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Stephen A Smith Calls Out Clippers Star Kawhi Leonard: “He’s The Worst Superstar In Sports”

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Never one to back down from a wil take, Stephen A. Smith has presented a compelling case for Kawhi Leonard as maybe the worst superstar in sports. During this morning’s First Take, Smith expressed his annoyance at Leonard’s continuous availability problems and how they are affecting his team, the Los Angeles Clippers. he said, “This is the worst superstar. The word superstar is applicable here because he is a superstar when healthy on the basketball court this is not a conversation about his ability when healthy. He is a two-time champion, a two-time NBA Finals MVP, the brother is a big-time basketball player.”

Smith continued, “This is the worst superstar. I can make a case this is the worst superstar in the history of sports. He is a nightmare. You’re talking about the first four years of his time with the Clippers. He’s averaged 40.3 games a season. He played 68 games this past year and then again he wasn’t available to play.” Stephen A. Smith solidified his take, saying, “Do you know that Kawhi Leonard hasn’t been available for 15 of the last 19 Clippers playoff games? Do you know that the year that they went to the conference finals, which by the way was without him because he got hurt before they got to the conference finals, do you know they haven’t won a playoff series since?”

Read More: Jaylen Brown Calls Out Stephen A. Smith For Reported Criticism, Gets Support From Isiah Thomas

Stephen A Smith Calls Out Kawhi Leonard

Stephen A. Smith continued his rant against Kawhi Leonard, saying, “First, let me confess, I’m kind of jealous. I’m kind of jealous, Jay, because somehow, some way, no matter what his lack of availability is, don’t you notice how that’s never the issue come negotiating time?” He then calls out the timing of Kawhi’s availability. he continued, “Right around the time. It’s time to negotiate the brother available. Right around the time to get his money he’s on the court. Right around the time to solve it, to get his money. I mean, you see him in a clip of uniform. All right. But then the second the man get his money, you got an APB out for him and you can’t find the man.”

Smith made it clear that Leonard’s skills on the court were not the focus of his criticism. The main focus of Smith’s argument is Leonard’s persistent lack of availability and involvement off the court. Leonard’s season average during his first four years with the Clippers was a mere 40.3 games. Leonard has missed fifteen of the last nineteen Clippers playoff games, Smith said. Overall, Stephen A. Smith has had it with the Kawhi Leonard talk.

Read More: Stephen A. Smith Apologizes To Kyrie Irving: “I Was Wrong”

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Stephen A. Smith Apologizes To Kyrie Irving: “I Was Wrong”

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In a public apology to Kyrie Irving, Stephen A. Smith admits his previous criticism went too far and has sincerely apologized for it. Many of Irving’s critics have backed off after the star guard made a comeback in Dallas. At last, Stephen A. Smith let down his defenses and apologized in public to Kyrie Irving for constantly criticizing him. Smith apologized in a video posted to his own YouTube account, titled “Kyrie, I apologize.” He apologized for all of his previous remarks against the Dallas Mavericks star player and other things.

The video is 10 minutes long. In it, Stephen A. said,”I feel the way that I feel because I pride myself in being man enough to acknowledge when I’m wrong. If I think I’m wrong because, I think it’s rare, but I was wrong, and for Kenny Smith to tell me that, it hit home in a big way because we go back more than 30 years.” But the apology was made at a time when several NBA players, including Jaylen Brown and Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas, were criticizing Stephen A. The most recent incident came to light when NBA icon Kenny Smith disclosed personal details of his chat with Stephen A.

Read More: Jaylen Brown Calls Out Stephen A. Smith For Reported Criticism, Gets Support From Isiah Thomas

Stephen A. Smith Makes 10-Minute Apology Video To Kyrie Irving

In reaction to Stephen A. Smith’s criticism of Kyrie Irving, Kenny Smith shared details of a profound conversation they had. Kenny said that he spoke with Stephen A. about his concerns over Irving’s position since he considered Irving to be a native of their shared neighborhood during the TNT pregame program. Kenny underlined the significance of appreciating Irving’s development as a basketball player and stressed the need to realize that young athletes go through a maturation process that is distinct from their own experiences.

Stephen A. said in his apology video that the conversation with Smith opened his eyes. He said, “I can count on two fingers how many times he’s thought I was wrong and so his friendship, his brotherhood means a lot to me. But it also reminded me of the brotherhood of all of those that mentored me and have been there for Kyrie,” Overall, it is a good thing for Stephen A. To recognize he was slightly out of line with his past criticisms of Kyrie Irving. 

