Southwest Bias - Daily Arizona Sports Talk
Southwest Bias with Espo is the daily Arizona sports podcast that pulls no punches. Every weekday at 11AM, host Espo breaks down the hottest topics in Arizona sports with takes you won't hear anywhere else. From the Arizona Diamondbacks chasing another World Series run, to the Phoenix Suns rebuilding, the Arizona Cardinals fighting for relevance, and everything in between — Southwest Bias covers it all with passion, humor, and zero filter. If you bleed Arizona sports, this is your show. 🐍🏀🏈⚾ New episodes every weekday at 11AM. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and everywhere you listen. Follow us on X, Instagram, and YouTube @PHNX...
Phoenix Suns in DANGER? What is REALLY Going on With Mat Ishbia
Mat Ishbia's United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM) has faced some unexpected financial difficulty, including massive losses, a dramatic decline in UWM stock, a suspended dividend and a major capital injection involving Oaktree. Those developments have raised an obvious question for Phoenix Suns fans: Could UWM's issues eventually impact the Suns?
Wednesday an article on the Substack Huddle Up by Joe Popliano sparked a major conversation about Ishbia's finances, and whether his business situation could put his ownership of Phoenix's NBA franchise at risk. The story has created plenty of speculation—and understandably so.
Bu...
Is Ketel Marte Just LOST Or A LOST CAUSE For Arizona Diamondbacks?
Ketel Marte's unexpected situation has raised major questions about his status, his future with the Diamondbacks, and what this could mean for Arizona as it fights to stay in the MLB playoff race.**
After two days with no real explanation and conflicting reports, Is Ketel Marte simply dealing with a temporary setback, or has this become a much bigger problem for the Diamondbacks? And with so much uncertainty surrounding one of Arizona's biggest stars, is Marte LOST or could he actually be becoming a LOST CAUSE?**
this episode of Southwest Bias, Es...
Ketel Marte’s DISAPPEARANCE: The STRANGEST Story in Arizona Sports
What is going on with Ketel Marte?
The Arizona Diamondbacks star has become the center of one of the strangest stories in Arizona sports history, and the questions surrounding his absence in Boston have only made the situation more confusing,
Is there something beyond what’s on the surface going on with Ketel? Is he simply a diva that is trying to make his own rules? Is the truth somewhere in between?
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down the entire Ketel Marte situation, the lates...
Jeremiyah Love Is HURT... Did Mike LaFleur Just COST the Arizona Cardinals?
The Arizona Cardinals offense is turning heads under Mike LaFleur — and there’s a lot to like. But with the
Jeremiyah Love is OUT — and now the Arizona Cardinals have a major question to answer.
Did Mike LaFleur just cost the Cardinals by giving Love 14 touches? Some are already saying LaFleur made a mistake by leaning so heavily on one of Arizona’s most important offensive weapons. Now, with Jeremiyah Love sidelined, the Cardinals have to figure out how to move forward — and whether the decision to give him those 14 touches played a rol...
Mike LaFleur Has the Cardinals Offense ALMOST PERFECT But Is It SUSTAINABLE?
New head coach Mike LaFleur has the Arizona Cardinals showing flashes of an offense that looks almost perfect through the first two preseason games. The biggest question is whether they can have this level of success in the regular season.
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down what Mike LaFleur is doing differently with the Cardinals offense, why the early results are so encouraging, if the quarterbacks might be alright and whether Arizona has found something that can translate into the regular season.
We’ll look at the Arizona Card...
Jeremiyah Love Is The MOST IGNORED Arizona Cardinal + Carson Beck OUT Tonight
While the headlines surrounding Arizona have understandably focused on Jacoby Brissett and Carson Beck and the Cardinals' quarterback situation, Love has quietly been putting himself in position to become one of the most intriguing young players on this roster.
But outside of Arizona, where is the attention?
For the most part, Jeremiyah Love has been flying completely under the radar. The only real national attention he's received recently came from a New York Post story that was based on a false report, rather than his actual performance and potential shown in tr...
Jacoby Brissett's BIG Test: Arizona Cardinals QB Battle vs. Raiders
Five debates. One ballot. Rank your G.O.A.T.s and rep your city: https://gophnx.com/the-goat-debate
When Jacoby Brissett takes the field against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday, he’ll get his first chance this preseason to make a case to Arizona Cardinals fans why he was named the starter. But is the pressure starting to build for the veteran?
Carson Beck has started to gain attention and generate buzz around Cardinals training camp, showing flashes that caught the attention of fans and national observers alike. But for...
