NBA Media: Bill Simmons Expected to Re-Up With Spotify

Simmons, who sold The Ringer to Spotify for a reported $250 million back in 2020, has a five-year deal that’s nearing its end. But it looks like he’s not ready to walk away from the streaming giant just yet.

Simmons has continued to be deeply involved in long-term projects with Spotify, and his current discussions suggest that he’s not just looking for a quick extension but rather a broader vision for the future of his platform.

This could be a sign that both sides are aligning for another run, despite some of the frustrations Simmons has expressed in the past.

The New York Post reported last year that Simmons had “exploratory conversations” with other companies about launching a new platform. It’s no secret that Simmons has had issues with Spotify’s corporate structure, particularly when it comes to his ability to attract and retain the type of talent he feels The Ringer needs to compete at the highest level.

In recent months, however, The Ringer has been aggressive in bolstering its staff, bringing in notable names like Todd McShay, Kirk Goldsberry, and David Jacoby — all of which point to Simmons’ commitment to building a stronger, more dynamic operation at Spotify.

The question now becomes how these tensions will ultimately impact Simmons’ relationship with Spotify moving forward.

If a new deal is on the table, it could signal both sides are ready to make the necessary adjustments to ensure long-term success. But with Simmons’ track record of making bold moves, it wouldn’t be a surprise if this renewal comes with a few twists of its own.