First Take

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First Take is always a heated discussion as Stephen A. Smith, Max Kellerman and guests debate about the day's top stories.

ESPN, Stephen A. Smith, Max Kellerman, Molly Qerim


    • Jul 16, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 45m AVG DURATION
    • 2,921 EPISODES

    4 from 5,132 ratings Listeners of First Take that love the show mention: first take, ryan hollins, skip bayless, love skip, skip's, stephen a smith, best sports show on tv, best show on espn, skip and stephen, love first, sas, thanks espn, change the subject, broussard, max kellerman, sports debate show, steven a smith, skip and shannon, love stephen, 3 30.


    Ivy Insights

    The First Take podcast is an entertaining and informative show that provides strong opinions about sports. It features hosts Stephen A. Smith, Shannon Sharp, Molly Qerim Rose, and a variety of guest hosts who bring different perspectives to the table. The addition of Shannon Sharp has been a great move for the show, as his NFL analyses have gained him a dedicated fanbase. Overall, the show is fun to listen to and keeps listeners engaged with its serious discussions.

    One of the best aspects of The First Take podcast is the dynamic between the hosts. Stephen A. Smith brings his trademark charisma and passion to the show, while Molly Qerim Rose does an excellent job of keeping things flowing smoothly. The variety of guest hosts adds new voices to the conversation and provides fresh insights into sports topics. Additionally, the show covers serious subjects in a way that is both entertaining and informative.

    However, there are also some drawbacks to The First Take podcast. Some listeners may find that they always agree with Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharp, which can make it less interesting when other hosts or guests have differing opinions. This lack of diversity in perspectives may detract from the overall experience for some listeners.

    In conclusion, The First Take podcast is an excellent show for fans of sports analysis and strong opinions. While there may be some drawbacks in terms of limited perspectives at times, the overall entertainment value and informative nature of the show make it a top choice for sports enthusiasts. Whether you love or hate Stephen A. Smith's takes, there's no denying that this podcast delivers engaging content on a daily basis.



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    Latest episodes from First Take

    Hour 2: Dustin Poirier Joins The Show!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 49:25


    First Take resumes as Dustin Poirier joins the show to discuss Saturday's fight against Max Holloway, the last of his career! Plus, what is Mad Dog mad about today? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Top Dog?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 51:07


    First Take begins this Wednesday by going over the first ever 'Swing Off' we saw in last night's MLB All Star game! Plus, more conversation surrounding the top quarterbacks around the NFL! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Max Holloway Joins The Show!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 48:51


    First Take resumes with more NFL talk surrounding the current top quarterbacks in the NFL! Plus, UFC fighter Max Holloway joins First Take to discuss being Dustin Poirier's final opponent of his career... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Gold Rush

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 51:47


    First Take comes at you this Tuesday with more NFL and NCAAF previews! After not making the playoffs last year, what can we expect from the 49ers? Plus, how important is it for LSU to get off to a good start this season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Ring Chasing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 47:56


    First Take resumes with 'Kevin's QB tiers' as the guys go over the most impactful quarterbacks in the NFL currently! Plus, where do you rank the Cowboys offense this season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Must-See QBs

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 52:42


    Get ready for a new week of First Take as the crew previews the must watch quarterbacks ahead of the new College Football season! Plus, what should expectations be for the Eagles as they attempt to repeat? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Life in The SEC

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 48:32


    College Football is right around the corner so guys debate this biggest conversations surrounding the SEC! Is Brian Kelly on the hot seat? Plus, WWE legend Goldberg joins the show to discuss his career! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Making Headlines

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 51:58


    Friday First Take kicks off with the crew's BIGGEST takeaways from Bronny vs Cooper Flagg last night in yesterday's Summer League action Plus, should the Chiefs be the favorite to win the AFC once again? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Summer Breeze

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 48:37


    First Take continues this Thursday as the crew prepares you for a premier Summer League Showdown between the Lakers and Mavs! Plus, who will come out of the East next year in the NBA? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: NBA Notables

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 52:04


    First Take is BACK and the crew is ready to break down all the latest around the NBA! Some new Giannis comments have come out regarding his future in Milwaukee...Plus, how much longer will Nikola Jokic be a Nugget?? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Best of The West

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 48:06


    First Take continues as the crew analyzes the Western Conference and who we should fear the most amongst the top including the Lakers, Clippers and Warriors? Plus, should we give Aaron Rodgers the benefit of the doubt? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Center of Attention

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 52:27


    This Thursday edition of First Take continues to dive into NBA Free Agency! Should we be more confident in the Lakers after signing DeAndre Ayton? Plus, what should we make of the Knicks decision to hire Mike Brown as their next head coach? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: East Mode

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2025 49:03


    First Take continues as the crew continues to review NBA Free Agency! Who should be feared more in the East? How should we look at the 76ers? Plus, a look at the new Nuggets after Denver has added a load of support for Nikola Jokic...All that and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Waive Time