Carson Beck OVERHYPED? Or Did the Cardinals Finally Find Their QB?
Carson Beck is quickly becoming one of the biggest storylines at Arizona Cardinals training camp and now the national football media is jumping on the Beck train.
National analysts are starting to push for Carson Beck to get the starting quarterback job in Arizona, but is the hype justified? Or are Cardinals fans and the media getting ahead of themselves?
In this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down Carson Beck’s rise at Cardinals camp, why his performance has caught the attention of national football analysts, and whether the former Geor...
The ONE Thing the Phoenix Suns CANNOT Do to Devin Booker
The Phoenix Suns have made it clear: Devin Booker is the franchise. But if that's true, there's one thing they absolutely cannot do next.
On today's episode of Southwest Bias, Espo looks at a comparison that Arizona sports fans know all too well. At the end of Larry Fitzgerald’s career the Arizona Cardinals failed to consistently build a championship contender around him, the Suns risk making the same mistake with Devin Booker.
Booker has already cemented himself as one of the most loyal and greatest players in Phoenix Suns history. The...
Carson Beck Just Changed the Arizona Cardinals' QB Competition
Did Carson Beck just change the conversation around the Arizona Cardinals' quarterback competition?
After an impressive performance in the Hall of Fame Game moving the ball with ease down the field, Carson Beck gave Cardinals fans plenty to be excited about. While it's not a full-blown QB controversy, the rookie may have just made things a whole lot more interesting in the battle with Jacoby Brissett. Has Beck earned more opportunities? And what does his performance mean for Mike LaFleur’s longterm plans under center?
On today's episode of Southwest Bias, Espo...
Can the Phoenix Suns Shock the NBA? | Josh Bartelstein Joins Southwest Bias
Are the Phoenix Suns being overlooked heading into the new NBA season? While much of the conversation has centered around the Western Conference favorites, Phoenix may have quietly built a roster that’s better than many analysts are giving it credit for.
In this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down why the Suns could be one of the NBA’s biggest surprises, what’s fueling the skepticism, and whether this team has what it takes to make real noise when the games matter most. From roster depth and coaching to the biggest questions that still n...
Carson Beck Just Got His Chance. Is the Cardinals’ QB Job Up for Grabs?
Carson Beck will get his opportunity Arizona Cardinals fans have been waiting for... but will he do enough in the Hall of Fame Game to make this a real quarterback competition?
On today's episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down Beck's first real chance to impress, what it means for the Cardinals' QB room, and whether the battle for QB1 could eventually materialize. Is Carson Beck going to make a legitimate push? Is Jacoby Brissett's job actually under pressure, or is this simply the next step in Beck's development?
We dive in...
Did Mike Hazen Admit the Diamondbacks Blew the MLB Trade Deadline?
Did Arizona Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen reveal more than he intended after the MLB Trade Deadline?
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down Mike Hazen's latest comments, if they were refreshing honesty or something else and whether Arizona missed a golden opportunity to strengthen its roster for a postseason push. Did Hazen admit the front office fell short, or is there more to the story than fans realize?
We'll examine what was said, what the Diamondbacks did and didn't do at the MLB Trade Deadline, and what it me...
Did This One Move Just Reveal the Phoenix Suns' Master Plan? 👀
Could the Phoenix Mercury have just shown what the Phoenix Suns might do in the future if continuity doesn’t work out?
After making a blockbuster move to acquire Kelsey Plum, the Mercury proved they're willing to pivot aggressively in pursuit of a championship. Could owner Mat Ishbia take a similar approach with the Phoenix Suns if this season doesn't go according to plan? Did one move reveal what the future of basketball in the Valley could look like?
On today's episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down why the Mercury's bold...
Baker Mayfeield is Disgruntled ... Is this The Arizona Cardinals Chance?
The Arizona Cardinals have a quarterback question to answer—and Baker Mayfield may have just entered the conversation.
Reports suggest Baker Mayfield is unhappy with his current situation, raising an intriguing question: should Monti Ossenfort and the Cardinals explore a blockbuster move? Or is Kyler Murray still the clear answer under center?
On today's episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down whether Baker Mayfield is a realistic option for Arizona, what a potential trade could look like and whether making a move would help or hurt the Cardinals' future under Mike LaFleur..
...
Carson Beck's Stock Is UP But Who Is Trending DOWN
The Arizona Cardinals are back on the practice field, and it's time for a Southwest Bias Stock Report.
