Thinking Basketball
- Episodes
- 393
- Released
- weekly
- Latest episode
- Nov 11, 2026
About the podcast
Ben Taylor, creator of the popular YouTube channel Thinking Basketball (and author of Thinking Basketball the book) goes deeper on basketball analysis, history, philosophy and theory with co-host Cody Houdek, and a variety of guests ranging from journalists to former players. Ideal for fans interested in Xs and Os, stats & analytics, coaching and team strategy and adjustments, in-depth breakdowns on player strengths and weaknesses, and who is better and who is best in the NBA. (GOAT debates!)
Episodes 393
#395 Luka’s Lakers, Steph’s Warriors, Early top-5 players
How good are the Lakers? Why is it all working? We discuss Luka’s historic start, then the red hot Warriors and Steph Curry’s place, Victor Wembanyama, Yaxel Lendebrorg’s rookie breakout, early best players and …
Show notes
How good are the Lakers? Why is it all working? We discuss Luka’s historic start, then the red hot Warriors and Steph Curry’s place, Victor Wembanyama, Yaxel Lendebrorg’s rookie breakout, early best players and rookies and more.
Support at http://www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
394: The Surprise Sixers, Flagg’s big start
We discuss Philly’s surprisingly stout defense to start the year, what to make of Cooper Flagg’s huge statistical start, and the “points of emphasis” impact on SGA’s statistical decline to start. Support at …
Show notes
We discuss Philly’s surprisingly stout defense to start the year, what to make of Cooper Flagg’s huge statistical start, and the “points of emphasis” impact on SGA’s statistical decline to start.
Support at http://www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#393: What we learned in Week 1
We go around the league to discuss what was real in the first few games, from Miami’s 0-4 start, to LeBron, to the Lakers strong start, Anthony Edwards and the Wolves, Paolo Banchero and more. Support at …
Show notes
We go around the league to discuss what was real in the first few games, from Miami’s 0-4 start, to LeBron, to the Lakers strong start, Anthony Edwards and the Wolves, Paolo Banchero and more. Support at
http://www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#392: 2027 NBA season preview
We preview the 2026-27 season, starting with what looks like an incredibly competitive East. Then, the West. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketballSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and …
Show notes
We preview the 2026-27 season, starting with what looks like an incredibly competitive East. Then, the West.
Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#391: 21st Century Thinkies Ep 5 | Paint Protector
In our Finale episode, it’s the Big Kahuna — who protects the paint the best? We also recap the series at the end, discuss what we learned, and Cody asks a hypothetical question about the best 21st century …
Show notes
In our Finale episode, it’s the Big Kahuna — who protects the paint the best? We also recap the series at the end, discuss what we learned, and Cody asks a hypothetical question about the best 21st century defense.
Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#390: 21st century Thinkies Ep 4 | Perimeter Helper, Motor
In Part 4 of our 21st century defensive awards, we discuss the best perimeter helper. Who is the best player at helping from the outside, disrupting drives, sitting in passing lanes and so on. After that …
Show notes
In Part 4 of our 21st century defensive awards, we discuss the best perimeter helper. Who is the best player at helping from the outside, disrupting drives, sitting in passing lanes and so on. After that important but under-discussed category, we award best motor of the century. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#389: Redrafting the last 3 drafts, Cody’s Odyssey!
Cody gives his thoughts on Christopher Nolan’s Odyssey. But first, we attempt to build a draft board (based on their future) from the last 3 rookie classes. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketballSee …
Show notes
Cody gives his thoughts on Christopher Nolan’s Odyssey. But first, we attempt to build a draft board (based on their future) from the last 3 rookie classes. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#388: Summer moves (from the summer)
We unearth an unreleased episode from July where we discuss the big off-season movies, including LeBron James going to Philadelphia (at the end), the Jaylen Brown trade, LaMelo Ball moving to Minnesota and …
Show notes
We unearth an unreleased episode from July where we discuss the big off-season movies, including LeBron James going to Philadelphia (at the end), the Jaylen Brown trade, LaMelo Ball moving to Minnesota and more. Plus, helmets. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#387: Top-4 rookie thoughts, MJ with another star
We review the top-4 picks at Summer League in Las Vegas in July, then answer a thought experiment about Michael Jordan winning 6 championships with another star besides Scottie Pippen. Support at …
Show notes
We review the top-4 picks at Summer League in Las Vegas in July, then answer a thought experiment about Michael Jordan winning 6 championships with another star besides Scottie Pippen. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#386: 21st century Thinkies Ep 3 | Ball Screens, Post Defense and Hands
In the most deranged, psychotic podcast we’ve ever done, Part 3 of our 21st century defensive awards covers defending ball-screen driven offenses, guarding great post-up scorers (and Shaq?), and the defenders …
Show notes
In the most deranged, psychotic podcast we’ve ever done, Part 3 of our 21st century defensive awards covers defending ball-screen driven offenses, guarding great post-up scorers (and Shaq?), and the defenders with the best hands. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#385: 21st century Thinkies Ep 2 | Most Versatile Defender
