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ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith is receiving some backlash from NBA fans.
Earlier this week, Clippers star Russell Westbrook was ejected after receiving his second technical foul for intentionally wrapping up Luka Doncic and then pushing a ref.
Russell Westbrook gets ejected for picking up two technical fouls and first for wrapping up Luka Doncic, then for pushing PJ Washington.
Thoughts? 🤔pic.twitter.com/Ui4jsX5CoK
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 27, 2024
Ahead of game 4 on Saturday, Stephen A. revealed that he called the NBA’s league office to ask them why they didn’t suspend Westbrook for his actions against the Mavs.
“Inexcusable behavior… And I don’t know why this isn’t being talked about enough… I was of the mindset that Russell Westbrook deserved to be suspended for today’s game. That’s how appalling his game was.”
“I called the league office. … Tell me why Russell Westbrook wasn’t suspended.”
"I called the league office. … Tell me why Russell Westbrook wasn't suspended." 😳 @stephenasmith discusses how Russell Westbrook's behavior impacts the Clippers-Mavericks series. 🔑 pic.twitter.com/VapT8AIo9c
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 28, 2024
After the NBA told Smith that they had the situation handled, fans blasted the ESPN commentator for trying to intervene in league matters.
I’m still at a loss for words over Stephen A Smith calling the league office to campaign for Russell Westbrook to be suspended.
— Hub (@KenHeLive) April 28, 2024
“YOU DONT WORK FOR THE NBA” 😭😭 GILLIE WENT OFF ON STEPHEN A SMITH FOR CALLING THE LEAGUE OFFICE ON RUSSELL WESTBROOK 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/v30mSHwxxR
— ToniooShoot (@ToniooShoot) April 28, 2024
Smith defended his actions on social media.
I said it. And I damn sure meant it because of his play on Friday. Knowing the league office would’ve normally suspended anyone for this, I called to ask why this was different. They explained& I get it. For those tripping that I called the league, it’s my damn job. All of us… https://t.co/0PwjbZksfo
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) April 28, 2024