"Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier were taken into custody by federal law enforcement on Thursday morning, shocking the sports world. FBI Director Kash Patel and authorities detailed in a press conference just hours after the news that two major cases were being brought, one that involves using insider information to manipulate sports betting and another involving a rigged poker scheme across the country that was allegedly backed by New York mafia families."
"Major networks like MSNBC, Fox News, and others carried Patel's press conference live, considering the weight of the news and accusations, but if one were to pop on ESPN in the 10 a.m. hour, you'd find Stephen A. Smith and his panel discussing the NFL like it was any other day. Smith did address the news following the press conference and argued on First Take that it is part of a larger revenge plan by President Donald Trump."
Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier were arrested as part of a large gambling fraud probe that has led to more than 30 arrests and may lead to further charges. FBI Director Kash Patel announced two major cases: one alleging use of insider information to manipulate sports betting and another alleging a rigged nationwide poker scheme tied to New York mafia families. Major cable networks aired the FBI press conference live while ESPN did not and continued regular programming. Stephen A. Smith later commented, suggesting a political motive linked to President Donald Trump, and pundits criticized ESPN given its sportsbook relationships.
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