Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas has faced a lot of setbacks this year, from his son almost dying in a vehicular crash to his recent arrest over illegal gambling. During his “Gil’s Arena” podcast, the former Washington Wizards star had Stephen A. Smith over as their guest, and Smith called out Arenas about his legal problems to his face.
“Y’all got something special. You understand? I can say that because, for all intents and purposes, I’ve made it. I’m going to do my thing and, of course, I want to be competitive numbers-wise and all that stuff like anybody else, but I’m not rooting for anybody to fail. There are a lot of people rooting for you to fail. His name is attached to all of this. You ain’t the star basketball player in Washington or anywhere else anymore. This is a different platform and it’s a different game,” he told Arenas. (1:27)
However, Smith did give Arenas his props for raising his profile after retirement and launching a very successful basketball podcast. He noted that because Arenas now has his name tied to the podcast, he will have to rethink his actions in the future.
He added that because of this, any infraction that Arenas may commit will make not just him the target, but also the people tied to his brand. Smith also noted that the criticisms that Arenas has been receiving are proof that he has arrived in the big time.
“You’re not the person we get to ignore because, please, that’s just going to give them shine. No, you’re the target,” he added.
Smith, who is no stranger to controversies himself, gave the former NBA All-Star some advice on handling the media landscape now that he himself is a media personality and not a star athlete anymore. He told Arenas that he should learn to protect himself.
What is Gilbert Arenas Accused Of?
As to why Gilbert Arenas is facing legal troubles, the Washington Wizards legend was arrested back in July for hosting illegal high-stakes poker games at his Encino, California, mansion. He was officially charged with one count of conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, one count of operating an illegal gambling business and one count of making false statements to federal investigators.
After he was arrested, he appeared om court in downtown LA but was soon released on a $50,000 bond. He pleaded not guilty, with his trial happening on Sep. 23.
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