ESPN

Stephen A. Smith Will Not Face Punishment From ESPN For Alleged HIPAA Violation

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On August 21, Stephen A. Smith commented on Lonzo Ball’s meniscus injury during an episode of First Take on ESPN. Smith claimed that a source had told him that Ball was struggling to sit down and stand up. Ball responded, showing his ability to stand and sit up while asking Smith who his sources were. Smith, shockingly, responded on The Stephen A. Smith Show, revealing that Ball’s doctors had given him the information.

This was seemingly confirmation that Smith had committed a HIPAA violation. HIPAA is legislation that regulates how private medical information is used. In fact, in Smith’s case – the burning of his source revealed two such violations. The first was Ball’s medical team divulging private medical information to Smith. The second was Smith broadcasting that information on national television. However, according to ESPN, Smith won’t face reprimand for this serious breach of journalistic ethics.

Read More: Stephen A. defends $3000 basketball camp…by saying he does a lot of work for HBCUs?

ESPN Distances Themselves From Smith Controversy

“We don’t have anything to add from the ESPN side here. His podcast is separate from his ESPN role,” an ESPN spokesperson told HotNewHipHop on August 24. From this, it’s clear that ESPN‘s view is that any comments Smith makes on The Stephen A. Smith Show are not to be conflated with his role at the network. Thusly, Smith seemingly admitting to violating HIPAA should not be reflected in his relationship with ESPN.

Except, the information was first revealed to the public on an ESPN product. The entire debacle originated with Smith making these claims on First Take, his primary role with ESPN. However, regardless of whether Smith violated HIPAA, decision to a) burn a source and b) double down when presented with information that debunked your claims, is just the latest drop in a bucket of major Ls that Smith has taken of late. Ball and Smith are yet to respond to either Smith’s comments or the allegations of violating medical legislation. This remains a developing story and we’ll have any updates as and when they emerge.

Read More: Stephen A. tries to walk back tweet calling Kim Kardashian a “prostitute”

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Stephen A. Smith Slams Reports “Confirming” Shannon Sharpe Joining “First Take”

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It seemed as though the Shannon Sharpe saga was at an end on August 17. Andrew Marchand of the New York Post reported that Sharpe would be joining ESPN a little over two months after leaving FS1 and Undisputed. According to Marchand, Sharpe would make twice-weekly appearances on First Take alongside Stephen A. Smith while also bringing Club Shay Shay to the network as well.

As also mentioned by Marchand, a return to ESPN would be something of a homecoming for Sharpe. It was his guest appearances on the show when Bayless anchored the broadcast between 2004 and early 2016 that would lead to the creation of Undisputed in late 2016. However, unfortunately for Marchand and The Post, they appear to have missed the mark on this report.

Read More: Shannon Sharpe says he’ll be back on TV in time for football season

Stephen A. Smith Calls Post Report “A Bit Premature”

“I have a smile on my face. Beautiful smile on my face. You all know that it’s something that I want, it’s something that I have declared because I respect Shannon, I like him. I think he’d be a tremendous asset to the show, my show, First Take…But my point is that it would be great to have him,” Smith began while addressing The Post‘s “exclusive”. “Here’s the issue, we don’t. Sorry Andrew Marchand of the New York Post, it’s a bit premature. Shannon Sharpe is yet to sign on the dotted line to be a member of First Take. It has not happened yet. I’m still confident that it will happen, I still believe it will happen, I think it needs to happen. And I have doubt that I am going to exhaust every means I have available to me to make it happen.”

So yes, fans of “Unc” who were looking forward to him chewing the fat with Smith might need to wait just a little bit longer. It’s likely accurate to say that ESPN is the frontrunner for Sharpe’s services. However, Smith’s comments are the exact comment that Marchand originally said that ESPN declined to give. Given that Sharpe said he’ll be back for football season, it’s likely that his decision will be announced in the coming weeks. Despite that, for now at least, the Hall of Famer remains a free agent. This is a developing story and we’ll have any updates as and when they emerge.

