PLAY PODCASTS
The Bill Simmons Podcast

The Bill Simmons Podcast

1,578 episodes — Page 28 of 32

Will Ferrell on his Favorite Movie, 'SNL,' and LeBron on the Lakers (Ep. 226)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Will Ferrell to discuss the NBA Finals (4:00), the cable TV domination of 'Step Brothers' (13:00), the amount of denials before 'Anchorman' was made (19:00), working on 'Old School' while on 'SNL' (26:00), flubbing his first line on 'SNL' (34:00), his favorite 'SNL' sketch (40:00), the modern 'SNL' format with big-name actors (48:00), filming a Lifetime movie with Kristen Wiig (53:00), the way his kids act with Will Ferrell as their dad (1:01:00), Lonzo Ball on the Lakers (1:11:00), and the chance LeBron comes to L.A. (1:15:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 16, 20171h 20m

Finals MVP Kevin Durant (Ep. 225)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons reports live from Oakland with 2017 NBA Champion and Finals MVP Kevin Durant to discuss the initial moment right after the confetti fell in Oracle (3:30), running the pick-and-roll with Curry (12:00), the shot in Game 3 (23:00), appreciating LeBron's journey (28:15), Curry's high-level play in the playoffs (33:30), Kyrie's "bag full of tricks" (34:00), Obama's congratulatory text (43:30), the Warriors free agents this offseason (49:30), building winning habits with the Warriors (58:00), the nonsense of comparing different eras (1:04:00), Rasheed Wallace's stretch five game (1:08:30), three-on-three in the Olympics (1:20:00), Iguodala's big Game 5 dunk (1:25:00), and Patrick McCaw's bright future (1:29:15). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 14, 20171h 36m

Saturday Rollin' NBA Finals Edition With Joe House (Ep. 224)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons reports live from the road to discuss the NBA Finals with help from his old friend Joe House. Topics include: Cleveland's historic Game 4 (5:00), Kyrie's similarities with Isiah Thomas (9:00), Durant's place amongst the greatest forwards in history (14:00), the superteam misconcepcion (21:00), LeBron's long-term game plan (29:00), Kevin Love on the trade block (37:00), the NBA Finals officiating(42:00), Blake Griffin's fit in Boston (52:30), pre-draft NBA trades (58:00), the Bad Boy Pistons vs. 2017 Warriors (1:06:00), and whether the Cavs can come back down 3-0 (1:11:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 10, 20171h 15m

NBA Scuttlebutt, LeBron's Next Move, and Lonzo's Lakers (Ep. 223)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor to discuss the many rumors and rumblings surrounding the NBA. Topics include: Jerry West's interest in the Clippers (5:00), CP3's no-trade clause (12:00), Lonzo and the Lakers (18:00), possible Kings trade packages (30:30), Isaiah Thomas's trade potential (39:30), the Paul George situation (47:00), LeBron to the Lakers (55:00), and adjustments for the Cavs in Game 3 (1:05:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 7, 20171h 18m

James Corden on Returning to London, "Carpool Karaoke," Elections, and Sports in America (Ep. 222)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on James Corden to discuss bringing 'The Late Late Show' to London (02:00), moving to America (12:30), starting his show as an unknown (21:30), the development of "Carpool Karaoke" (26:30), the logistics of success within today's media landscape (30:30), the time he spanked Donald Trump on Broadway (42:00), and improving the election process (45:00). Then they dive into the World Cup (55:00), the popularity of soccer in the U.S. (56:00), Bono's advice to Chris Martin regarding fame (01:03:00), the importance of television today (01:05:00), and James's friendship with Adele (01:12:30). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 5, 20171h 16m

NBA Finals Overreactions, College Reunions, and Resurgent Yankees (Ep. 221)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Kevin O'Connor to discuss their initial reactions from Game 1 of the NBA Finals (5:00), Kevin Durant's comfort level (13:00), Curry's Game 7 redemption (19:00), LeBron matching Durant (22:00), and Kevin Hart's nicknames for the Cavs (27:00). Then, JackO joins to discuss his and Bill's 25th college reunion this weekend (32:00), Aaron Judge's absurd upside (46:00), and ways to rekindle the Yankees–Red Sox rivalry (55:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 2, 20171h 17m

