

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 27, 2021 • 2h 17min
NFL Future Bets, Windy City’s Fields, and ESPN’s Latest Drama With Mike Francesa, Jason Goff, and Jim Miller
Join sports legend Mike Francesa, who passionately shares insights from the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry. Dive into NFL future bets and analysis, with Jason Goff discussing the Chicago Bears and rookie QB Justin Fields' pressures. Journalist Jim Miller sheds light on ESPN's controversies, including the Rachel Nichols situation, and explores the network's turbulent evolution over the years. Expect engaging debates on team dynamics, coaching challenges, and what the future holds for sports broadcasting.

Aug 25, 2021 • 1h 58min
Eight Possible Super Bowl Teams With Peter Schrager. Plus: 'Outer Banks' and Teen Patrol With Zoe Simmons
The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by NFL Network's Peter Schrager to discuss their way-too-early Super Bowl contenders, futures bets, sleeper teams, and more (2:15). Then Bill is joined by his daughter, Zoe, to discuss summer 2021 through the lens of teen culture, followed by a new BS Pod segment, 12-Minute Recap, in which they tackle the Netflix show 'Outer Banks' (1:16:57).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Peter Schrager and Zoe SimmonsProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 23, 2021 • 1h 59min
Notes From My Lazy Vacation. Plus Jackie MacMullan on Why She’s Retiring (and Lots More)
In this lively discussion, Jackie MacMullan, a Hall of Fame journalist with over 40 years of experience covering sports, shares her journey and reasons for retiring from ESPN. She reflects on the evolving nature of sports journalism, particularly the challenges of maintaining integrity in a social media-driven world. MacMullan also recounts unforgettable stories from her career and the changing dynamics between athletes and reporters. The conversation is both nostalgic and thought-provoking, offering insights into the future of sports media.

Aug 6, 2021 • 1h 50min
USA-France, Disappearing Dame, Ben Simmons, the Knicks, and Fantasy FB Sleepers With Wosny Lambre, Joe House, and Craig Horlbeck
Joined by Joe House, a seasoned sports commentator, and Wosny Lambre, a basketball expert from The Ringer, the trio dives deep into Team USA's basketball performance and the quirks of international rules versus American play. They also dissect the complex situation surrounding Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers, exploring potential trades. Meanwhile, Craig Horlbeck offers up intriguing fantasy football sleeper picks, promising to spice up your upcoming season. Expect laughs, insights, and lively discussions on the future of your favorite teams!

Aug 4, 2021 • 1h 26min
Ten Free Agency Questions on the Lavish Bulls, Comatose Celts, Reheated Heat, and More With Kevin O’Connor
Kevin O’Connor, a sharp NBA analyst from The Ringer, joins to dissect the latest free agency buzz. He dives into the Chicago Bulls' bold moves and roster dynamics, particularly the chemistry between Zach Levine and DeMar DeRozan. O’Connor also explores the Lakers' strategic signings and critiques the Celtics' potential pursuit of Bradley Beal. The discussion touches on trade complexities, the Pelicans' struggles with key players like Zion Williamson, and the broader implications for the league landscape as teams position themselves for success.

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.