Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel Season 24 Episode 5 Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel Ep 254 (May 2018)

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel Ep 254 (May 2018) is the fifth episode of the twenty-fourth season of the acclaimed sports journalism program, Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel. The episode features six investigative segments exploring various aspects of the world of sports, from the doping controversies in cycling, to the future of competitive video gaming.

At the top of the episode, correspondent David Scott delves into the world of competitive cycling, focusing on the ongoing controversy surrounding doping. Scott meets with former professional cyclist Chris Horner to discuss his views on the subject. Horner, who competed in the Tour de France for over a decade, admits to using banned substances during his career, but argues that the culture of doping in cycling is not as widespread as some would like to believe. Scott also speaks with Travis Tygart, the CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, to discuss the challenges of catching dopers in professional cycling.

Another segment of the episode takes a look at the role of technology in the world of sports. Correspondent Soledad O'Brien explores how new technology is transforming traditional sports like golf and tennis, as well as giving rise to entirely new competitive activities like e-sports. O'Brien interviews professional golfer Jordan Spieth, who credits the use of technology for his success on the course, and also speaks with professional gamer Rick Fox about the growing popularity of competitive video gaming.

In an investigative segment that touches on a controversial topic, correspondent Jon Frankel examines the rise of professional women's basketball in Saudi Arabia. Frankel speaks with players and coaches involved in the sport in Saudi Arabia and highlights how the women are breaking barriers in a country where strict gender segregation laws restrict many activities for women. Frankel also raises concerns about Saudi Arabia's human rights record and the country's policies towards women.

Another feature of the episode centers on the legacy of the pioneering African American athlete Arthur Ashe. Correspondent Bernard Goldberg speaks with Ashe's widow, Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe, about her late husband's life and his lasting impact on the world of sports and social justice. The segment also includes historical footage and interviews with Ashe's contemporaries to contextualize his remarkable achievements.Despite retired from his matches now, his efforts for the betterment of black tennis players are still memorable.

In a segment that explores the complexities of modern sports fandom, correspondent Mary Carillo examines the intersection of sports and politics. Carillo speaks with sports fans who are passionate about their teams and their political beliefs, and highlights how the two can sometimes intersect in both complicated and unexpected ways. Carillo also explores the history of activism in sports, including the famous protest by Olympic track stars Tommie Smith and John Carlos in 1968.

Finally, the episode closes with a feature on a unique college basketball team from Montana. Correspondent David Scott tells the story of the Lady Griz, a women's basketball team from the University of Montana that has become a beloved institution in the state. Scott highlights how the team's success has brought the community together and inspired generations of young players.

Overall, Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel Ep 254 (May 2018) is a diverse and thought-provoking episode that explores a wide range of topics in the world of sports. Whether investigating the ongoing controversies surrounding doping or exploring the innovative ways that technology is transforming traditional sports, the episode offers a deep dive into the many ways that sports continue to impact our lives and society.