The hottest Athletes Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Sports Topics

So When Are We Allowed to Ask the Patrick Mahomes Question?

Freddie deBoer • 5321 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Football Analysis Athletes Statistics Media
  1. Patrick Mahomes has had a noticeable decline in his performance over the last two seasons, which is surprising for someone viewed as one of the best quarterbacks. People should be allowed to discuss this drop in stats and performance even if his team continues to win.
  2. Despite still being a good quarterback, his recent numbers do not match the elite standards he set earlier in his career, which raises questions about his current ability. His style of play has shifted from aggressive to more conservative, leading to fewer big plays.
  3. Sports media often avoids criticizing star players like Mahomes due to their past success and the team's winning record. However, if other quarterbacks experienced similar declines, they would likely face significant scrutiny, suggesting that it's time for a more honest conversation about Mahomes.

The Profile: The son trying to live up to his father’s NBA legacy & the fentanyl vaccine that would prevent overdoses

The Profile • 297 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Athletes Health Influencers Vaccine Culture
  1. Bronny James, son of LeBron James, faces big expectations as he tries to make his mark in the NBA. Many believe he might struggle under the pressure of living up to his father's legendary status.
  2. The influencer brothers known as the Baseball Bat Bros have become major players in the bat market, rivaling professional athletes. Through fun and engaging videos, they have turned their hobby into a successful brand.
  3. A new vaccine could help prevent overdoses from fentanyl, which has become a huge problem in recent years. This development offers hope for combating the opioid crisis and saving lives.

How to Be Hated: A Patriots Fan’s Advice to Chiefs Nation

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1525 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Football Athletes Teams Fan culture Sports History
  1. Winning consistently can make fans of a team less popular with others. Many people get tired of seeing the same team win all the time.
  2. The Kansas City Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, have had massive success lately, making them a target for other fans' frustration.
  3. People can feel a mix of admiration and annoyance towards successful teams, especially when they dominate the playoffs and Super Bowls.

Nothing is Ever Lamar Jackson's Fault

Freddie deBoer • 3558 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🎾 Sports Football Media Athletes Performance Criticism
  1. Lamar Jackson is a great quarterback but often gets excused for his poor performances in important games. Many in the media seem to overlook his mistakes while criticizing other quarterbacks more harshly.
  2. Some people defend Jackson by pointing to others' mistakes in games, but they ignore that a quarterback's turnovers are significant in losing. It's not fair to just blame teammates when the QB makes big errors.
  3. Using playoff wins to judge quarterbacks is tricky. If Jackson played like others, he would face more criticism. Fairness in criticism should apply to all players, regardless of their race or past achievements.

And The '24-25 NBA Champion Will Be...

Knicks Film School • 654 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Teams Predictions
  1. The NBA is seeing rising scoring trends, but this might change as the league is allowing more physical play. This could lead to lower scoring games in the upcoming season.
  2. There are discussions about adding players to teams, with specific names being considered for roster spots due to injuries and team needs.
  3. Former Knicks player Jamal Crawford will be joining the broadcast team, providing commentary for about ten games next season.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Welcoming (Not So) Old Friends

Knicks Film School • 1051 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Teams History
  1. Julius Randle's journey with the Knicks has been full of ups and downs, but he played a huge role in turning the team's fortunes around. He went from being seen as an afterthought to an All-Star player.
  2. Despite his impressive stats and contribution to the team, Randle might not receive the love he deserves from fans. Many see him as a complex figure, and his departure has sparked mixed feelings among supporters.
  3. Randle's legacy in New York will be shaped by how the team continues to perform after his exit. His impact was significant, making him one of the most important Knicks, but fans will see how they remember him as time passes.

My plan to fix the NBA All-Star game

Silver Bulletin • 249 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Basketball Events Athletes Competitions Entertainment
  1. The NBA All-Star Game has seen declining competitive play, with fewer fouls and lower stakes making it less exciting for fans.
  2. A proposed 3-on-3 tournament features All-Stars lined up by their NBA teams to create chemistry and pride, potentially improving game intensity.
  3. Changing the format to emphasize personal pride and fun might make the All-Star event more enjoyable and engaging for both players and fans.