Who's trending up? Carson Beck started to build momentum at training camp Wednesday, with more signs that his future in Arizona is getting brighter. But not everyone is making the same kind of impression. Which players are seeing their stock fall and who are on the rise, and what could it mean for the Cardinals as the preseason approaches?
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down the biggest risers and fallers fr...
Cardinals Fans Are Doing to Marvin Harrison Jr. What They Did to Kyler Murray
Are Arizona Cardinals fans overreacting to Marvin Harrison Jr.'s training camp drops? That's the question we're tackling on this episode of Southwest Bias.
A few drops in training camp have sparked plenty of conversation, criticism, and concern—but is the reaction justified, or are Cardinals fans repeating the same pattern we've seen with other stars like Kyler Murray? Espo breaks down why it's far too early to hit the panic button, what training camp is actually for, and why Marvin Harrison Jr.'s long-term outlook shouldn't be defined by a handful of practice reps.
We...
Trey McBride Is the Biggest Reason the Cardinals Could Shock the NFL
Is Trey McBride already the best tight end in the NFL? After earning a 99 rating in Madden NFL 27, the Arizona Cardinals' star has officially entered football's elite—and he may be the biggest reason this offense is ready to surprise the entire league.
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down why McBride has become the Cardinals most trusted weapon, what makes him the NFL's top tight end, and how his continued dominance could unlock the Cardinals offense in 2026 alongside Jeremiyah Love, Michael Willson and Marvin Harrison Jr.. Can Arizona become one of the NFL...
Jacoby Brissett’s New Deal Could End One Cardinals Time in Arizona
Could Jacoby Brissett’s new contract end up being the move that defines Monti Ossenfort’s tenure as Arizona Cardinals general manager? 🤔 On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down why the Cardinals’ decision to bring back Brissett could have much bigger implications than just adding a veteran quarterback.
Is this smart move, or is Arizona taking an unnecessary risk that could backfire if the season goes sideways? We discuss what this contract says about the Cardinals’ direction, the pressure on Ossenfort, Mike LaFluer’s role, and why this move could ultimately determine the future of the...
How LeBron James Just HELPED The Phoenix Suns By WEAKENING The West
LeBron James may have just done the Phoenix Suns a huge favor as he chose the Philadelphia 76ers over teams like the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves.
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down how LeBron's latest move could reshape the NBA’s Western Conference landscape and why it may have opened the door for the Phoenix Suns to capitalize. Whether it's the trade market, roster construction, or the Western Conference playoff picture, this is one development that has a ripple effect for the Suns.
The West just got...
Carson Beck & Jeremiyah Love Just Gave Cardinals Fans REAL Hope
The Arizona Cardinals have spent years searching for a foundation to build around, but could Carson Beck and Jeremiyah Love finally be giving fans a reason to believe the future is brighter? Plus what other things have us thinking positively has the Cardinals start training camp?
On today's episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down why the Cardinals' young offensive core has created real optimism, why Mike LaFleur provides hope, how the Wideouts are on deck for a big year and how one defensive could change everything.
We dive into into al...
The Phoenix Suns Have to Answer for Miles Bridges And Take Their BIGGEST RISK Yet
With both Miles Bridges and Phoenix Suns General Manager Brian Gregory speaking to the local media Wednesday, this is the first opportunity for the organization to publicly explain one of the most controversial moves of the Mat Ishbia era.
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down why the Phoenix Suns' decision involving Miles Bridges is about far more than basketball. What questions need to be answered, and will their responses satisfy Suns fans? And what could actually make the situation potentially worse.
We dive into what this means for Ma...
Will Jacoby Brissett Report to Training Camp Or Is This Contract Standoff About to EXPLODE?!
Will Jacoby Brissett report when Arizona Cardinals training camp begins on Thursday, or is a new contract still standing in the way? With camp just around the corner, the clock is ticking on one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Cardinals heading into the 2026 NFL season.
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down the latest on Jacoby Brissett's contract situation, what it means for Mike LaFleur's offense, why the Cardinals need clarity before training camp, and how this could impact the quarterback room, Carson Beck, and the team's preparation for Week 1. Is a n...
The Phoenix Suns Gave Fans Hope in Vegas… But the Hardest Part Starts Now
The Phoenix Suns gave fans something to believe in during NBA Summer League in Las Vegas—but how much should we really take away from it?