Read More: ESPN announces $2 billion betting partnership with former Barstool Sports owners

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SOURCE SPORTS: Doc Rivers, Doris Burke Officially Named Members of ESPN’s Top NBA Broadcast Crew

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SOURCE SPORTS: Doc Rivers Fired by Philadelphia 76ers

ESPN has officially named Doc Rivers and Doris Burke as new members of ESPN on ABC’s top broadcast team. Burke will be the first woman to be a game analyst for a championship game in the four major pro-U.S. leagues.

According to ESPN, Rivers, and Burke will join longstanding Mike Breen. Previously, Burke was on ESPN radio for the NBA Finals. Rivers was the head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers this past season but previously called games during the 2003–04 season.

The new duo replaced Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson, who sat alongside Breen for 15 years.

READ MORE: Adult Film Company Offers Mark Jackson $1 Million to Be Play-by-Play Announcer for Adult Cam Shows

Additionally, ESPN announced the hire of Former Golden State Warriors GM and president of basketball operations Bob Myers as a studio analyst and will also call games. Myers previously did an ESPN feature with J. Cole.

Malika Andrews will be hosting NBA Countdown while maintaining her spot on NBA Today.

The second team for the sports giant is Ryan Ruocco, JJ Redick, and Richard Jefferson.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Doc Rivers, Doris Burke Officially Named Members of ESPN’s Top NBA Broadcast Crew first appeared on The Source.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Doc Rivers, Doris Burke Officially Named Members of ESPN’s Top NBA Broadcast Crew appeared first on The Source.

ESPN Roasted For $2 Billion Betting Partnership

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ESPN has announced that it has partnered with gambling company PENN Entertainment in a $2 billion, 10-year deal to fully break into the sports betting market. PENN will rebrand its Barstool Sportsbook, selling Barstool Sports back to Dave Portnoy in the process, as ESPN Bet. ESPN will receive a base payment of $1.5 billion over the next decade, as well as an additional $500 million for the use of ESPN‘s licenses and services.

The move comes at a turbulent time for the Disney-owned broadcaster. In June, ESPN announced a round of layoffs that primarily affected high-earning on-air talent. Meanwhile, the company also announced the acquisition of Pat McAfee and his brand after McAfee negotiated a buyout with FanDuel. Furthermore, ESPN is reportedly in the running to acquire Shannon Sharpe after his exit from Undisputed and FS1. Now, it appears that they have set their sights on being a major player in the ever-growing sports betting market.

Read More: Stephen A. Smith responds to ESPN layoffs

Reception Cool On PENN Partnership

However, the news has met with overwhelming skepticism and concern. Many have questioned why ESPN has chosen now of all times to push hard into sports betting. Furthermore, many have expressed skepticism that ESPN, with even the backing of a major player like PENN, will be able to hang with the likes of FanDuel and Draft Kings. “I don’t know a single sports fan requesting ESPN Bet. If Barstool (or Fox) couldn’t convert users to sportsbook, why would ESPN? Not to mention the late start and an undifferentiated product. Tough road for Penn IMO,” one X user wrote while highlight part of the announcement that said the move was something fans had been looking for from ESPN.

Furthermore, there are a number of major concerns about how this move will affect ESPN‘s status as a news outlet. Many pointed to the controversy surrounding the NBA Draft as proof of these concerns. Well-regarded NBA journalist Shams Charania, who has a partnership with FanDuel, reported that sources were saying the Hornets were planning to take Scoot Henderson over Brandon Miller. This benefitted FanDuel, who saw a wave of bets on Henderson going second overall. The Hornets took Miller, as most other pundits expected. In short, a major news outlet/broadcaster also being a major sportsbook leads to a massive conflict of interest.

Reactions To ESPN Bet News

What do you think about the announcement? Let us know in the comments.

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Dave Portnoy Regains Ownership of Barstool Sports

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Dave Portnoy is once again the sole owner of Barstool Sports. Founded by Portnoy in 2003, the controversial media outlet had been acquired by gambling company PENN Entertainment earlier this year for $551 million. PENN had purchased a minority stake in the outlet for $163 million in 2020. “PENN Entertainment and Barstool Sports have gone our separate ways,” Portnoy said in a video posted to X. “So that is right, for the first time in a decade, I own 100% of Barstool Sports.”

