Hang Up and Listen

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Spencer Hall to talk about Alabama’s loss to Auburn and Tennessee’s Greg Schiano fiasco; by Vann Newkirk to discuss Alabama’s 3-on-5 basketball near-miracle; and by Bruce Arthur to assess the Grey Cup. College football (1:53): Spencer Hall of SB Nation discusses Auburn’s big win over its rival Alabama, whether the Crimson Tide will get bounced from the College Football Playoff, and the University of Tennessee’s hiring and unhiring of football coach Greg Schiano. 3-on-5 basketball (22:40): Vann Newkirk of the Atlantic helps Josh and Stefan dissect Alabama’s spectacular, bizarre near-comeback against Minnesota in a basketball game in which they played three against five for most of the second half. Grey Cup (38:49): The Toronto Star’s Bruce Arthur joins for a conversation about the Toronto Argonauts’ win over the Calgary Stampeders, and about the overwhelming Canadianness of a snow-covered football championship game. Afterballs (50:30): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by the Ringer’s Kevin Clark to talk about NFL quarterback play and the Root’s Damon Young discusses Donald Trump’s feud with Lavar Ball. Plus: Slate’s June Thomas joins for an interview with swimmer Diana Nyad. Quarterbacks (2:00): Kevin Clark comes on for a conversation about Nathan Peterman’s extraordinarily bad debut as an NFL starter, plus the second-year surge of Carson Wentz, and the prognosis for Dak Prescott and Jared Goff. Lavar Ball vs. Donald Trump (21:22): Damon Young helps assess the feud between the basketball dad and the president of the United States. Plus, who’s right and who’s wrong in the war of words between Draymond Green and Mark Cuban about what we should call NBA “owners”? Diana Nyad (43:18): The record-setting marathon swimmer discusses her recent New York Times piece, “My Life After Sexual Assault.” Afterballs (52:02): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Sports Illustrated’s Grant Wahl to talk about the race for the U.S. Soccer presidency, and Mike Pesca comes on to talk about NFL celebrations, the Miami turnover chain, and inspirational locker room speeches. U.S. Soccer (1:30): SI’s Grant Wahl talks about the contenders for the top job in U.S. Soccer, why no women are running for the position, and whether promotion and relegation is coming to an American soccer field near you. Mid-Season Whimsy Spectacular (18:33): The original Hang Up trio of Stefan, Josh, and Mike Pesca reunite for a check-in about the state of whimsy in football. Should the NFL get credit for its celebration renaissance? Is the Miami turnover chain amazing, spectacular, or transcendent? Afterballs (44:11): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Chuck Culpepper to discuss a crazy weekend in college football, by Charles P. Pierce to talk about Tom Brady’s weird diet and workout regimen, and by Greg Wyshynski to assess the Vegas Golden Knights.College Football (1:40): Chuck Culpepper of the Washington Post joins for a conversation about Alabama’s predictable dominance, the Big 12’s high-octane offenses, and whether Wisconsin will make the playoff.Tom Brady (15:59): Charles P. Pierce, the author of Moving the Chains: Tom Brady and the Pursuit of Everything, explains how the Patriots quarterback came to embrace weird lifestyle rituals.Vegas Golden Knights (31:54): ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski explains how the NHL’s Las Vegas expansion team got so good so fast, and whether hockey will succeed in Nevada.Afterballs (45:00): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Levin is joined by Ben Lindbergh to discuss the World Series; by Don Van Natta Jr. and Jeremy Stahl to talk about behind-the-scenes machinations in the NFL; and by Alexandra Starr and Christina Cauterucci to examine sexual abuse in sports.World Series (1:39): The Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh comes on the show for a conversation about the Astros’ 13-12 win over the Dodgers in Game 5 of the World Series, as well as Yuli Gurriel’s racist gesture and Major League Baseball’s decision not to suspend him until 2018.NFL (22:31): Slate’s Jeremy Stahl and Don Van Natta Jr. of ESPN discuss their reporting on meeting between the league’s players and owners, as well as Colin Kaepernick’s lack of a role in those conversations.Sexual abuse in sports (41:45): Alexandra Starr and Christina Cauterucci join to talk about Starr’s Harper’s story about sexual abuse scandals in gymnastics, swimming, and other sports, and a new organization that’s trying to fix the scourge of abuse.Afterball (1:01:36): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss the World Series and Dusty Baker with ESPN’s Howard Bryant. Kevin Arnovitz of ESPN also joins to talk about the Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Alan Siegel helps assess the legacy of the Simpsons’ “Homer at the Bat.”Baseball (1:37): Howard Bryant comes on the show to preview the World Series matchup between the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers, and to discuss the Washington Nationals decision not to retain manager Dusty BakerGiannis Antetokounmpo (17:03): Kevin Arnovitz explains how the Greek Freak has taken the leap to become an NBA superstar and what he’s like off the court.