The Bill Simmons Podcast

Shams Charania, an NBA insider known for his breaking news on The Athletic, shares insights on the complexities of restarting the NBA season during the pandemic. He discusses ethical dilemmas reporters face and the financial strains on teams. Matthew Belloni, former editor-in-chief of The Hollywood Reporter, critiques Quibi’s failures in the streaming landscape, emphasizing its disconnect with audience preferences and its rigid content structure. They also explore shifts in media relationships with athletes and the implications for the entertainment industry.

Kenny Smith, a two-time NBA champion and insightful sports commentator, shares stories from his Finals runs and reflects on the authenticity of 'Inside the NBA.' He also discusses the evolving landscape of player loyalty and the impact of the pandemic on the sport. Joining him is the hilarious Will Ferrell, who opens up about his family life during quarantine, youth soccer, and his upcoming film, 'Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.' Their laughter-filled conversations bridge sports and entertainment through a humorous lens.

The signing of Cam Newton by the Patriots sparks a lively discussion about quarterback dynamics and team strategies. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as they revisit LeBron's infamous 'Decision' and its impact on player empowerment. Laughter ensues while critiquing the chaotic 2010 NBA free agency, particularly the Knicks' failed pursuits. Finally, they dive into the 2010 NBA Draft, exploring key players and missed opportunities before playfully redrafting the top picks, highlighting the evolving landscape of basketball and player evaluations.

Joining the conversation are Don Cheadle, renowned for roles in 'Boogie Nights' and 'Hotel Rwanda,' and Rob Lowe, beloved for his work in 'St. Elmo's Fire' and his podcasting debut. Don shares insights on diversity in Hollywood, the creative process behind impactful films, and the challenges of working during the pandemic. Rob reflects on the vibrant 1980s Hollywood scene, his experiences with the Brat Pack, and his new podcast. Together, they explore themes of resilience, adaptation in storytelling, and the evolving landscape of film and television.

Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst known for his basketball insights, joins the conversation to reflect on the evolution of podcasting alongside Bill Simmons. They dive into the iconic 2008 NBA Draft, dissecting pivotal picks and discussing players like Russell Westbrook, Derrick Rose, and Kevin Love. The duo humorously revisits draft missteps and the complexities surrounding player evaluations over the years. Engaging and nostalgic, they explore what might have been for the NBA legends and the unpredictable nature of team decisions.

JJ Redick, a seasoned NBA veteran, shares his insights on maintaining physical fitness during the pandemic and the unique challenges faced by players in the Orlando bubble. He discusses LeBron's leadership and the evolving playoffs format. Cord Jefferson, an accomplished screenwriter known for HBO's 'Watchmen,' delves into the series' cultural significance and its commentary on historical events like the Tulsa Massacre. He reflects on his journey from Gawker to television, emphasizing the importance of diversity in storytelling and the pressure of media evolution.

JackO, a long-time friend of Bill Simmons, shares his candid thoughts on the bleak future of MLB amid the COVID-19 pandemic and labor disputes. LL Cool J, the Grammy-winning rapper and cultural icon, reflects on hip-hop's rich history and its intersections with sports, sharing anecdotes about Kobe Bryant and the evolving narrative of greatness. The duo also discusses the complexities of rap beefs and the cultural impact of music on athletes, highlighting the importance of personal stories in shaping both sports and entertainment.

The Ringer's Bill Simmons talks about the concerns some players are having about the return of the NBA, and some of the parallels to 1968 (1:55). Then Bill and Ryen Russillo revisit the 2007 NBA draft and discuss some of its subplots, draft comedy, and NBA legends before redrafting the top 14 lottery picks (18:52). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jalen Rose, a former NBA star turned sports analyst, joins the conversation to discuss the influence of athletes in social justice through initiatives like More Than a Vote. Comedian Judd Apatow shares insights on family life during quarantine and his creative process directing his daughter in a film. The duo also revisits the infamous 2006 NBA Draft, reflecting on its notable blunders and player potential, all while mixing humor with personal anecdotes. This lively discussion embraces sports, comedy, and the evolution of storytelling.

Bakari Sellers, an attorney and political commentator known for his insights on CNN and his book 'My Vanishing Country', discusses the mobilization of the Black Lives Matter movement and the critical role of athletes in social justice. Comedian Bill Burr shares his thoughts on the old-school football era, the unwritten rules of hockey, and reflects on working with Judd Apatow in 'The King of Staten Island'. Both guests navigate the intersection of sports and politics, emphasizing the ongoing conversations around activism and identity in America.