NBA Finals Prediction + Raiders, N.W.A, and the Big 3 With Ice Cube (Ep. 220)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons makes his 2017 NBA Finals prediction. Then, Ice Cube joins in the studio to discuss collaborating on the 30 for 30 documentary 'Straight Outta L.A.' (23:00), the Lakers-Celtics rivalry in the ’80s (31:00), the growth of N.W.A (40:00), the importance of 'Boyz n the Hood' (49:00), the reason 'Straight Outta Compton' worked (55:00), 'No Vaseline' vs. 'Hit 'Em Up' (1:05:00), and the Big 3 basketball league (1:11:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 31, 20171h 28m

Tiger, NBA Finals, and Remembering Frank Deford With Joe House and Bryan Curtis (Ep. 219)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Joe House and Bryan Curtis to talk about Tiger Woods's latest media frenzy (01:30) and make NBA Finals predictions (23:00). Finally, Bill and Bryan take time to remember the late Frank Deford (44:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 30, 20171h 11m

Chuck Klosterman on Chris Cornell, Superteams, an NFL Rule Change, and Michael Jordan (Ep. 218)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by author Chuck Klosterman to discuss the recent passing of Chris Cornell (03:00), the importance of film soundtracks (10:00), if super-teams hurt the NBA overall (26:00), LeBron's legacy (40:00), the NFL's rule change on celebrations (57:00), and the conspiracy theory on Michael Jordan's first retirement (65:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 26, 20171h 20m

Bill Burr on the NHL Playoffs, Kelly Olynyk's Magic, Chris Farley, and R-Rated Sports (Ep. 217)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by comedian Bill Burr to discuss his love for hockey (10:00), the great food in Winnipeg (15:00), the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry (23:00), the major changes at Fenway (34:00), the weirdness of hockey (41:00), Kelly Olynyk's Game 7 (53:00), Chris Farley's comedic intensity (1:02:00), the potential for R-rated sports channels (1:17:00), Paul Pierce's farewell (1:21:00), and Trump's international tour (1:25:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 24, 20171h 30m

Celtics Pride, LeBron vs. MJ, and Sacramento Kings Pain With Bill's Dad and Hasan Minhaj (Ep. 216)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on his dad to discuss the Celtics' worse playoff losses (5:00), Isaiah Thomas's injury (12:00), the free throw differential in the Eastern Conference finals (17:00), Avery Bradley's magic (21:00), LeBron in Jordan territory (28:00), Kyrie's improved play vs. Curry (34:00), and Kevin Love's impact on the series (37:00). Then, 'Daily Show' correspondent Hasan Minhaj joins to give his thoughts on his new Netflix special (42:00), the innovation of comedy specials (50:00), hosting the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner (55:00), the 2002 Western Conference finals (1:00:00), Vivek's ownership (1:10:00), Kings fans losing Boogie Cousins (1:14:00), Jeremy Lin's run in New York (1:18:00), the Warriors bandwagon in the Bay (1:24:00), and the Cavs' lackluster defense (1:27:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 22, 20171h 31m

May Mega-Mailbag: LeBron, LaVar, Harden, Pop, Dom, and More (Ep. 215)

E

Is LeBron a baby? Could Boston trade for Anthony Davis? Is James Harden the Peyton Manning of basketball? Are the Lakers really taking Lonzo? What should Chargers fans do? Why are dogs allowed on airplanes? Earl Woods vs. LaVar? Did karma injure Kawhi? Who is 2017's Jerome James? Was the Boogie trade good for the Kings? How tall is Dom? What's the opening scene of a Clippers 30 for 30? Where will CP3's Clips statue go? Is it OK for Pop to be mean? Is CT one of the greatest Boston athletes ever? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 19, 20171h 17m