For Me, the Lack of Individual Creativity and Shot Creation in the Half Court is the Real Problem with the NBA

Freddie deBoer • 3465 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Coaching Sports culture Performance
  1. The NBA has become too focused on team systems and analytics, which limits individual creativity and shot-making. This means fans don't see as much exciting, personal play on the court anymore.
  2. Players now are often coached to follow strict offensive structures, which can make their gameplay feel robotic and less entertaining, especially compared to past stars like Kobe or McGrady.
  3. The current rules and playing styles could be adjusted to allow more freedom for star players, making games more engaging and fun for fans.

Who Should be the Fifth Starter?

Knicks Film School • 753 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Teams Games Analysis
  1. There's a debate about who should start as the fifth player on the team, with a focus on Deuce McBride and Josh Hart. Fans have strong opinions on who would be better.
  2. The idea of happiness comes up, suggesting that sometimes people aren’t satisfied and always want more, even if the team seems set for the season.
  3. As the team moves toward the opening night, discussions around player choices are heating up, reflecting ongoing excitement and anticipation for the season.

And the Award Goes To...

Knicks Film School • 615 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball NBA Athletes Teams Coaching
  1. The Knicks are expected to be strong this season, with a significant number of general managers predicting they will finish in the top three of the Eastern Conference.
  2. Jalen Brunson is recognized as one of the best point guards, with many executives valuing his leadership qualities.
  3. The Knicks had a successful offseason, with their player acquisitions being highlighted as impactful moves, and the team's offensive efficiency being acknowledged as a strength.

Luka Doncic and the market for lemons

Silver Bulletin • 679 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Trade Analysis Market
  1. Luka Doncic being traded to the Lakers surprised everyone because such big trades are rare. Usually, it happens when teams are struggling or a player is unhappy.
  2. Typically, there's a lot of drama leading up to a superstar trade, but Doncic's trade happened suddenly without warning signs.
  3. People are questioning whether the Mavericks made a poor choice in trading Doncic without getting more in return, stirring curiosity about their decision-making.

Nevermore

Secretum Secretorum • 454 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎾 Sports Football Athletes Games Teamwork Fan culture
  1. Sports can evoke strong emotions and create alternate realities in our minds. After a tough loss, it can be helpful to imagine a better outcome.
  2. There are words or ideas that can deeply affect us, either breaking us down or helping us heal. It's important to recognize both the harsh truths and the potential for recovery.
  3. In life, teamwork and understanding are crucial. Just like in sports, everyone plays a role, and being supportive can help everyone move forward together.

Under-the-Radar Lob Threats for the 2025 NBA Draft

Chad Ford's NBA Big Board • 59 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Draft Prospects Analysis
  1. Vertical lob threats are important in the NBA because they help create offensive space, making it easier to score. They can change games by forcing defenses to choose between protecting the rim or the perimeter.
  2. Having players who can catch lobs and finish at the rim opens opportunities for shooters and playmakers. This diversifies the team's strategy and keeps defenses guessing.
  3. Prospects like Miles Rubin show promise as lob threats and could surprise teams in the 2025 NBA Draft. Their unique skills might not always show in stats but can be crucial for team success.

Banishing The Inner Critic

The Ruffian • 245 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Athletes Psychology Competition Performance Tennis
  1. Madison Keys won the Australian Open by playing more instinctively and accepting her mistakes. She realized that losing while being true to herself was better than winning by playing tightly and feeling stressed.
  2. She worked on her mental health through therapy, which helped her feel happier and less burdened by the pressure to win. She learned that success in tennis doesn't define her worth as a person.
  3. Keys found success by caring less about the outcome of her matches. By reducing her focus on winning, she could play more freely and confidently.

Freshmen Fireworks: Top Prospects Dominate in Exhibition Action

Chad Ford's NBA Big Board • 79 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Exhibitions College sports
  1. Top freshmen are making a strong impression in exhibition games. Players like Cooper Flagg and Ace Bailey are showcasing their talent and preparing for the upcoming season.
  2. Cooper Flagg is projected as a potential No. 1 pick for the 2025 NBA Draft. He had an impressive outing with 22 points and several assists and blocks in his debut.
  3. There are emerging talents from overseas like Mouhamad Faye who could surprise everyone in the 2025 draft. Keep an eye on these rising stars as the season progresses.

