

The Bill Simmons Podcast
The Ringer
HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons hosts the most downloaded sports podcast of all time, with a rotating crew of celebrities, athletes, and media staples, as well as mainstays like Cousin Sal, Joe House, and a slew of other friends and family members who always happen to be suspiciously available.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 3, 2024 • 1h 22min
Part 2: Barkley’s Future, TNT’s Possible Past, and 2024 NBA Media Trends With Ryen Russillo and Bryan Curtis
Ryen Russillo, a sports media personality and co-host at The Ringer, teams up with Bryan Curtis, a sports media expert, to analyze the changing landscape of NBA broadcasting. They dive into the effectiveness of commentary dynamics and criticize the overcrowded commentary styles in games. The duo also tackles NBA schedule debates and the impending changes in broadcasting rights, pondering the shift from cable to streaming. Their witty banter highlights predictions for the NBA Finals and the future of sports media.

6 snips
Jun 3, 2024 • 1h 8min
Part 1: The Best NBA Finals Angles With Ryen Russillo
In this engaging discussion, sports analyst Ryen Russillo shares his deep insights on the NBA Finals featuring the Mavericks and Celtics. He highlights how Dallas reinvented their roster mid-season and the significance of Luka Doncic as a pivotal player. The conversation dives into each team's playoff journeys, examining key matchups and player performances. Russillo also reflects on how injuries and contracts can shape public perception of players. Tune in for a captivating analysis of the dynamics that could define the championship series!

15 snips
May 29, 2024 • 1h 33min
RIP Bill Walton. Plus, Minnesota Avoids a Sweep, a Towns Semi-Redemption, and Best Backcourts With J. Kyle Mann.
In this discussion, guest J. Kyle Mann, a basketball analyst for The Ringer, shares insights on the Timberwolves' surprising Game 4 win against the Mavericks, diving deep into player dynamics and strategies. They debate the best backcourts in NBA history, comparing legendary pairs like Curry and Klay to current stars. The conversation also highlights Bill Walton's incredible legacy in both college and the NBA, reflecting on his joyous approach to the game and influential activism, rounding out a rich exploration of basketball's evolution and enduring impact.

7 snips
May 27, 2024 • 1h 55min
Luka’s Ascendance and a Mavs-Celtics Finals Is Brewing With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst and co-host of 'The Lowe Post,' joins the conversation to unpack Luka Doncic's stellar playoff performance and the Mavericks' commanding lead over the Timberwolves. They delve into Kyrie Irving's resurgence and debate the evolving landscape of MVP criteria. The duo also explores the historical context of the 'best player alive' debate while flipping through the Celtics-Pacers series, offering insights into player dynamics and potential NBA Finals matchups. Expect a blend of analysis and excitement!

12 snips
May 24, 2024 • 1h 45min
A Tatum/Brown Convo, Indy in Trouble, Kyrie’s Revival, and Best Defenses Ever With Rob Mahoney, Chris Ryan, and NBA Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas
Join Chris Ryan, a sports writer and podcaster for The Ringer, alongside Rob Mahoney, a keen basketball analyst, and Isiah Thomas, legendary NBA Hall of Famer, as they discuss the Celtics' playoff surge amid Tyrese Haliburton's injury woes. They explore Jason Tatum's evolution, the unique player dynamics of Kyrie Irving, and reminisce about the Pistons' 'Bad Boys' era. With insights on NBA defenses and coaching changes, this conversation reveals the heart of playoff basketball and its shifting landscape.

May 22, 2024 • 2h 19min
The Celtics Steal Game 1 With Kevin O’Connor, plus Wesley Morris on NYC’s NBA Revival, ‘Challengers’ Nit-Picks, and Worst Sports Movie Endings
Kevin O'Connor, a basketball writer for The Ringer, shares insights on the Celtics' thrilling Game 1 overtime win against the Pacers, analyzing key strategies and player performances. Wesley Morris, a critic for The New York Times, discusses the vibrant NYC sports scene and the evolving narratives around athletes. They also critique the new film 'Challengers', exploring its themes of love and rivalry, alongside a humorous analysis of the worst movie endings in sports history. Expect a mix of sports and cinematic exploration!

4 snips
May 20, 2024 • 1h 4min
Part 2: Minnesota Knocks Out Denver (Good God!!!) With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a renowned sports analyst known for his sharp insights, joins Bill Simmons to dissect the Timberwolves' historic Game 7 comeback against the Nuggets. They delve into key player performances and the impact of teamwork in high-stakes moments. The duo also previews the upcoming Timberwolves-Mavericks matchup, discusses the implications of a boxing showdown between Usyk and Fury, and shares anecdotes about the evolving landscape of the NBA draft. Get ready for a mix of humor, strategy, and a deep dive into sports dynamics!

5 snips
May 20, 2024 • 1h 21min
Part 1: Indy Crushes at MSG, Knicks Summer Targets, Dallas Delivers, and OKC’s Fatal Flaw With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst renowned for his basketball insights, joins the conversation to dissect the thrilling Game 7 between the Pacers and Knicks. He highlights the Pacers’ impressive performance, discusses the impact of injuries on the Knicks, and delves into trade strategies that could reshape team dynamics. The talk also covers the Mavericks' nail-biting victory over the Thunder, focusing on pivotal plays and coaching decisions. Russillo's expertise brings clarity to the competitive landscape of the playoffs and what lies ahead for key teams.

11 snips
May 17, 2024 • 1h 41min
Nuggets-Wolves Game 7 Legacy Check, OKC’s Big Issue, an NFL Complaint, and Boston’s Eight-Year Run With Rob Mahoney and Chris Ryan
Chris Ryan and Rob Mahoney, writers for The Ringer, dive deep into the playoff dynamics of the Nuggets vs. Timberwolves showdown. They discuss Nikola Jokic's impressive playoff stats and how critical Game 7 will shape legacies. The duo also touches on the Oklahoma City Thunder's struggles, touching on potential trades and team psychology. Additionally, they explore the nostalgia of NFL fandom and the Celtics' strong playoff positioning, delivering a mix of sharp analysis and lighthearted banter.

4 snips
May 15, 2024 • 2h 11min
The Joker’s Revenge, Brunson Runs Amok and an NFL Over/Under Check-In With Justin Termine and Michael Lombardi
Bill Simmons chats with Justin Termine about Nikola Jokic's stellar performance and the NFL schedule release. They are later joined by Michael Lombardi to discuss favorite win totals bets and teams poised for a down season in the NFL.