Kyrie Irving goes off about ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith

Kyrie Irving, known for expressing strong opinions, has displayed increased maturity and leadership since joining the Dallas Mavericks in 2023. However, he recently directed criticism towards ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith.

During a livestream, Irving commented on Smith's new five-year, $100 million contract with ESPN, mimicking Smith's own style of analyzing big deals. Irving stated, "I'm going to discuss his contract. I'm going to discuss Stephen A.'s contract... I'm gonna say, 'I don't think you're worth it.'"

Stephen A. Smith is well-known for his outspoken and often controversial opinions across sports since joining ESPN in 2003. Irving's comments, made while he recovers from a torn ACL, are seen as a response to Smith's past critical takes on Irving, particularly on Smith's show "First Take" and in discussions with Shannon Sharpe.