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Sunday Sundown Rundown - 5/31/26

The Sunday Sundown Rundown (formerly in the format of "3 Up and 3 Down") is where I share thoughts on three topics that piqued my interest, along with my favorite photo from the week.


NBA Finals

The NBA Finals are set. And sure, I am very biased (in a strong way) with a rooting interest towards my New York Knicks. However, the matchup is intriguing because it gives the NBA a guaranteed different NBA Champion for the eighth consecutive year. 

But mostly, the match-up is such a dream for the NBA with stars, basketball-loving markets, and an NBA Cup rematch from this season. 

So much for the early-season narratives that the NBA is unwatchable - the season and playoffs up to this point have been tremendous. 

#LGK


American 250

America turning 250 years old should be special. It's a nice round number that is worthy of a huge celebration. Plus, the country can use something - really, anything! - to bring it closer together. Regardless of the distance, the gap is closed. 

This week, potential plans for such a show, which already felt subpar in its planning state before it fell apart, are now in peril of becoming a rally. Sigh. Ughhhhhhhhh...

This is the actual opposite of everything this should and could be. 

The political sphere doesn't seem real these days, and this latest development feels like another opportunity that adds to the illusion that our elected officials are all of them, on both sides. 


Holly Holm (& Amanda Serrano)

I watched Stephanie Tan vs. Holly Holm on Saturday night and came to the same conclusion that many did - Holm won the fight despite the judges' scorecards. However, as someone who is a casual fan of Holm, dating back to when she shocked the world with that massive roundhouse kick (I don't think this fight ever gets old...) I continue to be amazed at Holm as an athlete, specifically a combat athlete. 

Grace. Humility. Versatility (Boxing and MMA). And strength through those qualities - always. Especially this weekend, in a fight you knew you won. An amazing fighter, an even better human being.

Shout out to Amanda Serrano, there was no doubt she was aiming for tying the record for most knockouts in Women's Boxing - and she did just that. 


Jay-Z performs at Roots Picnic on May 30, 2026. The rapper delivered a surprise a cappella freestyle on Saturday

Phobymo for Rolling Stone
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