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


    • May 8, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 45m AVG DURATION
    • 3,338 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: Skip Ranks His Top 10 NBA Players of All Time!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 46:26


    First Take resumes with Skip's egregious, blasphemous, abominable Top 10 list. Check out how many guys he has over LeBron! (0:00) Then, Seth Rollins ROASTS Skip for all of his atrocious LeBron takes! (15:00) Next, Defend Your Take! Stephen A. and Skip look back on some of their craziest takes of all time! (22:00) Finally, we're going back to Skip's Top Ten! Stephen A. can't get over LeBron being ranked nine. Skip won't budge. The bubble championship was "Mickey Mouse." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: SKIP BAYLESS IS BACKKKK!!!!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 47:42


    First Take begins with SKIP BAYLESS! For the first time in ten years, Skip and Stephen A. are together again. Like recent divorcees, fireworks erupt anytime these two old foes reunite! Skip brings the heat with LeBron, Luka and James Harden takes! Are the Lakers actually better without Luka Doncic? (0:00) Then, would you rather be a Knicks fan, or a Cowboys fan right now? Guess which one Skip picks... (25:15) Next, Skip defends Wemby! (37:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Should The Knicks Feel Like Winners After Going Up 2-0?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 46:40


    First Take resumes with The Kid Mero, and he's drinking all of the Knicks Hype Juice!! (0:00) Then, would a game 3 loss be more detrimental to Ant's or Wemby's Championship hopes? (14:45) Next, The Miz joins! (27:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Can The Knicks Win Without OG Anunoby?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 47:55


    First Take begins with another Knicks win! The Positive: New York's finest are two games away from another Conference Finals. Negative: OG may be hurt. Could the Knicks still advance without him? (0:00) Then, the Spurs showed their championship potential in a thumping of the Wolves! Who has the edge now in this battle of young stars? (25:20) Next, another Jaylen Brown livestream! He's blaming refs, Embiid, and teammates for anything and everything!! (37:55) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Is Tracy McGrady Right About Jaylen Brown?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 45:27


    First Take resumes with a third straight day of crazy Jaylen Brown comments. T-Mac has sources saying JB is not happy with the Celtics! Could Beantown's second banana get traded? (0:00) Then, Paul Heyman breaks down Bron Breakker vs. Seth Rollins! (14:45) Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Kentucky Derby Pageantry, Knicks fans choosing the Met Gala, and the Magic for blowing his parlay! (22:20) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Biggest Reason Lakers Were Blown Out?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 48:25


    First Take begins with another OKC win. LeBron balled out, SGA took a back seat to Chet. Who is going to step up on the Lakers with Luka still out? (0:00) Then, Stephen A. has thoughts on James Dolan's latest crazy comments! (25:30) Next, are we sleeping on Ant-Man and the Wolves? (39:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Is 76ers-Knicks Over?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 46:17


    First Take resumes with 76ers-Knicks. We're wondering if this series may already be over after just one game! (0:00) Then, did game 1 of Wolves-Spurs change your outlook on the series. Plus, a special announcement from Stephen A! Old foes reunite! (12:10) Next, Jacob Fatu takes down Roman Reigns! (26:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: What Was Most Encouraging About Knicks Game 1 Win?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 48:08


    First Take is live with Cam'ron! Welcome to New York City! Sixers and Down and Out! A dominant Brunson game 1 performance lifted MSG's finest over Philly. Who had the most impressive performance? Who needs to step up in game2? (0:00) Then, was Ant-Man's surprise bench scoring barrage or Wemby's block party the bigger game 1 story? (20:30) Next, Cam'ron sounds off on Jaylen Brown. (41:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Which Team is More Talented - 76ers or Knicks?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 45:27


    First Take resumes with an old school matchup in the East. Embiid's Sixers take on Brunson's Knicks. Overall, which team is more talented? (0:00) Then, Jaylen Brown enjoyed this year more than when he won the championship? Huh?? (11:20) Next, Charlotte Flair joins the show! (24:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: What's Wrong with Jaylen Brown?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 48:34


