ESPN shocked the sports media world in the summer of 2024 by laying off several high-profile talents, including Zach Lowe. The move was part of a massive restructuring aimed at cost-cutting. Lowe, one of ESPN’s most respected NBA analysts, was an unexpected casualty. His deep-dive analysis, sharp writing, and engaging podcast made him a go-to source for basketball fans. Now, fans will be able to listen to Zach Lowe on his own podcast on the Ringer network.
Zach Lowe Getting His Own Podcast on The Ringer After ESPN Layoff
Lowe’s departure left a significant void in ESPN’s NBA coverage. He was known for breaking down complex plays, evaluating team strategies, and providing insights that went beyond the box score. Many fans were left wondering where he would land next.
Bill Simmons Reunites with Zach Lowe
Six months after his layoff, Lowe has found a new home at The Ringer. Bill Simmons, founder of The Ringer, announced the news on his podcast. “Zach is one of the best people I’ve ever worked with,” Simmons said. “I was really hoping at some point in life we would get to work together again. So it’s happening.”
Zach Lowe will not only write for The Ringer but also launch his own podcast on The Ringer Podcast Network, in collaboration with Spotify. His podcast will debut next week, and he will also appear on Simmons’ podcast to promote it. The name of the podcast has not been revealed yet, but a trailer is set to drop soon.
Simmons and Lowe have a long history. Grantland, the now-defunct ESPN-affiliated site founded by Simmons, gave Lowe his first big break in 2011. When ESPN shut down Grantland in 2015, Lowe transitioned to ESPN full-time, becoming one of their most valued basketball analysts. Now, nearly a decade later, the two are reuniting at The Ringer.
The Ringer’s Growing Influence
The Ringer has evolved into a multimedia platform that focuses on in-depth analysis rather than breaking news. Unlike traditional sports media, The Ringer prioritizes thoughtful, well-reasoned discussions over quick reactions. Their model allows analysts to explore topics deeply rather than rushing to be first on a story.
This approach aligns perfectly with Lowe’s style. He thrives on breaking down team strategies, offensive sets, and defensive schemes. His ability to dissect the NBA in an engaging, detailed manner makes him a natural fit for The Ringer’s brand.
The Ringer’s success in attracting top talent has been bolstered by Simmons’ own decision to stay with Spotify. Simmons was heading toward free agency earlier this year but extended his deal, solidifying The Ringer as a long-term force in sports media.
What’s Next for Lowe?
Lowe’s return to basketball media comes at a crucial time. The NBA season is entering its most intense phase, with playoff races heating up. Fans have missed his insights, especially during major events like the Luka Dončić trade to the Los Angeles Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies’ decision to fire Taylor Jenkins.
One can expect Lowe’s podcast to feature the same high-level analysis that made The Lowe Post one of the most respected NBA shows. He will likely dive into playoff matchups, trade rumors, and long-term team-building strategies. His presence at The Ringer also suggests that he may contribute written pieces, much like Todd McShay has done since joining The Ringer for NFL coverage.
With Lowe’s arrival, The Ringer strengthens its reputation as a destination for top-tier sports analysis. Fans eager for intelligent, thoughtful basketball discussion will finally get their fix again. As Simmons put it, “It’s happening.”
Credit: Allen Kee / ESPN images
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