In Part 2 of our 21st century defensive awards, we discuss the most versatile defender. Who can guard multiple offensive archetypes, provide the most lineup versatility, and play in the widest variety of …
Show notes
In Part 2 of our 21st century defensive awards, we discuss the most versatile defender. Who can guard multiple offensive archetypes, provide the most lineup versatility, and play in the widest variety of defensive coverages? Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#384: 21st century Thinkies Ep 1 | Perimeter Isolation
In Part 1 of our 21st century defensive awards, we discuss the best isolation defenders on the perimeter. What’s a perfect build? How does era influence impact? And who do we want to stop the best players in …
Show notes
In Part 1 of our 21st century defensive awards, we discuss the best isolation defenders on the perimeter. What’s a perfect build? How does era influence impact? And who do we want to stop the best players in the world, 1-on-1, on an island? Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#383: Top-10 players of 2026
Who were the best players of 2026? We discuss resurgent players (Kawhi Leonard), sleeping giants (Giannis), elder statesmen (Curry and LeBron), newcomers (Wemby and Cade) along with a number of complicated …
Show notes
Who were the best players of 2026? We discuss resurgent players (Kawhi Leonard), sleeping giants (Giannis), elder statesmen (Curry and LeBron), newcomers (Wemby and Cade) along with a number of complicated cases. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#382: Draft evolution with J. Kyle Mann
We discuss the changing landscape and value of the NBA draft in the 21st century, valuing prospects differently, development arcs (eg Kyle Lowry) and some of the most interesting 2026 draftees. Support at …
Show notes
We discuss the changing landscape and value of the NBA draft in the 21st century, valuing prospects differently, development arcs (eg Kyle Lowry) and some of the most interesting 2026 draftees. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and SportsBusinessClassroom.com Code THINKINGBASKETBALL for $300 off.
Kyle Lowry’s Draft Express writeup sample:
While Lowry generally passes the look test as an NBA point guard prospect, questions still remain about his ability to control a game full-time. Lowry played a complementary role (at least offensively) to Randy Foye and Allen Ray in Jay Wright's backcourt rotation, and while many have claimed that their presence was the only thing keeping Lowry from exploding into full-fledged stardom, they also unquestionably made things easier for him…Beyond this, Lowry's biggest question mark at this point may be a suspect perimeter jumper…There are also size issues. -https://www.draftexpress.com/article/Kyle-Lowry-NBA-Draft-Scouting-Report-2870/
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#381: Thoughts on the Knicks title & the Spurs run
We reflect on the unprecedented New York run and close to the Finals, but first, thoughts on the Spurs incredibly unique season, Victor Wembanyama and more. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and …
Show notes
We reflect on the unprecedented New York run and close to the Finals, but first, thoughts on the Spurs incredibly unique season, Victor Wembanyama and more. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and SportsBusinessClassroom.com Code THINKINGBASKETBALL for $300 off.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#380: The Knicks comeback for the ages
The OG tip! We react to the biggest comeback in Finals history. What happened to the Spurs? Is the series over? How did the Knicks come back from 29 points in Game 4 to take a 3-1 Finals lead? Support at …
Show notes
The OG tip! We react to the biggest comeback in Finals history. What happened to the Spurs? Is the series over? How did the Knicks come back from 29 points in Game 4 to take a 3-1 Finals lead? Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#379: The Knicks magical run
The Athletic’s Fred Katz tries to help explain New York’s magical run and winning streak in the playoffs. What’s changed on offense, defense, with Karl-Anthony Towns, Landry Shamet, and more. Support at …
Show notes
The Athletic’s Fred Katz tries to help explain New York’s magical run and winning streak in the playoffs. What’s changed on offense, defense, with Karl-Anthony Towns, Landry Shamet, and more. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and SportsBusinessClassroom.com Code THINKINGBASKETBALL for $300 off.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#378: 2026 NBA Finals Preview, blowing up OKC
We preview the 2026 NBA Finals, matchup dynamics, expectations and more. But first, we reflect on the classic Western Conference Finals and some of the reactions to the Thunder and Chet Holmgren. Support at …
Show notes
We preview the 2026 NBA Finals, matchup dynamics, expectations and more. But first, we reflect on the classic Western Conference Finals and some of the reactions to the Thunder and Chet Holmgren. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and SportsBusinessClassroom.com Code THINKINGBASKETBALL for $300 off.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#377: The Thunder-Spurs chess match! Knicks back in Finals
What caused Wemby to have such a poor Game 5? We discuss the incredible back and forth chess match, Oklahoma City’s latest adjustments and more in this classic series, plus New York makes NBA Finals and Ben …
Show notes
What caused Wemby to have such a poor Game 5? We discuss the incredible back and forth chess match, Oklahoma City’s latest adjustments and more in this classic series, plus New York makes NBA Finals and Ben stays at a Holiday Inn. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and SportsBusinessClassroom.com Code THINKINGBASKETBALL for $300 off.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#376: Wemby’s ascension, Spurs-Thunder madness, ECF thoughts
How good is Victor Wembanyama? Is he the best defender ever? We discuss the incredible Thunder-Spurs series, Dylan Harper, the Game 1 classic in Oklahoma City and more. Support at …
