Ethan Strauss

Ethan Strauss, a basketball business expert with an extensive background at ESPN and The Athletic, dives into the intriguing financial landscape of the NBA. The league is thriving with over $10 billion in revenue, despite declining viewership numbers—a perplexing paradox. Strauss discusses the complexities of its media rights and evolving ownership dynamics, as well as the impact of international markets, notably China. He also examines the shifting marketing strategies compared to the NFL, shedding light on how leadership changes are shaping the NBA's future.

Ethan Strauss, an independent journalist and former The Athletic writer, joins the conversation to discuss the peculiar tale of Richard Lapchick, an anti-racist sports icon with a bizarre tattoo. They delve into the changing landscape of sports journalism, particularly the shift toward independent platforms post-pandemic. Strauss also analyzes the evolving role of athletes in social justice advocacy and critiques superficial media responses to activism, blending serious insights with humor throughout their engaging dialogue.

* Tina, RIP. Bill Lee, RIP.* Zone of Interest* DeSantis announces* Tim Scott announced too, btw * An increasingly crowded and unimpressive field * Our old pal Ethan Strauss joins* Why does Joe keep saying that…thing about Iraq?* “Trump is sharper than Biden”* An interregnum on Ike Turner* Ethan’s piece on Glen Kuiper * The American employment gulag: exiled forever * Paying indulgences* Is it ok to boycott brands for not having the right politics? A debate* Cruising, the gay Casablanca / Donnie Moore, baseball’s Ike Turner* Bonus blathering about Basketball This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.wethefifth.com/subscribe

NBA writer Ethan Strauss, known for his insights on the Golden State Warriors, joins the discussion on the shifting dynamics in basketball. He explains the surprising addition of Jimmy Butler to the Warriors at this stage of his career, emphasizing its implications for Steph Curry. The conversation also touches on the complexities of player trades, the tension surrounding Matthew Stafford's future with the Rams, and the organizational challenges facing teams like the Mavericks. Expect a blend of analysis and humor as they navigate these intriguing topics.

John Middlekauff, host of the '3 and Out' podcast, shares insights on Matthew Stafford's potential trade value and the dynamics of the NFL Draft Combine, stressing the importance of attending. Meanwhile, Ethan Strauss discusses the resurgence of the Golden State Warriors and the immense impact of Steph Curry on the game, dubbing him a transformational figure in sports history. They also highlight Caitlin Clark's influence in women's sports and the missed opportunities for the WNBA to capitalize on her popularity.

In this discussion, sportswriter Ethan Strauss, known for his insights on the Golden State Warriors, joins to debate Steph Curry's impact on elevating the franchise's value. They liken Caitlin Clark to Curry in women's sports and critique the WNBA’s missed chances to leverage her popularity. Strauss suggests college basketball as a prime opportunity for broadcast investment. They also scrutinize ESPN's recent dumping of MLB rights, question past media blunders, and analyze Jeff Bezos's influence on The Washington Post along with the broader media landscape.

Ethan Strauss, an NBA writer known for his insights on the Golden State Warriors, joins to discuss the Jets' surprising decision to part ways with Aaron Rodgers. They delve into the implications for both the team and Rodgers' legacy, highlighting the personal dynamics at play. The conversation shifts to the Lakers' recent challenges against the Jazz, focusing on their defensive struggles and roster issues. Strauss also explores the evolving landscape of NFL quarterbacks, including potential trades and the ramifications of a weak draft class.

Ethan Strauss, a writer for House of Strauss and former Golden State Warriors reporter, dives into the missed marketing opportunities surrounding Caitlin Clark in the WNBA. He critiques ESPN's shake-ups with Woj and Lowe departing, discussing the evolving sports media landscape and its impact on the WNBA's visibility. The conversation also covers Tom Brady's transition to broadcasting, highlighting his cautious style and potential NFL ownership aspirations. Strauss provides keen insights into the challenges and dynamics shaping today's sports narrative.

Ethan Strauss, popular sports newsletter writer, discusses how sports media has lost touch with its core audience and been captured by elite media. They explore the difference between men's and women's sports in business and marketing, and who is driving the voice of sports institutions. They also touch upon the declining popularity of sports among young people and the impact of progressive messaging. In addition, they talk about the contradictory desire of journalists to be counterculture and mainstream, and the lack of trust and meaningful conversation within sports media.

Tatiana Siegel, an investigative journalist at Rolling Stone, discusses her findings on Jeff Zucker’s secret counseling of Andrew Cuomo amid the scandal. Allison Williams and Ethan Strauss weigh in on NBC's controversial Olympic coverage reflecting China's human rights issues. They tackle the implications of the Brian Flores lawsuit regarding NFL discrimination and the tangled debate around transgender athletes in sports. Comedian Akaash Singh links cultural dynamics to comedy, touching on cancel culture and representation while promoting his special, "Bring Back Apu."