

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

Aug 2, 2021 • 1h 34min
Lowry to Miami? Plus: Lonzo’s Upside and the Rest of Free Agency Week With Jackie MacMullan
Jackie MacMullan, a veteran sports journalist, joins the discussion on NBA free agency week, diving into potential moves and strategies. They explore what Kyle Lowry's addition to Miami could mean for the Eastern Conference. Lonzo Ball's promising skills and trade dynamics also take center stage, highlighting his importance amid team adjustments. With speculations around Ben Simmons and the Knicks’ free agency targets, the episode offers insightful analysis on player fit and the evolving landscape of the NBA.

Jul 30, 2021 • 56min
NBA Draftapalooza, Part 4: Winners + Losers With Ryen Russillo and Kevin O’Connor
Ryen Russillo, a sharp sports analyst from The Ringer, teams up with Kevin O’Connor, an NBA draft expert, to dissect the recent NBA draft. They discuss winners like Jalen Green for the Rockets and critique the Nets' choice of Cam Thomas. The duo also examines the draft's chaotic format and suggests improvements to enhance the fan experience. Their insights cover draft strategies, surprising picks, and potential trade implications, blending humor with expert analysis that captures the unpredictable nature of the NBA Draft.

Jul 30, 2021 • 48min
NBA Draftapalooza, Part 3: GSW Goes Young, Spurs Go Loco + Rest of Lottery With Ryen Russillo and Kevin O’Connor
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst and co-host of The Ringer’s NBA Show, teams up with Kevin O’Connor, an NBA writer known for his draft expertise, to dissect NBA draft dynamics. They dive into the Warriors' surprising choice of Jonathan Kaminga and its potential impact. The duo evaluates rookie expectations, including those for Zaire Williams, and compares player styles like LaMelo Ball and Booknight. They also explore the Spurs' interests, speculate on draft trades, and share humorous insights, making the discussion both engaging and informative.

Jul 30, 2021 • 41min
NBA Draftapalooza, Part 2: Cade to Detroit and 2 Semi-shockers in Top Six With Ryen Russillo and Kevin O’Connor
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst and co-host at The Ringer, joins Kevin O’Connor, an NBA draft expert, to dissect the early picks of the 2021 NBA draft. They discuss Cade Cunningham's selection by the Pistons and his compatibility with the team's young core. Surprising choices by the Thunder and Raptors spark debate on trade strategies and team dynamics. The duo also analyzes the potential of top prospects like Jalen Green and Evan Mobley, highlighting the intricacies and impact of each draft decision.

Jul 29, 2021 • 45min
NBA Draftapalooza, Part 1: Westbrook to the Lakers and Hield’s Trade Upside With Ryen Russillo and Kevin O’Connor
Joined by sports analyst Ryen Russillo and basketball expert Kevin O’Connor, the trio dives into the buzz around Russell Westbrook's potential move to the Lakers. They analyze how Westbrook might fit into the team's dynamic with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The conversation also explores Buddy Hield's trade value and the Sacramento Kings' management struggles. With trade scenarios swirling, they discuss the ripple effects on various teams and speculate about future moves that could redefine the league.

Jul 28, 2021 • 1h 35min
Zion’s Murky NOLA Future With Justin Verrier. Plus, Kenny Smith on Giannis vs. Hakeem.
Justin Verrier, a writer for The Ringer and former Pelicans beat reporter, shares insights on Zion Williamson's rocky relationship with the New Orleans Pelicans and the team's recent trades. He draws parallels to the Anthony Davis era, painting a picture of the franchise's uncertain future. Joining him, Kenny Smith, former NBA player, dives into the NBA draft, the prospects of Giannis vs. Hakeem, and the evolving trade rumors surrounding Ben Simmons—exploring how strategic decisions shape team dynamics in the league.

Jul 26, 2021 • 1h 54min
An NBA Mock Draft War Room With Kevin O’Connor, Jonathan Tjarks, and J. Kyle Mann
Kevin O’Connor, Jonathan Tjarks, and J. Kyle Mann, all writers for The Ringer with a keen eye for NBA analysis, dive deep into the upcoming NBA draft. They discuss top prospects like Cade Cunningham and Jalen Green, assessing their potential impacts on teams. The trio explores fake trades, international player dynamics, and the critical decision-making surrounding the second overall pick. With spirited debates on player versatility and team strategies, they highlight the intricacies of draft choices and their long-term implications.

Jul 23, 2021 • 2h 13min
Matt Damon! Plus: Giannis Cards and COVID Confusion With Mike Gioseffi and Derek Thompson
Matt Damon, the beloved actor known for his roles in classics like Good Will Hunting and the Bourne series, chats about his latest film, Stillwater, and his love for sports. Mike Gioseffi dives into the sports card market, exploring the hype around Giannis Antetokounmpo's rookie card post-championship. Meanwhile, Derek Thompson provides a thought-provoking analysis on the COVID-19 Delta variant and the complexities of vaccine hesitancy today. From fascinating film insights to market trends and public health discussions, this conversation is a captivating mix!

Jul 21, 2021 • 1h 46min
An Immortal Giannis Game and Milwaukee’s Title with Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst and writer for The Ringer, dives into the Milwaukee Bucks' stunning victory in the NBA Finals. He highlights Giannis Antetokounmpo's incredible 50-point game and his burgeoning legacy among basketball legends. They dissect coaching dynamics and key player contributions, particularly focusing on trades and team strategies that shaped the championship run. The discussion also teases upcoming NBA draft prospects and shifts to insights on 'The White Lotus,' blending sports with entertaining television analysis.

Jul 19, 2021 • 1h 36min
Bucks on the Brink, Giannis vs. History, Finals Leaps, and NFL Bets With Joe House
Joe House, a contributor to The Ringer and sports analysis expert, joins to dive into the intense Game 5 Finals where the Bucks triumphed over the Suns. They explore Giannis Antetokounmpo's remarkable playoff journey and his rising legacy among basketball legends. The conversation expands to discuss what the Suns need to clinch a Game 6 victory, as well as insights into NFL futures betting and Olympic basketball predictions. House also shares his thoughts on the evolving dynamics of the NFL season, making for an engaging mix of sports analysis.