[Saba Sports News] Former NBA player Joe Smith opened up about losing $80 million due to a secret deal between his agent and the Minnesota Timberwolves, which the NBA uncovered. In his VladTV interview, Smith explained he wasn’t initially involved in the deal but faced financial consequences.
The NBA imposed severe penalties on the Timberwolves, including a $3.5 million fine and loss of first-round draft picks, leading to Smith signing with the Detroit Pistons in 2000.
Additionally, Smith recounted losing an estimated $60 million during contract negotiations with the Golden State Warriors, exacerbated by the team’s upheaval following Latrell Sprewell’s choking of Coach PJ Carlesimo. These events significantly impacted Smith’s career, highlighting the complex dynamics of player contracts and organizational issues in professional sports.