Oklahoma City Thunder wrote a new chapter in NBA history by winning the championship on their home court. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder clinched the title in front of a packed Paycom Center, defeating the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 of the Finals.
The Thunder’s season was nothing short of remarkable, racking up 68 wins in the regular season and knocking out powerhouses like the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks in the playoffs. But success doesn’t always silence critics. ESPN’s First Take host, Stephen A. Smith, made it clear he wasn’t entirely impressed with Oklahoma City’s performance.
Stephen A. Smith’s Take on the Champions
During his show, Stephen A. Smith weighed in on Oklahoma City’s Thunder championship season, delivering his trademark blunt analysis. Despite their success, Smith argued that this Thunder squad doesn’t deserve to be mentioned among the greatest teams in NBA history. He listed five past teams that could outclass the Thunder in terms of dominance and legacy.
“Let me put it to you this way. I believe the Golden State Warriors, with Kevin Durant, would have beaten them. I believe the San Antonio Spurs with Duncan, Ginobili, and those boys would have beaten them. I believe the Miami Heat with D-Wade, LeBron, Bosh, and those boys would have beaten them. I believe the Lakers with Shaq and Kobe would have beaten them. I believe the Chicago Bulls with Jordan and Pippen, and those brothers, would have beaten them. That’s five right there”. He said during his show.
Nevertheless, he praised the team’s defensive line, calling it one of the keys to their successful campaign, though he acknowledged their offensive struggles. “I think that they’re an all-time great defensive team. But overall, I look at their offense, and they would have had trouble with a lot of teams.” He added.
There were words for LeBron James as well.
The relationship between LeBron James and Stephen A. Smith has often been strained, marked by the outspoken commentator’s sharp critiques. Over the years, Smith has publicly questioned James’s off-court persona and even his role as a father. In his latest remarks, he surprised many by praising the L.A. Lakers star.
“He’s one of the greatest players who’s ever lived. I’m going to show him that respect, and I’m going to cover him objectively. When he does great, I’m gonna applaud. When he doesn’t do great, I’m not gonna applaud”. Smith said.
But he also made it clear that their relationship is strained. ‘The real issue was, we don’t like each other. And he used that as an excuse to confront me. I got it,’ he said.”
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