Introduction
As the NBA playoffs heat up and teams battle it out on the court, keeping up with the latest news and analysis is essential for any basketball fan. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just enjoy casual conversations about the game, podcasts offer a convenient and insightful way to stay connected. In this article, we present a list of the top 10 NBA podcasts that will keep you focused, locked in, and ready for the thrilling opening rounds.
The Bill Simmons Podcast
If we talk about longevity, it’s hard to ignore the impact of The Bill Simmons Podcast. With a rich history that dates back to his time at ESPN, Simmons has solidified himself as a major player in the podcasting world. While his current offering, a weekly podcast with Ryen Russillo, is undoubtedly his best, Simmons consistently delivers three NBA shows a week during the playoffs. Widely regarded as the NBA’s highest-profile historian, Simmons’s ability to recall individual games is unparalleled.
Dunc’d On
For those seeking a serious, no-nonsense NBA podcast, look no further than Dunc’d On. Hosted by Nate Duncan and Danny Leroux, this show stands out as one of the most reliable sources for daily game recaps from October to June. Spending 90 minutes dissecting basketball, five times a week, Duncan and Leroux provide in-depth analysis with an emphasis on analytics. If you’re looking to dive deep into the numbers and explore the nuances of the game, Dunc’d On is the podcast for you.
The Lowe Post
With his ESPN podcast, The Lowe Post, Zach Lowe manages to strike a perfect balance between analysis and entertainment. Although he occasionally hosts the show alone, Lowe often invites fellow reporters and even players for interviews, keeping the discussions fresh and engaging. Known for his ability to articulate complex basketball concepts without losing his audience, Lowe’s casual style makes it easy to follow along, even without visual aids. The Lowe Post ensures you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the game while enjoying a touch of personality.
All The Smoke
Over the past two years, numerous players-only podcasts have emerged, but none have been as captivating as All The Smoke. Hosted by Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, who both had successful careers as scrappy NBA wings, this podcast offers affable and lengthy interviews with players from across the league. With episodes featuring the likes of Kevin Garnett, Baron Davis, and Metta Sandiford-Artest, you’re in for some of the most entertaining and insightful conversations you’ll find in the podcasting world.
RealGM Radio
Danny Leroux’s RealGM Radio brings together many of the hosts and regular guests from other top NBA podcasts. By creating a space for hyper-focused basketball conversations, Leroux and his guests, such as Ben Golliver from Open Floor and news-breaker Tim Bontemps, provide a unique and informative listening experience. If you’re looking for a show that delves deep into the NBA universe while featuring some of the most knowledgeable voices in the industry, RealGM Radio is a must-listen.
The Rights to Ricky Sanchez
The Rights to Ricky Sanchez stands out on our list as the only team-specific podcast. Hosted by Spike Eskin and Mike Levin, this show has gained a cult following, particularly among Philadelphia 76ers fans. From celebrating the shrewd trades of former GM Sam Hinkie during “The Process” era to discussing the successes and failures of the team, The Rights to Ricky Sanchez is the perfect podcast for dedicated fans who want to deeply connect with their favorite team.
Whistleblower
Whistleblower, a 2020 series, delves into the infamous Tim Donaghy scandal, where a referee was disgraced for betting on NBA games. Host Tim Livingston offers a complete history of the scandal, challenging the narrative put forth by former NBA Commissioner David Stern at the time. With its exceptional journalism and thought-provoking storytelling, Whistleblower provides an in-depth look into one of the most significant controversies in NBA history.
The Draymond Green Show
Featuring interviews with some of the biggest names in the game, The Draymond Green Show showcases the natural charisma of its host, Draymond Green. Known for his on-court intensity and basketball IQ, Green brings that same energy and knowledge to his interviews. Discussions with players like Jayson Tatum and Joel Embiid are highlights of the best interview show hosted by any current NBA player. If you want to hear top-tier players engage in entertaining and insightful conversations, this podcast won’t disappoint.
Knuckleheads
As we continue to expand our collection of player interview programs, Knuckleheads, hosted by Quentin Richardson and Darius Miles, has established itself as a fan favorite. Drawing from their experiences playing for the early-2000s Clippers, Richardson and Miles provide a unique perspective when speaking with fellow players from their era. If you’re interested in the stories and insights shared between players, Knuckleheads is the podcast you’ve been waiting for.
The Dunker Spot
For those seeking full game reactions and analysis, The Dunker Spot podcast, hosted by Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr., offers an abundance of content. With their natural chemistry and easy rapport, Duncan and Jones Jr. deliver several shows a week, ensuring you never miss a beat. While Nekias Duncan is not related to Nate Duncan from Dunc’d On, and Steve Jones Jr. is the son of the beloved ABA star and Portland broadcaster Steve “Snapper” Jones, they have created a podcast that is essential listening for any die-hard NBA fan.
Conclusion
Staying informed and entertained has never been easier thanks to the wide variety of NBA podcasts available. Whether you’re craving in-depth analysis, entertaining interviews, or discussions specific to your favorite team, there is a podcast out there for you. As you explore the world of NBA podcasts, Ratingperson is here to provide you with the top 10 options that will keep you engaged, informed, and entertained throughout the basketball season. So grab your headphones, hit play, and enjoy the best the NBA podcasting world has to offer.