(Podcast length - 5:30 mins)
The sport of baseball has been around a long time and that means teams have had a long time to come up with interesting (and sometimes questionable) traditions.
Transcript
1. Who doesn’t love to sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh inning stretch? Legendary Chicago Cubs announcer Harry Caray was the “best” at it. (Meaning he was no Whitney Houston but it was iconic Cubs). After Caray passed away, the Cubs began bringing in celebrity guests to sing the famed song. Some were better than others but at any given home game you could see the likes of Mr. T, actor Vince Vaughn or even the Cookie Monster up in the booth singing to the crowd. BUY ME SOME PEANUTS AND CRACKER JACKS
2. Bernie Brewer, the beloved mascot of the Milwaukee Brewers, has a fan-favorite tradition of sliding down a giant yellow slide after every Brewers’ home run. This trip from his “dugout” down the slide wasn’t always so family-friendly. Back in the seventies, Bernie would slide from his beer barrel chalet, which looked like something out of Disneyland meets the Alps, into a giant mug of beer to celebrate. His splashdown shifted to the tradition we know today when the team opened their new stadium in 2001. BOTTOMS UP
3. The tradition of singing “Sweet Caroline” during the 8th inning wasn’t always a thing. It started in 1997 with ballpark music maestro Amy Tobey playing the song for a friend who had a daughter named Caroline. Tobey would only play the song between the seventh and ninth innings when the Red Sox were winning the game. Then a new member of the front office saw how the fans were responding to it and pushed for it to become the Red Sox's ‘thing,’ being played at every home game regardless of whether or not the team was winning. And the rest is history. GOOD TIMES NEVER SEEMED SO GOOD
4. You may have never voted for your presidential candidate based on their 40-yeard dash speed, but you will when you go to a Washington Nationals game. Hold onto your hats because in the fourth inning, some of your favorite presidents race for the title of champion. The President’s Race is a tradition that started back in 2006 and you can catch your favorite Mt. Rushmore presidents: Lincoln, Washington, Jefferson and Roosevelt trotting around the outfield track during every home game. Sometimes they’re joined by special guests like Coolidge, Hoover and Taft. At Sunday home games, you can find these fast-footed presidents in their "Sunday Best" period costumes, which were modeled after a Bette Midler concert puppet. FINALLY, SOMETHING POLITICAL WE CAN ALL AGREE ON
5. In order to pay homage to Houston’s Union Station, which now partly serves as the team store, a train was installed in the Houston Astros stadium, Minute Maid Park, back in 2000. The train takes a 40-second trip back and forth for every home run hit by the home team. ALL ABOARD
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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Athlete Wives Who Bring Home The Bacon
Successful, powerful and making sh*t happen.
(Podcast length - 4:27 mins)
Being an athlete’s wife often carries a stereotype, but these women have blown that bias out of the water.