On this episode of **Southwest Bias**, Espo breaks down what the Suns actually proved in Vegas, why there are legitimate reasons for optimism with Khaman Maluach, Koa Peat and Rasheer Fleming, and the biggest challenge that still stands between Phoenix and becoming a true contender. From the young players who impressed to the organizational direction on display Summer League had its fair share of meaningful progress and overhype.
...
Cardinals Facing a Training Camp DEADLINE With Jacoby Brissett
The Arizona Cardinals are facing a training camp deadline with quarterback Jacoby Brissett and his contract dispute. Will the two sides come to a compromised deal before next week and the 2026 NFL season? How the Cards QB room will likely stack up going into the preseason for Mike LaFleur. Plus, the Phoenix Suns Summer League comes to an end but the team got two huge answers during its time in Las Vegas!
0:00 Intro
4:00 Jacoby Brissett contract dispute
17:15 Suns nailed their Summer League
23:00 A game of 20-0
...
Koa Peat Played Like A TOP 10 PICK In NBA Summer League | Will It TRANSLATE?
The Phoenix Suns selected Koa Peat with the 30th overall pick. Peat’s level of talent is historically unheard of for the 30th overall pick. How does he measure up to other 30th overall picks? Josh Hart, Desmond Bane, Kevin Porter Jr and others are all 30th overall picks from the last decade.
Peat is putting together an impressive summer league and is even out performing some of the top picks in this draft. Should Peat have been a lottery pick? Outside of the AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson class has Pea...
Could Suns Rookie Koa Peat Become the GREATEST Story in Arizona Sports History?
Could Suns rookie Koa Peat be on the path to becoming the greatest story in Arizona sports history? We open the show with a debate over whether one of the most highly anticipated basketball talents the state has ever produced has the potential to become the next defining figure in Arizona sports. Is Peat destined to become the face of Arizona sports, or is it too early to crown him? We also break down the latest controversy surrounding Jacoby Brissett’s surprising holdout and why staying away may actually be the right move if Aaron Donald is seriously considering an...
Have The Suns FINALLY Built The Right Roster Around Devin Booker?
The Phoenix Suns have spent the better part of the last five years trying to build the perfect team around Devin Booker. Unfortunately, it’s taken roughly the same timeframe for the Phoenix Suns to realize the old model doesn’t fit Devin Booker or the modern landscape of the NBA. Devin Booker is heading into year 12 in the NBA and the Phoenix Suns may have actually built him a more than serviceable roster for 2026. Join Anthony Totri and Kevin Thomas as the guys discuss it on the latest episode of Southwest Bias!
0:00 - Who is th...
The Arizona Cardinals Should Ride With Carson Beck In 2026
The Arizona Cardinals are at a crossroads at quarterback going into the 2026 season. The Cardinals drafted rookie quarterback Carson Beck in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Nevertheless, quarterback Jacoby Brissett is holding the franchise hostage asking for a raise going into the 2026 campaign. The decision is clear, the Arizona Cardinals need to ride with Carson Beck for the 2026 season. Join Anthony Totri and Kevin Thomas as the guys discuss the situation on the latest episode of Southwest Bias!
0:00 - Totri day!
1:35 - Let's talk Arizona Cardinals
3:00 - What have t...
Will the Cardinals CAVE in Jacoby Brissett Contract Dispute?
Will the Arizona Cardinals cave in their contract dispute with Jacoby Brissett and show him the money?! What a pay raise would actually look like for Brissett to continue as Cards QB1 in 2026. Plus, the Diamondbacks DFA Pavin Smith and the Phoenix Suns tip Summer League.
0:00 - Show him the money
4:30 - Workout flicks
6:20 - Budda Baker speaks out
15:00 - More Brissett
24:00 - Year 4 of the rebuild
27:00 - Pavin Smith DFA'd
30:00 - Superchats
Limited-time offer! Become a Diehard for ju...
Jacoby Brissett Sends Arizona Cardinals Fans a QB1 Reality Check
Jacoby Brissett is sending a message that is a reality check for Arizona Cardinals fans. Despite an ongoing contract dispute, Brissett flexed his presumptive QB1 status by posting a picture on Instagram of him working out with Trey McBride and Marvin Harrison Jr. Is Brissett the inevitable starting quarterback for Mike LaFleur in 2026? What this means for Carson Beck and the Redbirds chances in a stacked NFC West. Plus, are the Diamondbacks spiraling and Torey Lovullo on his last life? The NBA Summer League tips today and the we preview the Phoenix Suns!