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2025 51:33


    First Take returns this Wednesday to talk all the latest news around the NBA! The crew discusses the Bucks letting go of Dame and signing Myles Turner and what that could mean for Giannis...Plus, who is most likely to trade for LeBron if he is made available? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: New Nuggets?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 48:45


    First Take continues with more NBA Free Agency analysis! The Bucks, Nuggets, and other notable teams have made some big moves already! The crew breaks down how each conference looks and what we can expect from today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Ready for Liftoff

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 51:44


    First Take is back this Tuesday with a COMPLETE breakdown of Monday's raging start to NBA Free Agency - Including some live breaking news! Plus, an update on the Knicks coaching search and how desirable the position might be at this point Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Trade Alert!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 48:41


    First Take resumes this Monday as the guys break down the latest big NFL trade between the Dolphins and Steelers! Plus, the crew debates if players should take less money in order to win a ring! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Franchise Guys

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 51:57


    A brand new week of First Take is underway as Evan Cohen is joined by a handful of guests to talk all the latest headlines from over the weekend! What can we expect from LeBron James as he enters the final year of his deal? Plus, expectations from some of the biggest names around the NFL! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Making Headlines

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 48:57


    First Take continues this Friday as the guys debate the Ace Bailey situation and if the Jazz made the right decision to select him - Plus, Joe Fortenbaugh joins the show to provide his best bets for the weekend! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Beast In The East

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 51:38


    Get ready for a Friday edition of First Take as the crew breaks down the latest across the NBA! In a wide open Eastern Conference, which team is under the most pressure? Plus, expectations for the Purple and Gold as they prep for a big off-season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Empire State of Find

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 49:53


    First Take continues with their NBA Draft Coverage as they lay out the expectations for what we could see tonight in Night 2! Plus, an update on the Knicks' Head Coaching search and who are the current prime candidates! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Ready For Liftoff

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 50:42


    First Take is back this Thursday as a stacked group of NBA Analysts provide their takes on the action packed 1st Round of the NBA Draft! Plus, how close were the Celtics to trading Jaylen Brown? Is it still a possibility? All that and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Falling Behind?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 49:09


    First Take continues this Wednesday as the guys discuss the NBA's Western Conference! Do the Lakers or Warriors need to make a splash this Summer? Will Nikola Jokic be a Nugget long term? What is Cooper Flagg's ceiling? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Super Cooper

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 51:21


    Get ready for more First Take as Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Markieff Morris preview tonight's 1st Round of the NBA Draft! Plus, after Boston shipped away another member of their core, should they consider trading either Jaylen Brown or Derrick White? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Daniel Cormier Joins The Show!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 48:29


    First Take continues as Daniel Cormier joins the show to talk MMA and the recent retirement of Jon Jones! Plus, is the SGA-JDub duo the best in the NBA? All that and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Great Expectations!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 52:05


    First Take is back this Tuesday to talk the latest headlines around the NBA! The guys discuss Haliburton saying he has no regrets playing through is calf strain as well as debate who is the biggest threat to an OKC repeat! Plus, another big trade to discuss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Kevin Sent

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 49:22


    First Take resumes as the team breaks down yesterday's blockbuster trade sending Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets! What does this mean for the future of the West? More NBA Finals analysis on tap as well! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Bring The Thunder!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 51:14


    Get ready for a new week of First Take! The Oklahoma City Thunder are your NBA Champs after beating Indiana in 7 games - so what's the biggest reason behind that? Is this the beginning of a new dynasty? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Huge Stakes for Game 7!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 48:14


    First Take live from Fanatics Fest in NYC continues as the debate rages on surrounding Sunday's Game 7 of the NBA Finals! Plus a discussion surrounding LeBron's comment on 'Ring Culture.' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Fanatics Fest!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 52:22


    First Take is LIVE from Fanatics Fest in New York City! Stephen A. Smith is joined by a surplus of amazing guests including NBA legend Tracy McGrady! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: L.A. Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 52:15


    Stephen A. Smith and the First Take crew return to talk the groundbreaking sale of the Lakers by the Buss Family to Dodgers owner Mark Walter! What does it mean for the Lakers franchise? Plus, Game 6 of the NBA Finals is tonight! Are the Pacers better off if they decide to sit Tyrese Haliburton? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Final Finish?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 48:21


    First Take continues as the crew discusses what will be the main takeaway from the NBA Finals if the Thunder close things out tonight! 3-Time Nascar Cup Series Champion Joey Logano joins the show and Joe Fortenbaugh provides his Best Bets! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Tricks of The Trade

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025 48:30


    Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt and Chris Russo are back on First Take to continue to talk Kevin Durant as we get closer to figuring out his next destination! Out of the Rocket, Spurs and Heat who is more likely to obtain him? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Life In The W

