Harden’s Moment, an NFL Schedule Glut, Owning the Jazz, and a Boston Sports Check-In—With Bryan Curtis, Bill’s Dad, and Ryan Smith

In this three-part episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, Bill Simmons delves into a wide-ranging exploration of sports culture, ownership, and the evolving landscape of professional athletics. The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into the NBA playoffs, spotlighting James Harden’s potential late-career resurgence and the broader concerns about player fatigue amid an 114-game season. Simmons and guest Bryan Curtis debate the NFL’s expanding schedule—18 games, midweek matchups, and international fixtures—arguing that the league risks overwhelming fans and diluting the experience. A heartfelt conversation with Bill’s dad adds personal depth, as they lament the Celtics’ playoff exit and debate whether Jaylen Brown should be traded to preserve Boston’s championship window. The focus then shifts to Ryan Smith, owner of the Utah Jazz, who shares his emotional journey through the lottery, his commitment to authentic, long-term ownership, and his vision for transforming the Jazz into a community-driven, holistic ecosystem that fosters wellness, culture, and economic growth. Smith emphasizes empowering his front office, trusting leadership, and rebuilding with patience and purpose. In the final segment, Simmons, Curtis, Smith, and Bill’s dad reflect on the transformative power of ownership, celebrating Smith’s impact on both the Jazz and Celtics, the strategic hiring of Will Hardy, and the shared passion that unites the ownership group. They close with lighthearted banter about golf and future NBA drafts, while acknowledging the unpredictability of sports and the importance of staying grounded in the long game.