Stephen A. Smith’s Desperate Attempt to Get Russell Westbrook Suspended Landed in Major Disappointment
Follow Us
It’s the playoffs, so some physicality is expected. However, Russell Westbrook might have crossed the line during Game 3 of the first-round series against the Dallas Mavericks. He was involved in a series of dangerous plays during the game, including a shoving and swinging match with Dallas Maverick’s Luka Doncic and P.J. Washington. Although Westbrook was subsequently ejected, it was not enough for Stephen A. Smith.
On Sunday, Smith admitted calling the NBA’s office to inquire why Russell Westbrook was merely ejected instead of facing more severe consequences. Unfortunately for Smith, his inquiries resulted in nothing but disappointment. The league did get back to him with answers. And perfectly reasonable ones.
“I was informed that the officials gave the reports and when they wrote the reports, they said that the situation was handled. He got what should have come to him. He was T-ed up twice, he was also given Flagrant 2, he was ejected from the game. We had this matter under control and there was no further incident, so since that was the case, that’s why we didn’t suspend him,” revealed the veteran analyst on the Stephen A. Smith Show.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Of course, some folks weren’t thrilled about Smith “snitching” on Russell Westbrook. Rapper Gillie Da Kid, for one, took to his Instagram story to express his disapproval. “Listen to this sh*t, why would you call the league office? You don’t work for the NBA!” Gillie said in the video. Not one to shy away from controversy, Stephen A. Smith quickly fired back, defending his decision.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Stephen A. Smith defends his decision
According to Smith, unlike podcasters, he doesn’t just talk about the games; he covers the league. And that means investigating, verifying, and comprehending what exactly went behind the decisions that were taken. “I’ve been a reporter for 30 years, covering the NBA. You think I just watch the game and talk? You think stuff just comes out of my mouth, and I’m not watching? and I’m not having sources feed me information? No, that’s y’all who do podcasts, I’m a reporter… There’s an inherently different obligation that comes from me,” said Smith.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
This is also not the first time he has reached out to the NBA to inquire about a controversial call. Smith revealed that he also called the office to question why Joel Embiid was not ejected when he grabbed Mitchell Robinson’s leg as he went up for a dunk during Game 3 of the first-round playoff series between the Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks.
Trending
Shaquille O’Neal Reveals Retirement Plans as Inside the NBA Crew Prepare for Uncertain Future With TNT
May 20, 2024 01:00 PM EDT
“I Can Be Replaced”: Shaq Drops Cryptic Note Online As Absence From TNT Live Show Confuses America
May 20, 2024 01:32 AM EDT
Shaquille O’Neal, Tempted by Elon Musk’s Tesla Creation, Offers $159,999 Worth Trade to 30YO Comedian
May 19, 2024 06:38 AM EDT
“Jordan Slipping Him Cash”: Fans Join In as Magic Johnson Slams Stephen A. Smith for Leaving Isiah Thomas Out of His List
May 18, 2024 03:30 PM EDT
Replaced by Shaquille O’Neal and $14 Million Worth TNT Deal, Here Are the Former “Inside the NBA” Analysts
May 20, 2024 12:35 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
What do you think of Stephen A. Smith’s defense? Was it reasonable for him to reach out to the league? Or was he trying to snitch? Let us know in the comments!