“Homer at the Bat” (31:35): Alan Siegel joins for a conversation about the classic Simpsons episode and the new mockumentary Springfield of Dreams: The Legend of Homer Simpson.Afterballs (46:34): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss Colin Kaepernick’s collusion grievance. They’re also joined by Evan Drellich to talk about Houston Astros star Jose Altuve, and by Caitlin Murray for a conversation about the Portland Thorns women’s soccer team.Kaepernick and collusion (1:50): Stefan and Josh assess whether Kaepernick’s grievance against the NFL has a chance of succeeding and what the quarterback has to gain from pressing a collusion claimJose Altuve (19:36): Former Houston Astros beat writer Evan Drellich explains how the 5-foot-6 second baseman transformed himself into one of the best players in baseball.Portland Thorns (37:25): Freelance writer Caitlin Murray discusses whether the National Women’s Soccer League champions provide a model for success for other women’s pro sports franchises.Afterballs (52:34): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special emergency episode of Slate’s sports podcast Hang Up and Listen, Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss the U.S. men’s national team’s disastrous loss to Trinidad and Tobago and what comes next for American soccer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss Jemele Hill, Jerry Jones, and Donald Trump with the Ringer’s Bryan Curtis. Yahoo’s Jeff Passan also joins to discuss the baseball playoffs, and Roger Bennett of Men in Blazers talks about Iceland’s World Cup dreams.Politics and the NFL (1:10): Bryan Curtis joins for a conversation about ESPN’s suspension of Jemele Hill, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones’ directive that his players stand for the national anthem, and the increasing politicization of the NFL.Baseball playoffs (22:52): Jeff Passan talks about Game 4 of the Astros-Red Sox series and the radical shift in how pitchers are deployed in the baseball postseason.Iceland (37:01): Roger Bennett revels in the soccer triumphs of the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup.Afterballs (49:46): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss the shifting politics of the NFL protests with Jamil Smith. Bloomberg View’s Joe Nocera also joins to discuss the FBI investigation of NCAA basketball, the Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh previews the baseball playoffs.NFL protests (2:24): Jamil Smith joins for a conversation about how NFL owners have tried to co-opt players’ protests for racial equality. FBI vs. NCAA (23:46): Joe Nocera comes on the show to break down the FBI’s investigation into the nexus between shoe companies, assistant coaches, and college basketball players. Why is the federal government sticking its nose into college hoops now, and can anything good come out of this inquiry. Baseball playoffs (41:11): Ben Lindbergh joins to discuss some of the postseason’s top contenders, among them the Cleveland Indians, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Washington Nationals, and the Houston Astros.Afterballs (56:42): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin and Marcus Thompson of The Athletic discuss the wave of protests against Donald Trump’s remarks about the NFL. Then they talk about Golden State Warriors star Kevin Durant’s recent Twitter snafu and his fragile psyche. And broadcaster and former U.S. soccer player Marcelo Balboa joins for a conversation about hot, new Major League Soccer team Atlanta United FC.NFL protests (1:35): Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Marcus Thompson of The Athletic discuss a remarkable weekend in professional sports that began with Donald Trump calling protesting NFL players “sons of bitches” and culminated in hundreds of athletes, coaches, owners, and others across sports rebuking the president in a wave of on-field protests and statements.Kevin Durant (27:16): Stefan, Josh, and Marcus assess Kevin Durant’s apparent insecurities—reflected in his new line of Nike sneakers with insoles that take on his critics—and whether it’s possible to be an NBA superstar and also mingle with the public like a regular guy. Soccer (41:13): Stefan interviews three-time World Cup soccer player Marcelo Balboa about Atlanta United FC, the Major League Soccer expansion team that recently drew a league-record 70,000 fans to a game in a new stadium in Atlanta. Afterballs (48:17): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by