Stephen A. Smith Clashes With FBI’s Kash Patel Over NBA Gambling Scandal

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Stephen A. Smith is not afraid to go up against anyone, and that apparently includes FBI Director Kash Patel.

On the Thursday, October 23, episode of ESPN’s First Take, Smith talked about the recent NBA gambling scandal that saw Portland Trailblazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat star Terry Rozier arrested as part of a federal investigation into sports gambling.

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During the segment, Smith insinuated that U.S. President Donald Trump is involved in the investigation.

“Trump is coming. He’s coming,” Smith, 58, said on the show. “Anybody that has seen his reactions from the sports leagues and the positions that people have taken, they are not surprised at what’s going on today…this is just the tip of the iceberg.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver Makes 1st Comments After Gambling Indictments

He continued: “I’m watching a press conference with the Director of the FBI. Tell me when we’ve seen that. We’ve seen accusations before, we’ve seen athletes get in trouble with the law before. You don’t see the Director of the FBI having a press conference. It’s not coincidental, it’s not an accident. It’s a statement and it’s a warning that more is coming.”

Patel seemingly didn’t take too kindly to Smith’s comments, going on Fox News to talk with Laura Ingraham on The Ingraham Angle later in the day, responding to the fiery accusations.

stephen a smith and kash patel on nba gambling scandal
Stephen A. Smith and Kash Patel Getty Images

Patel chuckled when Ingraham asked him about Smith’s comments, saying it was “the single dumbest thing I’ve ever heard out of anyone in modern history.”

“I’m the FBI director, I decide which arrests to conduct and which not to conduct,” Patel said. “We arrest people for crimes.”

Ingraham laughed as the segment wrapped.

Smith took a slight step back on his original statement in a social media post on Thursday night, responding to Patel’s comments on Fox News.

“Nothing to get ahead of here, people! I never denied or failed to mention that this FBI Investigation has been going on for years,” Smith said via X. “I said Trump wasn’t inclined to stop it. He’s sparing no one because the man isn’t playing. He’s coming!! In no way am I attempting to even have an opinion on the legitimacy of this matter. I don’t know the facts of the case. I’m just saying don’t expect POTUS to spare anyone on this matter. And I stand by that. That’s all!”

But Smith, of course, wasn’t done.

NBA’s Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier Arrested in Gambling Investigation

On his radio show on Friday, October 24, he commented again on the situation, clarifying his stance while also making clear that he still feels the same way about Trump’s involvement with the investigation.

“I would say he’s the director of the FBI, let’s just say I’m not trying to get on his bad side,” Smith said. “But having said that, I still stand by what I said. And I’m not changing my mind.

He continued: “This investigation has been going on since when Biden was in office. They talked about how this stuff has been going on since 2019, which is when Trump was in office. I’m not implying that Kash Patel doesn’t have any legitimacy to the case that he’s pursuing against these individuals … and I’m not about to argue with an FBI director. I’m simply making the point that in the end, you have a president in place that has a lengthy connection to the sports world, rife with friends and enemies. And those who are his enemies, he doesn’t mind inconveniencing one bit. And when it comes to the NBA brand, it doesn’t bother him.”

Smith, known for his strong opinions in sports, has become more involved with politics in recent months. In September, he debuted a new podcast, Straight Shooter, where Smith discusses politics and social issues, a shift from his normal sports content.

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Silver Strikers bow out of CAF Champions League

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Yanga (0) 2-0 (1) Silver Strikers

DAR ES SALAAM-(MaraviPost)-Silver Strikers’ CAF Champions League journey has come to an end after a 2-0 defeat to Tanzania’s Yanga SC at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Saturday evening.

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The result saw the Lilongwe-based outfit exit the competition 2-1 on aggregate.

The Central Bankers which carried a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Lilongwe, were undone by two first-half goals from the hosts which dominated the early stages in front of a jam packed home crowd.

Yanga took the lead just six minutes into the game after capitalizing on a corner that was well connected at the near post, leaving goalkeeper George Chikooka with no chance.