The Endless, Perplexing Controversies Over (How We Talk About) Lamar Jackson

Freddie deBoer • 2691 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🎾 Sports Athletes Media Performance Controversies Football
  1. Lamar Jackson is an outstanding quarterback, but he faces unique scrutiny compared to others, especially regarding his playoff performance. Many see criticism of his playoff games as unfair, considering he has had a strong regular season.
  2. The media often treats Jackson differently than other quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, despite similar playoff records. This shows a possible double standard in how these players are discussed.
  3. Winning a Super Bowl is crucial for a quarterback's legacy, and both Jackson and Prescott need to prove themselves in the playoffs to be considered among the best. Fans and analysts should recognize this reality instead of making excuses.

Cooper Flagg Should Sue The Guardian For Premeditated Offense Archaeology

Singal-Minded • 761 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Media Criticism Culture Athletes
  1. Cooper Flagg is a talented basketball player heading to the NBA draft, which is notable since American-born white players are rare at that level. This makes him a subject of unique interest.
  2. The article about him tries to link his potential impact on basketball to another player, Caitlin Clark, but fails to explain why he is considered 'discourse-breaking'.
  3. The writer seems to be digging for offense in the article where there may not be much, raising questions about the need to politicize college basketball through Flagg's story.

Is Tom Brady Worth $375 Million To Fox?

Huddle Up • 29 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Broadcasting Athletes Contracts Media NFL
  1. Tom Brady recently finished his first season as a broadcaster in the NFL. His debut was closely watched as he announced some big games.
  2. His broadcasting contract with Fox is worth $375 million, which raises the question if he will bring in that amount in value.
  3. The TV ratings and viewership numbers from his broadcasts will be important to determine his impact and worth to the network.

Is it crazy to pay Juan Soto $765 million?

Silver Bulletin • 486 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🎾 Sports Contracts MLB Economics Athletes
  1. The New York sports market is very big, and winning teams bring in a lot of money from fans. People in New York are willing to pay for tickets to see successful teams.
  2. Juan Soto's huge contract of $765 million has raised eyebrows, but it's not just about the money—it's also about attracting fans and maintaining a competitive edge.
  3. The Mets needed a star player to improve their popularity and attendance, especially when compared to the more successful Yankees. This contract might be a gamble, but it could pay off in the long run.

Who I’d pick for the Baseball Hall of Fame

Silver Bulletin • 186 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎾 Sports Baseball Hall of Fame Athletes Performance Culture
  1. Ichiro Suzuki is a top pick for the Baseball Hall of Fame and may get in unanimously. His hit record is impressive and he's respected for his contributions.
  2. Recent Hall of Fame ballots include many international players, which shows baseball's growing diversity. This means that performance from players around the world is important.
  3. When considering Hall of Fame candidates, both statistics and a player's character matter. Some great players, despite their achievements, face scrutiny over their behavior or past controversies.

How Kobe Bryant's $400 Million Investment Win Set The Standard For Athlete Investing

Huddle Up • 55 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
💼 Business Investing Athletes Finance Entrepreneurship Success
  1. Kobe Bryant made a significant investment of $400 million, which shows how athletes can succeed financially after their sports careers. It highlights the importance of smart investing for athletes.
  2. Kobe's dedication and work ethic were key to his success, not just in sports but also in business. This shows that hard work can pay off in multiple fields.
  3. His achievements in investing have set a new standard for how other athletes think about their financial futures. Athletes today can learn from his example.

Playing your best, up to the end

The Leap • 339 implied HN points • 19 Jul 24
🎾 Sports Games Competitions Events Athletes Strategy
  1. Playing your best is important, even when things look tough. It helps you learn and grow, no matter the outcome.
  2. Tracking your progress can give you valuable insights, especially when it comes to unexpected results. It’s a great way to see where you stand.
  3. Life can be like poker; sometimes you don't win, but that doesn’t mean you didn’t play well or that you can’t improve for next time.