NBA Draft Lottery Reaction With Mark Titus (Ep. 214)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Mark Titus to break down last night's draft lottery (02:00), if Markelle Fultz is definitely going to be a Celtic (11:30), what Lonzo Ball's draft declaration says about him (15:00), players who could be the second pick (28:00), and Malik Monk's stock (31:00). Then Titus shares stories about growing up with Gordon Hayward (36:00) and playing on the first team that Brad Stevens ever coached (38:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 17, 201751 min

Wizards Postmortem, the Conference Finals, and the NBA Draft Lottery With Joe House (Ep. 213)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Joe House to discuss Game 7 of Celtics-Wizards (02:00), John Wall's performance in the series (07:00), who Scott Brooks trusted (15:00), a rested LeBron in the Eastern Conference finals (30:00), James Harden and the regular-season MVP vote (34:00), the Western Conference finals without Kawhi Leonard (41:00), and Tuesday night's fascinating NBA draft lottery (49:30). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 16, 20171h 6m

Aziz Ansari on 'Master of None,' Hosting 'SNL,' and Kanye Studio Session Stories (Ep. 212)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Emmy Award–winning comedian Aziz Ansari to discuss shooting the second season of 'Master of None' in Italy (5:00), taking intense Italian lessons (15:00), directing modern Woody Allen moments (24:00), improvising scenes in auditions (29:30), hosting 'SNL' for the first time (33:00), stand-up at the Comedy Cellar (38:00), living outside the internet outrage cycle (43:00), working with Lorne Michaels (48:00), the untimely passing of Harris Wittels (53:45), shooting the 'Otis' video with Kanye and Jay Z (1:04:00), listening to Kanye albums before their release (1:08:00), Kanye and Jay's humorous side (1:12:00), the first time meeting Dave Chappelle (1:19:00), and the 'Girls' series finale internet controversy (1:25:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 12, 20171h 31m

Adam Carolla on 'Fast' 7/8, 'Cobra,' + 'Cast Away' (Ep. 211)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons celebrates 10 years of podcasting by bringing on 'B.S. Report' Hall of Famer Adam Carolla to discuss Sylvester Stallone's 1980s cop thriller 'Cobra' (9:00), the best '80s montages (14:00), the lifestyle of liking "bad movies" (28:00), Tom Hanks in 'Cast Away' (33:00), hanging out with Helen Hunt (39:00), the start of the 'Fast' franchise (44:00), the plot holes in 'Furious 7' (49:00), Vin Diesel's global lifestyle (1:02:00), Charlize Theron in 'Fate of the Furious' (1:11:00), and the perfect plot for the ninth 'Fast' movie (1:17:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 10, 20171h 28m

The New Era of Sports Media and the End of 'The Sports Reporters' (Ep. 210)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Wall Street Journal sports columnist Jason Gay and Ringer editor-at-large Bryan Curtis to discuss the end of ESPN's 'The Sports Reporters' (5:00), LaVar Ball's impact on Lonzo Ball's draft stock (15:00), ESPN's priorities in today's media landscape (24:00), ESPN's attachment to live sports (34:00), the future of ESPN2 (39:00), Adrian Wojnarowski's rivalry with ESPN (48:00), the ESPN news ticker (55:00), the value of good writing in any medium (1:02:00), and parting shots on The Players' Tribune (1:07:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 8, 20171h 14m

Michael Rapaport on NBA Awards, the Knicks, 'True Romance,' and Being Banned From ESPN (Ep. 209)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Michael Rapaport to discuss the uninspiring NBA playoffs (5:00), the upcoming 'NBA Awards' show (11:00), Kelly Olynyk's man bun (17:00), Phil Jackson's problems in New York (26:00), overhyping 'Hamilton' (33:30), Chris Paul's overrated status (38:00), Ty Lue complaining (41:00), reporter questions for Popovich and Belichick (44:00), LeBron's ability to avoid injury (49:00), A-Rod's stickman status (52:00), beefing with Dan Le Batard (1:02:00), and shooting 'True Romance' scenes with Christian Slater (1:13:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 5, 20171h 22m

'South Park,' Competing With 'SNL,' and the Future of Comedy With Matt Stone and Trey Parker