NPR’s Gene Demby to discuss Jemele Hill and ESPN’s conservative trolls, by HBO’s Eric Raskin to talk about Golovkin-Alvarez, and by Ninja Warrior’s Josh Levin for a conversation about obstacle course stardom.Jemele Hill (1:28): Gene Demby of NPR’s Code Switch comes on the show to explore why ESPN has become a target in the culture wars and the kinds of discussions that happen when people of color become leading voices in the mainstream media.Golovkin-Alvarez (25:43): Eric Raskin of the HBO Boxing podcast explains what made the middleweight fight between Gennady Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez an instant classic, and what can be done about scoring controversies in boxing.Josh Levin (46:55): A different Josh Levin comes on the show to chat about what it’s like to appear on American Ninja Warrior and his quest to become an Olympic rock climber.Afterballs (1:01:20): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by the New York Times’ Mark Leibovich to discuss the NFL’s opening weekend, by Racquet’s Caitlin Thompson to assess Sloane Stephens’ U.S. Open win, and by Mike Pesca for a debate about the Red Sox’s sign-stealing.NFL (1:08): Mark Leibovich describes his experiences in New England and Dallas during pro football’s opening week, and whether owners are getting closer to dumping Commissioner Roger Goodell. Sloane Stephens (18:38): Caitlin Thompson joins to talk about the rise of the young American women at the U.S. Open, and what to make of Sloane Stephens’ surprising triumph.Red Sox sign-stealing (32:56): Mike Pesca returns to Hang Up to help Josh and Stefan decide whether the Red Sox’s technologically enabled sign-stealing scheme is cheating or gamesmanship.Afterballs (50:09): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by SB Nation’s Spencer Hall to discuss college football. Aaron Schatz of Football Outsiders also joins to talk about NFL tanking, and Ed Cunningham explains his move to quit his job as a football announcer for ESPN.College football openers (2:14): Spencer Hall talks about Texas A&M’s crushing loss to UCLA, Howard’s exhilarating win over UNLC, and other scenes from college football’s opening weekend.NFL tanking (21:08): Aaron Schatz explains why and how the Jets, Bills, and Brows are losing on purpose; whether tanking is a sound strategy for NFL teams; and what the league should do to address it, if anything.Ed Cunningham (37:43): The longtime ESPN announcer explains how he came to the decision to quit his job as a college football analyst, why he developed ethical qualms about the game, and why he doesn’t enjoy watching the NFL.Afterballs (57:48): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by the Wall Street Journal’s Jason Gay to discuss Floyd Mayweather’s win over Conor McGregor, by Ken Rosenthal to talk about the Athletic, and by Robert Lipsyte to assess Clay Travis and ESPN’s supposed liberalism.Mayweather-McGregor (1:30): Jason Gay, who watched the fight while high, explains why fans weren’t unhappy with the experience, and looks at what’s next for the two very rich fighters.The Athletic (16:09): Longtime sportswriter and baseball sideline reporter Ken Rosenthal explains why he signed on with the sports media start-up and why he believes its business model makes sense. Clay Travis and ESPN (32:54): Former ESPN ombudsman Robert Lipsyte discusses accusations that the Worldwide Leader of Sports is a liberal bastion and the marketing genius of Clay Travis, who has brought the culture wars to sports. Afterballs (52:24): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis is joined by former NFL player Hamza Abdullah and ESPN’s Howard Bryant toanalyze race and sports. ESPN writer Mechelle Voepel and MinnPost.com’s Pat Borzi chat aboutthe WNBA. And director Adam Hootnick discusses his documentary about Texas high-schoolfootball, What Carter Lost. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Johnette Howard to discuss Ezekiel Elliott’s suspension, tennis writer Ben Rothenberg comes on to talk about Sascha Zverev, and Mike Schur analyzes the Los Angeles Dodgers’ excellence. Ezekiel Elliott (2:16): Johnette Howard joins to review the domestic abuse allegations leveled against the Cowboys running back, if the NFL punishment system worked in this case, and whether the suspension marks a change in the NFL’s treatment of alleged victims. Sascha Zverev (15:14): New York Times tennis writer Ben Rothenberg and Johnette assess Zverev’s impressive defeat of Roger Federer and if the 20-year-old can be the one to finally unseat tennis’ Big 4. Los Angeles Dodgers (27:47): The Good Place creator Mike Schur discusses how the Dodgers got so great, the team’s transition from lousy to good (and rich) ownership, and how fans in L.A. might react to another early postseason exit. Afterballs (47:17): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by ProPublica’s David Epstein to discuss Usain Bolt’s