NBA Analyst Kenny Smith Faces Backlash for Controversial Comments about Sabrina Ionescu
NBA analyst Kenny Smith recently found himself in the midst of a heated controversy after making comments about New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu that were met with backlash. During the Steph Curry vs. Ionescu 3-point competition, Smith made a remark that some fans deemed condescending towards the WNBA player.
The incident occurred on the “NBA on TNT” panel, where Smith was discussing the shooting distance between the two pro basketball players. As his broadcast partner and former NBA player Reggie Miller joked, “According to you, you want her to be playing with dolls.” Smith, in response, retorted a few minutes later, “And there’s nothing wrong with playing with dolls.”
The exchange quickly drew a negative reaction on social media, with fans expressing their disappointment in Smith’s comments. However, during an appearance on “The Stephen A. Smith Show,” Smith attempted to explain his remarks and downplay the controversy.
“Most people who know basketball understood what I was talking about,” Smith said. “Actually, I was advocating for her, more than anything else because basketball is muscle memory. So he practices from one range, she practices from another.”
Smith further supported his argument by referencing a study on dart throwing accuracy. He explained that even a small change in distance can dramatically affect accuracy, emphasizing that his concern was not about gender or genetics but rather about fairness in the competition.
The 3-point challenge between Curry and Ionescu took place during the NBA All-Star festivities in Indianapolis. Curry narrowly defeated Ionescu with a score of 29-26, winning the inaugural event. Despite the outcome, Smith’s comments about playing with dolls overshadowed the competition itself.
When addressing the comments about dolls, Smith clarified that his initial thought was about the issue of playing with dolls when Miller made the joke. He emphasized that playing with dolls should not be seen as a hindrance to participating in sports.
Critics argued that Smith’s comments were dismissive and perpetuated gender stereotypes. However, Smith defended himself by criticizing the tendency of people to judge a situation without knowing all the details.
“Most people just don’t check the tape; they want to just check the bait,” he said.
The controversy surrounding Kenny Smith’s comments highlights the ongoing challenges faced by female athletes in professional sports. While progress has been made in promoting gender equality, incidents like these serve as a reminder that there is still work to be done. It is essential for analysts and commentators to be mindful of their words and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
As the NBA and WNBA continue to grow and gain popularity, it is crucial for everyone involved in the sports industry to support and uplift female athletes. Only through equal opportunities and fair treatment can we truly celebrate the incredible talent and achievements of athletes like Sabrina Ionescu.