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by 'South Park' cocreators Matt Stone and Trey Parker to discuss writing the show during the 2016 election (6:00), their show's similarities with 'SNL' (13:00), the NYT's 'Ghostbusters' review (19:00), the difference between humor and trolling (28:00), Bill Hader's increased involvement with the show (35:00), streaming 'South Park' (43:00), having creative free rein (47:00), the rivalry between Butters and Cartman (51:00), the sheer amount of powerful companies in the tech industry (55:00), beefing with Sean Penn (1:01:00), their desire to do another movie (1:06:00), and what's next on Season 21 of 'South Park.' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 3, 20171h 21m

Clippers Postmortem, Wiz-Celts, and Round 2 Intrigue With Joe House (Ep. 207)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons welcomes longtime friend of the show Joe House to discuss the CP3 era in L.A. (5:00), sign-and-trade options for Blake Griffin (18:00), reasons to reassemble the Clippers' core (21:00), Stockton-CP3 comparisons (29:00), Wizards-Celtics (32:00), Ian Mahinmi's struggles (38:00), Al Horford’s impact (44:00), the odds of a Warriors sweep (48:00), Gordon Hayward's free agency (52:00), Raptors-Cavs (58:00), Harden's sloppiness (1:04:00), Aldridge's future with the Spurs (1:08:00), and series predictions (1:12:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 1, 20171h 15m

NBA Predictions and NFL Draft Takes With Kevin O'Connor and Mike Lombardi (Ep. 206)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Kevin O'Connor to break down the somewhat-uneventful first round of the NBA playoffs (01:00), Game 6 for Chris Paul (05:30), Golden State's chance at sweeping the playoffs (11:30), what's wrong with James Harden (15:30), a must-win game for the Celtics against the Bulls (22:00), and the Raptors eliminating the Bucks (30:00). Then, Mike Lombardi joins the show to talk about Mitchell Trubisky and the Bears (41:00), the Panthers taking Christian McCaffrey (57:30), the Texans taking Deshaun Watson (60:00), and Al Davis's eating schedule (1:11:30). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 28, 20171h 18m

NFL Draft, NBA Playoffs, Boxing + Oakland With Cousin Sal and Andre Ward (Ep. 205)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons welcomes back Cousin Sal to discuss potential NFL draft prop bets (4:00), the backup QB conundrum (10:00), the Pats' sneaky-good picks (16:00), a potential Jimmy G draft-day trade (19:30), the Warriors' 16-0 potential (28:00), Edmonton's Stanley Cup odds (32:55), and betting on the writers' strike (36:00). Then, two-weight world champion boxer Andre Ward joins (40:10) to discuss his Olympic gold medal in Athens (45:00), 12 rounds vs. 15 rounds (51:00), fighting Sergey Kovalev (58:00), contemplating retirement in 2014 (1:04:00), the rematch with Kovalev (1:14:00), the best Bay Area athletes (1:17:00), his favorite legendary fights (1:21:00), and the Raiders' exit from Oakland (1:25:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 26, 20171h 34m

Round 1 Playoffs With Haralabos Voulgaris (Ep. 204)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by old NBA buddy Haralabos Voulgaris to discuss Kawhi's MVP case (5:00), the importance of durability (10:00), Isaiah Thomas's improved play (14:00), James Harden's defense (20:00), Shane Battier's advanced stats (27:00), LeBron's injury luck (34:00), Blake Griffin's power forward style (40:00), the Warriors' "disease of more" (45:00), the Bucks-Raptors toss-up series (48:00), Joe Ingles on the Clippers (55:00), Giannis's rise (1:04:00), the '01 Lakers' dominance (1:13:00), and the return of Austin Rivers (1:17:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 24, 20171h 19m

NBA Playoff Mailbag and Charlamagne tha God (Ep. 203)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons discusses the top NBA playoff story lines, including Rondo's injury (4:00), CP3's future plans (11:00), Steven Adams's disappearing act (14:00), the Jazz's struggles (19:30), Spurs-Grizz (23:30), Raptors-Bucks (27:00), and Round 1 playoff predictions (28:20). Then, 'The Breakfast Club' cohost Charlamagne tha God joins (35:50) to give his thoughts on Charles Barkley (40:00), the power of Black Twitter (44:00), the cultural influence of 'The Breakfast Club' (52:00), Nelly's fighting skills (56:00), confronting Kanye (1:00:00), Jay Z's dominance (1:09:00), Nas's impact (1:14:00), ways to fix ESPN (1:20:00), Serena's pregnancy (1:30:30), and who owns the belt in hip-hop (1:38:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 21, 20171h 45m

