The Bill Simmons Podcast

Joe House, a contributor to The Ringer, and Dirk Nowitzki, the NBA legend and Hall of Famer, dive into the excitement of recent basketball matchups. They discuss Jayson Tatum’s stunning 50-point game and the upcoming Lakers-Warriors showdown. Nowitzki shares insights on the Mavericks' historic 2011 championship, his thoughts on Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic, and the evolution of loyalty in the NBA. They also touch on rivalries and the challenges facing teams in the playoffs, blending nostalgia with a fresh perspective on the game.

Ryen Russillo, a renowned sports analyst known for his basketball insights, joins Bill Simmons to dissect the latest NBA happenings. They dive into the Clippers’ surprising loss, analyze playoff matchups, and weigh the impact of the play-in tournament on tanking strategies. Russillo and Simmons passionately debate All-NBA selections and MVP candidates while highlighting the enduring legacies of basketball legends. Listeners gain expert predictions on playoff prospects and fascinating insights into the upcoming NBA draft.

Join sports analyst Ryen Russillo as he dives into the thrilling dynamics of the NBA playoffs. He shares insights on the Lakers and Warriors matchup and evaluates the 76ers' chances in the Eastern Conference. The duo breaks down the MVP debate, spotlighting key players like Curry and Embiid, while also reflecting on the Celtics' struggles. Russillo offers predictions on playoff outcomes and highlights how injuries could shape team dynamics, making for an engaging analysis of this year's playoff landscape.

The Ringer’s Bill Simmons is joined by Jackie MacMullan to discuss the end of the NBA regular season, the upcoming NBA Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony, the rudderless Boston Celtics, the “We Believe” Warriors 2.0, NBA awards, and more (3:20). Then Bill talks with Warren Sharp about the winners and losers of the NFL 2021 season schedule release, some futures bets, and more (1:11:00). Finally Bill talks with actor-director Andrew McCarthy about his new book ‘Brat: An ’80s Story’; some of his early films, including ‘Class,’ ‘Heaven Help Us,’ ‘St. Elmo’s Fire,’ ‘Pretty in Pink,’ ‘Weekend at Bernie’s,’ and more. They discuss “The Brat Pack,” 1980s Hollywood stories, working with legendary director John Hughes, and more (1:45:00).Host: Bill SimmonsGuest: Jackie MacMullan, Warren Sharp, Andrew McCarthyProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wosny Lambre, a basketball analyst at The Ringer, dives into the NBA's new stars, discussing fan loyalty shifts from teams to individual players and spotlighting rising icons like Giannis and Luka. Derek Thompson, a staff writer at The Atlantic, explores the complexities of vaccine hesitancy during the pandemic, examining political influences and misinformation. Legendary actress Sharon Stone shares insights from her memoir, reflecting on her iconic film roles and personal transformations, blending Hollywood anecdotes with themes of resilience.

Ryen Russillo, a savvy sports analyst known for his astute NBA insights, joins the conversation! They dive into the playoff landscape, discussing potential sleeper teams and key players like Luka Dončić. The duo debates Russell Westbrook’s record-tying triple-doubles and the intricacies of All-NBA selections. They also explore the most unbreakable records in basketball, and whether current stars can challenge them. With humor and deep analysis, Russillo and Simmons tackle the shifts in player dynamics and what the future holds for the league.

Theo Epstein, a three-time World Series champion executive, shares insights on transforming the Red Sox and Cubs into champions after decades of waiting. He compares the distinct cultures of Red Sox and Cubs fans, highlighting their emotional journeys. The conversation shifts to baseball's current challenges, including the rise of strikeouts and innovative changes needed for the game to engage modern fans. Epstein also reflects on personal leadership lessons that drove his championship success, emphasizing the importance of resilience in sports.

Kevin O'Connor, an NBA writer at The Ringer, and J. Kyle Mann, a contributor known for his keen insights, explore Nikola Jokic's revolutionary MVP season and his unique role as a center and playmaker. They discuss positionless basketball and strategic challenges teams face when defending Jokic. Later, CNN anchor Jake Tapper reflects on navigating the political landscape post-Trump, moderating debates, and his new novel, tying in themes of misinformation and balance in modern media.

Ryen Russillo, a sharp sports analyst known for his basketball insights, joins the conversation to break down the Milwaukee Bucks' impressive win and how it affects the playoffs. He dives into the Lakers' playoff prospects and potential matchup troubles. They also debate the All-NBA selections, weighing the merits of top players like Jokic and Curry. The episode takes a turn with an intriguing discussion on Aaron Rodgers’ complex relationship with the Packers as rumors swirl before the NFL draft.

Warren Sharp, a notable NFL analyst, teams up with Kevin Hench, a lifelong Patriots fan, for a lively discussion. They dissect the thrilling NFL Draft, including the 49ers' choice of Trey Lance and the Bears' bold move for Justin Fields. The guys delve into the Patriots' surprising pick of Mac Jones at 15, the Falcons' savvy selection of Kyle Pitts, and Aaron Rodgers' pre-draft drama. Bill's dad joins the fun, sharing personal anecdotes and adding a humorous touch to the analysis.