
The Ryen Russillo Podcast
Each week, Ryen Russillo will break down the biggest topics in sports.
Latest episodes

Jul 8, 2025 • 1h 18min
The End of the World, Criticizing NBA Player Criticism, and Top Workout Songs with Van Lathan
Van Lathan, co-host of the Higher Learning podcast and a former TMZ personality, joins the conversation to dive into intriguing topics like the end of the world and the nature of basketball criticism. He reflects on the intense scrutiny NBA players face and compares it to celebrity culture. The discussion also traverses quirky personal anecdotes about travel and childhood fears, interlaced with lighthearted banter about favorite workout songs that energize their routines, creating a relatable mix of humor and insight.

26 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 1h 28min
Ranking the Bucks Offseason, LeBron’s Future in LA, and What’s Next for the Nets With Bobby Marks
In this chat, NBA insider Bobby Marks, formerly of ESPN, shares insight into the Milwaukee Bucks' offseason moves, particularly the signing of Myles Turner. He discusses the financial strategies teams use to navigate salary caps and aging stars like LeBron James. The conversation also touches on complex trade dynamics within the league, with a focus on the Brooklyn Nets’ offseason shifts. Alongside some light-hearted personal reflections, Bobby highlights the significance of summer league evaluations and the pressures of modern social relationships.

7 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 23min
NBA Free Agency Roundup. Plus, the Maclean Brothers on Their Journey Across the Pacific Ocean.
Ewan and Jamie Maclean, two of the three brothers rowing across the Pacific Ocean for clean water initiatives, share their adventurous journey. They discuss the emotional and physical challenges they face on the ocean, offering humorous insights into life aboard their specialized boat. Additionally, they reflect on the psychological toll of their quest while looking forward to the experience ahead. The podcast also touches on the latest developments in NBA free agency, creating an engaging mix of sports and adventure stories.

27 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 1h 18min
What Were the Pelicans Thinking? Plus, Full NBA Draft Breakdown With Jay Bilas.
ESPN analyst Jay Bilas joins to dissect the recent NBA draft. He delves into the Pelicans' shocking decision to trade up for Derek Queen and its implications for their strategy in a tough Western Conference. Bilas shares insights on the Nets' impressive five first-round picks, highlighting standout talents like Yegor Demmon and Yaka Shonis. The conversation also touches on unusual fits like Ace Bailey and emerging stars like Cooper Flagg, mixing expert analysis with light-hearted banter. Plus, some humorous life advice adds an entertaining twist!

29 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 23min
Simons-Holiday Trade Thoughts and the Value of a Top-10 Pick. Plus, Kevin Boyle on the Draft.
Kevin Boyle, a celebrated coach with eight national championships to his name, joins the discussion to delve into his experiences with top recruits like Cooper Flagg and Derik Queen. He shares insights on the value of developing high school talent and the importance of team culture in sports. The podcast also analyzes the recent Anfernee Simons–Jrue Holiday trade, its impact on the Celtics and Trail Blazers, and the complexities of roster management. Plus, some lighthearted life advice brings a fun twist to the conversation!

19 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 1h 53min
Pacers Dominate to Force Game 7! Plus, Full NBA Draft Breakdown With Sam Vecenie and Rutgers Coach Steve Pikiell
Sam Vecenie, an NBA draft analyst for The Athletic, shares insights on the latest prospects and team strategies, focusing on standout players like Cooper Flagg. He and Ryen discuss which franchises have the most reliable front offices. Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell reflects on having two lottery picks last season and the implications for his program. The conversation also touches on Ace Bailey's draft decision, offering a glimpse into the complexities of player development and the overall draft process.

4 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 32min
Putting the Thunder’s Season in Historical Context With Bob Ryan. Plus, Keegan Bradley From the Travelers Championship.
Join legendary sports writer Bob Ryan as he delves into the dynamics of the NBA, highlighting Rick Carlisle's coaching brilliance and the historical significance of the Oklahoma City Thunder's season. He also shares insights on the controversial sale of the Lakers. Then, professional golfer Keegan Bradley opens up about his early career triumphs, including winning a major championship and the challenges faced in the U.S. Open, blending personal anecdotes with a fresh perspective on competitive sports.

5 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 1h 47min
Jalen Williams’s Game 5 Takeover, Canadian Grand Prix Winner George Russell, and Jon Scheyer on Duke’s NBA Draft Hopefuls
George Russell, the Canadian Grand Prix champion and Mercedes driver, shares insights on team communication and his future in F1 racing. Jon Scheyer, Duke's head coach and former star player, discusses upcoming NBA draft prospects and when he realized Cooper Flagg's potential. They delve into the dynamics of pressure performance in both racing and basketball, touching on personal stories and the evolving landscape of sports. Plus, humorous life advice about daily gym reports adds a light-hearted twist!

Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 41min
The Pacers Continue to Find a Way to Win. Plus, a Stanley Cup Check-In With John Buccigross and Justin Williams on the Changes to College Sports.
Russillo starts the pod by dissecting how Indiana took over late in its Game 3 win (1:56). Then, he’s joined by John Buccigross to discuss what makes the Panthers difficult to defend, the Oilers' goaltender decision, and Connor McDavid’s legacy (18:00). Next, Justin Williams comes on to break down the guardrails that have been placed around NIL money in college sports (42:49). Plus, Life Advice with Kyle (1:09:07)! How do I make my next five years better than the last five?
Check us out on YouTube for exclusive clips, livestreams, and more at https://www.youtube.com/@RyenRussilloPodcast.
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Host: Ryen Russillo
Guests: John Buccigross and Justin Williams
Producers: Steve Ceruti, Kyle Crichton, Mike Wargon, and Marcelino Ortiz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

12 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 11min
OKC’s Suffocating Defense, Rick Carlisle’s Adjustments, and Reactions to Thibodeau's Firing With P.J. Carlesimo
P.J. Carlesimo, a former NBA coach and current ESPN Radio analyst, joins to discuss the brilliance of the Oklahoma City Thunder's suffocating defense that disrupts opponents with precision. He shares strategic insights on how Rick Carlisle can enhance the Pacers' competitiveness. The conversation also delves into the significant implications of Tom Thibodeau's firing from the Knicks and how coaching decisions shape playoff dynamics. Plus, lighthearted advice on navigating first dates abroad rounds out an engaging chat!