Show notes
How good is Victor Wembanyama? Is he the best defender ever? We discuss the incredible Thunder-Spurs series, Dylan Harper, the Game 1 classic in Oklahoma City and more. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and SportsBusinessClassroom.com Code THINKINGBASKETBALL for $300 off.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#375: Spurs-Wolves, physicality, on-ball creators + Ajay Mitchell
We discuss the 2nd round, the incredible physicality, the importance of off-the-dribble creators, Wolves-Spurs, the Thunder dominance and a flu game. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and …
Show notes
We discuss the 2nd round, the incredible physicality, the importance of off-the-dribble creators, Wolves-Spurs, the Thunder dominance and a flu game. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball and SportsBusinessClassroom.com Code THINKINGBASKETBALL for $300 off.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#374: Round 1 insanity, Round 2 previews + Playoff themes
The Lakers and the 76ers pull off massive comebacks. Joel Embiid and Paul George are back! The Pistons hold Orlando to 19 points in a half. Plus, Wolves-Spurs, Knicks-Philadelphia, Pistons-Cavs and themes from …
Show notes
The Lakers and the 76ers pull off massive comebacks. Joel Embiid and Paul George are back! The Pistons hold Orlando to 19 points in a half. Plus, Wolves-Spurs, Knicks-Philadelphia, Pistons-Cavs and themes from the playoff so far. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#373: Bad matchups break us | Pistons-Magic, Jokic, All-1st round
We discuss how certain matchup warp playoff narratives, the madness that is the Pistons-Magic series, Jokic’s struggles against Minnesota and a premature All-1st round team. Support at …
Show notes
We discuss how certain matchup warp playoff narratives, the madness that is the Pistons-Magic series, Jokic’s struggles against Minnesota and a premature All-1st round team. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#372: LeBron’s comeback! Celtics War & Playoff surprises
Jordan Dyer joins to discuss the wild Lakers Rockets series, LeBron James and Marcus Smart’s play, the Celtics battle with Paul George, Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle’s explosions, plus concern for the Knicks …
Show notes
Jordan Dyer joins to discuss the wild Lakers Rockets series, LeBron James and Marcus Smart’s play, the Celtics battle with Paul George, Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle’s explosions, plus concern for the Knicks and Nuggets? Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#371: Panic time!? Early playoff takeaways
Who is in trouble? Does anyone look better than expected? We discuss big takeaways from the first few days of the NBA playoffs, including the Knicks-Hawks crazy series and the Pistons-Magic stunner. Support at …
Show notes
Who is in trouble? Does anyone look better than expected? We discuss big takeaways from the first few days of the NBA playoffs, including the Knicks-Hawks crazy series and the Pistons-Magic stunner. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#370: 2026 Playoff preview
Apologies for some audio issues today! We preview the title favorites, matchup dynamics, possible dark horses, how the playoffs COULD be different (officiating changes, possible trends with rebounding …
Show notes
Apologies for some audio issues today! We preview the title favorites, matchup dynamics, possible dark horses, how the playoffs COULD be different (officiating changes, possible trends with rebounding, turnovers, transition game and more).
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#369: 2026 Thinkies (Defensive Awards)
Who were the best defenders in 2026? We crown our champions in 6 categories, plus a new BONUS award at the end of the show. Which player appeared in every category this year? Support at …
Show notes
Who were the best defenders in 2026? We crown our champions in 6 categories, plus a new BONUS award at the end of the show. Which player appeared in every category this year? Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#368: What elite coaching looks like + Jaylen Brown's impact
We discuss the best coaches of 2026, the Coach of the Year race, and react to our Jaylen Brown deep dive against the Thunder. Plus, Cody's defense of Sex Panther. Support at …
Show notes
We discuss the best coaches of 2026, the Coach of the Year race, and react to our Jaylen Brown deep dive against the Thunder. Plus, Cody's defense of Sex Panther. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#367: Inner Circle contenders, “Clutch” in MVP, Film rivalries
A new inner circle team? Is another fading? We discuss what “clutch” performances should mean in the MVP race, Ajay Mitchell's value to the Thunder and more. Use code THINKING2026 for 10% off your next SeatGeek …
Show notes
A new inner circle team? Is another fading? We discuss what “clutch” performances should mean in the MVP race, Ajay Mitchell's value to the Thunder and more. Use code THINKING2026 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order. https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/THINKING2026
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#366: Top Scoring games, Kawhi's renaissance, Awards Anarchy & Villains
Huge takes on Bam's 83 point game, the possible anarchy of the looming 65-game rule, Kawhi Leonard's incredible rebirth this season, the Clippers as a darkhorse, the Lakers improved defense with Marcus Smart …
Show notes
Huge takes on Bam's 83 point game, the possible anarchy of the looming 65-game rule, Kawhi Leonard's incredible rebirth this season, the Clippers as a darkhorse, the Lakers improved defense with Marcus Smart, and our favorite movie villains. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
These are the latest 40 of 393 episodes. You’ll find older episodes in the podcast’s feed.
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