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“He Tatted Up, and Smoking”: Laughing Off NBA Legend’s Political Intentions, ESPN’s Favorite Stephen A Smith Expresses Deep Regret

Published 08/16/2023, 9:50 AM EDT

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In a recent episode of Podcast P with Paul George, renowned ESPN personality Stephen A Smith didn’t hold back. He talked about a lot of things, but the topic of unexpected political intentions of an NBA legend took the cake. As the conversation continued, Smith showed his signature wit and humor. Furthermore, the conversation highlighted the surprising intelligence that often hides behind appearances.

Let’s dive into Smith’s comments about a star, who he thinks is “a brilliant mind“.

Stephen A Smith unveiled the unexpected political aspirations

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Matt Barnes, a name built on the basketball court, is making headlines for a unique venture into the world of politics. He won the NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2017. Now, he has his eyes set on a different prize.

Stephen A Smith, known for his candid commentary and insights, had an interesting take on Barnes’ transition from the hardwood to the political arena.

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In his characteristically candid manner, Smith jokingly questioned how Barnes’ image would translate to the political landscape.

He particularly harped on the 2017 NBA champion’s unconventional looks and penchant for smoking. Smith added, “If you sit to talk about looks and how it could be deceiving, because you know you see him tatted up, he’s smoking some weed and he talking about he want to be in politics.

However, Smith’s tone took a turn as he quickly recognized Barnes’ true brilliance.  The ESPN commentator admitted that his initial skepticism was challenged as he engaged in conversation with Barnes.

Smith said, “You talk to him and I’m like he can pull this off, right? Why not get some of the politicians. We can, we got a Capitol Hill. He could pull this off you know, like, because he’s just a brilliant mind“.

When expectations collide: Smith, ESPN, and Barnes

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Smith, as one of ESPN’s most recognizable faces, has built his reputation on candid analysis. His take on Barnes is an example of not judging a book by its cover. Well, Smith never backs down from voicing his opinions, right?

Matt Barnes’ potential for a career in politics isn’t just a dig. It shows the diverse range of talents that athletes can possess.

Beyond their talent on the court, athletes like him are proving that they can bring meaningful contributions to social and public platforms.

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In the end, Smith’s amusing skepticism and subsequent realization reveal the surprises that await when we look beyond the surface. You never know, we might see Matt Barnes in a political setting sooner than later.

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Written by:

Yusuf Khan

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One take at a time

Yusuf is an NBA content writer at EssentiallySports. Yusuf has been an NBA fanatic since his childhood days. NBA experts such as Chris Haynes and Shams Charania are his go-to sources to stay updated about all the inside scoops from the hoop world.
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Edited by:

Aakash Nair