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


    • Jun 6, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 45m AVG DURATION
    • 2,873 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: 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

    Hour 1: Coach Approach

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 51:02


    Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt and Jay Williams discuss the current state of the NBA, the new coaching hire by the Phoenix Suns as well as a preview of the upcoming NBA Finals starting tonight! Plus, PK Subban joins the show to talk what happened in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Knicked Up

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 45:55


    Stephen A. Smith, Chris Russo and Brian Windhorst continue to discuss New York's new coaching search as the Knicks let go of Tom Thibodeau after 5 seasons Plus, Mark Kriegel joins the show after releasing his new book 'Baddest Man: The Making of Mike Tyson' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Tomfoolery

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 50:30


    Stephen A. Smith, Chris Russo and Jay Williams to breakdown the Knicks firing of Tom Thibodeau and where the organization needs to pivot from here JB Bickerstaff also joins the show to discuss if NBA Coaches are treated unfairly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Candace Parker Joins The Show!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 46:06


    Stephen A. Smith, Chiney Ogwumike and Chris Canty welcome special guest Candace Parker who talks about her new book 'The Can-Do Mindset.' Additionally, Parker provides her hot takes regarding the NBA Finals and crew discusses what a Finals victory would mean for the legacy of SGA! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Finals Phenoms

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 50:24


    Stephen A. Smith, Chiney Ogwumike and Chris Canty continue to preview the NBA Finals! The crew goes over what stands out most regarding the upcoming matchup as well as who is the most important player in the series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: On Guard

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 46:51


    Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt and Jay Williams preview the upcoming NBA Finals between the Pacers and Thunder! The crew goes in depth with the guard matchup and how key guards will be in determining this series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Big Apple Crumble

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 50:15


    Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt and Jay Williams arrive on First Take to discuss what went wrong with the Knicks as they fall to the Indiana Pacers in 6 games. The crew goes over what stood out the most in Game 6 and if it's fair to say the Knicks underachieved as a whole this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Words Hurt

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 47:56


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Jay Williams go over the stand out quote from Anthony Edwards where he says their series loss to OKC "didn't hurt." Plus, the guys make their picks regarding if the Knicks are able to force a Game 7 on Monday against Indiana Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Super Saturday

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 48:39


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Jay Williams breakdown the Knicks HUGE Game 5 win to save their season last night and tee up what will be an eventful Game 6 on Saturday in Indiana The guys go over what happened to Tyrese Haliburton after he scored just 8 points, by far his lowest total of the series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Rolling Thunder

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 47:14


    Stephen A. Smith, Michael Wilbon, Monica McNutt and Jay Williams give the Thunder their due praise after advancing to the NBA Finals! Additionally, the crew goes over if either the Knicks of Pacers are capable of taking down OKC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Wolves Tamed

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 49:26


    Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt, Jay Williams, Brian Windhorst and Michael Wilbon review Oklahoma City's series clinching win over the Timberwolves to advance to the NBA Finals! Is it time to revisit the 'stock' of Anthony Edwards? All that and more? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Coach Approach

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 46:29


    Stephen A. Smith, Chris Russo and Jay Williams continue to talk Knicks - Pacers as the guys ask if Tom Thibodeau is coaching himself out of a job. Additionally, more Rodgers-Steelers talk and of course Mad Dog tells you what's making him mad today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: On Guard

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 50:01


    Stephen A. Smith, Chris Russo and Jay Williams are back on First Take to review the stellar performance by the Indiana Pacers in their Game 4 win over the Knicks to go up 3-1 Plus, a review of the Haliburton -Super Star debate, and it's safe to stay Stephen A. still has his mind made up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Leader Of The Pack

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 46:07


    Hour 2: Stephen A. Smith, Kendrick Perkins and the Morris Twins continue their NBA discussion here on First Take! After praising Anthony Edwards a lot of late, the guys discuss if they awarded him the crown too early after his Western Conference struggles. Additionally, the crew debates who wins first at home between the Knicks and Pacers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Bringing The Thunder

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 50:48


    Hour 1: Stephen A. Smith, Kendrick Perkins and both Markieff and Marcus Morris join First Take to discuss the NBA Conference Finals! The guys debate what it would take to derail the Thunder as well as if the Knicks should go back to Mitchell Robinson in the starting lineup for Game 4. Plus, Ryan Clark joins the show to talk NFL! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Knicks in the Mix

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 45:54


    Hour 2: Stephen A. Smith along with the Morris twins continue to talk the latest surrounding the NBA Conference Finals! The crew goes over if Anthony Edwards is able to lead Minnesota to a win tonight and even the WC at 2-2. Plus, the Knicks are back in the mix and the guys go over Jalen Brunson's impact on the series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Time To Worry?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 50:57