Read More: Stephen A. Smith Accepts Draymond Green’s On-Air Apology 

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Dwyane Wade To Make Broadcast Debut During Paris Olympics As Analyst For Team USA Basketball 

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Basketball Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade will once more take center stage in his latest role as a game commentator for NBC Sports during the men’s basketball games played by Team USA at the Paris Olympics this summer. Wade will work with Noah Eagle, who will make his NBC Olympics debut in Paris and call the plays for the men’s and women’s basketball teams for Team USA. Kerith Burke and Zora Stephenson will cover the sidelines, while LaChina Robinson, who will work her third Olympic assignment for NBC Sports, will serve as the game analyst for the U.S. women’s Olympic basketball team.

“I’m thrilled to join NBC Sports as a commentator for Team USA Men’s Basketball games,” Wade said in a statement. “The Olympics are the world’s greatest sporting competition with elite athletes competing at the highest level on the world’s largest stage. I have tremendous pride when I look back at my time competing as an Olympic athlete. I have the utmost respect for these players and their commitment to greatness. It will be an honor to witness their journey in person and share this special experience with viewers while we unite to celebrate their pursuit of the gold.”

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Dwyane Wade To Call Games For Team USA

Dwyane Wade, a 13-time NBA All-Star and three-time NBA champion stated that his latest job is simply seizing the chance to try something new on TV. “It is a challenge for me,” Wade told USA TODAY Sports. “I am in a space where I am always in these certain challenges. You want to make sure that any door you want to walk through, if you put the work in, it will open for you.” Wade earned a gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics while he was a member of the “Redeem Team” and worked as an NBA studio commentator for TNT from 2019 to 22.

Wade claims his familiarity with the game makes him more than capable of handling the role despite the fact he has never functioned in this capacity as a game commentator. He will not, however, criticize Team USA if they perform poorly in the Olympic competition. “Yeah, I won’t do that,” Wade says. “I think we have to discuss what we see. I am not really into calling players out, but to really give the audience an opportunity to understand what’s going on in the game.” Overall, D-Wade calling games for Team USA is something hoops fans can get behind.

Read More: Dwyane Wade Creates “Translatable” Community To Support Transgender Youth With Daughter Zaya

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JJ Redick Is Expected To Be Named Lakers Head Coach According To NBA Insider

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JJ Redick has been reported as one of the frontrunners to lead the Los Angeles Lakers as their new head coach. The name that has reportedly piqued the Lakers’ attention the most is Redick. JJ Redick is presently employed by ESPN as an NBA commentator and podcaster. He and NBA player LeBron James have a podcast where they discuss all things basketball and the league. JJ’s basketball IQ has amazed a lot of people, and it truly comes through when he speaks with LeBron. Now, according to an insider, it’s only a matter of time before Redick is named the new coach of the Lakers.

During an appearance on the esteemed Dan Patrick Show, NBA insider Chris Haynes shared his expectation of JJ Redick’s appointment as the Lakers’ head coach. Haynes, known for his accurate predictions, confidently states that it’s only a matter of time. Redick’s meticulous efforts in assembling a strong team of assistant coaches further solidify Haynes’ belief that the appointment may already be a done deal.

Read More: Stephen A Smith Calls Out LeBron And Warns The Lakers Not To Trust Him In Their Coaching Search

JJ Redick Presumed To Be Named Lakers Head Coach

Chris Haynes explained the JJ Redick coaching situation on the Dan Patrick Show earlier today. “I will be very surprised if their next Head Coach is anybody but JJ Redick. Everything that I’m hearing is JJ Redick. From what I know he’s doing some background, calling some assistant coaching candidates who might be able to join his staff,” he said. Redick was allegedly interviewed by the Lakers last week along with other prospects, including James Borrego and Sam Cassell. Redick is the front-runner to get the position. Taht’saccording to several sources, even before it was revealed that those interviews had happened.

Since Redick is presently a part of ESPN’s NBA broadcast team, his contract with the network will continue until the NBA Finals. If there is a Game 7, the finals might go until June 23. Therefore, if Redick is L.A.’s option, the news might not come for a few weeks. The playoffs begin on Thursday, June 6th. Overall, it looks like JJ will be the Lakers head coach. It will be interesting to see how he does, especially considering his relationship with the Lakers star. Overall, the news will be coming out after the NBA playoffs presumably.

