Is the NBA Too Afraid of Football? Plus, Jets Dysfunction and Million-Dollar Picks With Wosny Lambre, Joe House, and Peter Schrager
The Bill Simmons Podcast
Deep Dive
What were the pros and cons of holding the NBA Cup in Las Vegas?
Pros: Having two games in one location created a basketball extravaganza atmosphere similar to March Madness, especially as the games progressed and became more competitive. The arena was comparable to other NBA venues. Cons: The lack of partisan fans resulted in a less energetic atmosphere, especially early in the games, resembling a neutral setting like the dunk contest. The finals, viewed on TV, felt reminiscent of the bubble due to the subdued crowd and unclear audio.
Why was the NBA Cup final between the Milwaukee Bucks and Oklahoma City Thunder less engaging compared to a hypothetical Knicks-Warriors final?
The Bucks and Thunder are not national brands with widespread fan bases like the Knicks, Lakers, or Warriors. The lack of passionate fan representation from either team contributed to the less exciting atmosphere.
Why is the NBA seemingly prioritizing older, established stars over promoting younger talent?
The NBA's current marketing strategy focuses on celebrating the outgoing generation of superstars rather than elevating younger players like SGA, Tatum, or Halliburton. This contributes to a lack of compelling narratives and excitement around the newer generation.
Why is the NBA so afraid of competing with the NFL?
The NBA consistently avoids scheduling conflicts with the NFL, even moving popular programs like Inside the NBA and scheduling the NBA Cup semifinals to avoid football. This strategy of retreating from competition, even against less popular NFL matchups, may be counterproductive.
What structural changes could improve the NBA and its product?
Several changes were suggested, including: * **Starting the season at Christmas:** This would allow the NBA to capitalize on the diminishing NFL season and own the sports calendar in February. * **Moving the NBA Cup to February:** Holding the cup during a football lull would maximize its visibility and importance. * **Increasing the number of Cup games:** Expanding from four to six or seven games would create a more meaningful tournament and increase the likelihood of the best teams advancing. * **Revisiting the trade deadline:** Moving the deadline away from Super Bowl week would give it more attention and potentially revitalize player movement. * **Reducing the regular season schedule:** A shorter schedule (60-70 games) would increase the importance of each game, improve player health, and create more urgency. * **Abolishing or restricting League Pass:** This could drive viewers to the league's official broadcast partners and increase the value of live games.
What is the "anchor strategy" for Million Dollar Picks?
The anchor strategy involves selecting a team with a very high probability of winning (the "anchor") on the money line. Then, you combine that team's money line with other teams you like at lesser odds, also on the money line, to create plus-money parlays.
Why are NFL owners different from NBA owners?
NFL owners often come from wealthy families with established businesses, inheriting teams and operating in a detached manner. They prioritize profit and may meddle in team affairs. NBA owners are more diverse, including self-made individuals and those with a closer connection to the game, fostering a different level of engagement and decision-making.
What are some examples of NFL teams with dysfunctional ownership?
The New York Jets are a prime example, with anecdotal evidence of ownership meddling in team decisions, including player personnel and draft picks. Other examples include the Jacksonville Jaguars, where the owner's son is involved in running the team despite other commitments, and the New York Giants, who have experienced a prolonged period of dysfunction despite a seemingly positive ownership reputation.
Who are the top contenders for NFL Coach of the Year?
Kevin O'Connell is the current favorite due to the Vikings' surprising success with a roster of castaways. Andy Reid is a strong contender given the Chiefs' continued dominance despite significant roster turnover and injuries. Other possibilities include Dan Campbell (if the Lions can overcome their injury woes), Sean Payton, and Dan Quinn.
Which NFL team best embodies the "nobody believes in us" narrative for the playoffs?
The Detroit Lions are the prime candidate due to their depleted roster and recent struggles, combined with Dan Campbell's passionate coaching style. Other potential "nobody believes in us" teams include the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have overcome a mid-season slump, and the Houston Texans, who are likely to win their division despite a lack of widespread belief in their abilities.
- The NBA Cup was held in Las Vegas, with the Bucs winning and Giannis dominating.
- The event had a March Madness vibe with two games in one location.
- Attendance and atmosphere were lacking due to non-national brands in the finals.
- There is potential for improvement by involving more partisans and fans from the teams.
- The event faced challenges due to low shooting percentages and crowd engagement.
Shownotes Transcript