

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 19, 2023 • 1h 57min
Beal to Phoenix, CP3’s Next Move, Fake Zion Trades, and Charlotte’s Big Decision With Ryen Russillo
Join Ryen Russillo, a savvy sports commentator from The Ringer, as he dives into the recent blockbuster trade of Bradley Beal to the Phoenix Suns. They dissect the impact of this trade on team dynamics and compare it to the 2008 Celtics. The conversation doesn't stop there; they throw around wild trade scenarios and analyze Chris Paul's uncertain future, humorously likening teams to a 'Bermuda Triangle' for struggling point guards. Plus, they discuss potential draft picks and trades shaping the future of the NBA.

Jun 16, 2023 • 1h 23min
A Summer NBA Trade Value List, Plus Beal Trades and a U.S. Open Report With Joe House
Joe House, a sports expert and contributor to The Ringer, joins the conversation with Bill Simmons. They dive into the swirling trade rumors surrounding Bradley Beal and potential suitors for him. House shares insights from his experience at the U.S. Open, discussing players' performances and the challenges of the course. They explore NBA trade values, analyzing top players, and the implications of potential trades for teams like the Celtics and Wizards, all while sprinkling in humor and personal anecdotes.

Jun 13, 2023 • 1h 16min
Doc Rivers on Denver’s First Title, the Zombie Heat, Jokic Vs. the Greats, and Why It Wasn’t Philly
Doc Rivers, an NBA champion head coach, shares his insights on the Denver Nuggets' historic title win over the Miami Heat. He highlights Nikola Jokic's remarkable playoff performance and Jamal Murray's development as a key player. Rivers reflects on his final year coaching in Philadelphia and what Joel Embiid needs to reach championship success. He discusses the complexities of coaching James Harden and delivers behind-the-scenes anecdotes from pivotal playoff moments. Rivers' experience offers a fascinating look into basketball's high-stakes dynamics.

4 snips
Jun 12, 2023 • 2h 6min
The Jokic Effect, a Murray What-If Game, a Most-Likely-to-Be-Traded Draft, and Kyle’s Wedding With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a savvy sports analyst and co-host of The Ringer's show, dives into the impressive performance of Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. They explore how Jamal Murray's ACL injury may have delayed a championship for Denver. The conversation shifts to a fun draft of players likely to be traded next season. Ryen also shares lively wedding stories, adding a personal touch to the sports talk. This blend of sports insight and humor keeps listeners entertained and engaged.

8 snips
Jun 8, 2023 • 1h 59min
Joker’s Wild in Miami, CP3’s Future, CNN Turmoil, and Streaming TV Chaos With Kevin Wildes, Dave Jacoby, and Matt Belloni
Dave Jacoby, a contributor to The Ringer, shares sharp insights on NBA dynamics, including Denver’s dominance and Nikola Jokic's rise as the league's top player. Kevin Wildes adds his unique take on what the future may hold for Chris Paul and the Miami Heat. Meanwhile, Matt Belloni critiques CNN's leadership struggles, revealing how media giants are grappling with today's challenges. They explore the streaming landscape, discussing the decline of iconic brands and the shifting dynamics of viewer engagement.

Jun 7, 2023 • 1h 43min
The Unfathomable LIV-PGA Merger, Miami’s Special Sauce, and Butler’s Unusual Superstardom With Joe House, Nathan Hubbard, and Raja Bell
In this lively discussion, Joe House, a contributor to The Ringer and co-host of the Fairway Rolling podcast, Nathan Hubbard, another Ringer contributor with insights into golf's business side, and former NBA player Raja Bell, now co-hosting ‘Real Ones,’ dive deep into the shocking PGA-LIV merger. They analyze its implications for player loyalty and the future of golf. Raja also shares thoughts on Miami’s playoff dominance and Jimmy Butler’s unique rise to superstardom, highlighting teamwork and defensive strategies in the NBA.

Jun 5, 2023 • 1h 44min
Miami’s Zombies Do It Again, Portland’s Dilemma, Ja’s Future, and Worst GM Jobs With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst and co-host of The Ringer’s Bill Simmons Podcast, dives into the Miami Heat's thrilling Game 2 win against the Nuggets, comparing legends like Jimmy Butler and Nikola Jokic. He shares insights on the Trail Blazers' offseason strategies and discusses Adam Silver's comments regarding Ja Morant's future. The conversation also explores the challenges of the worst GM jobs in the NBA, examining team dynamics and management decisions that shape franchises in transition.

Jun 1, 2023 • 2h 15min
The NBA’s Almost Club, Denver-Miami Picks and Taylor Swift’s Iconic Year with Joe House, Raheem Palmer, Nathan Hubbard and Chuck Mindenhall
Joe House, an NBA history expert, dives into the storied legacy of teams that almost made it, particularly the Celtics. Raheem Palmer shares his top NBA Finals bets, while Chuck Mindenhall sheds light on the passionate journey of the Nuggets and Nikola Jokic. Nathan Hubbard discusses the phenomenal cultural impact of Taylor Swift's concert tour, drawing parallels to icons like Elvis. The conversation balances sports insights with entertainment, highlighting the unpredictable nature of both realms.

May 30, 2023 • 56min
The Caleb Martin Series, Boston’s Bizarre Demise, and Jaylen Brown’s Future With Bill’s Dad
Bill Simmons’ dad, a die-hard Celtics fan and seasoned observer of the game, shares his insights on Boston's heartbreaking Game 7 loss to Miami. He discusses Caleb Martin's unexpected impact, Jayson Tatum's injury, and the Celtics' struggles against the Heat's zone defense. Emotions run high as they analyze coaching decisions, potential roster changes, and Jalen Brown's uncertain future amid rising trade talks. The poignant reflections on past triumphs and current challenges truly capture the spirit of Boston basketball.

4 snips
May 28, 2023 • 2h 5min
The Derrick White Game, the Miracle Play Hierarchy, a Game 7 Preview and a Dangerous New CBA Deal With Ryen Russillo
Joining the discussion is Ryen Russillo, a prominent contributor to The Ringer, renowned for his sharp sports insights. He and Bill dive into the Celtics' thrilling Game 6 win over the Heat, analyzing Derrick White's pivotal shot and the intense playoff atmosphere. They explore the significant implications of the new NBA CBA around luxury tax changes, weighing its impact on team strategies and player contracts. The conversation also hints at the upcoming challenges posed by the formidable Denver Nuggets in the looming Game 7.