Desus and Mero on Yankees–Red Sox, Protesting the Knicks, and NBA Playoffs (Ep. 202)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Viceland stars Desus and Mero to discuss NBA fashion (5:00), making waves on the internet (12:00), the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry (16:00), the plight of Knicks fandom (24:00), Phil Jackson vs. Melo (30:00), Blake Griffin's Kia commercials (36:00), Jordan's gambling (42:00), 1990s NBA fights (47:00), LeBron's brand (53:00), La La and Melo's split (56:00), Chappelle's return (1:02:00), Denzel's one-name status (1:06), and Eddie Murphy's comedic reign (1:10:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 20, 20171h 15m

Playoff Check-in, Celts-Bulls Chaos, and Knicks Paranoia (Ep. 201)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Ringer staff writers Robert Mays and Jason Concepcion to discuss Bulls-Celtics (5:00), Rondo's playoff run (11:00), Fred Hoiberg out-coaching Brad Stevens (18:00), Jimmy Butler trade myths (22:00), a possible Porzingis trade to the Celtics (26:00), Phil Jackson's many missteps (32:00), Danny Ainge's master plan (35:00), James Dolan's youth (42:00), Draymond Green's blocks (45:00), picking Phil Jackson or Melo (48:00), and Vin Diesel's impact on the 'Fast' series (50:00). Then, Tate Frazier joins to run through the main story lines throughout the playoffs thus far (54:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 19, 20171h 12m

Kurt Russell on His Career, Robin Williams's Humor, and Hanging with Val Kilmer (Ep. 200)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Kurt Russell to discuss the origin of Mr. Nobody in the 'Fast & Furious' franchise (5:00), the alternate universe where he (and not Kevin Costner) played Crash Davis (16:00), the big chance to play Elvis on ABC (23:00), Snake Plissken's motivations in 'Escape From New York' (29:00), shooting 'Silkwood' with Meryl Streep and Cher (36:00), meeting Goldie Hawn (41:00), experiencing tabloid culture as a celebrity couple (48:00), Robin Williams's incessant joke-telling (53:00), working with Sly Stallone (58:00), Val Kilmer's on-set antics (1:04:00), bringing Herb Brooks to life in 'Miracle' (1:10:00), and his love of wine (1:16:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 14, 20171h 22m

The MVP Winner With Joe House and the History of the 'Fast & Furious' With Neal Moritz (Ep. 199)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Joe House to definitively determine who deserves the NBA's highest honor (5:00), redraft the supporting casts of the Rockets and Thunder (8:00), and decide the "winner" of each NBA season since 2000 (13:00). Then, film producer Neal Moritz joins (28:15) to discuss the origin story of Vin Diesel's "Dom Toretto" (32:00), his bias against CGI shots (42:00), Paul Walker's untimely death (48:00), the Rock's intro to the franchise (54:00), the new trilogy of 'Fast' films (59:30), the biggest flaw in each 'Fast' film (1:06:00), producing 'Cruel Intentions' (1:17:00), working with Tupac on 'Juice' (1:20:00), and the best signs for box-office success (1:28:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 12, 20171h 32m

April Mega-Mailbag (Ep. 198)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons answers a slew of mailbag questions from readers and listeners on the value/history of triple doubles and why Wilt never went for them (5:30), Bill's waffling on his MVP pick (10:45), lessons from Admiral/Olajuwon + MJ/Malone (19:00), Tony Romo's TV career (26:00), Jokic vs. Nurkic nickname ideas (35:00), Sergio Garcia's Masters win (42:00), Curry's 2016 MVP vs the 2017 candidates (48:00), the power of the TNT Bulls (53:00), Carmelo's future + a big 3-way trade prediction (57:00) and the winner of 2007's no. 1 NBA pick (1:04:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 10, 20171h 10m