    First Take begins with Jaylen Brown taking out his Sixers frustrations on the refs and Joel Embiid. Was Brown right to blame the first 3-1 blown lead since 2020 on everything and everyone but himself? (0:00) Then, old foes reunite in MSG as Embiid and KAT face off for a chance at the conference finals! Who needs to show out more in this series? (23:00) And, is the GOAT conversation officially over if Bron pulls off a miraculous upset over the reigning champion Thunder? (37:15) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Who's The Team to Beat in The East?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 45:48


    First Take resumes with Eastern Conference Chaos! The Knicks look like the '17 Warriors. Jaylen Brown looks exactly like he has all year, dragging the Celtics into the dirt with his poor play. The Cavs are in a rock fight with the upstart Raptors. Who's winning this conference? (0:00) Then, can the Rockets be the first NBA team to complete the unthinkable 3-0 comeback? (13:20) Next, boxer David Benavidez preps us for his monster matchup vs Gilberto Ramirez on Saturday! (25:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: What Message Did The Knicks Send to The East?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 48:18


    First Take begins with the Big Apple Beatdown! The Knicks CRUSHED, DEMOLISHED, DESTROYED, and EMBARRASSED the Hawks. A 51 point loss at home? C'monnn Dyson Daniels?? OG Anunoby hit how many threes? Kat ANOTHER triple double?? New York forever baby!!! (0:00) Then. Jokic is toast! Best player in the league belt? Gone! Legacy? In the gutter! (23:50) Next, Suns owner Mat Ishbia wants Devin Booker to retire with the Suns. Is he telling the truth, or upping Booker's trade value? (39:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Is It Panic City for The Lakers?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 46:02


    First Take resumes with Kenny Smith serves a Lakers panic entrée with a cup of Austin Reaves settle down juice. (0:00) Then, does Jokic fall out of top-10 all time discussions with a first round loss to a decimated Wolves squad? (9:15) Next, who's more dangerous right now: Knicks or Celtics? (17:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Are the Lakers in Trouble?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 48:02


    First Takes begins with the sputtering Lakers! From 3-0 to 3-2, the vibe shift in this one is immense. You can almost feel the general public clamoring for LeBron to be the first to blow a 3-0 lead. Imagine the GOAT debate if it happens? Without KD, is it feasible? (0:00) Then, should Shedeur Sanders feel slighted by the latest Deshaun Watson news? (25:50) Then, John Wall is the President! Howard University is in good hands! (37:35) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: LeBron vs. Jordan

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2026 47:31


    First Take resumes with 40 straight minutes of the GOAT debate + Mad Dog is MADDDD!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Who's the Best Team in The East?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2026 47:32


    First Take begins with the old guard: Mad Dog, Wilbon and Stephen A. may have changed their tunes on the Knicks championship chances... Then, the Spurs wrapped up the gentleman's sweep against the upstart Blazers. Young teams often need playoff failure before eventually succeeding. Could the Spurs be an exception? Next, who has more pressure to lead the Cavs deep into the playoffs: Harden or Mitchell? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Did Cooper Flagg Deserve Rookie of the Year?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2026 46:12


    First Take resumes with shock and awe in the NBA's tightest Rookie of The Year race yet! Cooper Flagg had multiple 50 point games on one of the worst teams in the league, while Kon led the league in 3s on the upstart Hornets! Was Flagg the right choice? (0:00) Then, should Devin Booker split town and join up with another star, or can he lure someone down to sunny Arizona? (13:30) Next, are the Knicks doomed? (25:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Are Wolves in Danger of Losing Series?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2026 47:58