Nick Wright and the Shameless Clown Industry

Freddie deBoer • 4857 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🎾 Sports Media Athletes Criticism Fans Industry
  1. Sports media can sometimes be toxic with aimless shouting and pointless provocations.
  2. Nick Wright exemplifies how sports media can corrupt individuals, where his persona often overshadows his potential thoughtful side.
  3. Wright's obsessive criticism and cruelty towards athletes, like Josh Allen and Nikola Jokic, stems from personal biases and a lack of accountability in the sports media industry.

Free Friday: Filling the Void

JoeBlogs • 2299 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🎾 Sports Football Baseball Athletes Coaching Writing
  1. Nick Saban and Bill Belichick are two legendary football coaches facing retirement and the question of finding happiness in the future.
  2. Coaching greats like Bobby Bowden and Joe Paterno faced the difficulty of retiring from their passion.
  3. The writer discusses the disappearance of old writings and the upcoming decision about staying on Substack.

The Case for Joey Votto

JoeBlogs • 3459 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🎾 Sports Baseball Athletes Hall of Fame
  1. Fame and recognition can impact a player's Hall of Fame induction.
  2. A player's value on the field might not always reflect their chances of being in the Hall of Fame.
  3. Joey Votto's case sheds light on how Hall of Fame decisions are influenced.

Mark Cuban, Kobe Bryant: Two More Theories on Why the Luka Dončić Happened

House of Strauss • 37 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Athletes Teams Management Trade Analysis
  1. Mark Cuban hired Nico Harrison as GM, but it seems he was not ready for the job. This has led to problems that only became noticeable later.
  2. There are underlying reasons for the issues that the NBA community is aware of, even if they don't openly discuss them.
  3. Kobe Bryant's influence and theories regarding the situation may also provide additional insights into what is happening with Luka Dončić and the Mavericks.

Did Taylor's man Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs) kneel during the national anthem? Is this the same moron, the same reckless punk to endorse Pfizer mRNA (Malone, Bourla, Bancel, Weissman et al.) vaccine?

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 1631 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Healthcare Athletes
  1. Questioning Travis Kelce's actions during the national anthem.
  2. Criticism of Kelce endorsing the Pfizer mRNA vaccine.
  3. Speculating on the responsibility of Kelce and others for deaths related to the vaccine.

I Hate That I Hate the Chiefs

House of Strauss • 40 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎾 Sports Football Athletes Teams Fan culture Competitions
  1. Many fans dislike the Chiefs despite recognizing their talent and success. It’s common to root against the best teams because of the competitive spirit in sports.
  2. The Chiefs have a smart strategy as a team, making clever choices like investing in undervalued positions. This shows they are not just relying on big names but are focused on building a strong overall team.
  3. People often blame luck or outside factors for a team's success, but successful teams like the Chiefs are usually better and make fewer mistakes during important games.

Gonzo Awards: Worst Decision Of The Year

Richard Lewis • 1316 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🎾 Sports Esports Gaming Athletes
  1. Esports can be full of drama and downfalls due to incompetent narcissists.
  2. Astralis made a series of questionable decisions involving a coach named Hunden.
  3. Astralis' actions resulted in denigration of their own legacy, angering the community, lawsuits, fines, and no improvement in tournament results.

Necessary Brilliance

Knicks Film School • 833 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Game analysis Team performance
  1. The game between the Knicks and Wizards was closely contested and Jalen Brunson played a key role in securing the win.
  2. Jalen Brunson delivered an exceptional performance in the game, showcasing his value and determination as a player.
  3. Despite some issues in the team's roster, the Knicks were able to survive and win thanks to Jalen Brunson's contributions.

The NBA is Better Off Because LeBronism is Fading Out

House of Strauss • 60 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Leagues Viewership
  1. LeBron James has influenced the NBA by showing players they can prioritize their personal brand over team loyalty. This shift made some fans feel disconnected as players seem less committed to the teams they play for.
  2. As LeBron's career fades, younger players are becoming more loyal to their drafted teams. This trend could create stronger connections between fans and players, which is good for the game.
  3. The NBA is in a better place financially now compared to when LeBron entered the league. The growing loyalty among players and updates in the league may help boost its popularity moving forward.