FIRST Take star Stephen A. Smith has launched a scathing attack on Kawhi Leonard and claims he is “disgusted.”
Smith labeled the Los Angeles Clippers “the worst superstar in history” in a surprising speech live on ESPN.
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The First Take analyst was debating whether it was time for the Clippers to part ways with their star duo of Leonard and Paul George.
He took aim at analysts who praise Leonard — but made it clear he wasn’t talking about his Thursday co-stars, Jay Williams or Andraya Carter.
“I’m sick of you guys — I’m really sick of you guys,” Smith said.
“This is the worst star in the history of the sport.
“He’s a nightmare.”
During his two-minute speech, Smith made it clear it wasn’t about his ability.
“The word ‘superstar’ is applicable here because he is a superstar when he is healthy on the basketball court.
“He’s a two-time champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, he’s a great basketball player.
“This is not a discussion about his abilities and how elite he is.”
Smith said Leonard was only available for an average of 40.3 games per season in his first four years with the Clippers.
He added that this season he played 68 games but missed the playoffs.
And in all, Leonard has missed 15 of Los Angeles’ last 19 playoff games.
“Let me confess, I’m jealous,” Smith said.
“Because somehow, no matter what his lack of availability, don’t you realize how it’s never a problem when negotiating?
“Right when it’s time to negotiate, he’s available.
Stephen A. Smith’s journey through the media
STEPHEN A. Smith is now the face of ESPN and executive producer of First Take, having initially started working for the company in 2003.
Smith has held numerous roles at the network, including radio show host, contributions to SportsCenter and appearance on NBA Countdown.
He was a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer from 1994 to 2010.
He started as an NBA writer before becoming a general sports columnist.
Prior to that, Smith worked as a reporter at the Winston-Salem Journal, the Greensboro News and the New York Daily News.
“Right when it’s time to get the money, he’s on the court.
“Just when you’re going to take his money, you see him in a Clipper uniform.”
Smith also referenced a New Balance commercial in which Leonard appears.
He said the NBA star does not speak in the ad and that children are forced to speak.
The First Take star said, “When I’m so disgusted with him, he makes no effort to promote the game, to promote his team, to promote the NBA brand.
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