PMS 2.0 1155 - PK Subban, Nick Bienz, Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens, Karl Ravech, Darius Butler, & AJ Hawk
Digest
The Thunderdome crew kicks off the show with a celebration of the Florida Panthers' Stanley Cup victory, highlighting the team's comeback from a 3-0 deficit and the emotional speeches given by Gary Bettman and Paul Maurice. They also discuss the significance of the Panthers' win for the sport of hockey, particularly in South Florida. The crew then shifts their focus to the Tennessee Volunteers' College World Series win, praising their thrilling victory over Texas A&M and the incredible play of Dylan Drieling. They also acknowledge the passing of Boston Connor's father-in-law, offering condolences to Connor and his family. The show concludes with a discussion about the upcoming Rocket Mortgage Classic, where Nick Benz, a golf galaxy employee, will be competing after qualifying through a grueling Monday qualifier. Benz's story is a feel-good one, highlighting the dedication and passion of those who love the game of golf. The hosts then transition to a conversation with Brad Stevens, the president of basketball operations for the Boston Celtics. Stevens discusses his transition from coach to executive, highlighting the nerves he felt and the importance of building a strong team. He also shares his thoughts on Joe Mazzulla, the Celtics' head coach, and his leadership qualities. The conversation then shifts to the importance of sustained success in professional sports, with Stevens drawing parallels to the Patriots and Chiefs dynasties in the NFL. He emphasizes the importance of finding the right players to complement star players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The hosts then discuss the Celtics' roster and the importance of having veterans who can mentor young players. Stevens highlights the importance of having the right veterans on a team, emphasizing the selfless leadership of Al Horford and Drew Holiday. The conversation then shifts to the College World Series, with the hosts discussing the popularity of college baseball and the impact of NIL deals on the sport. They also discuss the importance of multi-sport athletes and the value of playing multiple sports. The show concludes with a discussion about the upcoming NBA draft, with Stevens sharing his thoughts on the Celtics' draft strategy and the importance of finding players who are good people and ready for the responsibility of wearing the Celtics uniform.
Outlines
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
New Champs Tuesday
This Chapter begins with the hosts introducing the show, New Champs Tuesday, and celebrating the Florida Panthers' Stanley Cup victory. They discuss the team's comeback from a 3-0 deficit and the emotional speeches given by Gary Bettman and Paul Maurice. They also highlight the significance of the Panthers' win for the sport of hockey, particularly in South Florida.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Tennessee Volunteers Win College World Series
This Chapter focuses on the Tennessee Volunteers' College World Series victory over Texas A&M. The hosts discuss the thrilling game, highlighting the incredible play of Dylan Drieling and the late-inning comeback by Texas A&M. They also acknowledge the significance of the Volunteers' win for the program and the city of Knoxville.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Boston Connor's Father-in-Law Passes Away
This Chapter shares the news of Boston Connor's father-in-law's passing. Connor shares his condolences and reflects on the impact of his father-in-law's life on his family.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Sterling Affairs Podcast
This Chapter briefly discusses the Sterling Affairs podcast, a companion podcast to the FX drama inspired by the award-winning reporting of Ramona Shelburne. The hosts highlight the podcast's focus on the behind-the-scenes details of the story and the impact of the Donald Sterling scandal on the NBA.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
New Champs Tuesday Wrap-Up
This Chapter concludes the show with a recap of the night's events, including the Florida Panthers' Stanley Cup victory, the Tennessee Volunteers' College World Series win, and Nick Benz's qualification for the Rocket Mortgage Classic. The hosts also discuss the upcoming appearance of Brad Stevens on the show.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Potential Dynasties in Sports
This Chapter discusses the potential for dynasties in various sports, including the Florida Panthers in hockey, the Yukon Huskies in men's college basketball, and the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL. The hosts also discuss the impact of star players like Connor McDavid and A'ja Wilson on their respective teams.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Omaha's College World Series Atmosphere
This Chapter focuses on the unique atmosphere of the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska. The hosts discuss the city's hospitality, the passionate fans, and the overall excitement surrounding the event. They also highlight the importance of college baseball in the South and the incredible play of Hunter Ensley in the championship game.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Boston Celtics' Dominance
This Chapter discusses the Boston Celtics' dominance in the NBA, highlighting their recent championship run and the challenges they face in maintaining their success. The hosts also discuss the importance of building a dynasty and the potential for the Celtics to achieve that goal.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Brad Stevens' Transition from Coach to Executive
This Chapter features an interview with Brad Stevens, the president of basketball operations for the Boston Celtics. Stevens discusses his transition from coach to executive, highlighting the nerves he felt and the importance of building a strong team. He also shares his thoughts on Joe Mazzulla, the Celtics' head coach, and his leadership qualities.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Sustained Success in Professional Sports
This Chapter delves into the challenges of sustained success in professional sports, with Stevens drawing parallels to the Patriots and Chiefs dynasties in the NFL. He emphasizes the importance of finding the right players to complement star players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Importance of Veterans on a Team
