Live Recording of ‘The Roommates Show’ with Josh Hart, Tom Brady, and Lil Wayne

Live Podcast Recording with Josh Hart, Tom Brady, and Lil Wayne

On a vibrant Friday in mid-August, Josh Hart took center stage, microphone in hand, as he settled into a chair, adjusting the brim of his baseball cap. To his left sat the legendary former N.F.L. quarterback Tom Brady and the renowned rapper Lil Wayne, both comfortably positioned on a sleek black leather love seat. To his right was his close friend and New York Knicks teammate, Jalen Brunson, who was mirrored in a matching easy chair.

As Hart looked beyond Brunson, he turned his attention to the only individual onstage who required an introduction. “That’s the man, the myth, the legend: Matt Hillman,” Hart announced with enthusiasm. “If you’re familiar with the podcast, you know Matty Ice.”

“I’m the only one onstage you guys don’t know,” Hillman responded modestly, eliciting laughter from the audience.

“Y’all will know who he is by the end of the show,” Hart reassured the crowd, setting the tone for an engaging evening.

This lively gathering marked the recording of the inaugural live episode of their podcast, “The Roommates Show,” at Fanatics Fest NYC. Since its inception in February, the podcast has garnered a growing audience, largely due to the popularity and personal connections of the rising Knicks team. Hart and Brunson are part of a dynamic group that includes four players who were not only teammates at Villanova but also shared living spaces as roommates.

Returning to the microphone, Hillman added, “I’m the only one onstage you guys don’t know,” an acknowledgment of the unique role he plays in this entertaining trio.

As the evening unfolded, it became clear that the podcast operates within a bustling niche. Though there’s no official count, various online sources estimate that nearly 60 podcasts are hosted by current or former N.B.A. players. Last season alone, active players launched at least two dozen podcasts, which translates to roughly one podcast for every 20 players in the league.

Beyond their sheer numbers, another intriguing aspect of this segment of sports media has emerged: more than half of these podcasts feature relatively anonymous co-hosts, like Hillman, who bring a fresh perspective to the conversations.