Full Show: NBA Finals Recap | Injury Crisis in the NBA | Criticizes both Democrats and Republicans for political posturing.

Jun 23, 2025

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Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown.

🎙️ Episode Overview

🏀 NBA Finals Recap

Champions: Oklahoma City Thunder defeat the Indiana Pacers in Game 7.
MVP: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) caps off a historic season.
Key Points:
- SGA joins elite company as MVP, scoring champ, and NBA champion.
- Sam Presti praised for long-term vision and roster building.
- Thunder’s youth and depth make them a future dynasty contender.
- Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury was a heartbreaking turning point for the Pacers.

🏥 Injury Crisis in the NBA

Major stars out for next season:
- Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles)
- Jayson Tatum (Achilles)
- Damian Lillard (Achilles)
- Kyrie Irving (ACL)
Raises concerns about the physical toll of today’s fast-paced game.

🏀 Kevin Durant Trade

KD to Houston Rockets:
- Traded for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the #10 pick, and five second-rounders.
- Rockets now seen as serious contenders in the West.
- Phoenix Suns looking to move on from Bradley Beal.
Stephen A’s Take:
- KD still elite despite age.
- Houston’s young core + KD = championship potential.
- Miami missed a big opportunity by not pursuing KD harder.

🗳️ Politics Segment: U.S. Strikes Iran

Trump’s Announcement: U.S. bombed three Iranian nuclear sites.
Stephen A’s Analysis:
- Acknowledges Iran as a threat but questions timing and transparency.
- Criticizes both Democrats and Republicans for political posturing.
- Warns of potential escalation and global instability.
- Urges honesty and accountability from both sides of the aisle.

💬 Fan Q&A + Pop Culture

Tweets Answered:
- Dream job? Criminal lawyer.
- Belief in aliens? Yes—believes other life exists in the universe.
- WWE entrance theme? “Where the Hood At” by DMX or “Ante Up” remix.
Wild Story: 84-year-old woman leaves $1M to a male escort—Stephen A. gives a humorous but surprisingly thoughtful take on autonomy and personal choice.

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