
The Athletic NBA Daily
Start your day with The Athletic NBA Daily – a fast, entertaining recap of the most important games and stories from the world of professional basketball with new episodes dropping Monday through Friday. Hosted by Dave DuFour, Zena Keita, and Esfandiar Baraheni with regular appearances by The Athletic’s award-winning NBA reporters. Andrew Schlecht and Alex Spears cap the week with the full-length Saturday Slam n’ Jam episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

May 28, 2025 • 23min
Haliburton triple-double lifts Pacers go up 3-1 on Knicks
Fred Katz, an NBA writer known for his insights into player performance and team strategies, joins the discussion on Tyrese Haliburton's remarkable triple-double that propelled the Pacers to a 3-1 lead over the Knicks. The conversation highlights Jalen Brunson's struggles, the contrasting playing styles of key point guards, and the defensive tactics that played a crucial role in the game. With fresh energy dynamics in the fourth quarter and potential health concerns for the Knicks, the analysis dives deep into what this means for the series.

5 snips
May 27, 2025 • 20min
SGA drops 40; Thunder go up 3-1 on Wolves
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with an impressive 40 points as they surged to a 3-1 series lead over the Timberwolves. The team’s Big Three combined for 95 points, showcasing their offensive prowess. Meanwhile, defensive standout Lou Dort stymied Anthony Edwards, highlighting the Thunder's tactical pressure. The hosts also debated the controversial 'fouling up three' strategy and whether it should be banned, considering the effects on fan enjoyment and game flow.

8 snips
May 26, 2025 • 22min
Did KAT save the Knicks’ season?
Karl-Anthony Towns delivered an electrifying fourth quarter, helping the Knicks rally from a 20-point deficit against the Pacers. The hosts discuss strategic adjustments and how foul trouble affected both teams' dynamics. They also analyze the Timberwolves' impressive blowout win over the Thunder, highlighting player performances and tactical decisions. Tune in for insights on playoff intensity and the potential impact on both teams' journeys.

16 snips
May 24, 2025 • 1h 14min
Who should the Sixers take in the NBA Draft? + Thunder Rolling | Slam N Jam
Bryce Simon, an analyst known for his work on the Game Theory and Pistons Pulse podcasts, joins the discussion on the Sixers' NBA Draft strategy. He highlights top prospect Ace Bailey and the development paths of players outside the top three, like Trey Johnson and Derek Queen. The conversation also dives into the playoff dynamics, evaluating the Thunder and Timberwolves, and assessing player impacts in critical moments. Simon's insights into player comparisons and team strategies make this episode a must-listen for NBA fans keen on the draft and playoffs.

6 snips
May 23, 2025 • 24min
Thunder Strike Timberwolves + SGA MVP
Jon Krawczynski, a seasoned writer for The Athletic covering the Timberwolves, dives into the team's current playoff struggles following a decisive loss to the Thunder. He discusses the Wolves' shooting and turnover issues, and the need for strategic adjustments. The conversation also highlights Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP recognition and the Thunder's impressive defensive performance. Krawczynski emphasizes the importance of teamwork and the potential of Canadian players making waves in the NBA.

May 22, 2025 • 25min
Pacers Stun the Knicks in MSG
Join Andrew Claudio from Knicks Film School, known for his sharp insights into the New York Knicks, as he dissects the team's shocking playoff collapse against the Pacers. They delve into Aaron Nesmith's incredible shooting and Haliburton's clutch moments. The conversation also highlights the emotional rollercoaster of the game and the strategic blunders that led to the Knicks' downfall. With a blend of analysis and fan passion, they explore the historical significance of this thrilling matchup and what it means for the future.

May 21, 2025 • 51min
Nuggets Fake Trades: Morning Shoot Around
Join the hosts as they dive into the Denver Nuggets' offseason plans and potential trade speculations. Key players like Michael Porter Jr. are on the chopping block, sparking lively debate about roster improvements. The conversation also highlights hypothetical trades involving stars like Lonzo Ball and Drew Holiday while navigating the complexities of salary caps and team dynamics. With a mix of strategic insights and entertaining banter, it's a fascinating look at what might shape the Nuggets' future and the larger NBA landscape.

5 snips
May 21, 2025 • 26min
Thunder Dismantle Wolves in 2nd Half
Joining host Zena Keita, NBA reporter Andrew Schlecht provides an insightful analysis of the Thunder's strong start to the Western Conference Finals. Schlecht, who specializes in the Oklahoma City Thunder, discusses how OKC dismantled the Wolves in the second half using strategic adjustments. He highlights Shai's impressive foul drawing and the contrast in team defenses. The conversation touches on the challenges the Timberwolves face in bouncing back and reflects on the evolving tactics in the league.

May 20, 2025 • 26min
NBA Conference Finals preview
The excitement for the NBA Conference Finals is palpable! Key matchups feature Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Anthony Edwards, with a spotlight on the Timberwolves’ sharpshooting prowess. In the East, the contrasting styles of the Pacers' depth and pace versus the Knicks' gritty play add intrigue. Potential standout performances from players like Jalen Brunson and Carl Anthony Towns promise thrilling moments. The dynamics of these teams will shape the series, making for a captivating playoff showdown!

May 19, 2025 • 33min
Thunder roll to Western Conference Finals
The Oklahoma City Thunder staged an electrifying Game 7 triumph over the Denver Nuggets, showcasing a fierce defense and clever tactics. The hosts celebrate Aaron Gordon’s gritty performance while dissecting how the Thunder cracked Denver’s zone defense. Speculations arise as they eagerly anticipate the thrilling conference finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, highlighting key players and strategies. Additionally, there's a nod to the WNBA with insights into rising stars and team prospects, blending basketball insights across both leagues.