From a sporting perspective, the Phoenix Suns started the new NBA season almost perfectly: After a narrow 118:116 against the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night, the team has a record of 6-1. Top scorer Kevin Durant (35 points), who scored the decisive points shortly before the end, is currently making headlines off the court.
Specifically, it’s about Stephen A. Smith. The controversial one ESPN-Moderator, who, among other things, popularized the “First Take” discussion format in the USA, is regularly a thorn in the side of NBA stars with his public judgments.
On Saturday, Durant didn’t hold back about his opinion of the 57-year-old. “I’ve been in the NBA for 18 years. I’ve never seen Stephen A. at training, watching videos or warming up. I only ever see him on TV talking trash about the players,” KD said The Athletic. “In my eyes he’s a clown. He’s always been a clown. Feel free to write it that way.”
Smith didn’t want to let that go. On Monday, he publicly hit back on his show: “With all due respect, Kevin Durant: Can you stop with the lies?” KD saw him “in the locker room in Oklahoma City, as well as during his time in Golden State. Certainly at local games throughout his career.”
But he no longer has to come to the shootaround or to the dressing room after the games, emphasized Smith, who was at the club before his time ESPN the NBA for the Philadelphia Inquirer had covered: “I happen to have a hit show that’s been number one for twelve years. I’ve got better things to do.”