The early setback unsettled the visitors as they struggled to find their rhythm.

Silver Strikers thought they had found an equalizer midway through the first half when Andrew Joseph found the back of the net but the flag was up for offside a call that left the visitors frustrated.

Minutes later, another offside decision denied them a potential goal scoring opportunity as they tried to press forward.

Yanga doubled their lead in the 33rd minute after a swift move from their own half caught Silver’s defense off guard with a well-taken finish making it 2-0 and swinging the tie in favor of the Tanzanian champions.

At halftime, Silver Strikers trailed by two goals, needing at least one to force extra time.

Head Coach Edson Kadenge made a tactical switch at the break, bringing in Ernest Petro for Andrew Joseph to add more pace and creativity upfront.

The second half saw a more composed display from the Bankers, who enjoyed more possession and created several chances.

A fine cross from McDonald Lameck nearly found Petro but it missed his head by inches a moment that could have changed the game’s complexion.

Despite introducing fresh legs in the latter stages including Emmanuel Allan, Binwell Katinji and Charles Chipala Silver Strikers could not find the breakthrough.

Bankers best late chance came when Petro floated in a teasing cross that Allan narrowly failed to connect with.

In the end, Yanga’s early dominance proved decisive, as the Tanzanian side held on to secure progression to the next round, leaving the Malawian side to rue missed opportunities.

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Sunderland stun Chelsea with dramatic late winner to climb to second in English Premier league League

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…In one of the season’s biggest upsets, Sunderland shocked Chelsea with a stoppage-time goal that sealed a 2-1 victory and propelled them to second place in the Premier League standings.

LONDON-(MaraviPost)-Sunderland produced one of the most dramatic results of the Premier League season after scoring deep into stoppage time to secure a stunning 2-1 win over Chelsea.

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The thrilling encounter kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle, as Sunderland defied all odds to defeat one of England’s most powerful sides.

Chelsea had entered the match as strong favorites, boasting an unbeaten run and a squad packed with international talent, but Sunderland’s resilience and belief proved decisive.

The match began with Chelsea dominating possession and creating several early chances, but they failed to convert their control into goals.

Sunderland, on the other hand, remained disciplined at the back and relied on quick counterattacks to test the Chelsea defense.

The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Sunderland’s forward capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home the opener, sending the home fans into wild celebrations.

Chelsea responded with urgency and equalized before halftime through a well-placed strike, setting up a tense second half filled with energy and determination from both sides.

As the game seemed destined to end in a draw, Sunderland continued to push forward, buoyed by the passionate support of their fans.

In the dying moments of stoppage time, Sunderland delivered the decisive blow — a clinical finish that left Chelsea’s defense and goalkeeper stunned.

The final whistle sparked jubilant scenes both on the pitch and in the stands, as Sunderland players celebrated a victory that could define their season.

The win lifts Sunderland to second place in the Premier League table, marking an incredible turnaround for a club that many had written off as mid-table contenders at best.

For Chelsea, the defeat is a major setback in their title chase and a reminder that no fixture in the Premier League can be taken for granted.

Analysts praised Sunderland’s tactical discipline and fighting spirit, with many describing the match as a “statement victory” that highlights their growing ambition.

Fans across social media celebrated the result, calling it one of the most memorable moments of the season so far.

As the Premier League campaign continues, Sunderland’s confidence will be sky-high, while Chelsea will be left to regroup and rethink their strategy before their next fixture.

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Mighty Tigers boost survival hopes with vital win over Songwe Border United: TNM Super League

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Mighty Tigers have taken a crucial step away from the relegation zone after edging Songwe Border United 1-0 in a tense TNM Super League clash played this afternoon at Mpira Stadium in Blantyre.

The match, dubbed “the battle of the danger zone,” saw Tigers display resilience and determination as they fought to secure all three points, moving them up to 21 points from 22 games.

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It was forward Wisdom Maulawo Jere who made the difference early in the game, scoring in the 11th minute after connecting beautifully with a pass from Samuel Kondanani.

The early goal lifted the spirits of the Kau Kau Boys, who showed strong defensive discipline for the remainder of the match.