Read More: JJ Redick Is Reportedly The Front Runner For The Lakers Coaching Job, Compared To Pat Riley

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LeBron James Shocks Fans After Perfectly Lip-Syncing Gunna’s “One Of Wun”

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LA Lakers star LeBron James perfectly lipsyncs Gunna’s “One of Wun,” which was released early in May, while driving. James was grooving out to the tune and enjoying himself like he always does with the music he likes. The four-time NBA champion is known for jamming to music that he doesn’t always understand the lyrics to. He often looks like he is rapping along but does not know the words to songs. Fans love it so much it has become a meme. LeBron surprisingly knew every word while he was vibing to Gunna’s latest single.

“IM due for win,” LeBron James wrote in his Instagram story. With 20 tracks, Gunna just released “One of Wun,” his fifth studio album. He finished the album and worked on a few of the tracks alongside Offset and Roddy Rich. Since 2019, the 30-year-old rapper has been involved in the music business, dropping hit records. Gunna’s new album was officially published, and LeBron James listened to one of the tracks right away. 

Read More: Mase Asks Rich Paul If He Plans To Get LeBron James And Bronny On The Same Team

LeBron James Nails Gunna Lyrics Shocking Fans

LeBron James shared his admiration for Gunna’s music with no reservations. The Lakers player immediately uploaded a video of himself listening to a song off the YSL artist’s new album after it was dropped. LeBorn was recently caught vibing out to Kendrick Lamar’s Drake diss “Like That” while he was warming up for his playoff game against the Denver Nuggets. James ended with 40 points, six rebounds, and seven assists after the game. He contributed to the Lakers’ victory by going 9–10 from outside the arc after being videoed jamming to the diss track. The song’s producer, Metro Boomin, saw it and put James’s statistics up on Twitter. “Bro was warming up to Like That then went 9/10 from 3 and 13/17 for 40 points,” Metro Boomin said on Twitter.

LeBron is in off-season mode. His Lakers were defeated in the first round of the NBA Playoffs by the Denver Nuggets. LeBron has been supporting his oldest son, Bronny, as he undergoes his draft process. The Lakers are still the most likely landing spot for Bronny James. LeBron has also been doing his podcast with his presumed next coach, JJ Redick. Overall, LeBron is having fun this offseason while supporting his family and making some major moves.

Read More: Drake “Mob Ties” Reference Track: Megastar Once Professed His Love Of The Song To LeBron James

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Karl-Anthony Towns Hate Article Gets Massive Backlash From NBA Fans

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Sportswriters frequently have harsh opinions on the topics they write about. It’s required for the job. It is the responsibility of sports writers to speak their minds and tell it like it is. Additionally, it is all well and good to voice criticism of a team or individual if they are doing poorly on the court or exhibiting bad behavior off it. NBA fans are criticizing a recent article on Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns for going beyond critique. Furthermore, due to its insulting tone and lack of substantive critique, a recent SB Nation essay attacking Towns has drawn outrage from Minnesota Timberwolves supporters.

According to fans, there was a great example of unfair and poor criticism and writing in an SB Nation column by Abe Beame that was published on Tuesday, titled “An ode to Karl-Anthony Towns, the most annoying guy in the NBA.” Good sports writers will strive to be fair and avoid unwarranted and unnecessary criticisms. Fans say that Beame was not fair and reveled in unnecessary and personal criticism towards Towns. Overall, the piece has been derided by fans as an attempt to tear down a player for no real reason. 

Read More: Karl-Anthony Towns Says Anthony Edwards Will Be “The Next Face Of The NBA”

Fans Come To Karl-Anthony Towns Defense Over Article

The column’s insulting and nonconstructive criticism has drawn criticism from Minnesota Timberwolves supporters. The article started a discussion on where to draw the line in sports journalism between discourteous comments and constructive criticism. Additionally, fans also noted that although the article is over 1600 words, only 40 words describe Town’s performance in the Western Conference Finals. Ultimately, Fans say It was a pretentious way of stating that Towns is annoying.

The internet has called out the piece, saying there was really nothing substantial to criticize about the article. Fans are saying that the sports writing was subpar, without any of the components that elevate a column. Yes, it was critical, but it wasn’t about anything significant. Additionally, some of the barbs included that Towns looks annoying and that he’s goofy, weird, and awkward. Furthermore, Towns was also called a “tryhard,” which seems like a strange insult for a professional athlete. Overall, the article has sparked a lot of backlash and discussion around what is valid criticism and what is just mean-spirited insults. 