loss to Justin Gatlin. The Irish Times’ Ken Early also talks about Neymar’s record-setting transfer, and Josh and Stefan analyze Colin Kaepernick’s NFL exile. Usain Bolt (1:14): David Epstein joins to dissect Usain Bolt’s final competitive 100-meter race, Justin Gatlin’s surprise win, and how the sport is handling its perpetual doping problems. Neymar (19:06): Ken Early assesses the shocking departure of the Brazilian star from Barcelona, the mind-boggling price paid by Paris Saint-Germain, and why he believes the transfer is such a tragedy. Colin Kaepernick (32:10): Josh and Stefan discuss whether the league is colluding against the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback and whether it would ever be possible to prove such collusion is happening. Afterballs (49:20): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by sportswriter Jessica Luther to discuss girls in baseball. Dan Nosowitz also talks about trends in basketball sneakers, and Scrabble champion Will Anderson comes on the show to recount his victory.Girls in Baseball (1:29): Jessica Luther joins to describe her time covering the elite Girls Travel Baseball team, why girls are dissuaded from playing baseball in high school, and what can be done to increase female participation in the sport.Death of the High-Top (15:53): Esquire contributor Dan Nosowitz assesses Kobe Bryant’s role in the decline of high-top basketball shoes, whether the ankle support actually works, and how sneaker-makers are finding more ways to sell shoes. Scrabble (29:38): An interview with Will Anderson, 2017 the North American Scrabble champion, with analysis of his victory, the debate over Boggle versus Scrabble, and some stump-the-champ anagramming. Afterballs (50:57): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Levin and ESPN’s Mina Kimes are joined by Slate’s Jim Newell to discuss Jordan Spieth’s British Open win. Josh and Mina also dissect Kyrie Irving’s trade drama, and Slate’s Ben Mathis-Lilley analyzes Hugh Freeze’s ousting as Ole Miss football coach. Jordan Spieth (2:15):Jim Newell joins to talk about how Jordan Spieth avoided a Sunday collapse, how he compares to Tiger Woods, and whether Spieth is cool or dorky. Kyrie Irving Trade Request (13:49): Josh and Mina examine the motivations behind the star point guard’s bid to leave Cleveland, where he could end up landing, and if this means the last of LeBron James’ prime years will be wasted.Hugh Freeze (30:50) Slate’s Ben Mathis-Lilley delves into the scandal-filled backstory of the Ole Miss football coach’s ouster, which featured gas mask bongs, America’s public information laws, and a vengeful coach named Houston Nutt. Pre-Twitter Viral Sports Stories (45:30): In lieu of afterballs, Josh, Mina, and Ben opine on what notable pre-social media sports story would have broken Twitter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wimbledon (2:15):Howard Bryant joins to assess Roger Federer’s routine victory, Venus Williams’ recent resurgence, and whether the next generation of tennis stars will ever step up to challenge the sport’s veterans. Record-Setting Rookies (16:04): Sam Miller of ESPN discusses the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Cody Bellinger and the New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge, and whether either of the two players can become the new face of baseball. (Sorry, Mike Trout.) 30 for 30 (29:03): Producer Rose Eveleth talks about the inaugural season of ESPN’s new podcast series, featuring episodes on an all-female Arctic expedition and a multi-million-dollar baccarat swindle. Afterballs (46:47) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Levin and Ben Mathis-Lilley are joined by Daniel “Progressive Liberal” Harnsberger to chat about his wrestling persona. The Ringer’s Bryan Curtis also discusses Jamie Horowitz and Fox Sports, and Nick Greene analyzes NBA free agency. The Progressive Liberal (1:27): Professional wrestler Daniel Harnsberger joins to describe the inspiration behind his character, whether he’s critiquing the Democratic Party, and what it’s like to be the bad guy in wrestling. Jamie Horowitz (19:01): Bryan Curtis, editor-at-large of the Ringer, comes on the show to assess what the sacking of Fox Sports 1’s Jamie Horowitz means for the channel and FS1’s lineup of debate-based programming. NBA (35:04): Nick Greene joins to discusses Kevin Durant’s massive pay cut, and whether anything can be done about the massive exodus of talent from the East to the West. Afterballs (54:04) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by former NBA player Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf to discuss his return to basketball in the BigIG3, his protest of the national anthem, and how Tourette's Syndrome affected his career. Golden State Warriors President Rick Welts also comes on the show to discuss being openly gay in the NBA and how the franchise