Kevin Durant has voiced strong opinions about ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith, calling him a “clown” during a recent interview. This statement comes after Smith questioned Durant’s leadership abilities on the show “First Take.”
Doug Haller of The Athletic reported that Smith used Durant’s leadership as a reason to argue against the Phoenix Suns as serious NBA contenders. While praising Durant’s talent, Smith expressed skepticism about the 14-time All-Star’s capacity to inspire his teammates.
Following the segment, Durant responded on X, expressing his disagreement with Smith’s analysis. He argued that his intangibles have always matched his talent. However, in the Phoenix locker room after a recent game, Durant’s remarks were much more pointed.
“Yeah, Stephen A., I don’t understand how people even listen to Stephen A.,” Durant stated. “I’ve been in the league for 18 years. I’ve never seen Stephen A. at a practice, or a film session, or a shoot-around. I’ve never seen him anywhere but on TV talking s— about players.”
Durant emphasized that he believes Smith lacks firsthand knowledge of player dynamics and team environments. He made it clear that he sees Smith’s critiques as unfounded and lacking context. “He’s a clown to me. He’s always been a clown. You can write that, too,” Durant added, expressing his frustration with the media narrative surrounding his leadership.
While Durant acknowledges that he is not a perfect player and has areas to improve, he challenges the focus on leadership criticisms. He noted that many of the critiques directed at him often revolve around vague and subjective topics rather than concrete issues with his game.
The conversation highlights an ongoing debate within the basketball community about the definition of leadership. Critics often point to players’ abilities to inspire their teammates and lead by example, but these qualities can be difficult to quantify.
Durant, 36, is averaging 25.8 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists in 39.3 minutes per game this season. The Suns are 5-1.