Transcript
1. The legend of this group is undoubtedly Victoria (Adams) Beckham. She and David Beckham met at a charity soccer match at the height of her career as a member of the Spice Girls. She followed him to Los Angeles for his career, but she had already made a name for herself in the states with her luxury fashion brand Victoria Beckham. She recently added Victoria Beckham Beauty to her long list of accomplishments. AND SHE MAKES IT LOOK EFFORTLESS
2. Many regard Tom Brady (NFL - National Football League) as the G.O.A.T., but he hasn’t always been paid that way. He took pay cuts to direct the team money toward bringing in better players to build an overall better team. How? As he once said in an interview, “My wife makes a lot of money. I’m a little smarter than you think.” Gisele Bündchen was the highest-paid model for 10 years in a row, but did you know that she has released a handful of covers of popular songs? She’s also a New York Times bestseller, an entrepreneur building Ipanema sandals, a philanthropist, environmentalist and a mom, whose net worth is more than her husband’s. BRING OUT THE BIG GUNS
3. She may have been a small-town girl when she won “American Idol,” but Carrie Underwood had her eyes on a successful career and has never looked back. We all know she’s a multiple Grammy Award-winning artist, but she’s also the founder of athleisure company CALIA by Carrie Underwood. She met now retired NHL (National Hockey League) player Mike Fisher when her bassist set them up on a blind date and the rest is history. For all that they have, they still enjoy the simple life. For Christmas, Fisher bought her two cows for their property outside of Nashville. SIMPLE AND SWEET
4. If you love to cook, you’ve likely cooked a recipe created by Ayesha Curry. The Canadian chef and TV personality has written bestselling cookbooks, opened her own restaurants across the country and has her own cookware line at Target. She does that while raising three children with her husband, NBA (National Basketball Association) great Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors). SHE DOES IT ALL
5. Long before she was Mrs. Russell Wilson, we knew Ciara for her “Goodies,” “1,2 Step” and her acting career. She and Russell Wilson (Seattle Seahawks - NFL) first stepped out in 2015 and have been head over heels for each other ever since. The two bonded over faith (they were famously celibate until they married) and philanthropy. The singer who has had her singles reach the top ten Billboard Top 100 spots eight times is still cranking out hits to this day. THIS GIRL IS ON FIRE
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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The 5 Docuseries You Need To Add To Your Watch List
You’ve reached the end of Netflix, now what?
(Podcast length - 6:10 mins)
Have you reached the end of Netflix? Here are five great docuseries, most of which were recommended to us by you, to add to your wish list.
Transcript
1. Many of you sports and non-sports lovers have told us that this is the documentary to add to the list. Get into the minds of some of the world’s greatest coaches with “The Playbook” (Netflix). From Serena Williams’ coach Patrick Mouratoglou to basketball great Doc Rivers to U.S. Women’s National Team (soccer) leader Jill Ellis, these legends share their personal recipes for success while inspiring the viewer to be a better leader. A MUST SEE
2. Last Chance U profiles college football players in their last chance effort for redemption. It follows players at different junior colleges over five seasons fighting for their chance to make it to the next level even when life’s challenges get in the way. John Franklin III, who was featured on the docuseries, went on to win a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Last year, Courteney Cox announced that she would be producing and starring in a scripted drama based on the show's first two seasons. Will she play the star of the first two seasons, fan-favorite Brittany Wagner? Wagner is the East Mississippi Community College’s team academic advisor, who is tasked with getting all team members to graduate on time. I’LL BE THERE FOR YOU
3. If you haven’t seen Michael Jordan’s “Last Dance” (Netflix), stop what you’re doing, clear your calendar immediately and make it your mission to finish the show. At the height of COVID, this show was what we all needed. The drive, the passion and the work ethic from Michael Jordan in his heyday was something to be admired. It’s more than just basketball; there is drama, drag queens and the occasional food poisoning. FOR THE WIN
4. We’ve never met an ESPN “30 for 30” (ESPN+) that we didn’t like. From the most controversial mainstream topics to the obscure, the storytelling sucks you in like a pair of Spanx. You turn it on, and the next thing you know, you are all-in. Might we recommend “The Two Escobars?” It's about two Columbians with the same last name - a famous soccer player Andres Escobar Escobar and the head of a drug cartel, Pablo Escobar. There’s also “June 17, 1994,” where the story toggles between a litany of sporting events (World Cup, NBA Finals, Stanely Cup Parade) that happened on the same day as the famed O.J. Simpson Bronco chase. COZY UP FOR A NIGHT IN
5. The first series to win an Academy Award for ESPN was “O.J. Simpson: Made in America” (ESPN+). The nearly eight-hour series tells the story of the college and NFL great O.J. Simpson. But this docuseries is so much more than that. It dives headfirst into celebrity, race, the criminal justice system and the media in America. WORTH YOUR TIME
After yesterday's terrible car accident, an honorable mention goes to the recent Tiger Woods documentary that covers what made the golfer who he is.
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.