

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

140 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 1h 48min
An NBA All-Star Fix, Kendrick Vs. Drake, and the 'SNL' 50th Anniversary Show With Van Lathan and James Andrew Miller
Van Lathan, a sharp commentator on culture, and James Andrew Miller, an accomplished journalist, delve into the dreary state of the NBA All-Star Weekend, proposing bold fixes and exciting new formats, including features for non-NBA participants in the dunk contest. They also dissect the heated Kendrick Lamar and Drake rap rivalry, examining its cultural ramifications. Later, Miller reflects on 'SNL's' iconic 50th anniversary, celebrating its rich legacy while noting absences that sparked nostalgic debates, highlighting the evolution of comedy and star power.

117 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 1h 34min
Steph’s Last Ride, Philly’s Swoon and Bill’s ‘SNL 50’ GOAT Lists | with Rob Mahoney
Rob Mahoney, a seasoned NBA analyst from The Ringer, joins to dissect the latest dynamics in the league. They delve into the underperformance of the 76ers and the struggles of the Bulls, while analyzing the revival strategies of the Warriors. Health issues among key players are discussed, alongside potential trade developments for teams like the Suns. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as Bill shares his love for Saturday Night Live, highlighting its iconic sketches and memorable hosts that shaped comedy.

127 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 2h 2min
Mavericks Fans Revolt, ‘SNL 50’ Guesses, Oscars Watch, and Super Bowl Leftovers With Bryan Curtis and Matt Belloni
Bryan Curtis, Editor-at-large of The Ringer, dives into the emotional landscape of Dallas Mavericks fans and their frustrations with team management. He examines player loyalty amidst potential trades like Luka Dončić. Matt Belloni, a writer for Puck News, shares insights on the upcoming ‘SNL 50’ celebration and its cultural significance. They also explore Oscars predictions, Hollywood’s feuds, and shifting dynamics in the entertainment industry, including how celebrity culture shapes public perception and media influence.

100 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 26min
Philly Ruins the Chiefs and Mahomes Craps the Bed With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a seasoned sports commentator and gambling expert, joins to dissect the Eagles' impressive 40-22 victory over the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX. They delve into Patrick Mahomes' surprising performance and the subsequent fan reactions. The discussion covers gambling insights, personal anecdotes from the Super Bowl, and the complexities of betting outcomes. Sal also shares light-hearted reflections on quarterback rivalries and amusing casino stories, blending humor and sports analysis throughout.

155 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 28min
Part 2: NBA Trade Team Grades With Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre. Plus, Super Bowl LIX Million-Dollar Picks.
Rob Mahoney, a writer for The Ringer known for his sharp NBA analysis, and Wosny Lambre, a contributor with keen insights on trades, dive into the chaotic aftermath of the NBA trade deadline. They dissect the impact of Luka Doncic's potential movement, evaluate team strategies, and grade various trades, revealing which teams are poised for playoff contention. The conversation also shifts to the strategies behind Super Bowl LIX betting, offering tips on player performances and emotional versus logical betting choices.

116 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 23min
Part 1: NBA Trade Deadline Reactions With Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre
Rob Mahoney, a sharp writer for The Ringer, and Wosny Lambre, a keen analyst, dive deep into the frenzied NBA trade deadline. They discuss high-profile moves like De'Andre Hunter to the Cavaliers and Jimmy Butler potentially joining the Warriors. The complexities of player values and trade gossip, including the failed Kevin Durant deal and the implications of new CBA rules, keep listeners engaged. Plus, they analyze how these trades may affect playoff races and the evolving dynamics of key franchises.

187 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 2h 15min
San Antonio Gets Fox, Luka-Lakers Day Two Angles, and Super Bowl Props With Kirk Goldsberry and Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a sports commentator known for his Super Bowl prop bet insights, joins NBA analyst Kirk Goldsberry, famous for his data-driven basketball perspectives. They dissect the impact of De'Aaron Fox joining the Spurs, exploring team dynamics and the potential synergy with Victor Wembanyama. The conversation shifts to the fallout from the Luka Doncic trade to the Lakers and fervent fan reactions. Later, they dive into Super Bowl LIX prop bets, blending humor and strategy in discussing player performances and betting odds.

179 snips
Feb 2, 2025 • 1h 2min
Luka Gets Traded to the Lakers… What??? | With Ryen Russillo and Rob Mahoney
Ryen Russillo, a prominent sports analyst at ESPN and The Ringer, teams up with Rob Mahoney, an NBA writer for The Ringer, to discuss Luka Doncic’s jaw-dropping trade to the Lakers. They express disbelief over this blockbuster move and analyze its impact on team dynamics. The conversation dives into the shift in power within the league, examining the implications for both the Mavericks and Lakers. They also reflect on past trade strategies and the future championship goals for the Lakers, highlighting how Doncic's presence could redefine team performance.

23 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 1h 38min
An NBA Roundtable With Eddie Johnson and Justin Termine
Eddie Johnson and Justin Termine, both NBA analysts for SiriusXM NBA Radio, join Bill Simmons to dissect the latest in the league. They tackle the disappointing season of the 76ers and Joel Embiid's trade value. The conversation shifts to potential destinations for Jimmy Butler and the playoff hopes of various teams, including the Clippers and Spurs. They also delve into player dynamics, focusing on De'Aaron Fox's ambitions with the Spurs and the Cleveland Cavaliers' rise in the East. Expect a lively discussion that blends insights with humor!

117 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 2h 5min
The 2025 NBA Trade Value List With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst known for his basketball insights, joins the discussion to unpack the Jimmy Butler saga and the intricacies of the NBA trade landscape. They dive into the 2025 NBA Trade Value list, exploring player assessments, from emerging talents like De'Aaron Fox to established stars like Zion Williamson. The duo dissects how contracts, player performance, and emotional dynamics affect trade decisions, shedding light on the strategic challenges teams face as they approach the deadline. It's a fascinating look at the ever-evolving world of NBA trades!