The Bill Simmons Podcast

Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst known for his NBA insights, teams up with Van Lathan Jr., a cultural commentator, to dive into the latest NBA playoff action, including Dame Lillard's injury and its implications for the Bucks. They analyze the thrilling performances of stars like Jokic and Curry, while also critiquing playoff strategies. The conversation shifts to Shadour Sanders’ NFL draft experience, touching on societal biases in sports. The duo delivers a mix of sports analysis and humorous takes on celebrity culture in Los Angeles.

Van Lathan, a media personality and cultural critic, joins forces with NBA writer Rob Mahoney and writer Chris Ryan. They dive into the excitement surrounding the NFL draft, analyzing surprising trades and standout prospects like Shadour Sanders. The conversation shifts to the NBA playoffs, scrutinizing the Nuggets' struggles and the dynamics of playoff rivalries while showcasing the impressive performances of stars like Jalen Brunson. With humor and keen insight, they navigate the thrilling crossroads of football and basketball.

The Ringer’s Bill Simmons talks about going to Game 2 of the playoff series between the Lakers and the Timberwolves (2:29). Then, Bill is joined by Zach Lowe to discuss what-ifs regarding Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers' matchup with the Nuggets (17:56). Finally, Bill talks all things NFL draft with Peter Schrager (01:03:00).Host: Bill SimmonsGuest: Zack Lowe and Peter SchragerProducers: Chia Hao Tat, Jessie Lopez, and Steve CerutiPresented by the all-new 2025 Nissan Armada. Learn more at https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/crossovers-suvs/armada/html.The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this lively discussion, Ryen Russillo, a keen NBA analyst for The Ringer, shares his deep insights on the latest playoff matchups. He breaks down the electrifying performances of superstars like Steph Curry and Jokic while also addressing the challenges faced by teams like the Lakers. The duo speculates on strategic shifts and player dynamics, particularly focusing on the striking strengths of the Minnesota Timberwolves' three-point shooting. With a touch of humor, they dive into playoff excitement and the thrill of potential matchups, keeping listeners on their toes.

Rob Mahoney, an in-depth NBA analyst at The Ringer, joins Chris Ryan, who covers NBA culture, and Brian Windhorst, an ESPN analyst known for his insightful commentary. They discuss playoff matchups, focusing on rivalries like Rockets vs. Warriors, the potential for upsets, and the evolving dynamics of team strategies. The trio brings humor to debates on MVP candidates and defensive standout players, while Windhorst shares thoughts on international basketball and the significance of Luka and LeBron in the postseason. A must-listen for basketball fans!

Kirk Goldsberry, an NBA analyst known for his basketball analytics, joins to dissect the Grizzlies-Warriors play-in game, highlighting Steph Curry's clutch shooting. They dive into shooting stats and NBA awards, blending statistics with the excitement of the playoffs. Later, Nick Khan, WWE's President, talks about the evolving landscape of wrestling, the challenges ESPN faces, and the ambitious future of WWE. The conversation touches on nostalgia, streaming impacts, and innovative fan engagement strategies, making for a captivating blend of sports and entertainment.

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 that 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.