Despite several promising opportunities to double their lead, the home side failed to convert their chances, while Songwe Border United pressed hard in search of an equalizer but lacked the cutting edge in front of goal.

The second half saw multiple substitutions from both sides, as Coach Trevor Kajawa of Tigers sought to maintain control of the game.

His tactical changes, including the introduction of Masambiro Kalua and Precious Kwalenga, helped stabilize the team’s shape in midfield.

Songwe Border United, under Coach Edwin Kaonga, also made several attacking changes, bringing in Richard Cheyo, Festus Chikwezgha and Bryson Kanambo to add firepower but they could not break down Tigers’ solid defense marshaled by Bakali Osman, who was later voted Man of the Match.

In his post match remarks, Kajawa praised his boys for showing fighting spirit and composure after taking an early lead.

“The boys did well today, especially after scoring early. We had several chances to kill off the game but the most important thing is that we got the three points. We are still confident of staying in the league,” said Kajawa.

On the other hand, Songwe Border coach Kaonga expressed disappointment with the officiating, claiming some crucial decisions went against his side.

“We played well but were let down by officiating. However, we will keep fighting because the battle for survival is not over,” Kaonga said.

The win sees Mighty Tigers move to 12th position with 21 points from 22 matches, while Songwe Border United remain at the bottom of the table with just 5 points from 21 games.

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Idi Amin’s grandson Aziz Ringo storms into gold medal match at Africa Zone 3 Boxing Championships

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….Ugandan heavyweight boxer Aziz Ringo delivers a stunning first-round victory to reach the finals in Nairobi, as six other Ugandan fighters also secure their spots in the championship deciders.

Aziz Ringo, the grandson of former Ugandan President Field Marshal Idi Amin Dada, has powered his way into the gold medal match at the Africa Zone 3 Boxing Championships taking place in Nairobi, Kenya.

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The heavyweight sensation, who currently holds the Uganda Boxing Champions belt, continues to cement his reputation as one of the most formidable fighters in the region.

Ringo produced a dominant display in the 92-Kilogram category, defeating Mbangi Mukewa of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the very first round by RSC (Referee Stopped Contest).

His emphatic win secured him a spot in the finals and ignited celebrations among the Ugandan contingent, who have been putting up an outstanding performance throughout the tournament.

Aziz now joins six other Ugandan boxers who have also made it to the finals, underscoring Uganda’s growing dominance in the regional boxing scene.

In the women’s category, Muduwa Brenda showcased remarkable skill and composure as she defeated Aisha Issa of Tanzania in the 50-Kilogram semi-final bout.

Murungi Kasim also advanced to the final after defeating Kenya’s Paul Omondi by a 4–1 split decision in the 57-Kilogram semi-final match.

Ojok Alfred continued Uganda’s fine run with an impressive second-round stoppage of Joseph Sylvester from Tanzania in the 71-Kilogram category.

In another thrilling contest, Farahat Manirola outclassed Tanzania’s Kingu Lucas, earning a 5–0 unanimous decision victory in the 63.5-Kilogram category.

Ochien Samuel further added to Uganda’s medal hopes by defeating Rwanda’s Iraneza Aime through a unanimous decision after a highly competitive match.

Meanwhile, Mukwaya Edward delivered another convincing performance, securing a 5–0 unanimous win over Gabon’s Lendoye Arthur in the 60-Kilogram category.

The series of victories highlight Uganda’s resurgence as a boxing powerhouse in Africa, with the team’s unity and technical depth drawing praise from sports analysts and fans alike.

According to officials, the winners of the Africa Zone 3 Boxing Championships will not only walk away with prestigious titles but also earn opportunities to compete on the international stage, including qualification pathways for continental and world events.

The finals are scheduled to take place on October 24, with Uganda expected to make a strong bid for multiple gold medals.

As the spotlight turns to Nairobi, all eyes will be on Aziz Ringo — the grandson of one of Africa’s most controversial leaders — who now has the chance to carve his own legacy, not through politics, but through the power of his fists.

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