Five sports podcasts on Netflix to keep playing in the background
Before you read ahead, we want to let you know that we are not saying these podcasts will fix your attention span… But if you have ever switched tabs hundreds of times while watching a game, this is your moment. You don’t even need to watch anymore because Netflix podcasts are here.
All you need is to play any of these in the background and enjoy the wild sports theories playing in your ear like background noise sent from the gods of athletic drama. One of the few genres Netflix was left to conquer was podcasts, and now, with some of the brilliant ones in its catalogue, the OTT looks ready.
And it’s not all whistle blows and play-by-plays. These shows have opinions. Hosts are fighting, and there is always someone yelling about a trade that ruined their life.
Also, yes, these are all official Netflix now. Like, actual audio you can stream while doing your gaming or weekly cleanup, or even cooking. And you don’t need to be a forever fan, or if you just started watching for the hot players (valid), you will find something here to keep your brain stimulated while your hands are busy doing… whatever.
Five sports podcasts on Netflix to keep playing in the background
The Bill Simmons Podcast (2026)
Bill Simmons can be called your sports-obsessed uncle, but with clout and zero filter. The man knows EVERYTHING from NBA deep lore to random movie takes, and he will explain it whether you asked or not. Every episode feels like a YouTube rabbit hole you didn’t mean to fall into, but now you are invested.
This guy is always dragging teams while he is hyping players and randomly dropping movie references mid-rant. One second, it’s Celtics vs Lakers, and the next, it’s a deep dive into certain films changing cinema. He brings in athletes and celebs, and who doesn’t want to watch that?
Pardon My Take (2016-)
Have you seen clips from those podcasts where the anchors shout across the couch at each other? Pardon My Take is exactly the same. It is loud and absolutely refuses to take sports too seriously. Hosted by Big Cat and PFT Commenter, these two throw jokes, hot takes, and completely random segments into the mix. One second, they are making fun of a press conference, the next, they are calling an athlete “elite” for no reason. And it works.
You don’t need to know all the stats or teams to enjoy this. These guys will tell you what matters and then go off on some ridiculous tangent that still connects to the game. It is fun and totally unpredictable. Perfect for those afternoons when you need background noise while doing your laundry.
Game Over with Max Kellerman and Rich Paul (2025)
Now this one is total fire. Game Over pairs veteran sports commentator Max Kellerman with Rich Paul. Yes, that Rich Paul, LeBron James’ long-time agent and power figure in the NBA. Together, they break down everything happening in the sports world with the insight that hits different when it is coming from two guys who have actually been inside the game. And while it sounds intense, it is surprisingly easy to follow, even if you’re new to this stuff.
The episodes move fast, but not in a confusing way. They hit the biggest headlines and talk strategy. The cherry on top is that they always add that little bit of behind-the-scenes drama that makes you want to keep listening.
Spittin’ Chiclets (2016-)
Hockey fans, this one is for you. Spittin’ Chiclets brings locker room energy straight into your ears. It is hosted by former NHL players and sports media pros who know the game inside out. Luckily, these people are not gatekeepers. They will talk plays and trades, but they will also tell wild behind-the-scenes stories that feel like secrets you are not supposed to hear.
Even if you are not a hockey expert, you will still find something to latch onto, whether it’s a funny player story or a rant about the playoffs. It is like sitting at the table with people who love the game and just want to tell you everything.
The Ringer NBA Show (2016-)
And finally, we have got The Ringer NBA Show, which is basically NBA talk on max power mode. It is hosted by a rotation of smart, funny voices who genuinely love the league. One day, they are analysing playoff strategies, the next, they are joking about tunnel fits. Basically, it’s NBA fandom from every angle, and yes, it’s fun even if you are still learning the difference between a fast break and a zone defence.
The natural flow of this podcast is what makes it a perfect background show. The hosts always have a fun banter going on. One second, they are being all goofy, and the next, they have a deep take on something. You can tune in mid-episode and still get something out of it.