    First Take begins with special guest TheKidMero! He tells us what's at stake for Jokic in this Wolves series! (0:00) Then, Mero comes guns BLAZING defending his beloved Knicks. He even inspires confidence in known doom-and-gloom Knicks fan Stephen A.??? How?? (25:30) Then, Perk explains why KD's time as a valuable NBA teammate has come to an end! (39:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Do You Believe KD Is Disconnected From the Rockets?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 45:59


    First take resumes with KD's Drama. From burners to benchings, the drama never ends with Durant! Is he disconnected from his Rockets teammates? (0:00) Then, DanO already hit on Ty Simpson. Now, he's calling his shot on the best QB drafted outside of the first round! (12:15) Next, KAT's triple double led to the Knicks evening a tightly contested series vs the Hawks. Is having Brunson play off ball while KAT play-makes the true key to Knicks success? (22:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Takeaways from LeBron & Lakers Game 4 Loss?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 48:16


    First Take begins with weekend NBA playoff takeaways! Any reason to worry about the Lakers after a game 4 loss? And, are you back in on the Spurs playoff train after Wemby's triumphant return? (0:00) Then, is it normal to trade five first round picks for a player then play said player 20 minutes per game. (25:15) Next, is it officially time for the Sixers to move on from Joel Embiid? Would anyone really trade for his monstrous contract? (40:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Did NFL Draft Make Cowboys NFC Contenders?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 45:27


    First Take resumes with Cowboys positivity! Jerry came through again with an A+ 1st round, monumentally boosting his subpar defense. Could you see them in the NFC championship game next year? (0:00) Then, RC loves Love. Best player available theory won out, and the Notre Dame star ended up in Arizona! (13:35) Next, the contending Rams chose Stafford's successor in round one. Should the future HOFer view this as a slight? (22:15) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: How Much Better Did Cowboys Get After 1st Round?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 49:07


    First Take begins with the NFC East coming for the "Best Division Belt!" The Giants and Cowboys bolstered their lines and defensive backs with OSU studs! Did they BOTH nail their first round picks? (0:00) Then, Stephen A. goes OFF on the sorry Knicks. Mikal Bridges trade mentioned! (24:00) Next, do you love or hate the Eagles trading up for WR Makai Lemon? (42:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Was Knicks Game 2 Loss a Blessing in Disguise?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 47:04


    Get Up resumes with NBA and the NFL! IS the Knicks devastating game 2 loss to the Hawks going to help them down the road? Is there a chance George Pickens gets traded during the draft? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Should Ty Simpson be a First Round Pick?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 48:39


    First Take has all of the draft coverage! Is Ty Simpson going 1st round? Will Jeremiyah Love fall out of the top 5?? It's all right now on First Take!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Biggest Concern with Knicks?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2026 46:13


    First Take resumes with Knicks concern. After another all time playoff choke, can the Hawks take control of this tightly contested series? Or, will the power of clutch propel Jalen Brunson to a road win in Atlanta??? (0:00) Then, Louis Riddick thinks the Chiefs must nail this draft if they want to extend Mahomes prime! (13:15) Next, Mad Dog is MAD about Quinn Ellis, golf crowds, and the Jerry West Documentary. (22:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: More Impressed by LeBron or Disappointed in KD?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2026 47:56


    First Take begins with Rockets/Lakers game 2! LA laid the smackdown once again to send this series back to Houston with the Rockets in must-win territory. The King displayed unimpeachable savvy and athleticism, while KD portrayed bashfulness and perhaps a tinge of rust! Mad Dog, Wilbon and Stephen A. grade their performances. (0:00) Then, who needs to hit on their first round draft picks more: Giants or Cowboys? (26:00) Next, will the Mets ever win again? (40:20) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: More Detrimental Game 2 Loss: Knicks or Nuggets?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026 46:11


    First Take resumes with two clutch kings blowing it in the 4th! Jokic and Brunson both suffered heartbreakers as McCollum and Ant evened their series at a game a piece! Which loss hurt more? (0:00) Then, are players mistaken staying in school to reap the benefits of NIL instead of gaining experience playing in the pros? (11:20) Next, is Wemby already better than Scottie Pippen and Bill Russell? (23:55) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: What Happened in the Latest Epic Knicks Collapse?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026 48:01


