ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith expects fireworks in this year’s NBA Finals.
The Dallas Mavericks are preparing to face the Boston Celtics for the Larry O’Brien Trophy later this month.
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Smith joined fellow NBA analysts Kendrick Perkins and Brian Windhorst on Friday’s edition of First Take to discuss the upcoming series.
The 56-year-old was giddy with excitement as he previewed the “special” clash.
“We’ve seen fascinating playoff series and finals,” said an excited Smith.
“I don’t think I was looking forward to the NBA Finals as much as I’m looking forward to this one.
“[That’s] over the last decade. And do you know why?
“No one can say for sure who will win, it’s a contest.”
Smith stated that each team had “two stars” in their ranks.
He highlighted Mavericks duo Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic, along with Celtics stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown as key players to watch.
“This is going to be special,” Smith continued.
“Because we are going to find out who has greatness and who wants to be great.
“In these finals, ladies and gentlemen, get ready.”
“ESPN is trying hard to liven up these finals,” wrote a fan in response on X.
“Everything is always MORE with this guy,” said another.
“Amazing speech! This should be great!” hit a third.
“This really is a great matchup in so many different aspects that everyone who knows the ball should be excited about it,” agreed a fourth.
NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs
First round
Boston Celts (1) 4-1 Miami Heat (8)
Cleveland Cavaliers (4) 4-3 Orlando Magic (5)
Milwaukee Bucks (3) 2-4 Indiana Pacers (6)
New York Knicks (2) 4-2 Philadelphia 76ers (7)
Conference Semifinals
Boston Celts (1) 4-1 Cleveland Cavaliers (4)
Indiana Pacers (6) 4-3 New York Knicks (2)
Conference Finals
Boston Celts (1) 4-0 Indiana Pacers (6)
The Mavericks and Celtics face off in Game 1 on June 6.
Boston beat the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals and will have enjoyed nine full days off.
They hope to welcome back injured center Kristaps Porzingis, who has been sidelined since the first round with a calf strain.
It was another busy week on ESPN’s First Take, with Stephen A. taking a big shot at Kawhi Leonard.
Smith called the Los Angeles Clippers forward “the worst star in history” in a surprising live speech.
“I’m sick of you guys — I’m really sick of you guys,” Smith raged at stunned host Molly Qerim.
“This is the worst star in the history of the sport. He’s a nightmare.”
First Take airs every weekday on ESPN starting at 10am ET.
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