All-NBA/MVP Tester Ballot With Joe House (Ep. 197)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Joe House to discuss the Cavs taking the East crown (6:00), Toronto's newfound toughness (11:00), John Wall's unmatched speed (16:00), Rob Hennigan's scouting whiteboard (22:00), the great MVP debate (32:00), the second-best Spur (40:00), Popovich's coach-of-the-year candidacy (47:00), All-NBA selections (54:00), Draymond vs. Gobert (59:00), Isaiah Thomas's second-team spot (1:04:00), Karl-Anthony Towns's spectacular season (1:11:00), and Boogie's next destination (1:18:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 6, 20171h 24m

Sports Announcers, Pain Killers, Goodell, and ESPN With Bryan Curtis and Sally Jenkins (Ep. 196)

E

HBO and The Ringer’s Bill Simmons and Bryan Curtis discuss the art of sports broadcasting (2:00). Then, Sally Jenkins of The Washington Post joins them to talk about Roger Goodell and the NFL’s credibility problem (28:45), the painkillers epidemic in sports (35:00), Pat Summitt (43:45), and the current state of ESPN (58:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 3, 20171h 12m

Kevin Durant on His Injury, Return to OKC, and the JaVale-Shaq Beef (Ep. 195)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on NBA All-Star Kevin Durant to discuss his near season-ending injury (4:00), the decision to embrace being the enemy in OKC (15:00), the amount of talent in today's NBA (24:00), Russell Westbrook's and James Harden's MVP cases (30:00), ways to fix the All-Star Game (38:00), Scott Brooks's redemption in D.C. (46:00), the loaded 2017 draft class (56:00), and Shaq vs. JaVale McGee (1:04:00). Then they address James Worthy's harsh reality (1:11:00), Durant's college recruiting process (1:22:00), and the timetable for his return to the court (1:26:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 31, 20171h 33m

Steve Nash on Lost Titles, Modern Point Guards, and Soccer Superstars (Ep. 194)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by two-time MVP Steve Nash to discuss his best chance to win a title (6:00), the specialization of basketball (13:00), the modern point guard (17:00), playing with Kidd and KJ in Phoenix (24:00), players resting in the NBA (32:00), the NBA vs. Premier League schedules (39:00), Dirk's longevity (48:00), working with the Warriors (56:00), and the greatest soccer players in the world (1:10:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 29, 20171h 18m

Chuck Klosterman on NBA MVP, Kobe's 'Musecage,' and March Madness (Ep. 193)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on author Chuck Klosterman to discuss Kobe's storytelling in 'Musecage' (5:00), the Westbrook-Harden MVP race (15:00), Oklahoma City's talent disparity (22:00), the obsession with the triple-double (28:00), Devin Booker's 70-point outing (32:00), Carmelo's legacy (48:00), Gonzaga's mid-major dominance (1:00:00), the Final Four (1:12:00), and Kentucky's perfected recruiting pitch (1:16:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 27, 20171h 22m

Madness, NBA, Trump, and MLB With Kevin O'Connor and JackO (Ep. 192)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Kevin O'Connor to discuss the top-five draft picks in UK-UCLA (6:00), Lonzo Ball's NBA fit (13:00), the top-eight draft picks as of right now (23:00), the Clippers' losing ways (33:00), the NBA Sweet 16 model (40:00), Gordon Hayward's free agency (46:00), and the Nets' improved play (50:00). Then, JackO joins to discuss Trump's Time interview (54:00), the future of the Republican Party (1:01:00), and the Yankees' many prospects (1:05:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 24, 20171h 14m

Larry Wilmore on the Lakers, Stand-up Comedy, and Political Discourse (Ep. 191)

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on comedian Larry Wilmore, the cocreator of 'Insecure,' to discuss the 2017 Lakers drama (5:00), Kobe's prime (14:00), LaVar Ball's brashness (23:00), competitive balance in the NBA (33:00), Dave Chappelle's new stand-up (45:00), Richard Pryor's honesty (54:00), the multiverse political scenario (1:02:00), the success of 'Black-ish' (1:10:00), and the biggest fear in Trump's America (1:15:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 22, 20171h 23m