is grappling with its status as the league’s supervillain. Finally, Slate’s Henry Grabar explains what makes Miami’s new, David Beckham–-backed stadium deal so great and why Las Vegas’ plans for a new NFL stadium will hurt the city and its taxpayers.More information at slate.com/hangup.Sign up for Slate Plus at slate.com/hangupplus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Joel Anderson of BuzzFeed to discuss the NBA draft. Graphic designer Todd Radom also joins to debate the merits of updating the NBA logo. Finally, they chat about the perils of playing sports while old. NBA Draft (2:00): Assessing the latest news on the pro basketball transaction wire, including the implications of the blockbuster Jimmy Butler trade, whether it’s time for the Celtics to go all-in, and whether the 76ers’ rebuilding process has finally paid off.NBA Logo (18:43): Todd Radom comes on the show to assess whether it’s time to modernize the league’s Jerry West-inspired design or if the logo is too iconic to tinker with.Playing Sports While Old (33:41): A bunch of players got hurt during the debut of the BIG3 three-on-three league. Is it too sad to watch old people play basketball?Afterballs (43:12): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Kevin Draper to discuss the upcoming Mayweather-McGregor mega-fight. Ben Lindbergh also joins to discuss whether major-league baseballs are juiced. Finally, David Gessner talks about his memoir Ultimate Glory.Mayweather-McGregor (1:28): A conversation with the New York Times’ Kevin Draper about the logistics of the upcoming match-up between boxer Floyd Mayweather and mixed martial artist Conor McGregor, and whether McGregor has any chance of pulling off an unlikely upset. Juiced balls (13:37): Ben Lindbergh of the Ringer comes on the show to explore the various theories behind why baseball players are hitting more home runs than ever before.Ultimate Frisbee (30:01): David Gessner discusses his memoir Ultimate Glory: Frisbee, Obsession, and My Wild Youth. Was it a mistake for Gessner to spend the best years of his life chasing a flying disc?Afterballs (42:21) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Mike Pesca to discuss the Warriors' NBA Finals win. George Dohrmann also joins to talk about U.S. soccer phenom Christian Pulisic. Plus, an interview with Ice Cube about the documentary Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies. NBA Finals (2:06): A conversation with Hang Up alum Mike Pesca about the Golden State Warriors’ NBA title, Kevin Durant's greatness, and where LeBron James, the Cavs, and the NBA go from here. Christian Pulisic (21:56): George Dohrmann joins to discuss his story on how Christian Pulisic came to be a star, and whether U.S. soccer will learn the right lessons from his development. Ice Cube (38:46): The narrator of the ESPN 30-for-30 documentary Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies explains his affection for his hometown team and how race played a role in the Boston/L.A. rivalry. He also talks about 3-on-3 basketball becoming an Olympic sport. Afterballs (57:03) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Marcus Thompson to discuss the NBA Finals. Bruce Arthur also joins for a conversation about the Stanley Cup Final, and Sadie Stein comes on the show to talk about Mr. Met.NBA Finals (1:10): A conversation with Marcus Thompson about the Golden State Warriors' dominance thus far, how the Cleveland Cavaliers might turn the series around, and Kevin Durant's relationship (or lack thereof) with Rihanna.Stanley Cup Final (17:15): Bruce Arthur examines the series between the Nashville Predators and Pittsburgh Penguins, assesses Sidney Crosby's performance, and looks at why the NHL won't be sending players to the 2018 Olympics.Mr. Met (33:57): Sadie Stein explains her ardor for the New York Mets' baseball-headed mascot and examines why he snapped at a bunch of unruly fans.Afterballs (45:50) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Ethan Sherwood Strauss to preview the NBA Finals. They also talk with Charles P. Pierce about the legacy of writer Frank Deford, and Daniel Engber joins for a conversation about our favorite non-famous athletes.NBA Finals (1:54): A conversation with Ethan Strauss about what to look out for in the third consecutive finals matchup between the Warriors and Cavs. What will Golden State do in crunch time? Will Draymond Green kick anyone?Frank Deford (21:25): Charles P. Pierce, who worked with Deford at Sports Illustrated and The National, talks about what made him a great writer and reminisces about his favorite Deford stories.Non-famous athletes (40:10): Daniel Engber discusses his obsession with Mets utility player Keith Miller, and we talk about our listeners’ favorite non-superstars.Afterballs (56:50)More information at slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin and guest Jane Coaston talk about the NBA