In Episode 306 of Empty The Bench, Nick Morgasen and Zain Bando return to break down an emotionally charged and action-packed week across the sports landscape, beginning with the tragic passing of Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore and the significant backlash facing Scott Van Pelt and ESPN for a major on-screen graphic error during his tribute.The duo then shifts gears to a historic achievement on the ice as Team USA secures a dual Olympic Gold sweep in both men’s and women’s hockey at the 2026 Milan Cortina Games, marking the first men’s gold since the 1980 Miracle on Ice.The conversation turns to the Octagon to dissect Sean Strickland’s victory over Anthony Hernandez at UFC Fight Night 267, a win overshadowed by Strickland’s controversial social media antics, before looking ahead to the massive announcement from Most Valuable Promotions and Netflix regarding a blockbuster May 16th clash between pioneers Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano.The guys also recap Ryan Garcia’s masterclass performance against Mario Barrios to claim the WBC welterweight title and head to Los Angeles to discuss the Lakers honoring legendary coach Pat Riley with a statue unveiling during a heated matchup against the Boston Celtics. Finally, they dive into the NFL offseason rumors swirling around the Pittsburgh Steelers as Aaron Rodgers weighs retirement against a potential return under Mike McCarthy, plus even more news from across the world of sports.

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