Ep. 190: Sports Movie Hall of Fame: 'Blue Chips' With Mark Titus and Chris Ryan

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Mark Titus and Chris Ryan to induct 'Blue Chips' into the Sports Movie Hall of Fame. Topics include: the most ridiculous moments (5:00), Nick Nolte's intense coaching style (14:00), Bob Knight's mystique (19:00), point-shaving scare tactics (23:00), Shaq's final college game (30:00), the player cameos (35:00), rebooting 'Blue Chips' (42:00), post-retirement Larry Bird (47:00), and the best college basketball movies (53:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 21, 201757 min

Ep. 189: Steve Ballmer on Owning an NBA Franchise

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer to discuss technology's impact of viewing habits (6:00), the Clippers' need for a championship (12:00), the potential of a new Clippers arena (24:30), the Seattle expansion for the NBA (35:00), the NBA boardroom (42:00), understanding the salary cap (54:00), the future of this Clippers core (1:02:00), and the Microsoft scouting report (1:12:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 17, 20171h 16m

Ep. 188: March Madness Extravaganza With Mark Titus, Cousin Sal, and Kevin O'Connor

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on The Ringer's Mark Titus to discuss Evan Turner's ideal skill set (5:00), LeBron on a mid-major (8:00), Cousin Sal's best bet for the title (16:00), the best rivalry in college hoops (23:00), and Villanova's chance to repeat (28:00). Then, The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor join to give his thoughts on the top NBA prospects in March (37:00), Jayson Tatum vs. Josh Jackson (46:00), Rick Pitino's regrets (53:00), and the need for Gus Johnson (1:03:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 15, 20171h 12m

Ep. 187: Zach Lowe on the NBA's Wild, Wild West

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on former Grantland teammate Zach Lowe to discuss the Warriors' losing ways (6:00), the only teams to go three years without 20 losses (15:00), Durant on the Warriors (19:00), Jazz-Clippers (25:00), whether this is the last year for Doc Rivers (34:00), whether the Jazz are for real (40:00), All-NBA picks (48:00), are the Spurs smoke and mirrors? (55:00), James Harden's passing ability (1:02:00), and Croatian basketball power rankings (1:10:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 14, 20171h 24m

Ep. 186: Friday Rollin' With Mike Lombardi, Kevin Clark, and JackO

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Mike Lombardi and Kevin Clark to discuss NFL free agency, Deshaun Watson's draft fit (7:00), Mike Glennon in Chicago (11:00), the Patriots signing Stephon Gilmore (19:00), Brandin Cooks rumors (26:00), the Romo-coaster (34:00), and which L.A. football team will be the worst (40:00). Then, JackO joins to give his thoughts on Trump's presidency (48:00), Mike Francesa's reunion with Mad Dog (1:04:00), 'SNL' so far this season (1:08:00), and building a women's basketball dynasty at Holy Cross (1:11:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 10, 20171h 20m

Ep. 185: Westbrook and the Wizards With Joe House and Hockey Star P.K. Subban

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Joe House to discuss the Wizards' impressive season so far (6:00), the Bradley Beal–Ray Allen comparison (11:00), the best free-agency acquisitions (23:00), Russell Westbrook's ball hogging ways (32:00), OKC's best-case scenario (39:00), and Westbrook chasing stats vs. wins (46:00). Then, NHL All-Star P.K. Subban joins to give his thoughts on the Bruins-Canadiens rivalry (57:00), his ability to be the NHL commissioner (1:05:00), hockey's concussion protocol (1:20:00), and Connor McDavid's skill set (1:25:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 9, 20171h 30m

Ep. 184: Isaiah Thomas and 'John Wick 2' With Shea Serrano

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Celtics All-Star Isaiah Thomas to discuss his recent success (02:00), dealing with larger players' physicality (05:00), the polarizing Marcus Smart (14:00), his favorite NBA teams (16:30), the best players from Washington state (19:00), All-Star Weekend (25:30), meeting Tom Brady (29:00), Floyd Mayweather's fandom (32:00), Iverson comparisons (38:00), and the Celtics' title chances (46:00). Then, Ringer writer Shea Serrano joins to give his thoughts on 'John Wick: Chapter 2' (57:00), who owns the action hero championship belt (1:12:00), and Keanu Reeves's next chapter (1:17:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 6, 20171h 23m

