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Sage Steele discusses fallout with Doc Rivers over political differences

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 8:30 AM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Sage Steele discusses fallout with Doc Rivers over political differences

Summary

On August 20, 2026, Sage Steele revealed her relationship with NBA coach Doc Rivers deteriorated due to political differences. In an appearance on 'The Rubin Report,' Steele shared that Rivers criticized her for supporting Donald Trump and expressed disappointment in personal messages. Steele, a former ESPN anchor, became outspoken against certain NBA views and has been a project supporter of conservative politics. Rivers has taken a stand against Trump and was involved in the 2024 Presidential Campaign supporting Kamala Harris. This ongoing divide highlights tensions between personal relationships and political beliefs within sports.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Sage Steele claims personal ties with Doc Rivers broke over political beliefs.
•Rivers expressed disappointment in Steele's support for Donald Trump.
•Steele is critical of the NBA's political stance and has conservative views.
•Rivers has actively campaigned against Trump and supported Kamala Harris.

Latest Updates

8:30 AMYahoo Sports — Sage Steele claims legendary NBA coach slammed her over DMs for supporting President Donald Trump

What they're saying

"
Former ESPN anchor Sage Steele has revealed how recent Hall of Fame NBA coach Doc Rivers completely broke off personal ties with her over political differences. Steele used to be a primary figure in ESPN’s on-air programming, specifically with the NBA, for years.
— Yahoo Sports

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