0:00 - Intro
Reaction to Trey McBride Comments On Contract & Cardinals Fanbase Has Gotten Out of Control
Reaction to recent comments Arizona Cardinals star Trey McBride made about his contract negotiations and the fanbase has gotten out of control. Why there shouldn’t be as much outrage surrounding McBride’s recent interview on Bussin’ with the Boys. What to make of the All Pro’s comments. Should the Cards pursue QB Baker Mayfield next offseason? The Arizona Diamondbacks and Zach Gallen drop another game, what to do with the struggling starter. Plus, the latest on the Phoenix Suns offseason and hold up on Miles Bridges trade.
0:00 - Intro
3:00 - Let's Not Overr...
The Phoenix Suns' Next 7 Days Could Change Everything 👀
The next 7 days could shape the future of the Phoenix Suns in ways fans won't want to overlook.
With the NBA Summer League tipping off on Friday for the Suns in Las Vegas, all eyes are on Khaman Maluach, Rasheer Fleming, and Koa Peat. Their development could have a major impact on the Suns' short term hopes, long-term plans, roster decisions, and what this team looks like heading into the 2026-27 NBA season. Can Maluach show he's ready to contribute sooner than expected? Will Fleming prove he's a hidden gem ready to play major minutes? I...
Who ARE the Phoenix Suns Now?
The Phoenix Suns look completely different—but who are they really now?
After a roster overhaul to address positional balance, the Suns are entering a new era. Are they something different or are they doubling down on what got them to the playoffs last season? One guy may hold the answers.
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down what defines this version of the Phoenix Suns, what fans should realistically expect, and whether this team finally has the foundation to build something sustainable around Devin Booker.
Is...
As A Suns Fan... I Finally Have To Admit Jordan Is The GOAT 🐐
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Phoenix Suns LAND Luke Kennard But Are They BETTER Than Last Year?
Luke Kennard is officially in Phoenix, giving the Suns one of the best three-point shooters in NBA history and another weapon to surround Devin Booker. On paper, this roster looks deeper, more balanced, and better equipped than last season—but is that enough to make Phoenix a legitimate playoff contender in the Western Conference?
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down what Kennard brings to the Suns, how he fits alongside Booker, what Jordan Ott’s system could look like, the Suns depth chart and whether this offseason has truly addressed the team’s bigge...
What’s Next for the Suns? The Best Free Agent Fits Still Available
The Phoenix Suns made their big move—but is the offseason really over?
On this episode of **Southwest Bias**, we break down what’s next for Phoenix in NBA free agency. Which remaining free agents make the most sense? Can the Suns add more shooting, defense, size, or veteran leadership? And what realistic moves could help Devin Booker and the Suns take another step toward contending in the Western Conference?
We discuss the best available free-agent targets, how Phoenix can maximize its remaining roster spots, and what the front office’s prioriti...
Miles Bridges to the Phoenix Suns? The BIG Questions Everyone Is Asking
Phoenix Suns traded for Miles Bridges, but what does this mean fr the franchise moving forward? Join Espo for this Monday edition of Southwest Bias!
Limited-time offer! Become a Diehard for just $36: https://gophnx.com/intro-offer-youtube
JOIN THE SUPPORTERS CLUB ➡️ https://tinyurl.com/yc6km2r4
An ALLCITY Network Production
SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube: https://bit.ly/phnx_youtube
ALL THINGS PHNX: http://linktr.ee/phnxsports
MERCH https://store.allcitynetwork.com/collections/phnx-locker
ALLCITY Network, Inc. aka PHNX and PHNX Sports is in...
Mark Williams Signing Reveals the Suns’ REAL Plan
The Phoenix Suns keep sending the same message, and the signing of Mark Williams may be the clearest sign yet of what this front office believes its future should look like.
On this episode of **Southwest Bias**, Espo breaks down why the Mark Williams move isn’t just about adding a center—it’s about the Suns committing to continuity. Is Phoenix building something sustainable around Devin Booker, or are they making the same mistakes that have kept them from true championship contention?
We discuss:
🏀 What the Mark William...
The Suns Traded for Koa Peat… What If That Was Their Last Big Move? 👀🏀
The Phoenix Suns made a splash by bringing Arizona star Koa Peat home, but what if that was the biggest move of the offseason?
On this episode of Southwest Bias, Espo breaks down what the Koa Peat trade means for the Suns’ future, why Phoenix may be closer to a finished roster than fans realize, and whether standing pat could actually be the smartest move. With Devin Booker leading a new era and a focus on long-term flexibility, the Suns may be sending a clear message about their direction.
Is Koa Peat...
