Stephen A. Smith applauds Kyrie Irving’s COVID vaccine refusal

Stephen A. Smith shared his perspective on Kyrie Irving’s decision not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, saying he now views the Dallas Mavericks guard’s stance differently.

Looking back, Smith said Irving’s refusal should not be interpreted as selfishness or stubbornness, but as an act of conviction.

“In my opinion, particularly hindsight-wise, it didn’t make him stubborn or selfish. It made him brave. His willingness to stand up and say, ‘Nah, I’m not doing that.’”

Stephen A. Smith on Kyrie Irving refusing the COVID vaccine,

“In my opinion, particularly hindsight-wise, it didn't make him stubborn or selfish. It made him brave. His willingness to stand up and say, ‘Nah, I'm not doing that.’
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— Defiant L’s (@DefiantLs) July 31, 2026