There’s little doubt about it: Paul Pierce is poised to step into a contributor role on FS1’s “Undisputed” as the NBA season ramps up, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Although the agreement has yet to be finalized, insiders suggest that it could be inked as early as this week. A spokesperson for Fox Sports chose not to comment on the matter.
Following Shannon Sharpe’s departure from the program last summer, “Undisputed” has transitioned into more of a panel format, moving away from its previous focus on one-on-one debates. Skip Bayless now finds himself regularly joined by Keyshawn Johnson, with other notable figures like Michael Irvin, Richard Sherman, and Rachel Nichols making frequent appearances.
RELATED: Paul Pierce Slams the New York Knicks as ‘An Instagram Models’
Pierce, a basketball icon of the 21st century and a 10-time NBA All-Star with the Celtics, played a pivotal role in their championship victory during the 2007-08 season and has rightfully earned his place in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
Known for his outspokenness, Pierce co-hosts the “Ticket & The Truth” podcast with former teammate Kevin Garnett, where he doesn’t hold back in expressing his opinions. Having made successful appearances on “Undisputed” last fall, it’s evident there’s a desire for more from Pierce.
Previously serving as an NBA analyst at ESPN, Pierce was dismissed from the role in 2021 after sharing a video on Instagram showing him playing poker and smoking marijuana at a party, which also featured adult entertainment.
Even now, two years later, Pierce remains puzzled about his dismissal.
“I got fired for having some fun. I’m playing cards. It’s my buddy’s birthday. There are dancers. We’re enjoying some cannabis. What’s the big deal?” he questioned on the “I Am Athlete” podcast.
He also shed light on why he initially shared the video.
“I rarely go live, but I was feeling good about my haircut or something, and then there was some action behind me,” Pierce explained.
