[Saba Sports News] On the Oct. 24 “First Take,” ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith said he doesn’t think the Suns can be A serious championship contender. While Smith praised Kevin Durant for his greatness and dedication, he questioned his leadership and ability to motivate teammates.
(Source: Getty Image)
Durant later responded on social media, saying he respected but disagreed with Smith’s point of view and stressed “passionately” that his intangibles were just as important as his talent. After the game against the Trail Blazers, Durant brought it up again and lashed out at Smith. He said, “Yes, Stephen A. I don’t understand how people listen to Stephen A. I’ve been in the league for 18 years and I’ve never seen him in practice, at a video screening or at a shootaround. I’ve never seen him talk about players anywhere but on TV. As far as I’m concerned, he’s a clown. He’s always been a clown. You can also write like this.”
Smith, who has been a columnist and media personality in the NBA and sports for more than three decades, isn’t the first to question Durant’s leadership. Charles Barkley made a similar point during All-Star weekend last season, calling Durant a “follower.” It’s not a touchy subject, but it’s certainly an irritating one for Durant.