

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

5 snips
Mar 4, 2024 • 2h 13min
The Disappointment All-Stars, LeBron’s Unapproachable 40K, Minnesota Concerns, and Boston’s F-You Game With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst known for his sharp basketball insights, joins the conversation to dissect the latest NBA action. They analyze the Clippers' tight win over the Timberwolves and the Celtics' stunning 52-point blowout against the Warriors. The duo delves into LeBron James reaching 40,000 points and the implications for his legacy. They also highlight the 'Disappointment All-Stars,' critiquing underperforming players and management decisions that impact playoff hopes. Expect an engaging mix of stats, commentary, and casual banter on team dynamics!

23 snips
Feb 28, 2024 • 1h 43min
The Wemby Era, a Women’s Hoops Revolution, Taylor Swift Vs. the Beatles, and Maye Vs. Daniels With Chuck Klosterman
Join Chuck Klosterman, a sharp-witted author and journalist, as he delves into the future of Victor Wembanyama and the shifting dynamics in international basketball. He and Bill Simmons explore the exciting rise of women's college basketball, fueled by stars like Caitlin Clark, while also grappling with the cultural phenomena surrounding Taylor Swift. The conversation wraps up with a heated debate on pivotal quarterback prospects ahead of the NFL draft, including Caleb Williams and Drake May, making for a riveting discussion across sports and culture.

8 snips
Feb 26, 2024 • 1h 58min
Best In-Person NBA Stars, Trickiest Playoff Teams, Jaylen Brown on Trial, and the Hottest Take With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst renowned for his basketball insights, joins the discussion. They dive into the standout playoff prospects and analyze the teams that might surprise fans. The duo debates the best NBA players to experience live, comparing their performances to concert experiences. Russillo shares bold takes on Jayson Tatum’s MVP candidacy and reflects on the unpredictable nature of playoff teams like the Mavericks and Pelicans. They also touch on the evolving landscape of sports commentary and the role of social media in shaping fan engagement.

56 snips
Feb 16, 2024 • 1h 55min
The Future of Everything With Derek Thompson, Plus UFC 300’s Missing Main Event and the Rock’s Turn With Ariel Helwani
Derek Thompson, a writer for The Atlantic and host of the Plain English podcast, shares fascinating insights on the future of health, culture, and technology. He discusses the impact of societal changes on mental health and examines the role of innovations like GLP-1 drugs. Meanwhile, Ariel Helwani, a prominent MMA journalist, dives into the buzz surrounding UFC 300, the marketing challenges it faces, and the evolving landscape of wrestling with upcoming WrestleMania events. Their dynamic conversations blend culture, sports, and pressing societal issues.

7 snips
Feb 13, 2024 • 1h 51min
The Warriors Come Alive, Wemby, Mahomes, the Bucks, and the Uncertain 2024 Election With Logan Murdock and Tara Palmeri
Logan Murdock, a writer for The Ringer known for his in-depth coverage of the NBA, discusses the Golden State Warriors’ resurgence, focusing on Klay Thompson’s evolution and Draymond Green’s mentorship impact on younger players. Tara Palmeri, host of Somebody's Gotta Win, shifts the conversation to the chaotic start of the 2024 election cycle, examining voter discontent and the dynamics between major candidates like Biden and Trump. The podcast also touches on rising NBA stars like Victor Wembanyama and the implications of sports on political views.

Feb 12, 2024 • 1h 19min
Three for KC, MVP Mahomes, Shanahan’s Error, Craziest Bets, and More Super Bowl Reactions With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a savvy sports commentator and gambling expert, joins the discussion to break down the thrilling Super Bowl LVIII. They dissect Patrick Mahomes' comeback performance and its implications for his legacy. The conversation also dives into MVP controversies and unique betting strategies tied to game moments, including ads and halftime highlights. With humor and nostalgia, they reflect on coaching decisions, NFL dynamics, and the evolving landscape of women’s college basketball, keeping the banter lively throughout.

Feb 8, 2024 • 1h 21min
Part 2: The NBA Trade Deadline Was a Dud With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a contributor to The Ringer known for his passionate sports insights, joins to dissect the recent NBA trade deadline that left many fans disappointed. They discuss the minimal trades made, highlighting transactions like P.J. Washington to the Mavs while examining teams like the Warriors and Lakers that opted for silence. The pair brainstorm ideas for improving future trade deadlines and delve into Super Bowl predictions, blending sports strategy with cultural commentary in a lively banter.

Feb 8, 2024 • 1h
Part 1: NBA Trade Deadline Reactions With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a seasoned sports analyst known for his sharp insights, joins to analyze the buzzing NBA trade deadline. They discuss the Knicks' new shooting prowess, making them a formidable Eastern contender. The conversation dives into Gordon Hayward's move to OKC and the implications of Buddy Hield landing with the Sixers. They also humorously compare the Raptors' trading strategy to a fantasy football league, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the trade market and the strategic plays shaping playoff dynamics.

Feb 7, 2024 • 1h 17min
The 2024 NBA Trade Value Rankings
Dive into the thrilling world of NBA trade values as a comprehensive ranking of 75 players unfolds. Explore how factors like age and contract impact player desirability, from Jabari Smith's unexpected rise to the complexities of teams like the Bulls and Hawks strategizing for trade deadlines. Analyze the chemistry between stars and dissect intriguing performances from players like Kevin Durant and James Harden. Join the discussions on potential trades and the evolving landscape of the league that keeps fans on the edge of their seats!

Feb 5, 2024 • 1h 34min
The Super Bowl LVIII Props Mega-Special With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a beloved regular known for his humor and sports betting prowess, joins the discussion about Super Bowl LVIII. They dive into their historical betting records and share their top prop bets, featuring whimsical choices like the coin toss and national anthem duration. The conversation takes playful turns, exploring player predictions and betting strategies with amusing anecdotes. Sal also highlights intriguing NBA insights, blending the worlds of football and basketball with entertaining insights and personal stories.