Brian Windhorst is playing chess while everyone else is playing checkers. Nearly three years have passed since he established himself in internet meme culture through his intriguing insights on the Utah Jazz’s offseason. This same logic seems to apply to Windhorst’s approach to travel for the NBA Finals.
Windhorst makes hotel reservations in multiple cities across the country for early June. Why does he do this? Allow him to explain: “This is how I vote with my mouse. I determine that a team has a chance to win the title when I secure hotel reservations in that city,” he revealed on Pardon My Take when asked about potential title contenders. “The beauty is that most hotel reservations are refundable, so there’s no penalty in making them. First, I want to ensure I can get into a particular hotel. Given the unpredictability of playoff attendance, it’s wise to prepare for the influx of fans, especially when 5,000 supporters suddenly descend for a game.”
He further elaborated, “Sometimes hotels sell out or quadruple their prices, and they often don’t recognize that their basketball teams are competitive. The Finals schedule comes out in the fall, so I booked a specific hotel in Boston last October, anticipating they might reach the Finals. I reserved the room for the entire series, regardless if they play at home or away.” In December or January, he also booked accommodations in Oklahoma City, joking, “Booked that sucker.”
So far, Windy has secured stays in Boston and Oklahoma City. He also mentions the Cavaliers: “They started 15-0, and their winning streak caught attention,” he noted. “Every time they played, opposing teams’ coaches and players were in awe, saying, ‘This team is good.’ I took note and added Cleveland to my list. Booked.” Cleveland? Check!
Curious about his other reservations? “I have Los Angeles booked, but did I pick Inglewood for the Clippers or downtown? That’s the question. You might want to know,” he said with a grin. “I booked downtown since our studio is located there, and I wanted to add some fun. I lean toward the Clippers having a better chance, but the Lakers maintain considerable draw—even if I’m not dismissing the Timberwolves. They’re staying at the same hotel as I am right now, and I might run into them at Starbucks. I’m not looking for any trouble.”
Windy’s no Jordan Schultz, but he adds, “I reserved a hotel in Denver before Michael Malone got fired. I should’ve reconsidered that; I have immense respect for Nikola [Jokić].”
His list comprises Boston, OKC, Cleveland, Los Angeles, and Denver. While others are left guessing, Windhorst is meticulously preparing, ensuring he’s ready for every twist and turn in the NBA playoffs.