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025 52:04


    First Take is back to preview Game 6 of the NBA Finals as the Thunder attempt to clinch their first NBA title! Plus a discussion surrounding the scuffle in the Fever-Sun game as well as Lebron's statement on "ring culture" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Off The Pace

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 47:07


    Stephen A. Smith, Jay Williams and Kendrick Perkins continue to talk NBA Finals and who on Indiana should shoulder most of the blame for the Game 5 loss Plus, a debate surrounding if it's appropriate to compare Jalen Williams to Scottie Pippen! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Colossal Mistake?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 52:30


    Stephen A. Smith is joined by Markieff and Marcus Morris to breakdown a Game 5 Thunder victory over the Pacers! How great is the SGA-JDub dymanic duo? Was it a mistake for Tyrese Haliburton to keep playing through his injury? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: What's At Stake?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 47:45


    Stephen A. Smith is joined by Jay Williams, Brian Windhorst and JB Bickerstaff to discuss what's on the line for Game 5 of the NBA Finals! Plus, an update on the Giannis rumors as we get closer to learning if he will be putting on a new uniform next season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Tricks of The Trade

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 52:34


    Get ready for this Monday edition of First Take as Stephen A. Smith and the crew breakdown the first block buster trade of the Summer between Orlando and Memphis! Plus, a discussion surrounding the preferred destinations of Kevin Durant Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Knicks In The Mix

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 45:47


    Stephen A. Smith is joined by Udonis Haslem and Joe Fortenbaugh to preview Game 4 of the NBA Finals and what it's going to take for OKC to even up the series tonight! Plus, what if the Knicks added Kevin Durant via trade? Would it make them favorites to win it all? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Growing Pains

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 41:05


    LOTS on the table today as Stephen A. Smith and the crew go over how we will view SGA if OKC cannot comeback this Finals. Also, an evaluation of the expectations for the Dallas Cowboys as they attempt to get back to the playoffs this season! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Pure Magic!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 26:37


    The First Take Crew returns for more Aaron Rodgers and Kevin Durant related discussion! Laker legend Magic Johnson joins the debate as well to give his input on how KD should approach the offseason! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Suns Setting?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 60:30


    Stephen A. Smith, Marcus and Markieff Morris and Jay Williams talk about the newest chapter in the Kevin Durant saga as another trade involving KD seems to be in the works. Plus more discussion surrounding Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Steel of The Offseason

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 45:10


    Stephen A. Smith and the First Take crew are BACK to talk more regarding the effect of the Aaron Rodgers signing on the Steelers! Plus, a preview of tonight's chapter of the NBA Finals and what it will take for both the Thunder and Pacers to win Game 3. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: New York Vacancy

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 41:51


    Stephen A. Smith and the First Take crew discuss the New York Knicks coaching vacancy and where they should turn after their requests to interview 3 current head coaches were denied. Plus, Coco Gauff joins the show to discuss her French Open victory! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Capture The Flagg

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 48:34


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Markieff Morris talk the Cooper Flagg visit with Dallas and if we should still consider it safe that he will be a Maverick following the conclusion of the NBA Draft! Plus, Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin joins the show to discuss Fanatics Fest returning to NYC this month! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: The X-Factor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 52:01


    Stephen A. Smith, Markieff Morris and Brian Windhorst discuss the biggest X-Factor of Game 3 of the NBA Finals! Plus, the guys address the rumors of Jason Kidd potentially coaching the Knicks next season after it was reported the sides had mutual interest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Shai Butter

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 47:35


    Stephen A. Smith is joined by Jay Williams and Kendrick Perkins to discuss if Game 2 proved that Oklahoma City is a better team than Indiana. Additionally, a discussion regarding Tyrese Haliburton's approach to this series thus far and what needs to change Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Coach Approach

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 53:01


    Stephen A. Smith along with Marcus and Markieff Morris discuss which coaching job is more appealing between the Mavericks and Knicks. Plus, how can the Pacers slow down SGA after the Thunder dominated Game 2 of the NBA Finals to even the series at 1-1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Rodger That!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 45:53


    Stephen A. Smith is joined by Brian Windhorst, Kendrick Perkins, Ryan Clark and more for Hour 2 of this Friday's First Take! The guys continue to breakdown the thrilling start to the NBA Finals and debate what the ceiling is for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Aaron Rodgers! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Control The Pace!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 50:15


    Stephen A. Smith, Marcus and Markieff Morris and Ryan Clark join First Take to break down the latest this Friday! Does the view of Tyrese Haliburton change after his game winner in Game 1 of the NBA Finals? What does Rodgers to the Steelers mean for Pittsburgh? All that and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Starry Night

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 47:54


    Stephen A. Smith, Jay Williams and Brian Windhorst discuss Adam Silver's reveal that nex t year's NBA All Star Game will feature Team USA vs Team World! Plus, Sean O'Malley joins the show to talk UFC 316 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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