In a recent interview with The Athletic, Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant didn’t hold back his feelings about ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith, calling him a “clown” and questioning his credibility.
Durant’s comments came after Smith criticized his leadership abilities during an episode of ESPN’s “First Take.”
“Yeah, Stephen A., I don’t understand how people even listen to Stephen A.,” Durant said. “I’ve been in the league for 18 years. I’ve never seen Stephen A. at a practice, a film session, or a shootaround. I’ve never seen him anywhere but on TV talking s— about players. He’s a clown to me. He’s always been a clown. You can write that, too”.
Smith’s criticism of Durant’s leadership has been a recurring theme, with the analyst questioning Durant’s ability to inspire his teammates and lead them to success.
“I don’t question the greatness nor commitment of Kevin Durant,” Smith said. “When you are that great, you should be able to be a better leader than he has shown”.
Durant’s response highlights his frustration with media personalities who, in his view, lack firsthand knowledge of the players they critique.
“Of course, I got things I need to work on,” Durant admitted. “But talking about leadership is stuff that’s, like, so vague and subjective”.
So far this season, Durant’s leadership has been a driving force behind the Suns’ success and their impressive 5-1 start to the season.