Read More: Jordyn Woods Previews New Love Song Dedicated To Karl-Anthony Towns

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The Sixers Are Rumored To Give Jimmy Butler A Max Contract If He Is Traded

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Following a disappointing season, the Philadelphia 76ers are gearing up for a major offseason. With only Joel Embiid and Paul Reed having contracts until the summer, the team is likely to invest heavily in Tyrese Maxey to support their MVP Embiid. The organization has significant financial resources this summer and is reportedly eyeing a potential reunion with Miami’s superstar, Jimmy Butler. The organization would be willing and able to offer Jimmy Butler a max deal should the Miami Heat trade him. They wouldn’t mind spending it on an old friend, according to Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Jimmy Butler played for the Sixers in the past. Many feel like it was a mistake to let him go in favor of Ben Simmons. All in all, Butler may be headed back to his old stomping grounds. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, “The Sixers view him as a fallback option if they are unable to sign Paul George in free agency. And, according to sources, the Sixers are prepared to give Butler a maximum-salary extension if things align and he forces a trade out of Miami.” 

Read More: Jimmy Butler Feared To Have Suffered A Major Injury Against Joel Embiid & The Sixers

The Sixers Want Jimmy Butler On A Max Deal

Butler finds himself in an odd situation where he can sign a two-year maximum deal but cannot become a free agent until the following summer. In spite of this, Pat Riley gave the impression that he is not in a rush to try to move Butler or to pay his All-Star guard, who turns 35 in September. Jimmy Butler is in control of the situation. He might decide to apply some pressure to the organization to trade him. 

The fact that Butler, of course, was a player for the Sixers before the organization acquired him in a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves after he forced his way out heightens the intrigue surrounding this situation. However, following that year, he became a free agent and was sent to Miami in a sign-and-trade. Nevertheless, he only played 55 games and went on one playoff run with the franchise. Over the years, Embiid and Butler have continued to be complimentary to one another, even after he departed the club. Overall, we could see Jimmy Butler return to Philly and try and win a championship with Embiid.

Read More: Pat Riley Tells Jimmy Butler To “Keep His Mouth Shut” Over Celtics Comments

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Stephen A. Smith Accepts Draymond Green’s On-Air Apology 

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Golden State Warriors Draymond Green appeared on Shaq’s”The Big Podcast” last week and had some words for Stephen A. Smith. Green told Shaq, “Stephen A. Smith really pissed me off.” He clarified why he had a problem with Stephen A. by claiming that despite his appearance on camera, he consistently stood up for him. When Draymond was suspended earlier in the NBA season, Draymond said Stephen A. did not act similarly. Green says he “lost a lot of respect” for Smith as a result. Stephen A. Smith responded by going in on Green on First Take as their disagreement was a public affair. Now, Dyarmond Green has apologized to Stephen A. Smith for the misunderstanding on live TV. 

Prior to Game 4 of the Western Conference finals, guest commentator Green apologized live on TNT’s “Inside the NBA” pregame program for his earlier remarks about no longer respecting Smith. Draymond said, “[Shaquille O’Neal], I was on your podcast… and you just mentioned Stephen A,” Green said, “And I said something that didn’t come out the way I said it, so I want to apologize to him. I said that publicly … I was wrong for that.” Shockingly, Draymond Green has taken the high road and apologized for something he did. Stephen A. Accepted the gesture.

Read More: Stephen A. Smith Fires Back At Draymond Green And Shaq In Fiery Tirade

Draymond Green Apologizes And Stephen A. Smith Accepts

Smith immediately replied on Twitter, both apologizing for his own actions and accepting Green’s apologies. Smith said on social media, “Apology accepted my brother [Draymond Green],” Smith said “The love is always here for you, my Queens’ brother Kenny [Smith], and the whole TNT crew. Love y’all. I apologize as well, for anything I may have done. I’m not trying to hurt anybody. Now let’s enjoy this marvelous NBA basketball we’re about to see.”

Smith is well-known for his sharp opinions. The ESPN personality was perturbed by Green’s extended ban for hitting Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkić in the face during a game on December 12. Now the beef is settled, and the two can go back to being cool with one another. The two seem to have put their differences behind them, and now they can both concentrate on the upcoming 2024 NBA Finals. Overall, Draymond and Green’s public reconciliation was a good moment. 