playoffs. Sean Singer also joins to discuss Enes Kanter and Turkish politics, and economist Andy Schwarz comes on the show to announce his plan to kill the NCAA’s amateur model.NBA playoffs (2:42): A conversation about the inevitability of a third straight Cavs-Warriors finals, and whether anticipation for that series has killed the rest of the postseason.Enes Kanter (15:50): Former Turkish Basketball Federation official Sean Singer explains how Oklahoma City Thunder power forward Enes Kanter became a political activist, and how his conflict with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is perceived in Turkey.A plan to kill the NCAA (30:50): Andy Schwarz rolls out the HBCU League, which would pay college players and prepare them for the NBA.Afterballs (49:22) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryan Curtis and Stefan Fatsis talk with Michael Lee about John Wall and the NBA playoffs. Former NFL player Stephen White joins to discuss why quarterback Colin Kaepernick remains unemployed. Bryan and Stefan discuss the NFL broadcasting prospects of retired quarterbacks Tony Romo and Jay Cutler. And Scott Price joins to discuss his recent articles about the declining health of NFL legends Nick Buoniconti and Jim Kiick.NBA playoffs (2:00): We talk with Michael Lee about the rise of John Wall, the Washington Wizards point guard, and the first game of the Western Conference playoffs between the Golden State Warriors and the San Antonio Spurs. Colin Kaepernick (12:28): Former NFL defensive lineman Stephen White breaks down the tape and argues that Kaepernick has not found a job because of his decision last year to kneel during the national anthem.NFL announcers (22:35): Bryan and Stefan discuss the quick hires of just-retired quarterbacks Tony Romo by CBS Sports and Jay Cutler by Fox Sports, and what makes a good ex-jock television broadcaster.Miami Dolphins (37:13): Scott Price joins the show to discuss his recent Sports Illustrated stories about the dementia taking over the lives of Nick Buoniconti and Jim Kiick, two stars of the unbeaten 1972 Miami Dolphins football team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin talk with ESPN’s Howard Bryant about racism in Boston sports. Damon Young also joins to discuss LaVar Ball and the “black basketball dad,” and David Epstein analyzes Nike’s effort to engineer a sub-two-hour marathon.Racism in Boston sports (??): A conversation with Howard Bryant, the author of Shut Out: A Story of Race and Baseball in Boston, about the recent racist heckling at Fenway Park and the history of racism in the city and on its sports teams. LaVar Ball (??): Damon Young of Very Smart Brothas discusses his conflicted feelings about Lonzo Ball’s father and the specific role black parents play in their kids’ athletic development.Nike’s marathon gambit (??): Assessing Eliud Kipchoge’s 2:00:25 marathon, Nike’s marketing of its Breaking2 event, and whether we’ll see more attempts to break the two-hour barrier. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and guest Wosny Lambre talk about the layoffs at ESPN. They also discuss how NFL teams evaluate draftees with "red flags" and review Dion Waiters’ genius essay for the Players’ Tribune.ESPN layoffs (2:31): What do the massive cuts at the Worldwide Leader say about the network’s new business model and the state of sports journalism?NFL draft (16:30): This year’s draft class had a host of players, among them Joe Mixon and Gareon Conley, with so-called “character issues.” How should teams look at prospects who've been convicted of or accused of heinous crimes?Dion Waiters (29:25): Why the Miami Heat shooting guard's essay “The NBA is Lucky I’m Home Doing Damn Articles” is such an effective piece of writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Greg Howard talk with Kevin Arnovitz about the NBA playoffs. Alex Hutchinson joins to analyze an upcoming attempt to break the two-hour marathon. And Stefan interviews John Kelly, the lone finisher of this year’s Barkley Marathons.NBA playoffs (1:48): We talk with Kevin Arnovitz about the media coverage surrounding the death of Isaiah Thomas’s sister; Kawhi Leonard and Mike Conley’s duel in Game 4 of the Spurs-Grizzlies series; and Russell Westbrook’s media antagonism.The Two-Hour Marathon (20:59): Alex Hutchinson discusses Nike’s planned attempt next month to break the two-hour marathon, and the ethical, physical, and technological issues surrounding the effort.Barkley Marathons follow-up (32:29): John Kelly, the lone finisher of this year’s Barkley Marathons, objected to Stefan’s critique of the race on last week’s show. Kelly joins to talk about why he runs the Barkley and its many challenges. