Stephen A. Smith Spars with FBI’s Kash Patel on NBA Gambling Controversy
Stephen A. Smith is always ready to challenge anyone, including FBI Director Kash Patel.
On the episode of ESPN’s First Take aired on Thursday, October 23, Smith delved into the recent NBA gambling scandal that resulted in the arrests of Portland Trailblazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat star Terry Rozier, part of a wider federal investigation into sports gambling.
During the discussion, Smith suggested that U.S. President Donald Trump might be implicated in the investigation.
“Trump is coming. He’s coming,” Smith, 58, stated on the show. “Anyone who has observed his reactions to the sports leagues and the stances taken by various individuals cannot be surprised by what’s happening today… this is merely the tip of the iceberg.”
He further elaborated: “Watching a press conference with the Director of the FBI? When have we seen that? We’ve witnessed athletes getting into legal troubles before, but you don’t often see the Director of the FBI holding a press conference. It’s not a coincidence, it’s not accidental. It’s a statement and a warning that more information is forthcoming.”
Patel appeared to take offense to Smith’s remarks, later discussing them on Fox News with Laura Ingraham during The Ingraham Angle, addressing the explosive allegations.
Patel laughed when Ingraham inquired about Smith’s comments, calling it “the single dumbest thing I’ve ever heard out of anyone in modern history.”
“As the FBI director, I determine which arrests to make and which ones to pass on,” Patel said. “We make arrests for crimes.”
Ingraham chuckled as the segment came to a close.
Smith slightly moderated his original statement in a Thursday night social media post, reacting to Patel’s comments on Fox News.
“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, folks! I never claimed or neglected to mention that this FBI Investigation has been ongoing for years,” Smith remarked via X. “I stated that Trump isn’t inclined to halt it. He’s not sparing anyone because he’s serious about this. He’s coming!! I’m not passing judgment on the validity of this matter. I’m just saying don’t count on POTUS to spare anyone regarding this issue. And I stand by that. That’s all!”
However, Smith was far from finished.
On his radio show the following day, Friday, October 24, he commented again on the matter, clarifying his position while reaffirming his belief about Trump’s involvement in the investigation.
“I would say he’s the director of the FBI, so I’m not looking to get on his bad side,” Smith noted. “But with that said, I still stand by my previous remarks. My viewpoint hasn’t changed.”
He continued: “This investigation has been ongoing since Biden took office. Discussions about this have been happening since 2019, which is when Trump was in the White House. I’m not suggesting that Kash Patel lacks legitimacy in the case he’s building against these individuals… and I’m not about to debate with an FBI director. I’m merely pointing out that we currently have a president who has extensive ties to the sports world, full of allies and adversaries. And he doesn’t mind inconveniencing his enemies, especially when it comes to the NBA brand.”
Known for his bold opinions on sports, Smith has become increasingly engaged in political discussions in recent months. In September, he launched a new podcast, Straight Shooter, where he addresses various political and social issues, marking a shift from his usual sports commentary.
