The Bill Simmons Podcast

The Ringer’s Bill Simmons is joined by Ryen Russillo right after Rory McIlroy’s wild win at the Masters to discuss Rory finally getting the monkey off his back and the ridiculous pressure than comes with the sport of golf (2:22). Next, they break down the final day of the NBA regular season, discussing whether they believe in the Clippers, the Warriors' path, a full look at the playoff matchups in the East and West, and maybe a surprising lean on the MVP race (31:35). Host: Bill SimmonsGuest: Ryen RussilloProducers: Steve Ceruti, Ronak Nair, Jonathan Frias, and Jessie Lopez The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com tolearn more about the resources and helplines available. #ULTRACourtside could get you closer to the game! michelobultra.com/courtsideENJOY RESPONSIBLY ©2025 ANHEUSER-BUSCH, MICHELOB ULTRA® LIGHT BEER, ST. LOUIS, MO. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode features Cousin Sal, a comedic sports personality, Joe House, a golf and food aficionado from The Ringer, and James "Baby Doll" Dixon, a celebrity manager with a flair for storytelling. They dive into the chaotic NBA playoff scene, spotlighting fun matchups and key player performances. The gang reminisces about shenanigans at the Masters, with hilarious prank stories from Sal and memorable moments involving Baby Doll. The discussions blend sports insights with colorful anecdotes, making for a lively and entertaining listen.

Cousin Sal, a comedic sports betting expert, joins to dissect the Nuggets' shocking coaching changes and their playoff prospects. James 'Baby Doll' Dixon, a sports agent with a flair for golf tales, shares insights on navigating Augusta's iconic course. The conversation flows into NBA playoff odds and NFL draft strategies, blending betting tips with humorous anecdotes from the Masters. Expect playful banter about golf picks and the thrill of making bets on underdogs as they prepare for the exciting sports seasons ahead!

Ryen Russillo, an analyst at The Ringer known for his sharp NBA insights, joins to dissect Duke's surprising Final Four collapse and the standout play of Cooper Flagg. They dive into whimsical fictional NBA awards, debate NBA unicorns, and critique player performances, including LaMelo Ball's shooting technique. The duo humorously navigates media narratives around stars like LeBron and explores player impacts, contract dynamics, and potential offseason scenarios, blending sharp analysis with lighthearted banter.

Rob Mahoney, a writer for The Ringer, and Kevin Wildes, a sports media personality, dive into the thrilling Lakers-Warriors matchup and analyze its playoff implications. They dissect key player performances and discuss the fascinating dynamics of the NBA playoff race. The conversation shifts to pop culture, with bold predictions for the finale of 'White Lotus' and reflections on storytelling in sports. They also share amusing half-baked ideas, like AI critiques and a unique fantasy league based on injuries, making for a fun and unpredictable discussion.

Zach Lowe, a prominent NBA analyst and writer, joins the conversation to dissect recent NBA developments, including the controversial Luka trade and the disappointing seasons of the Suns and 76ers. They delve into the intense competition heading into the playoffs, highlighting intriguing players like Jalen Williams and Carl Anthony Towns. The duo also examines the evolving dynamics of rivalries, particularly between stars like LeBron and Steph Curry, while analyzing playoff strategies and coaching pressures that shape outcomes.

Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst and co-host of The Mismatch podcast, and Chris Vernon, a Memphis-based sports commentator, dive into the recent firing of Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins and its implications. They assess Memphis' struggles against playoff contenders and discuss Jaron Jackson's vital role. The duo also analyzes the betting odds for the Grizzlies and debates whether the Pistons and Pacers can make a playoff impact, all while sharing insights on memorable March Madness moments and player performances.

Cousin Sal, a sports betting expert known for his comedic flair, joins the conversation to dive into the projected win totals for NFL teams in the upcoming 2025 season. They humorously analyze key factors influencing team performances, such as coaching changes and player trades. The duo shares optimistic predictions for teams like the Steelers and debates the Texans' potential amidst their recent challenges. They wrap up with entertaining parenting anecdotes, blending sports talk with relatable family experiences.

Join Callie Curry, a contributor to The Ringer's Reality TV podcast, as she examines the existential crisis facing 'The Bachelor' franchise and suggests bold changes. Tate Frazier and J. Kyle Mann dive into March Madness, highlighting the transformative effects of NIL deals and thrilling storylines as the tournament unfolds. Meanwhile, Anthony Dabbundo shares his MLB betting predictions, analyzing teams like the Yankees and Braves to forecast the upcoming season's excitement.

Ryen Russillo, a renowned sports analyst from ESPN and The Ringer, joins for a lively discussion. They dive into the Bulls’ surprising victory over the Lakers, leading to insights about NBA team strategies. The conversation shifts to the Cavaliers’ struggles and Donovan Mitchell's All-NBA spot in jeopardy due to Anthony Edwards. Finally, they explore intriguing 'sliding doors' moments of the 2020s, pondering how key decisions have shaped the league's landscape.