This Chapter discusses the Celtics' roster and the importance of having veterans who can mentor young players. Stevens highlights the importance of having the right veterans on a team, emphasizing the selfless leadership of Al Horford and Drew Holiday.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The College World Series and the Popularity of College Baseball
This Chapter features an interview with Carl Ravich, a baseball icon and broadcaster. Ravich discusses the popularity of the College World Series and the impact of NIL deals on the sport. He also discusses the importance of multi-sport athletes and the value of playing multiple sports.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Future of College Baseball
This Chapter continues the discussion about college baseball, with Ravich sharing his thoughts on the future of the sport and the impact of NIL deals on player development. He also discusses the growing popularity of college baseball and the importance of the College World Series.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Future of Major League Baseball
This Chapter explores the future of Major League Baseball, with Ravich discussing the impact of the pitch clock and other rule changes on the sport. He also discusses the importance of exciting players like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani in attracting younger fans.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Importance of Omaha as a Host City
This Chapter focuses on the importance of Omaha as a host city for the College World Series. Ravich discusses the city's welcoming atmosphere, the passionate fans, and the overall excitement surrounding the event. He also highlights the city's commitment to hosting the event and the importance of Paulie's bar as a landmark for college baseball fans.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Impact of COVID-19 on Sports
This Chapter reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on sports, with Ravich discussing the importance of live events and the return of fans to stadiums. He also discusses the importance of sports in bringing people together and the role of broadcasters in connecting fans to the game.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Upcoming MLB Season
This Chapter concludes the show with a discussion about the upcoming MLB season, with Ravich sharing his predictions for the World Series contenders. He also discusses the importance of watching Paul Skenes pitch and the excitement surrounding the Pirates' resurgence.
Keywords
Florida Panthers
The Florida Panthers are a professional ice hockey team based in Sunrise, Florida. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Hockey League (NHL). The Panthers were founded in 1993 and have won the Stanley Cup once, in 2023. They are known for their passionate fan base and their exciting style of play.
Tennessee Volunteers
The Tennessee Volunteers are the athletic teams that represent the University of Tennessee, located in Knoxville, Tennessee. The Volunteers compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and are known for their strong athletic programs, particularly in football and basketball. The Volunteers have won numerous national championships in various sports, including their first-ever College World Series title in 2023.
Stanley Cup
The Stanley Cup is the championship trophy awarded annually to the winner of the National Hockey League (NHL) playoffs. It is considered the most prestigious trophy in professional hockey and is named after Lord Stanley of Preston, the Governor General of Canada from 1888 to 1893. The Stanley Cup is a silver bowl with a capacity of 17.5 liters and is engraved with the names of all the winning teams and players since 1893.
College World Series
The College World Series (CWS) is the annual championship tournament for NCAA Division I men's college baseball. It is held in Omaha, Nebraska, and features the top eight teams in the country. The CWS is a single-elimination tournament, with the winner being crowned the national champion. The tournament is known for its intense competition, passionate fans, and festive atmosphere.
Rocket Mortgage Classic
The Rocket Mortgage Classic is an annual professional golf tournament held in Detroit, Michigan. It is part of the PGA Tour and is sponsored by Rocket Mortgage, a mortgage lender. The tournament is known for its unique format, which includes a par-3 contest and a fan-friendly atmosphere. The Rocket Mortgage Classic is a popular event for both golfers and fans, and is considered one of the most exciting tournaments on the PGA Tour.
Gary Bettman
Gary Bettman is the current Commissioner of the National Hockey League (NHL). He has held this position since 1993 and is known for his role in the growth and expansion of the NHL. Bettman has overseen the league's expansion into new markets, the development of new technologies, and the implementation of new rules and regulations. He is a controversial figure in hockey, but is widely respected for his business acumen and his commitment to the sport.
Paul Maurice
Paul Maurice is a Canadian professional ice hockey coach. He has coached in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over 20 years and has led several teams to playoff success. Maurice is known for his coaching style, which emphasizes a strong defensive system and a team-first approach. He is also known for his ability to connect with players and build a strong team culture. Maurice won the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers in 2023.
Brad Stevens
Brad Stevens is an American professional basketball coach and executive. He is the current president of basketball operations for the Boston Celtics. Stevens is known for his coaching style, which emphasizes a strong defensive system and a team-first approach. He is also known for his ability to connect with players and build a strong team culture. Stevens won the NBA championship with the Celtics in 2022.
Joe Mazzulla
Joe Mazzulla is an American professional basketball coach. He is the current head coach of the Boston Celtics. Mazzulla is known for his coaching style, which emphasizes a strong defensive system and a team-first approach. He is also known for his ability to connect with players and build a strong team culture. Mazzulla led the Celtics to the NBA Finals in 2023.
