What Pablo Torre Is Finding Out
Summary
Pulitzer Prize winner Pablo Torre joins Mary Harris to discuss his investigation into the LA Clippers, revealing how owner Steve Ballmer circumvented the NBA salary cap through hidden endorsement deals. The conversation explores how sports functions as a "laboratory of democracy" where accountability is more achievable than in politics, and how Torre’s relentless, lore-driven reporting forced the league to act. They also debate the challenges of holding corrupt political figures accountable when their misconduct is openly bragged about rather than hidden.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Olympic Hospitality and Washington Wise
Slate magazine highlights and Slate Plus promotion
Introduction of guest Pablo Torre and his reporting style
Sponsors: Monarch, HomeServe, and Vanguard
The Aspiration carbon credit tip and initial investigation
Discovery of Kawhi Leonard's salary cap violations
NBA investigation, fines, and legal fees for Clippers
The scope of the investigation and 'reporting as lore'
Journalistic credibility, fallibility, and showing the work
Public trust in journalism and the fragility of outcomes
Sponsors: Washington Wise and Home Chef
Lessons from billionaires and sports as a democracy lab
Fairness in sports vs. politics and community engagement
The nature of accountability and public shame
Political corruption and the 'Big Short' analogy
Conclusion and gratitude to Pablo Torre
Sponsor: Citizens Bank
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