WWE reportedly took steps to put its best foot forward on last week’s SmackDown, anticipating a potential head-to-head battle with the NBA Finals.
According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, WWE and USA Network planned for the first hour of the June 19 episode of SmackDown to air commercial-free, a decision made well in advance. The move was designed to keep viewers locked in had the show gone up against a deciding game of the NBA Finals.
At the time the contingency was put in place, the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs were still battling for the championship. Had that series gone the full seven games, Game 7 would have aired directly opposite the June 19 SmackDown. Ultimately, the scenario never came to pass, as the Knicks wrapped up the title in five games on June 13.
Regardless, WWE loaded the top of the show with a marquee attraction. The first hour of the June 19 SmackDown featured Cody Rhodes defending the WWE Championship against Gunther, with Sami Zayn serving as special guest referee. After a series of tense interactions with both competitors, Zayn fast-counted Gunther to award the match to Rhodes. The fallout set up a triple threat at Night of Champions, where Rhodes will defend against both Gunther and Zayn.