The Joe Budden Podcast Episode 872 | "Purple Eye"
12 snips
Oct 25, 2025 
Marc Lamont Hill, an esteemed academic and commentator, joins the crew to discuss the shocking FBI indictment of over 30 individuals linked to Mafia-led gambling schemes, including NBA faces. The panel debates the implications for sports integrity and gambling addiction, examining how such issues affect players and fairness in the league. They also touch on Al Sharpton's controversial past as a confidential informant. Additionally, the excitement of an upcoming New Edition tour and reviews of fresh music releases keep the conversation lively throughout!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mafia Poker Rings And Informant Dynamics
- The FBI-linked probe shows mafia-run poker rings used players as lures and may have coerced cooperation via debts.
- Mona notes federal cases rely on informants, so indictments often reflect deep flip-side cooperation.
Inside An Alleged Rigged Poker Game
- Poker pro Matt Berkey described an alleged rigged high‑stakes game built around Chauncey Billups using technology and a 'quarterback' on the table.
- The operation reportedly used outside calculations and signals to cheat knowledgeable players.
Rebuilding Fan Trust Requires Outside Oversight
- Public faith in sports collapses when fans suspect players or refs influence betting outcomes.
- Marc Lamont Hill says the NBA must adopt third‑party auditing, like baseball did for PEDs, to rebuild credibility.