    First Take begins with Perk and Wilbon breaking down yet another Knicks playoff collapse. Reggie Miller, Haliburton, now McCollum. Knicks' villains possess powers only previously wielded by Darth Vader and The Wicked Witch of the West! Also covered: Ant is a demon! (0:00) Then, who's the most intriguing player in the draft? (24:50) Next, with Steve Kerr seemingly out the door in the Bay Area, should Steph take his chances with another franchise? (40:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: How Much Stock do you Put in Lakers Game One Win?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 45:57


    First Take resumes with LeBron's heroic game one effort. With KD out, how much stock do you put in the Lakes taking game one? (0:00) Then, how scary would the Patriots be with A.J. Brown? (10:40) Next, the Knicks laid the smackdown on the Hawks over the weekend. Did KAT's Improved defense and Josh Hart's tenacity give you hope for a Knicks title run? (20:50) Finally, Steve Kerr's illustrious run with the Warriors may be coming to an end? Windy tells us what he's hearing! (30:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Did Spurs Prove They're Built for a Deep Playoff Run?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 53:24


    First Take begins with wonderful Wemby!! The Spurs star dropped 35 pts in his playoff debut. Is he ready to make a run at SGA and the defending champion Thunder?? (0:00) And, A.J. Brown is surely getting traded post June 1st. Right or wrong move for the Eagles? (17:15) Then, Dexter Lawrence is headed to Cincy with the 10th overall pick going back to the Giants! Who won this trade? (26:00) Next, which title contender had the more impressive game one: Celtics or Thunder? (40:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Live From Las Vegas with Logan Paul and Danhausen!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 47:55


    First Take resumes with Logan Paul, and he is READY for the weekend! Then, do you expect the Knicks to make front office changes if they don't get out of the Eastern Conference? Next, Roman Reigns talks about his upcoming match with CM Punk! And, Dana White feels boxing is "broken." His plan to fix it here on First Take!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Live From Las Vegas for WrestleMania 42!!!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 46:11


    First Take is live from Las Vegas from WrestleMania. Trick Williams! Triple H! We get you prepped for a massive weekend filled with stars! Plus, who is the most important player in Warriors vs. Suns? And, is it unfair that Ant was denied his awards appeal while Cade and Luka were given eligibility? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: What Does Kawhi Leonard's Future Hold?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 45:57


    First Take resumes with Kenny Smith giving us the real on Kawhi Leonard's future. (0:00) Then, can Jalen Brunson, who led his team to the WCFs past a dominant Celtics squad, and finished top 5 in MVP voting, be the best player on a championship team? (15:20) Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Aaron Rodgers yearly waiting game, Wemby's load management, and Amazon Prime! (24:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Who was More Impressive in Win: Steph or Draymond?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 48:47


    First Take begins with a battle of legends in LA! Steph and Draymond outlasted Kawhi and Brook Lopez to set up a 1 game elimination brawl vs the Suns. Draymond's stifling defense neutralized Kawhi, while Steph's gravity gave Al Horford a runway to drop threes like '24 DiVincenzo. Which Warriors star gave them the larger edge? (0:00) Then, is Celtics vs. Sixers an intriguing series, or has this rivalries shine worn off? (18:10) Next, Seth Rollins takes shots at Paul Heyman! (24:00) Finally, is Ant vs. Jokic officially a rivalry? (35:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: What's the Lakers Recipe to Take Down the Rockets?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2026 46:30


    First Take resumes with 3 cups Vintage LeBron, 1/3 cup Luke Kennard 40%+ from three, and 2 tsp. Marcus Smart defensive disruption. (0:00) Then Kawhi Leonard planted roots in LA six years ago. Is his time as a Clipper running out? (10:30) Next, Mel Kiper Jr. convinces Stephen A. that Sonny Styles to the Cowboys at 6 (after a trade) may be the missing piece to their much maligned defense! (22:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Should LaMelo Ball Have Been Ejected?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2026 47:31