The move comes after PENN entered into a new agreement with ESPN to rebrand the outlet’s betting content. The division away from Barstool comes as a move to cut ties with the company after the initial relationship caused problems for Penn. “Every time we did something, it was one step forward, two steps back,” Portnoy said in his video announcement on Tuesday. “We got denied licenses because of me. You name it. So the regulated industry probably not the best place for Barstool Sports and the type of content we make.” The relationship had also caused stock prices to tank. Penn’s stock was up 14% in the hours after the new agreement with ESPN.

Read More: Dave Portnoy says Kim Kardashian should be “dragged to jail” if she attends Eras Tour

ESPN Undertakes Major Betting Overhaul

As mentioned, the decision comes after PENN entered into a new agreement with ESPN. Under the 10-year deal, Barstool Sportsbook will be rebranded as ESPN Bet. Per Penn’s announcement, ESPN will receive $1.5 billion as part of the deal and a further $500 million in warrants tied to media, marketing, and other services. The service will be continued to be called theScore Bet in Canada. PENN also operates the theScore media outlet, which primarily focuses on esports coverage on platforms such as YouTube.

“This transformative, exclusive agreement with ESPN marks another major milestone in PENN’s evolution from a pure-play U.S. regional gaming operator to a North American entertainment leader. ESPN Bet will be deeply integrated with ESPN’s broad editorial, content, digital and linear product, and sports programming ecosystem. ESPN Bet will also benefit from PENN’s operational experience, extensive market access and proprietary technology platform, which successfully debuted in the U.S. this July,” said Penn CEO Jay Snowden.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Mark Jackson Let Go by ESPN 

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Adult Film Company Offers Mark Jackson $1 Million to Be Play-by-Play Announcer for Adult Cam Shows

In a shocking turn of events, ESPN bid farewell to longtime NBA analyst Mark Jackson, leaving fans and colleagues surprised and curious about the reasons behind the network’s decision. Jackson, a former NBA player and coach, had been a prominent face on ESPN’s basketball coverage for several years, making the news of his departure all the more striking.

During his tenure with ESPN, Mark Jackson brought a unique perspective to the network’s coverage, blending his experience as a player and coach with his charismatic on-air presence. His basketball acumen and strong opinions drew polarizing reactions from viewers, making him a focal point of discussions and debates. Many appreciated his insights, while others found his commentary too controversial or biased.
Rumors circulated about behind-the-scenes tensions at ESPN, suggesting that internal disagreements, particularly regarding Jackson’s on-air remarks, might have played a significant role in his dismissal. Some of his statements were perceived as crossing professional boundaries or expressing personal beliefs that did not align with the network’s image of neutrality.

One of the most notable controversies during Jackson’s time at ESPN revolved around his support for fellow NBA player Stephen Curry, whom Jackson coached during his stint as the Golden State Warriors’ head coach. Critics claimed that this partiality affected his objectivity as an analyst, leading to concerns about impartiality in his analysis.

Like any major media corporation, ESPN faces the challenge of balancing diverse opinions and maintaining a reputation for impartiality. Decisions regarding personnel changes are often complex and multifaceted, involving factors that may not be immediately apparent to the public.

While Mark Jackson’s departure from ESPN certainly left a void in the network’s basketball coverage, it also allows the network to explore fresh perspectives and voices. The sports media landscape constantly evolves, and networks must adapt to stay relevant and appealing to their audience.

As fans continue to speculate about the reasons behind Mark Jackson’s firing, it remains essential to acknowledge his contributions as an influential figure in basketball, both on and off the court. Whether he returns to coaching or finds new avenues in the sports media world, Mark Jackson’s passion for the game and unique insights will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Mark Jackson Let Go by ESPN  first appeared on The Source.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Mark Jackson Let Go by ESPN  appeared first on The Source.