    Hour 1: Stephen A. Smith along with Marcus and Markieff Morris breakdown the massive Knicks Game 3 victory last night over the Indiana Pacers. The guys discuss if the Pacers should begin to worry as well if Tom Thibodeau should be under fire if New York is not able to complete the full comeback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Strong Words

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 46:25


    Hour 2: Stephen A. Smith, Michael Wilbon and Kendrick Perkins discuss the level of stardom that Tyrese Haliburton is currently at following his Game 1 heroics on Wednesday. Additionally, the GOAT debate makes a return as well as the question of who would you rather have in the final seconds - Jalen Brunson or Haliburton? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: The Real MVP

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 50:36


    Hour 1: Stephen A. Smith, Michael Wilbon and Jay Williams break down the big win by the Thunder in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals led by MVP SGA! Plus, the guys discuss what the Knicks have to do in order to save their season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: New York Nixed

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 47:42


    Hour 2: Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt and Jay Williams continue to go over the stunning collapse by the New York Knicks last night. Is Indiana's pace too much for the Knicks to handle? Should there still be good confidence the Knicks can win the series? Plus another 'Stephen's A List!' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Set The Pace

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 48:51


    Hour 1: Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt and Jay Williams break down the absurd Indiana Pacer comeback victory over the Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals! The crew discusses who is to blame for the Knicks collapse and if it's time to consider Tyrese Haliburton a superstar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Shutting Down The Wolves

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2025 46:26


    Hour 2: Stephen A. Smith, JB Bickerstaff, Chris Russo and Kendrick Perkins continue to talk all things Conference Finals on First Take! Does Jalen Brunson need to have a big game tonight for the Knicks to win? Is OKC 'significantly' better than Minnesota? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Title Impact

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2025 49:43


    Hour 1: Stephen A. Smith, Chris Russo, Kendrick Perkins and JB Bickerstaff talk EVERYTHING Conference Finals today on First Take How much stock should we take in the OKC blowout? Which team between New York and Indiana can LEAST afford a Game 1 loss tonight? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Who Ya Got?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 46:26


    Stephen A. Smith, Marcus and Markieff Morris and Gilbert Arenas make their picks for the more crucial aspects of the Conference Finals! Who wins Game 1 tonight between Minnesota and OKC? Who is the most important #2 option remaining? All that and more on First Take! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Rivalry Renewed

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 49:47


    Stephen A. Smith, Marcus Morris, Peter Rosenberg and Gilbert Arenas discuss the latest in the NBA Postseason! The guys discuss the start of the Western Conference Finals tonight as well as the upcoming edition of the Knicks Pacers Rivalry! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Easy Being Green?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 45:48


    Following their 2nd Round exit, Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt and Marcus Morris discuss if Jaylen Brown is able to lead Boston to another championship as the #1 option The crew also discusses the upcoming Brunson V Haliburton matchup ahead of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Go New York Go New York Go

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 51:25


    Stephen A. Smith, Chiney Ogwumike and Marcus Morris are on First Take to discuss how unbelievable this year's run for the New York Knicks is! Plus a review of this past weekend's duel between the Fever and Sky and a look into Caitlin Clark's flagrant foul Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Joker's Wild

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2025 46:35


    Stephen A. Smith, Chiney Ogwumike, Brian Windhorst and special guest Spike Lee continue to talk tonight's massive Game 6 matchup between the Knicks and Celtics Stephen A. provides his Top 5 priorities for what MUST happen if the Knicks are going to close it out tonight Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Game 6 at The Garden

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2025 49:39


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Chiney Ogwumike are back on First Take today to tell you EVERYTHING you need to know about the Knicks big time opportunity to advance to the ECF in Game 6 against the Celtics Plus, was last night's Game 6 win for Denver more impressive for the Nuggets or more disappointing for OKC? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Clark On The Mark!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 46:37


    Stephen A. Smith, Udonis Haslem and Monica McNutt continue to talk the latest basketball action on First Take! The crew discusses the big time Timberwolves win last night helping them advance to the Western Conference Finals for the 2nd consecutive season! Plus, what should we expect from Caitlin Clark and the Fever as the WNBA gets ready to tip off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Knicked Up

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 50:25


    Stephen A. Smith, Monica McNutt and Udonis Haslem are back on First Take to break down yesterday's NBA Playoff Action! Are the Knicks in a place to be worried after their Game 5 loss? Plus, a look at the Dallas Cowobys' 2025-2026 schedule Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Golden State of Play

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 46:06


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst, Chris Russo and Udonis Haslem continue to debate NBA Playoff Action! Will the Celtics be able to come back from down 3-1 following the loss of Jayson Tatum? Is it a possibility for Golden State to get a Game 5 win tonight even without the return of Steph Curry? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: East Mode