    First Take begins with a thriller in Buzz City! LaMelo and the Hornets tripped up the Heat in an overtime Play-In victory. Should LaMelo have been ejected for his antics? (0:00) Then, what would the repercussionS be for the Knicks if they lose to the upstart Hawks? (25:00) Next, Liv Morgan on WrestleMania!!! (41:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Which NBA Playoffs Matchup is the Most Intriguing?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 46:29


    First Take resumes with Stephen A. and Perk's most intriguing playoff series. LeBron vs. KD? Knicks in a must-win situation? (0:00) Next, Cody Rhodes! (13:00) Then, are the Spurs too inexperienced to take down OKC? Can the Nuggets get back to their championship ways? (23:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Is KD a Top 10 Player of All Time?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 47:28


    First Take begins with the NBA playoffs! Is KD a top 10 player of all time, and does LeBron surpass Jordan if the Lakers get out of the first round? (0:00) Then, who has more to prove in the playoffs: James Harden or Donovan Mitchell? (25:55) Next, with a Play-In Tournament full of stars, we debate which one needs to advance to the playoffs the most! Paolo? Paul George? Sion James? (40:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Are the Knicks on Upset Alert?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 47:13


    First Take resumes with the most intriguing first round matchup? The Knicks battle the Hawks, looking to avenge their 2021 loss when Ice Trae owned New York. Now, with the Knicks Killer gone, do Brunson and MSG Kings have anything to fear? (0:00) Then, Joe Tessitore gets you PUMPED for WrestleMania this weekend! (15:20) Next, who is more likely to reach the finals: Thunder or Celtics? (27:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: How Costly is the Spurs Loss to the Nuggets?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 47:00


    First Take begins with NBA Playoffs time!!! Best of the West: the Nuggets took down the Spurs to snag the 3 seed and set up an epic 2024 playoff rematch against the Wolves while the Lakers are looking for a vintage LeBron series to send KD back to the mean streets of offseason Twitter! (0:00) Then, new Giannis quotes on his future with the Bucks! Has he played his last game in Milwaukee? (26:50) Next, two legends in the Play-In: do Kawhi or Steph need to win it more? (37:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Do the Knicks or Celtics Have the Edge in a Potential Playoff Rematch?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 46:48


    First Take resumes with a potential playoff rematch! Would the Knicks or Celtics have the edge if these Eastern Conference foes faced off again? (0:00) Then, the Nuggets ride a 10 game win streak into their highly anticipated matchup against the Thunder. Can the Joker carry Denver past the West's best? (15:45) Next, is Wemby unguardable? (25:05) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Does Knicks Win Over Celtics Mean Anything With Jaylen Brown Sitting?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 47:31


    First Take begins with the Knicks "big" win over the Celtics. Should we put any stock into this drubbing since Jaylen Brown sat out? And, did the Knicks find something 80 games into the season with the heroic Brunson/KAT two-man game? (0:00) Then, can LeBron carry the Lakers through the first round sans Doncic and Reaves? (14:30) Next, Joel Embiid underwent successful surgery for appendicitis. How will we look back at the former MVPs career once it's all said and done? (23:10) And, is Travis Hunter better off at CB or WR? (40:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Is Jayson Tatum Ready for His Return to MSG?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 46:06


    First Take resumes with Jayson Tatum's first game back at MSG since his Achilles injury. He's "not thrilled" about going back. What can we expect from the Celtics superstar? (0:00) Then, Kevin Clark thinks the Cowboys are a draft pick away from Super Bowl contention. Should they add to their already stacked offense, or needy defense? (13:50) Next, are we in favor of judging draft picks based on their favorite ice cream flavor? (24:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: What Does Cade's Return Mean for the Eastern Conference?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 48:10