Adult Film Company Offers Mark Jackson $1 Million to Be Play-by-Play Announcer for Adult Cam Shows

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Adult Film Company Offers Mark Jackson $1 Million to Be Play-by-Play Announcer for Adult Cam Shows

After ESPN’s recent decision to lay off NBA analyst Mark Jackson, an unexpected offer has come his way. Adult webcam site CamSoda has extended a jaw-dropping $1,000,000 offer to Jackson to provide play-by-play analysis during their live cam shows.

In a quirky twist, the company has even suggested that Jackson can use his famous catchphrase, “Grown Man Move,” during sensational moments when couples perform intimate acts.

The offer adds an amusing and unconventional dimension to Jackson’s career options, leaving fans and the industry curious about his response to this unique proposition.

CamSoda’s Vice President, Daryn Parker, penned a letter to Jackson:

Dear Mark Jackson,

My condolences on being laid off by ESPN and vacating your role as an NBA analyst at the worldwide leader in sports.

Now that you’re out of a job and in search of work, I’d like to formally extend you an offer. We here at CamSoda – an adult webcam site – would like to hire you as the company’s first-ever play-by-play announcer for adult cam shows. You’d call private cam sessions just like you had been calling NBA games, commentating on the action playing out in front of your very eyes. You can even use your catchphrase, “Grown Man Move” for sensational moments during couples shows when the man bangs down low and goes strong to the hole.

In return for hiring you as CamSoda’s play-by-play announcer – a role you would have to serve for one full year – we’d be willing to compensate you up to $1,000,000.

Please take some time to consider my offer. I’d like to get you back on the mic and calling the…action…ASAP.

– Daryn Parker, CamSoda Vice President

Mark Jackson was let go by ESPN on Monday (July 31). His departure highlights a complete switch of the flagship team for the company’s NBA coverage. Previously, ESPN let go of Jeff Van Gundy during a massive run of layoffs.

According to the New York Post, Van Gundy and Jackson will be replaced by Doris Burke and Roc Rivers, making a new three-man team with Mike Breen. ESPN did not offer a statement.

On Monday, Jackson released a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter: “This morning, unexpectedly, I was informed that my services were no longer needed at ESPN. Although shocked and dismayed with the suddenness of it all, I would like to thank ESPN and all the staff of the NBA ESPN crew for allowing me to be a part of the organization for the past 15+ years. … It has been an honor to sit beside two LEGENDS in the business, who are like brothers to me, Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy, and learn so much from them. Lisa Salters is a GOAT and like a sister to me and I’m so proud of the work she continues to do. … To all of the staff and crew, that may have never been seen on camera…please know that you were always seen by me and so greatly appreciated.”

The statement in full is available below.

The post Adult Film Company Offers Mark Jackson $1 Million to Be Play-by-Play Announcer for Adult Cam Shows first appeared on The Source.

The post Adult Film Company Offers Mark Jackson $1 Million to Be Play-by-Play Announcer for Adult Cam Shows appeared first on The Source.

Mark Jackson Out at ESPN, New Team Formed for Key NBA Games

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Mark Jackson has been let go by ESPN. His departure highlights a complete switch of the flagship team for the company’s NBA coverage. Previously, ESPN let go of Jeff Van Gundy during a massive run of layoffs.

According to the New York Post, Van Gundy and Jackson will be replaced by Doris Burke and Roc Rivers, making a new three-man team with Mike Breen. ESPN did not offer a statement.

On Monday, Jackson released a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter: “This morning, unexpectedly, I was informed that my services were no longer needed at ESPN. Although shocked and dismayed with the suddenness of it all, I would like to thank ESPN and all the staff of the NBA ESPN crew for allowing me to be a part of the organization for the past 15+ years. … It has been an honor to sit beside two LEGENDS in the business, who are like brothers to me, Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy, and learn so much from them. Lisa Salters is a GOAT and like a sister to me and I’m so proud of the work she continues to do. … To all of the staff and crew, that may have never been seen on camera…please know that you were always seen by me and so greatly appreciated.”

The statement in full is available below.

The post Mark Jackson Out at ESPN, New Team Formed for Key NBA Games first appeared on The Source.

