Stephen A. Smith was outraged by Dennis Schroder’s remarks about Kevin Durant and didn’t hold back in his criticism. After Team USA’s gold medal victory, Schroder criticized Durant’s social media post, implying that Durant’s comments showed his weakness. Durant had previously referenced Schroder’s comments about “entertainment and IQ,” which clearly upset Schroder.
On *First Take*, Smith fiercely defended Durant, questioning Schroder’s judgment. “What the hell is wrong with you? You have no right to call Kevin Durant ‘weak,’” Smith said. He highlighted Durant’s achievements, including being one of the greatest players in NBA history, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, and the all-time leading scorer with a record 518 points. Smith condemned Schroder for attacking Durant’s character, stating that Durant did not deserve such criticism.
Smith continued by emphasizing that Durant was merely making a valid point about their shared basketball IQ and entertainment value. “He’s qualified to say that because he’s the most celebrated Olympian in basketball history,” Smith said. “More so than LeBron James, Steph Curry, or Carmelo Anthony—certainly more than Dennis Schroder.”
Smith further asserted, “Dennis Schroder, you can’t shine Kevin Durant’s shoes. You just can’t. You’re not on his level.”
