The Phoenix Suns concluded their season with a disheartening 36-46 record, failing to make it to the playoffs. This outcome was unexpected for a team boasting standout talents like Kevin Durant, and it raised significant questions about the reasons behind their underperformance throughout the year.
Recently, Stephen A. Smith commented on the Suns’ disappointing season, asserting that a part of the issue lay with Durant’s leadership deficiencies.
Durant didn’t take long to respond once he caught wind of Smith’s remarks. He quickly took to X to counter Smith’s comments, utilizing the opportunity to mock Smith’s rumored ambitions to run for president in 2028. Durant highlighted the irony of Smith’s ability to critique the Suns while seemingly distracted by his political aspirations.
“Steve is trying to run for president, u think he actually paid attention to a struggling team?? It’s called propaganda,” Durant wrote.
Steve is trying to run for president, u think he actually paid attention to a struggling team?? It’s called propaganda
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) April 15, 2025
Despite facing criticism, Durant had a noteworthy season, averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 62 games. However, he was sidelined during the final stretch of the season due to a left ankle sprain he sustained in a match against the Houston Rockets.
Stephen A. Smith’s Reply to Kevin Durant
Smith was quick to address Durant’s critique. On a recent episode of First Take, he confronted Durant’s comments directly but emphasized that it didn’t faze him.
“I don’t give a damn what KD says. I got nothing but love for KD. That’s a good brother. He’s just a bit sensitive at times. I am going to take at least an hour covering the NBA the way the players want me to,” Smith stated.
“Are we allowed to say anything?” – Stephen A. Smith responds to Kevin Durant https://t.co/VeEOPoDHCw pic.twitter.com/qRESNBiNZg
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 15, 2025
Smith has recently made headlines due to his ongoing conflict with LeBron James. Now, this exchange with Durant adds another layer to his history of feuds with NBA players. It remains to be seen how long this latest dispute will endure.
Image Source: Ron Adar @ Shutterstock
