When it comes to the likes of Kyrie Irving, Stephen A. has been very critical over the years. Overall, Smith believes that Kyrie is one of the most talented players in the league. However, Smith also believes that Irving has wasted his talent by doing some boneheaded things. Whenever Kyrie messes up, Smith is one of the first people to criticize him. Although that is Smith’s job, some fans have found it bizarre that Stephen A. seemingly goes after Kyrie harder than any other athlete in the sports world.
Recently, Kyrie has been a huge topic of conversation for Smith on First Take. Of course, this is because Kyrie demanded a trade from the Brooklyn Nets. Subsequently, the Nets were able to get rid of Kyrie as they sent him to the Dallas Mavericks. Now, Kyrie will get to play alongside Luka Doncic, and fans are curious as to how it will pan out. As for Stephen A., he got to talk about Kyrie on First Take this morning. However, it turned out to be a heated endeavor for Smith as he faced off against fellow analyst and former NBA star, Jay Williams.
Stephen A. Vs. Jay Williams
Jay Williams and Stephen A. Smith get into it over Kyrie Irving
pic.twitter.com/2nmNAaMX2y
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) February 6, 2023
As you can see from the clip above, it appears as though Williams doesn’t have much love for Smith. He accused Stephen A. of going harder on Kyrie than he does any other athlete. Moreover, he felt as though Smith’s criticisms are hypocritical at times. Smith was not having any of this and got heated, telling Williams that he wasn’t saying anything of interest. This led to a highly-contentious back and forth in which Williams called Stephen A. “triggered.” Overall, it felt very personal, and even Molly Qerim noted it as such. Needless to say, Williams may not be coming back to the show, anytime soon.
Kyrie is someone who always seems to invite these kinds of hot takes. Smith is certainly not the first person to criticize Irving, and he will not be the last. Regardless, it is clear that Stephen A. has rubbed some the wrong way, and that was evident this morning. Having said that, let us know whose side you are taking, in the comments down below.
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