Playoffs in the Bubble with Chris Webber

·20 min·2 clips

Sekou Smith describes the Clippers' epic Game 7 flameout in the Orlando bubble as one of the most stunning collapses he's ever seen.

The episode opens with host Sekou Smith setting the scene of the Orlando bubble and the Clippers' stunning Game 7 collapse. Guest Chris Webber, a TNT analyst and former NBA player, joins to dissect the loss. Webber admits he picked the Clippers to win it all and expresses disbelief at their 18-point defeat, citing their lack of a shot blocker and exposed perimeter defense. He describes watching the game with disgust, noting specific plays like Paul George's errant three-pointer. Webber then spreads responsibility for the loss: first to coach Doc Rivers for his Game 7 record, second to Kawhi Leonard for his regular-season load management, third to Paul George for underperforming, and fourth to bench players Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell. The discussion shifts to the Denver Nuggets, with Webber recalling their growth from missing the playoffs years ago to this breakthrough, praising their depth and players like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. Smith and Webber explore how the bubble environment eliminates home-court advantage and travel, calling it a 'great equalizer' that reduces fear factors among teams. Webber notes improved refereeing without crowd pressure and mentions seeing Jayson Tatum's son playing video games courtside as a humanizing moment. They handicap the final four, with Webber favoring the Lakers due to LeBron James' experience but acknowledging the field is competitive in this unique setting. The conversation turns to whether the bubble champion deserves an asterisk, with Webber suggesting it will be debatable but respecting the mental toughness required. Smith shares his experience with the seven-day quarantine, and Webber reflects on the emotional toll of being away from family. Webber concludes by describing the focused mindset needed in the final four, citing LeBron James' preparation as an advantage. The episode wraps with Smith inviting Webber back to the bubble.

As heard by us

Chris Webber uses the Clippers' Game 7 collapse to unpack pressure, expectation, and the bubble's unusual freedom.

NBA Hang Time frames the Clippers' Game 7 collapse as more than a blown lead, using it to think through what playoff pressure became inside the Orlando bubble.

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Why you'd press play

Want Chris Webber as your courtside concierge through the Clippers' Game 7 flameout, starting with the title pick he is willing to own?

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