In a recent podcast interview, former NBA player Tristan Thompson revealed a surprising friendship with Eric Trump, son of former President Donald Trump. Speaking to Katie Miller on her podcast, released on March 31, Thompson shared insights about his close relationship with Eric, describing him as a significant mentor in his life.
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Thompson, 35, who shares two children with reality television star Khloé Kardashian, expressed his appreciation for Eric Trump’s guidance and support, stating, “He’s been like a big brother, mentor, been very welcoming.” The former athlete indicated that his bond with Eric has sparked a newfound interest in the world of politics, a realm Thompson is eager to explore further.
The Canadian-born Thompson highlighted how Eric Trump’s presence in his life has motivated him, saying, “That’s just someone I would say, especially from, you know, the political government world, that’s really put his arm around me and made me… want to dive into this realm a little bit more.” This commentary not only underscores their connection but also illustrates Thompson’s growing engagement with political discourse.
During the episode, Thompson touched on other controversial subjects, including his views regarding transgender athletes in sports. While he expressed his concerns about the potential implications for his daughter, he also attempted to acknowledge multiple perspectives surrounding the debate.
Thompson did not shy away from expressing his admiration for the former president. He remarked, “With President Trump, what he’s doing, first of all, I love what he’s done so far for our country. I think he’s helped our country a lot.” These comments come amid ongoing discussions regarding Trump’s influence and actions during his presidency, showcasing Thompson’s alignment with certain political ideologies.
Though Thompson has not officially announced his retirement from professional basketball, he has shifted his focus to new ventures following his last NBA game in April 2025. Recently, he accepted a role as Chief Advisory Officer at Axon, a company dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities, bringing personal relevance to his work as he aims to support his brother, Amari, who lives with a disability.
In his discussions about the evolving roles of athletes, Thompson articulated a vision that transcends sports. “That’s why you see this whole narrative change where athletes want to be more than just sports. We want to be businessmen, creators, and developers,” he remarked. His ambition to innovate and stay ahead of the curve reflects a broader trend among athletes seeking to influence sectors beyond their playing careers.
In addition to his work with Axon, Thompson is set to appear in Netflix’s new series, *Squid Game: The VIP Challenge*. He will join a diverse cast that includes former Spice Girl Mel B and reality star Dylan Efron. The show promises to challenge contestants in a series of high-stakes games that test their wit, strategy, and skills.
As Thompson navigates this new chapter of his life, his multifaceted approach to personal and professional challenges reveals an athlete transitioning into broader roles within society. His friendships, interests, and evolving career paint a picture of a man committed to making a difference both on and off the court.