Bill Simmons, a lifelong Boston Celtics fan and founder of The Ringer, found himself at the center of a conspiracy theory. The theory relates to Rich Paul and Max Kellerman’s show on his podcast network. Simmons has issued a response.
Celtics Fan Bill Simmons Responds to the Conspiracy Theory Surrounding Rich Paul and Max Kellerman’s Podcast
The number of NBA-related and NBA-adjacent podcasts has surged in recent years, and they are no longer limited to former or current players. One example is Paul, one of the league’s most prominent agents.
Paul and Kellerman are the co-hosts of the podcast “Game Over.” Their podcast is part of Simmons’ The Ringer, which has an extensive network of other podcasts.
On the surface, there are no issues with Paul and Kellerman hosting a show on Simmons’ platform. However, some observers have noted that Paul’s ties to high-profile Los Angeles Lakers players and Simmons’ allegiance to the Celtics provide fertile ground for conspiracy theories.
Specifically, one theory claims Simmons launched “Game Over” with the intent of undermining the Lakers. Simmons, a well-known Celtics fan, has denied the allegation.
“First of all, I’d never do that,” Simmons said. “As much as I despise the Lakers, I would never use The Ringer podcast to try to bring them down. That feels like bad karma, it feels like something bad would happen with the Celtics.”
Still, Simmons admitted he would not be displeased if Paul and Kellerman’s podcast created problems for the Lakers.
“If it’s caused trauma for the Lakers fans and disarray behind the scenes, I can’t say that was the intention, but it’s pure delight to me as a Celtics fan to just watch this happen.”
Bill Simmons on the conspiracy he launched the Rich Paul and Max Kellerman podcast on his Ringer channel to sabotage the Lakers ðŸ˜
“I couldn’t be more delighted that the Ringer is involved. If it’s caused trauma for Lakers fans and disarray behind the scenes, I can’t say that… pic.twitter.com/ixJ2q6we3w
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) January 15, 2026
Paul’s client list includes James, his son Bronny James, and Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt.
Because of Paul’s close relationship with James, the Lakers are frequently discussed on “Game Over.” In those conversations, Paul openly shares his views, which some critics say could disrupt the team.
Any turmoil within the Lakers would likely please Celtics fans, given the historic rivalry between the two franchises. While the teams have not met in the NBA Finals since 2010, their rivalry dates back to the early years of the league.