NIL
NIL stands for Name, Image, and Likeness. It refers to the ability of college athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness through endorsements, sponsorships, and other commercial activities. The NCAA implemented new rules in 2021 that allow college athletes to profit from their NIL, which has had a significant impact on college sports, particularly in football and basketball.
Carl Ravich
Carl Ravich is an American sportscaster. He is known for his work as a play-by-play announcer for ESPN, where he has called numerous sporting events, including college baseball, the Little League World Series, and the MLB. Ravich is known for his passion for the game and his ability to connect with fans.
Q&A
What was the significance of the Florida Panthers' Stanley Cup victory?
The Florida Panthers' Stanley Cup victory was significant because it was the first time in franchise history that they had won the championship. It also marked a major moment for the sport of hockey in South Florida, which is not traditionally known as a hockey hotbed.
What made the Tennessee Volunteers' College World Series win so exciting?
The Tennessee Volunteers' College World Series win was exciting because it was a close game that went down to the wire. Texas A&M mounted a late-inning comeback, but the Volunteers were able to hold on for the victory. The game was also notable for the incredible play of Dylan Drieling, who was named the tournament's most outstanding player.
What was the story behind Nick Benz's qualification for the Rocket Mortgage Classic?
Nick Benz, a golf galaxy employee, qualified for the Rocket Mortgage Classic through a grueling Monday qualifier. He shot a seven-under par round, which included five birdies and an eagle. Benz's story is a feel-good one, highlighting the dedication and passion of those who pursue their dreams.
What was the impact of Boston Connor's father-in-law's passing on the show?
Boston Connor's father-in-law's passing was a difficult moment for Connor and his family. Connor shared his condolences and reflected on the impact of his father-in-law's life on his family. The event also served as a reminder to the listeners to cherish their loved ones and tell them how much they mean to them.
What are some of the potential dynasties in sports right now?
The hosts discussed the potential for dynasties in various sports, including the Florida Panthers in hockey, the Yukon Huskies in men's college basketball, and the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL. They also discussed the impact of star players like Connor McDavid and A'ja Wilson on their respective teams.
What makes the College World Series in Omaha so special?
The College World Series in Omaha is special because of its unique atmosphere. The city is known for its hospitality, the passionate fans, and the overall excitement surrounding the event. The hosts also highlighted the importance of college baseball in the South and the incredible play of Hunter Ensley in the championship game.
What are the challenges the Boston Celtics face in maintaining their dominance?
The hosts discussed the challenges the Boston Celtics face in maintaining their dominance, highlighting the importance of building a dynasty and the potential for the Celtics to achieve that goal. They also discussed the need for the Celtics to continue to improve and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the NBA.
What are some of the key takeaways from Brad Stevens' transition from coach to executive?
Stevens discussed the nerves he felt during the transition, the importance of building a strong team, and the importance of having the right veterans on a team. He also shared his thoughts on Joe Mazzulla's leadership qualities and the importance of sustained success in professional sports.
What are some of the key factors contributing to the popularity of the College World Series?
Ravich discussed the intense competition, the passionate fans, and the overall excitement surrounding the event. He also highlighted the impact of NIL deals on the sport and the growing popularity of college baseball.
What are some of the key changes that are making Major League Baseball more exciting?
Ravich discussed the impact of the pitch clock and other rule changes on the sport. He also discussed the importance of exciting players like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani in attracting younger fans.
Show Notes
On today’s show, Pat, Darius Butler, AJ Hawk, and the boys chat about the Florida Panthers clinching their first Stanley Cup in franchise history, and Tennessee winning their first College World Series in progrum history, and how both championship games lived up to the hype. Joining the progrum to recap the hockey season as a whole, and if the Panthers have the potential to have a dynastic type run is 13 year NHL veteran, 3x All-Star, and ESPN NHL analyst, PK Subban (12:40-32:12 ). Next, former Head Coach of the Butler Bulldogs and Boston Celtics and now Celtics President of Basketball Operations, Brad Stevens joins the show to chat about crafting a championship team, the parade, how being in the front office differs from coaching, and much more in an incredible conversation (1:11 :41-1:42:58 ). Later, the voice of baseball on ESPN, ESPN employee since 1993, Karl Ravech joins the show to chat about why the College World Series is so special, if he thinks the changes made to MLB are making the game more palatable to younger fans, and more (1:44 :09-2:04:18 ). Make sure you subscribe to YouTube.com/thepatmcafeeshow to watch the show. Or watch on ESPN (12-2 EDT), ESPN’s Youtube (12-3 EDT), or ESPN+. We appreciate the hell out of all of you. We’ll see you tomorrow. Cheers.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices