Mark Titus, a commentator from Barstool, has recently voiced his frustrations regarding ESPN and its prominent use of Stephen A. Smith during the NBA Finals coverage. On his show “Mostly Sports,” Titus expressed that while he has no issue with Smith’s opinions in general, he finds it problematic that Smith is positioned as a main voice for the NBA Finals broadcasts. “I want to watch the two best basketball teams compete for the highest honor in professional basketball,” he stated, implying that Smith’s presence detracts from the experience.
Titus’s remarks come amidst a growing chorus of criticisms aimed at Smith, who has recently been embroiled in several controversies. Over the past few weeks, he has attracted attention for speaking out against players, including a dispute with Memphis superstar Ja Morant, after claiming that free agents do not want to play in Memphis due to safety concerns. This prompted backlash from both Morant and former ESPN host Jason Fitz, who questioned Smith’s remarks.
Smith’s visibility in NBA Finals broadcasts has drawn skepticism in the past, with some fans and media figures criticizing ESPN for its frequent coverage of him, including showing him arriving at games. Titus’s comments highlight a broader frustration, as viewers think Smith often overshadows the on-court action.
As the NBA Finals continue, Smith is set to appear prominently during Game 7 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers, which could further fuel discussions regarding his role in sports media.
Despite the criticism directed at him, Smith maintains a strong presence and continues to be a key figure in basketball discussions. His outspoken nature often stirs debate among fans and commentators alike, revealing the polarized opinions surrounding his contributions to sports broadcasting.