Read More: Jaylen Brown Calls Out Stephen A. Smith For Reported Criticism, Gets Support From Isiah Thomas

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Nick Young Tells Wild Story About Kobe Bryant Giving Jeremy Lin The Silent Treatment 

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Nick Young recently told a fascinating story on “Vlad TV” regarding an event that resulted in Kobe Bryant ignoring teammate Jeremy Lin for the duration of the season. Young claims that at a Lakers practice, Lin made an attempt to interact with Bryant, which led to this incident. Young said, “Nobody really messed with Kobe like that, to the point of just messing with him. I remember when Jeremy Lin tried, but it didn’t end well. It didn’t end well for Jeremy. I felt bad for Jeremy Lin.” 

“I forgot exactly what happened, but I know they didn’t really click at all,” Young said. He continued, “After that one practice, Jeremy Lin tried to get in the middle of the huddle and say a couple of words, like, ‘We could keep it on the court, but don’t do this or do something’, and Kobe said something, something I forgot, and then didn’t talk to Jeremy for the rest of the season.” Kobe, who is renowned for his intensity and high expectations, was not feeling Lin’s strategy. Young stated that when Lin tried to speak, Kobe gave him a response that instantly cut him off.

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Nick Young Sasy Kobe Bryant Gave Jeremy Lin  The Silent Treatment For An Entire Season

Nick Young couldn’t remember exactly what Kobe said, but the implication was obvious. Kobe effectively shut out Lin, and he didn’t communicate with him again for the remainder of the season. This episode brought to light the difficult circumstances Lin had while attempting to establish himself on a team captained by one of the most driven and concentrated players in NBA history.

Lin must have felt pretty bad to be treated like that by a player of Bryant’s caliber. It emphasizes how intense it is to play with one of the best players in NBA history. Bryant believed that maintaining a high degree of devotion and attention was essential, and any deviation from this was met with firm action. Nick Young’s story sheds light on some of the difficulties Jeremy Lin experienced during his career. His time with the Lakers from 2014 to 2015 was another phase in his long battle to be accepted and validated in the NBA, especially in the shadow of Kobe Bryant.

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Isaiah Thomas Says He Had AK47 Pulled On Him In Deleted Post

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The two-time NBA All-Star Isaiah Thomas claims he and his friends saw a young person brandishing a firearm over the weekend, and he had a terrible experience in a now-deleted post. Thomas also feels that his notoriety may have saved his life. The guard for the Phoenix Suns spoke candidly about the incident on Twitter, describing it as a genuinely “life changing moment.” All in all, the event has clearly shocked and shaken the NBA guard in what sounds like a wild altercation.

He said that on Monday, when his group was out and about in his hometown of Tacoma, Washington, a young person with an AK-47 approached them. The hometown hero expressed his sincere belief that “if it wasn’t for who I was and him recognizing me in my own city he probably woulda ended all of our lives.” IT sent a warning to his almost two million followers. He said, “Really trippin on how these young kids are moving around!!!” and urging everyone to be careful during this terrifying time. Overall, it’s a scary moment for IT, and we are glad that the situation was resolved without anything popping off. 

Read More: Jaylen Brown Calls Out Stephen A. Smith For Reported Criticism, Gets Support From Isiah Thomas

Isaiah Thomas Is Ok After Having An AK47 Pulled On Him

Isaiah Thomas played collegiate basketball at Washington, a short drive away, after growing up in Tacoma. He has played for a few teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns, and Boston Celtics. Additionally, he became one of the Celtics’ best players during his time, making the all-star team. Nevertheless, injuries hampered his career, and he was never able to get back to an elite level. Thomas said of the terrifying experience, “We just gotta pray for these young men!!! God was working yesterday frfr. Damn it coulda all been over that quick smh. FOR NO REASON AT ALL!!!!!”

The 35-year-old, who was unsigned in 2022–23, returned to the NBA this season. Before being given the opportunity to play with the Phoenix Suns, he was a member of the NBA G League’s Salt Lake City Stars in March. Thomas played in six games during the regular season, totaling 19 minutes. In the playoffs, he was involved in Game 1 of Phoenix’s series-opening defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Read More: Ja Morant Responds To Isaiah Thomas’ Next Year Comments

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