The post Mark Jackson Out at ESPN, New Team Formed for Key NBA Games appeared first on The Source.

Aaron Hernandez’s Brother DJ Misses ESPN Court Date: Report

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Aaron Hernandez is someone who continues to live in infamy as it pertains to the sports world. Overall, he had a huge fall from grace in the early 2010s. After a few great seasons with the New England Patriots, he was accused of murder. Subsequently, the case went to trial and he was convicted. From there, Hernandez went to prison and died by suicide in a gruesome fashion. Although this all happened very quickly, the story has still stuck with NFL fans for years on end.

Recently, Aaron Hernandez’s brother DJ has been in the news. Much of this has to do with a couple of incidents that took place back in March. Firstly, Hernandez was speeding through Connecticut and even engaged in a long police chase. Eventually, he was stopped and arrested before getting hit with some serious charges. Secondly, Hernandez showed up to the ESPN headquarters where he threw a brick with what seemed like a threatening message attached. “It’s about time you all realeyes the affect media has on all family members,” the message read. “Since you’re a world wide leader maybe you could lead how media and messages are delivered brick by brick. Clean it up!”

Read More: Rob Gronkowski Opens Up About Aaron Hernandez Murder Saga

Aaron Hernandez’s Brother In Trouble

FOXBORO, MA – DECEMBER 10: Aaron Hernandez #81 of the New England Patriots smiles from the sidelines in the fourth quarter during a game against the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on December 10, 2012 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

According to TMZ, DJ Hernandez was supposed to be in court for the incident on Friday. However, he never showed up. Consequently, an arrest order has been put out, which means he could be headed to jail. At the time of writing this, Hernandez has not responded to the order.

This is a developing story, so be sure to keep it locked to HNHH for the latest news and updates. Also, let us know what you think of all of this, in the comments section below. Hopefully, DJ gets the help that he needs.

Read More: Aaron Hernandez’s Ex-Fiancée Accused Of Mishandling Daughter’s Trust Fund

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Stephen A. Smith Tells Haters To “Kiss My A**”

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A lot has been made about the recent talent cuts made by ESPN. It’s the latest cost-saving measure made by Disney after they made a paltry $82 billion last year. In a similar move, National Geographic, which Disney also owns, fired its entire writing staff and will move to a digital-only production. However, for many sports fans, the ESPN cuts ran especially deep. Not only did engaging and beloved contributors like Jalen Rose and Keyshawn Johnson get the axe, but the company also laid off some true legacy stars. Max Kellerman had been with ESPN since 1998, for example. The aforementioned Johnson was laid off after 15 years with the broadcaster.

Obviously, a few big names escaped this round of layoffs. Pat McAfee, who will join ESPN this fall, received a large amount of criticism for officially signing his massive contract with the company in the wake of the layoffs. Meanwhile, Stephen A. Smith also remains at the company. Smith is somewhat of a divisive figure for many. Building his brand as a talking head, many see him simply as a “hot take factory” whose job it is to boost ESPN‘s engagement. However, Smith is also a diligent and insightful journalist who usually has a reason behind whatever wild thing he is saying on First Take that day. However, in true Stephen A. fashion, Smith took to The Stephen A. Smith Show to address people who wished that he had been laid off.

Smith Addresses Haters

“Let me address something,” Smith began. “To some of the haters out there about me. Y’all can kiss my ass. Twice. I’m talking directly to the people in the industry who sat up there and said ‘Why isn’t Stephen A. gone?’ Ladies and gentlemen, we got a few people here at ESPN getting paid more than me. They don’t have the number one show, the top ratings. They don’t generate more revenue. How come y’all don’t bring their names up? And by the way, none of them are Black.”

He continued. “How come you don’t bring their names up? I wonder why? I’m talking to those folks, the critics in the media, or the wannabe media with the blogosphere and websites that never went through the terrain of being members, official members, of the fourth estate. I’m talking about them. How come y’all don’t bring them up? But me, who’s been number one, who’s got the top-rated show. Who, by the way, is an executive producer on that top-rated show. My name comes up.”

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