Ep. 183: Luke Walton

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons sits down with Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton to discuss growing up in the Boston Garden (2:00), his father's reaction to Luke's getting a head coaching job with the Lakers (10:00), his rookie season with teammates Shaq, Kobe, Karl Malone, and Gary Payton (12:30), the chemistry of last year's Golden State Warriors (16:30), working with Magic Johnson (40:00), what he learned from Phil Jackson (52:00), and his 20-year, friendly rivalry with Richard Jefferson (59:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 3, 20171h 8m

Ep. 182: Reliving the Oscars With Jimmy Kimmel and Cousin Sal

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons ventures over to 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' to discuss the Oscars Best Picture mix-up (5:00), Ryan Gosling laughing (13:00), Cousin Sal's bad beats (16:00), Jimmy's near-death experience during rehearsal (25:00), behind-the-scenes Oscars insight (33:00), Jimmy's next hosting gig (44:00), and Jimmy's favorite fast food items (52:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 2, 20171h 4m

Ep 181: The Oscars Disaster Recap With Wesley Morris and Sean Fennessey

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on New York Times critic-at-large Wesley Morris and Ringer editor-in-chief Sean Fennessey to discuss the Best Picture fiasco (6:00), Casey Affleck's win (13:00), 'La La Land' losing (19:00), the Oscars voting process (24:00), and the 'Sully' snub (31:00). Then, they talk about 'Moonlight' moments (37:00), the 2012 Oscars (45:00), Netflix's model vs. traditional movies (54:00), and the best movies of 2017 so far (1:02:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 27, 20171h 2m

Ep. 180: Friday Rollin' Trade Deadline Recap With Joe House, Chris Ryan, and Kevin O'Connor

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Joe House, Chris Ryan, and Kevin O'Connor to discuss Boogie's impact on the Pelicans (8:00), Brandon Ingram's potential (12:00), Paul George vs. Jimmy Butler (18:00), GMs using the trade machine (28:00), the Nerlens Noel trade (34:00), Jrue Holiday's value (44:00), the top players in the 2017 draft (54:00), P.J. Tucker's impact on the Raptors (1:05:00), Finals scenarios (1:09:00), and Andrew Bogut's next destination (1:14:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 24, 20171h 12m

Ep. 179: The Battle for Tech Supremacy With Ben Thompson

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Stratechery founder Ben Thompson to discuss the Apple–LeBron James comparison (6:00), Netflix's dominance (14:00), Hulu's handicap (21:00), Twitter's lack of evolution (27:00), Facebook and Google's advertising strategy (37:00), Slack's upside (43:00), and the perks of living in Taiwan (52:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 23, 201756 min

Ep. 178: Dealing With the Trade Deadline With J.J. Redick

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons brings on Clippers guard J.J. Redick to discuss Doc Rivers's offense in L.A. (6:00), the 2009 Finals (14:00), is this the last dance for the Clippers? (19:00), the 3-point revolution (28:00), Bradley Beal's skill set (34:00), the UNC-Duke rivalry (39:00), Magic Johnson taking over the Lakers (48:00), the best non-Warriors team (55:00), ways to beat the Warriors (1:02:00), and the best unicorns in the NBA (1:08:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 21, 20171h 19m

Ep. 177: Malcolm Gladwell

E

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Malcolm Gladwell to discuss Dwight Howard's and Carmelo Anthony's main problem (6:00), the 3-point evolution (13:00), Jim Dolan's rich-son complex (24:00), Seattle SuperSonics–expansion-team scenarios (34:00), basketball in the center of culture (42:00), 'Battle of the Network Stars' (54:00), the need for candid athletes (1:03:00), Magic Johnson's new job (1:07:00), and the staleness of tennis (1:14:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 17, 20171h 21m