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 50:46


    Stephen A. Smith, Udonis Haslem and Chris Russo are back on First Take to discuss the latest NBA Playoff Action! The guys go over whether Cleveland deserves a lot of criticism following another early exit as well if the Knicks will close out the Celtics tonight in Game 5! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: New York State of Mind

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 47:21


    Hour 2: Jay Williams, Kendrick Perkins and Udonis Haslem go more in depth with New York's clutch Game 4 victory over Boston. The guys discuss if Jalen Brunson has truly proven himself as the NBA's most clutch player The crew also debates who wins a title first between Anthony Edwards and Tyrese Haliburton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Orange and Blue Skies

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 52:33


    Hour 1: Jay Williams, Kendrick Perkins and Udonis Haslem break down all of last night's NBA Action on First Take! The guys go over New York's big win over Boston including a bold statement from Perk... Plus, is there a vibe update with Nico Harrison after the Mavs landed the #1 pick? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Playing The Lottery

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 49:30


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Jay Williams continue to break down what could happen with Giannis in the off season. Additionally, the guys give a preview of tonight's NBA Draft Lottery and discuss the recent struggles of Nikola Jokic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Game 4 Guarantee

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 49:30


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Jay Williams sit down to talk more hoops on First Take? What are the more likely trade destinations for Giannis? Plus, Stephen A. has a bold statement regarding Game 4 tonight between the Knicks and Celtics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: New York State of Mind

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 51:12


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Kendrick Perkins continue to talk what's going on with the Celtics after they surrender their 2nd consecutive 20-point lead to the Knicks! Plus, the guys go further in depth with how big Game 2 is tonight for Minnesota as they try to even the series without Steph Curry available for Golden State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Blame Game

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 45:06


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Kendrick Perkins are back on First Take to discuss who is to blame for the big Boston collapse to the Knicks as they fall behind 2-0 in their 2nd round series! More NBA Playoff talk right here on First Take! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Green Machine

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 46:10


    Stephen A. Smith, Chris Russo, Jay Williams and Ryan Clark continue to break down NBA Playoff action on First Take! The crew discusses Haliburton's heroics just before the final buzzer to take down Cleveland as well as what feels like a crucial Game 2 for the Boston Celtics tonight against the New York Knicks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Haliburton Heroics

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 50:25


    Stephen A. Smith, Ryan Clark, Chris Russo and Jay Williams are back on First Take! The guys discuss the latest big time NFL trade that sent George Pickens from the Steelers to the Cowboys as well as if the Warriors are capable winning this series if Steph Curry is out for an extended amount of time! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Warrior Wonders

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 46:31


    Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst and Kendrick Perkins are back on First Take to continue to talk NBA Playoffs! The guys ask if tomorrow if a must win game for the Celtics, preview tonight's Game 1 matchup between the Warriors and Timberwolves, and break down if LeBron has to have influence in Luka's decision this Summer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Orange and Blue Skies

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 49:52


    Stephen A. Smith, Kendrick Perkins and Brian Windhorst are fired up as they get ready to break down the Knicks' big Game 1 victory over the Boston Celtics Plus, Denver also had a big upset win last night. Should OKC be worried about the series moving forward? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Rocket Science

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 46:41


    Hour 2: Stephen A. Smith, Marcus Spears, Brian Windhorst and Kendrick Perkins continue to talk NBA Playoffs on First Take! After their Game 7 loss, Perk explains why Houston should go all in to get Kevin Durant. Additionally, a preview of the Knicks Celtics Round 2 series that begins tonight in Boston! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Golden Opportunity

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 49:55


    Hour 1: Stephen A. Smith, Marcus Spears, Kendrick Perkins and Brian Windhorst sit down on First Take to break down all the lastest NBA Playoff Action! What did the Warriors prove in their Game 7 win? What's next for the Clippers after their Game 7 loss? All that and more on First Take! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Clippers Climbing

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2025 48:32


    Hour 2: Stephen A. Smith, Brian Windhorst, Peter Rosenberg and Jay Williams are back on First Take to continue to discuss the current state of the playoffs around the NBA! What do the Knicks need to do to compete against Boston? What does last night's Clippers win mean for James Harden? All that and more here on First Take! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Captain Clutch

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2025 50:04


    Hour 1: Stephen A. Smith, Peter Rosenberg, Brian Windhorst and Jay Williams are back on First Take to discuss Jalen Brunson's game winning 3 to help the Knicks clinch the Round 1 series against the Pistons! Plus, a preview of tonight's Game 6 action between the Rockets and Warriors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Purple and Fold

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 48:33


    Hour 2: Stephen A. Smith, Kendrick Perkins and Jay Williams continue to discuss the Lakers losing in Round 1 to Minnesota Additionally, the guys debate if this was the last chance for LeBron James to win a championship Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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