
Thinking Basketball
Ben Taylor, creator of the popular YouTube channel Thinking Basketball (and author of Thinking Basketball the book) goes deeper on basketball analysis, history, philosophy and theory with co-host Cody Houdek, and a variety of guests ranging from journalists to former players.
Ideal for fans interested in Xs and Os, stats & analytics, coaching and team strategy and adjustments, in-depth breakdowns on player strengths and weaknesses, and who is better and who is best in the NBA. (GOAT debates!)
Latest episodes

May 14, 2024 • 1h 7min
#269: Denver is alive! + The Robert Horry Award
Discussions on the unexpected resurgence of the Denver Nuggets in the NBA playoffs, analysis of key match-ups and defensive strategies, in-depth look at Shae Gilgeous-Alexander's performance, intense playoff performances and role player analysis, and a breakdown of X factors in basketball with a focus on player drive rates.

May 10, 2024 • 56min
#268: No more Luka-ball!? Bizarro Cavs strike
Guest Eric Pincus from Bleacher Report discusses the Mavericks' Game 2 tactics with Luka Doncic, Cavs surprising Celtics. Topics include strategic adjustments in playoffs, Celtics' offensive strategies, breaking into basketball industry, team strategies and potential player trades in NBA, and reflections on future and playoff updates.

May 7, 2024 • 1h 4min
#267: Wolves-Nuggets insanity + Mavs-Thunder preview
Basketball analyst Cody Houdek breaks down the Wolves-Nuggets playoff series, highlighting the Wolves' surprising defensive prowess. The podcast also previews the Mavs-Thunder series, discussing offensive styles, defensive abilities, and emotional reactions in basketball.

May 3, 2024 • 52min
#266: Best players of Round 1
Analyzing standout performances in the NBA playoffs, selecting top players based on roles and opponent quality. Dive into key player performances, offensive and defensive impacts, and intense matchups like Knicks vs. 76ers. Discussing players like LeBron James, Yoghich, Anthony Edwards, Terence Man, and Lu Dort. Evaluating players' offensive and defensive skills, strategic adjustments, and overall contributions to their teams.

Apr 29, 2024 • 1h 3min
#265: Wolves-Nuggets, Mavs-Clippers, Knicks on brink
NBA playoffs analyst codyhoudek discusses Wolves' advancement, potential matchups, Mavs-Clippers dynamics without Kawhi, and physical Knicks-76ers series

Apr 22, 2024 • 57min
#264: Size + Defense dominate the start of the playoffs
Guest codyhoudek and the host analyze the intense Game 1 matchups in the NBA playoffs, focusing on the Sixers vs. Knicks game and Clippers' defensive strategy against Luka Doncic. They discuss the impact of size, defense, and officiating changes during the playoffs, as well as ranking the top home court atmospheres. The conversation includes insights on player performances, defensive dominance, and strategic adjustments in playoff games.

Apr 15, 2024 • 1h 20min
#263: 2024 Playoff preview
NBA analyst Cody Houdek previews the 2024 Playoffs, discussing pivotal play-in games, potential contenders like the Celtics and Nuggets, the Los Angeles teams' playoff chances, sleeper teams in the East, and the exact probability of the Timberwolves beating the Suns.

Apr 12, 2024 • 53min
#262: What have we changed our minds about?
Guest Cody Houdek and the host discuss changing their minds on players and ideas in basketball analysis. They explore the impact of 'little things' in the game, judging player impact and fit, and the evolution of perspectives on player performance metrics and team dynamics.

Apr 9, 2024 • 1h 30min
#261: 2024 Thinkies! (Defensive Awards)
Guest codyhoudek discusses the 2024 Thinkies Defensive Awards, highlighting the best paint protectors, perimeter helpers, and current value-drivers in the NBA. Topics include the importance of defensive prowess, criteria for selecting standout defenders, and comparisons of defensive styles among players like Caruso, Suggs, McDaniels, and Jones.

Apr 1, 2024 • 60min
#260: Jalen power rankings & Playoff officiating
An expert in basketball analysis, @codyhoudek, discusses the impact of officiating changes on NBA playoffs, Phoenix Suns' struggles, player efficiency, free throw styles, and Jaylen player rankings. The podcast covers topics like defensive strategies, player scouting, and anticipation for upcoming games.