Stephen A. Smith, a prominent sports commentator known for his unfiltered opinions, has taken a remarkable step back from his previous criticisms of Kyrie Irving. Historically, the two have had a contentious relationship, often clashing over Irving’s decisions during his time with the Brooklyn Nets. However, during a recent appearance on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, Smith expressed a newfound appreciation for Irving, admitting that he may have misjudged the basketball star.
Reflecting on their clashes, Smith acknowledged that his earlier criticisms, particularly surrounding Irving’s choice not to take the COVID-19 vaccine, might have been excessive. “Kyrie’s a good brother. We used to butt heads because he used to miss work too damn much,” Smith said. He emphasized his desire to see Irving perform on the court rather than focus on off-court controversies. In a notable shift, Smith stated, “Now, obviously in hindsight, the brother’s right… Props to him for having the foresight to see that. We didn’t see that at the time.”
While Smith did not delve into specific “conspiracy theories,” his remarks signify a significant shift in his perspective towards Irving. Previously, Smith had criticized Irving for being arrogant and selfish when he opted out of vaccination protocols, which ultimately kept him sidelined for a significant portion of the 2021-22 season. Smith was at the forefront of the backlash, labeling Irving as a player who had “let down” his teammates and fans.
Since those tumultuous times, Kyrie Irving has managed to regain his stature in the sport, particularly through his performance with the Dallas Mavericks, culminating in a trip to the 2024 NBA Finals. This resurgence serves as a reminder of Irving’s talent and the complexities surrounding public perception of athletes who make controversial decisions based on personal beliefs.
Smith’s recent comments reflect a broader understanding of the nuances athletes face when balancing personal convictions against public expectations. Although his assertion that Irving was “right” may not align with established medical guidelines, it indicates a growing recognition that athletes, particularly those viewed as polarizing, deserve the space to uphold their beliefs. Smith’s phrase, “the brother’s right,” may be interpreted not as an endorsement of Irving’s choices but rather as an acknowledgment of his authenticity.
With this evolution in their discourse, both Smith and Irving have highlighted the importance of empathy in sports commentary, reminding audiences that behind the controversies lie human experiences and convictions. This exchange signals a hopeful trend towards greater understanding and compassion in how we discuss and perceive the actions of athletes.