Latest news with #Awards&Snubs

Time of India

'Really good at what we do': Sauce Gardner opens up about Ice Spice rumors, admits they share a rare bond despite backlash

Sauce Gardner opens up on Ice Spice connection (Getty Images) New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner has been making headlines not just for his plays on the field, but also for his unexpected bond with rapper Ice Spice. The NFL star recently gave fans a rare glimpse into their connection, revealing how the two met and what keeps them close — even if he's keeping the full details under wraps. Sauce Gardner hints at deep connection with Ice Spice amid romance buzz In an interview with TMZ Sports, Sauce Gardner disclosed that his first meeting with Ice Spice happened in April 2024 during a shoot for The Shop, LeBron James' popular YouTube series. That episode featured a star-studded panel, including Gardner, Ice Spice, LeBron, Travis Hunter, Julio Rodríguez, and Chad Johnson. The setting proved to be more than just a discussion hub — it marked the beginning of a surprising connection between the athlete and the rapper. Gardner recounted, 'I think we met at The Shop, the little interview that we did with LeBron and Trav. That's where we definitely first seen each other in person.' While that encounter seemed casual, it sparked something that continued off-camera. LeBron, Travis Scott, Ice Spice, Ochocinco, Sauce Gardner and J-Rod on Awards & Snubs | The Shop S7 Since then, the two have been spotted together several times, fueling speculation that there might be more than just friendship between them. From being seen out in public since February to posting a mirror selfie together on Instagram in April — which fans took as an unofficial relationship announcement — the signs were hard to miss. The pair even showed up at Adin Ross' Brand Kickboxing event, where they were caught on the kiss cam, though they playfully dodged the moment, further adding intrigue. When asked if the rumors about them dating were true, Gardner chose to keep things low-key, telling TMZ, 'We cool.' Pressed for clarity, he added, 'It's still the same for real. I ain't trying to speak too much on it.' But what he did share gave some insight into their bond. 'We just be having a good time,' he said. 'Two young individuals. She's from New York, I play in New York. She's talented, real talented at what she do — same for me. Two people that get hated on that's really good at what we do, so we've got a lot in common.' Despite coming from different worlds — one built on beats and rhymes, the other on tackles and interceptions — it seems Gardner and Ice Spice connect through their shared experiences, fame, and hustle. The 23-year-old NFL standout, who notched 49 tackles and nine passes defended last season, appears to be navigating both career pressure and newfound attention off the field with ease. Whether they're just 'cool' or something more, one thing's clear — their relationship, whatever shape it takes, started thanks to an unexpected matchmaker: LeBron James. Also Read: How much did Taylor Swift's stunning outfit for her PDA-filled date with Travis Kelce actually cost? Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.