This week, Zach and Jeff are joined by their old college friend and resident NBA sage, Ford Thunder Erickson. The three dive into the heart of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, breaking down the best first-round matchups, offering bold predictions, and asking the big question: is OKC right on time or ahead of schedule?

Off the court, Zach reflects on the quiet emotional power of Japanese Breakfast’s music, and Jeff takes us through a whirlwind night of live shows with Bob Dylan, Graham Hunt, and Liquid Mike. On the reading front, the guys discuss Jesus & John Wayne, exploring white evangelical politics, masculinity, and militarism—and Jeff adds Among the Bros to the mix, offering a sharp look at frat culture and privilege in the American South.

Plus: a rice plate from Queen of Pho, a visit to Bravas, and all the stuff Ford’s into these days.