DALLAS — In addition to airing every game of the 2024 NBA Finals on our station, WFAA is also hosting a special presentation called "The Pregame" before every matchup in the series. Head here for more information.
When you’re hanging with Michael Bradshaw and Bryce Baker, it is all fun and games. When it comes to the Dallas Mavericks, it’s a little more serious.
“They be dogging Kyrie. They be dogging Kyrie,” said Baker, a comedian.
“The first game, we weren’t in it. So, the second game, at least we were there,” said Bradshaw, another comedian.
The two are standup comedians and hosts the Dallas sports podcast, “Live from Section 41.” With the Mavs down two games against the Boston Celtics in the NBA finals, they have a lot to say about the series thus far.
“We’ve got to make free throws. It’s been an issue that’s plagued us this entire season, and it reared its head during the playoffs. Once you get to the finals, you still can’t make your dang on free throws, the ones they give you. It says free in the name,” said Bradshaw.
“Anytime somebody misses a shot, I’m like, 'get them out of the game.' Sorry Josh Green, but it happens to you a lot,” said Baker.
They have also noticed a change in Celtics player Kristaps Porzingis who used to play for the Mavericks.
“For years, I thought poor Porzingis needed time to warm up back with his injuries. That’s what I heard. That’s what I defended,” said Bradshaw. “He was winking at the bench too. He would give a little,” said Baker as he winked.
“And his elbows. Why are his elbows so sharp? Why is he allowed to hit people?” asked Bradshaw.
The two comedians also put the blame on themselves as fans.
“I’m also randomly superstitious. We lost two games in a jersey I was wearing. I don’t wear it anymore,” said Bradshaw. “Because obviously right, it’s me. It’s not the basketball players that make millions of dollars to do what they do professionally working on their craft. No, it’s me inside my own home and how my energy is transferring to them.”
They have their own ritual after the games.
“Anytime we watch a game together and we lose, we go into 2K, which is the basketball video game, and try to co-op and beat them. This time we couldn’t even beat them.” said Baker. “We couldn’t even beat them on the video game.”
“Here’s the thing: The Mavericks weren’t supposed to be here,” said Bradshaw. “We’re just happy we’re here.”
For them, it is a win already.
“You’ve got to lose two to win in six,” said Bradshaw.
To those fans with doubts, Bradshaw and Baker challenged their inner Luka Doncic spirit.
“If you don’t believe, you shouldn’t be here. That might be too deep,” said Baker.
Game 3 of the NBA finals takes place on Wednesday, June 12, in Dallas.