    First Take begins with Cade's glorious return! The Pistons star point guard dropped 13 pts and 10 ast in his first game back after missing a month with a collapsed lung. Should the rest of the Eastern Conference look at the Pistons as free eats, or tenacious contenders? (0:00) Then, who's more likely to win the West: Thunder or the field? (17:40) Next, the Texans exercised their stars 5th year options and Lamar is participating in offseason workouts. Kevin Clark and Jason McCourty have all your offseason storylines covered! (25:00) Finally, star's legacies are suffering because of the NBA's 65-game rule. Players will miss All-NBA teams because of freak injuries. Season's will be misremembered. Will the NBA change the rule? (39:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: How Will Lakers Players Respond to JJ Redick Calling Them Out?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 45:55


    First Take resumes with JJ Redick calling out his team! Vando can't make free throws, Ayton can't even catch a ball! It's complete dysfunction In LA with no Luka and Reaves! (0:00) Then, would you rather have KD or Ant in the playoffs? (15:00) Next, Mad Dog is fired up about the Marlins babying their catchers, NBA games during the NCAA Championship game, and valet service on Easter! (25:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Is There a Gap Between the Celtics and Everyone Else in the East?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 48:06


    First Take begins with a sight not seen since Jaylen Brown had hair: Mad Dog and Stephen A. in studio together! They react to a bench clearing brawl in LA, the Celtics steamrolling an upstart Hornets squad, and more egregious tanking! (0:00) Then, Shams takes us inside the fractured relationship between Giannis and the Bucks! (26:00) Next, do you really believe Mike Malone and the Tar Heels can compete with Duke? (43:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Is This Michigan's Best Basketball Team Ever?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2026 45:51


    First Take resumes with Michigan's best basketball team ever...maybe? Is it possible the GOAT UMich team is one that never even won the championship? (0:00) Then, what is Giannis's trade value right now? Is it worse or better off than what it was at the trade deadline? (16:20) Next, Mike Malone looks to lead UNC back to the glory days of Jerry Stackhouse, James Worthy, and Brady Manek! (30:20) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: What Statement Did Michigan Make With Title Win?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2026 48:13


    First Take begins with the Victorious Wolverines! A dominant run for the ages capped off with a nail biter against the dynastic Fightin' Danny Hurleys. Stephen A. and Sean Farnham break down how Dusty May's squad got it done in Indy! (0:00) Then, Stephen A. gives Mike Malone some advice as he prepares Chapel Hill for the long road back to Blue Bloodism. (18:00) Next, fresh off of a national championship, and one hour of sleep, Dusty May talks with Shae and Stephen A.!! (27:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: How Far Can LeBron Carry the Lakers?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 46:12


    First Take resumes with the ailing Lakers... How far can LeBron carry a Luka-less and Reaves-less LA squad? (0:00) Next, Troy Aikman discusses his role with the Dolphins, where he feels empowered making personnel decisions. Subtle shot at Jerry Jones? Why is the Cowboys legend not helping Jerry with free agent decisions? (14:00) Then, BREAKING NEWS!!! Angel Reese traded to the Dream??? What??? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Should 10-Seed Warriors Have Brought Back Curry?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 48:22


    First Take begins with Steph's Return! 29 points off the bench wasn't enough to take down the streaking Rockets in a pivotal seeding matchup. Are the Warriors good enough for Steph to risk injury in a return? (0:00) Then, Geno and Dawn have beef? Chiney breaks down where the Handshake Fiasco really started... (12:00) Next, what's more important in tonight's title game: coaching or player talent? (28:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: High on the Huskies?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2026 47:27


    Hour 2! The crew is discussing both the men's and women's Final Four, will UConn reign supreme in both? Meanwhile, Pirates top prospect Konnor Griffin making his debut today, is it too soon? Hear what Stephen A has to say. Then we talk about who in the NBA can ACTUALLY win a championship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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