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis is joined by Shea Serrano and Marcus Thompson to talk about the NBA playoffs. Stefan and Josh Levin also interview Nick Elam about how to fix basketball’s end game. Finally, Stefan and Christina Cauterucci talk with Becca Roux about the new labor deal in women’s soccer. NBA Playoffs (2:20): Breaking down the best matchups of the first weekend, evaluating the Cleveland Cavaliers’ title hopes, and celebrating the rise of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Fixing NBA Endgame (17:06): Nick Elam joins to explain his radical proposal to fix basketball’s crunch time and talk about the plan’s likelihood of being implemented in the NBA. Women’s Soccer (37:04): Becca Roux, the interim executive director of the USWNT’s Players’ Association, discusses the team’s new collective bargaining agreement and the ongoing battle for equitable treatment in women’s sports.Barkley Marathons (55:02): In his Afterball, Stefan examines the heartbreaking ending of the Barkley Marathons in the mountains of Tennessee and whether the race might be too cruel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ethan Sherwood Strauss has been covering the Golden State Warriors forseveral years for ESPN, during which time the team became the mostpopular and successful in the NBA. On the eve of the NBA Playoffs, he sat downwith Isaac Chotiner to discuss life on the NBA beat, the strange life of StephCurry, and fans who want ESPN personalities to “stick to sports” in the age of DonaldTrump.And please take our brief survey: http://www.survey.megaphone.fm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin talk to Jim Newell about the Masters; Tom Haberstroh about Russell Westbrook and resting NBA players; Meg Rowley about baseball’s return; and Jonathan Hock about One and Not Done, his ESPN documentary on John Calipari. The Masters (2:20): Breaking down a thrilling finish, Sergio Garcia’s long-awaited major championship, and Jim Nantz’s odd announcing tendencies. The NBA (16:00): Discussing the Oklahoma City Thunder point guard's latest triple-double feats and the conundrum of star players sitting out regular-season games. Baseball (33:45): Baseball is back! Does it matter? Delving into the sport’s entertainment value and lack of big-name stars. One and Not Done (48:34): Talking with Jonathan Hock about his new 30 for 30 documentary on John Calipari and how to assess the Kentucky’s coach’s legacy as it is still unfolding. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and special guest Joel Anderson are joined by the Washington Post’s Sally Jenkins to talk about UConn’s loss in the women’s NCAA tournament. They also discuss the men’s Final Four, the Las Vegas Raiders, and NBA hook-up culture. Women’s Final Four: Sally Jenkins joins to explain how Mississippi State broke UConn’s 111-game winning streak, Bulldogs coach Vic Schaefer’s decision to bench Morgan William in the title game, South Carolina’s title game win, and Geno Auriemma’s comments on women in coaching. Men’s Final Four: Breaking down Oregon player Jordan Bell’s self-flagellation after his team’s defeat and the North Carolina-Gonzaga championship matchup. The Las Vegas Raiders: Why the Raiders fit in Vegas, what a new stadium means to the city’s taxpayers, and what the move says about the NFL’s gambling policies.Tinder and the NBA: Weighing in on ESPN the Magazine’s story on how dating apps may affect teams’ performance on the road. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and guest panelist Jane Coaston discuss the weekend's NCAA tournament storylines and the U.S. women’s hockey team’s boycott. Ben Mathis-Lilley also joins to talk about his Slate article on Jamie Horowitz and Fox Sports 1. NCAA Tournament (2:51): Analyzing the weekend’s thrilling buzzer-beaters, the value of one-and-done programs, and the endearing imperfections of college basketball games. U.S. Women’s Hockey (17:26): Breaking down the debate over Team USA’s decision to boycott this week’s IIHF World Championships as part of their fight for equitable treatment and a living wage. Fox Sports 1 (27:57): Will Jamie Horowitz’s cable network succeed in his mission to revolutionize sports media one hot take at a take? Ben Mathis-Lilley joins the show to talk about his story on Fox Sports 1.Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Mike Pesca discuss the NCAA tournament and the World Baseball Classic. Mike also announces his departure from the show, and Josh and Stefan send him off with Pesca Jeopardy! NCAA Tournament (5:24): Was the first round of March Madness boring? Is poor seeding to blame? We break down the first two rounds of the tourney and discuss Duke’s loss to South Carolina. The World Baseball Classic (17:16): We talk about Adam Jones’ fantastic catch and the charm of the international tournament. Pesca Jeopardy! (25:58): How well does Mike remember his best quips from seven-plus years on Hang Up and Listen? We find out with a Pesca-specific twist on America’s favorite quiz show.Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Mike Pesca discuss March Madness, the Brock Osweiler trade, and the Washington NFL team’s decision to fire Scot McCloughan. They also talk about the annual video ranking the best hair in Minnesota high school hockey. NCAA Tournament (3:40): Why isn’t Gonzaga the bettors’ March Madness favorite? Is Villanova getting enough love? We assess the March Madness matchups and potential biases in the NCAA selection committee. NFL Offseason (16:49): An analysis of the game-changing, questionably legal Brock Osweiler trade between the Texans and the Browns, plus a breakdown of the Scot McCloughan firing and how the Washington Post covered it. “All Hockey Hair Team” (31:20): Minnesota native John King creates a video every year celebrating the best hair in Minnesota high school hockey. How does the 2017 lettuce celebration compare to history’s greatest hockey hair videos?Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Mike Pesca discuss Duke’s Grayson Allen and other NCAA basketball matters. Scott Raab also joins to talk about his new book You’re Welcome, Cleveland, and Oliver Roeder of FiveThirtyEight explains how a computer program beat four pro poker players.Grayson Allen and NCAA hoops (2:55): exploring America’s longstanding hatred of white Duke basketball players; Northwestern’s likely maiden visit to March Madness, and the first-ever Ivy League basketball tournament.Scott Raab’s You’re Welcome, Cleveland (21:37): The writer and Cleveland sports fan explains what he got wrong in The Whore of Akron and whether LeBron James would like his new book.How a computer took down the poker pros (33:40): Oliver Roeder explains how poker went the way of chess, checkers, Go, and Scrabble, and what the next challenges are for artificial intelligence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Mike Pesca discuss sports parallels for Sunday’s big Oscars mishap. They also talk JaVale McGee’s feud with Shaquille O’Neal, and Ken Early of the Irish Times joins to discuss the decline of Leicester City.Sports and the Oscars (3:07): breaking down the Moonlight-La La Land mix-up, pondering different sports analogies, and discussing whether sports TV would have covered the incident differently. Shaq vs. JaVale McGee (16:43): Do McGee’s frequent bloopers warrant relentless mockery on “Shaqtin’ a Fool”? Where is the line between comedy and bullying? Leicester City (32:11): Ken Early joins to talk about Leicester’s fall from glory, the team’s decision to fire manager Claudio Ranieri, and how the squad can avoid relegation.Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Levin, Stefan Fatsis, and Kevin Arnovitz discuss the DeMarcus Cousins trade and the Salt Lake Screaming Eagles, the football team whose fans call the plays. LaVar Ball also joins to talk about parenting and how his three sons will change basketball. Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Levin, Mike Pesca, and Dan Steinberg discuss Patriots players spurning the White House. They also analyze Kevin Durant’s return to OKC and Dolan v. Oakley, and high school coach Kyle Allen joins to explain his effort to revolutionize basketball.Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Mike Pesca discuss the Patriots’ epic Super Bowl comeback and the Falcons’ amazing collapse. Charles P. Pierce joins to discuss Tom Brady, and SB Nation’s Spencer Hall explains why the game was quintessentially Atlanta. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Mike Pesca, and Josh Levin break down the Australian Open. Tim Layden also joins to discuss the sports ramifications of Trump’s refugee ban, and Rod Smart and Charlie Ebersol talk about the 30 for 30 documentary This Was the XFL.Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Jack Hamilton talk about the Falcons’ and Patriots’ conference title game wins. Sports Illustrated’s Chris Ballard also joins to discuss the streaking 76ers, and they assess the Baseball Hall of Fame’s new inductees. Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and special guest Nate Jackson talk about the NFL playoffs. They’re also joined by Don Yee to discuss his proposed pro football minor league and ESPN’s Ethan Sherwood Strauss to assess the 35-6 Golden State Warriors.Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Mike Pesca talk about the New York Giants’ playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers and Odell Beckham’s pre-game boat trip. They also discuss the legacy of ESPN’s Chris Berman and the 2017 World Darts Championship.Facebook: http://fb.com/HangUpAndListenEmail: [email protected] notes at http://slate.com/hangup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Levin and Mike Pesca are joined by the Ringer’s Bryan Curtis to discuss the college football playoffs and the quarterback crisis in the NFL playoffs. They’re also joined by ESPN’s Kevin Pelton to examine the NBA’s sudden surge in triple-doubles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.