Full Breakdown
Stephen A. Smith Ends Partnership with Controversial Solitaire Company
12/6/2025, 2:41:15 AM
Overview of the Split
Stephen A. Smith, a prominent ESPN personality, has officially ended his partnership with Papaya Gaming, the company behind a solitaire game he promoted as part of his ambassadorship for the upcoming World Solitaire Championship (WSC). The announcement came after ESPN reportedly instructed several on-air talents, including Mina Kimes and Dan Orlovsky, to sever ties with Papaya due to concerns surrounding the company's practices.
Background on Papaya Gaming
Papaya Gaming has been embroiled in controversy, facing a federal lawsuit from rival mobile game company Skillz. The lawsuit alleges that Papaya falsely marketed its games as "games of skill" while using unbeatable bots that manipulated gameplay, making it impossible for human players to win. This legal battle has been ongoing since March 2025, and a recent ruling on November 21, 2025, dismissed Papaya's counterclaims, further complicating its standing in the gaming industry.
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement to Front Office Sports, Smith confirmed the mutual decision to end his partnership with Papaya, emphasizing that it was a collaborative choice. ESPN executives were reportedly unaware of the marketing campaign involving Papaya and did not approve of Smith's association with the company. Kimes, who previously promoted Papaya's "#BeatStephen Challenge," publicly apologized for her involvement, acknowledging her failure to vet the campaign adequately.
Criticism from Peers
The decision to partner with Papaya Gaming faced backlash from former ESPN host Michelle Beadle, who criticized Smith for his involvement. Beadle remarked on social media, “He gets caught playing solitaire during the NBA-freaking-Finals... Now he’s turning around and turning that into a money-making opportunity… and it looks like a fraudulent crap business to begin with.” Her comments reflect a broader sentiment of disapproval regarding Smith's actions and the implications for his credibility as a sports commentator.
What's Next for Smith and Papaya
As Smith steps away from his role with Papaya, the World Solitaire Championship is still set to take place in February 2026. The outcome of the ongoing legal issues facing Papaya Gaming may impact the event and the company's future in the gaming market. Smith's next moves in the wake of this controversy remain to be seen, as he continues to navigate his career at ESPN amidst scrutiny from both fans and peers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Papaya and I have mutually agreed to end our partnership,” — Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Personality
- “Thought it was just typical marketing work, and I’m deeply embarrassed I didn’t vet it. A colossal f–k-up on my part.” — Mina Kimes, ESPN Broadcaster
- “He made you look like fools for handing him a blank check in the first place, because doesn’t even give a s–t about the stuff that he’s paid a gazillion dollars to talk about.” — Michelle Beadle, Former ESPN Host
