Kendrick Perkins says Bucks ‘Batman’ take in 2021 led to death threats

“I started getting a death threat. It was going to my wife’s account. This dude was sending me threat after threat. ‘I am going to kill your kids; I know where you stay. I am going to murder you.’ This was real life,” Perkins shared.

Perkins said the situation escalated beyond what he could just shrug off, leading him to contact ESPN. The network’s security team launched an investigation, identified the source of the threats, and had the suspect taken into custody. Perkins said the man insisted he was only joking, but authorities pursued charges anyway.

Kendrick Perkins and the dangers of sports “hot” takes

The 40-year-old said the incident revealed how quickly sports debates can cross into dangerous territory. As an analyst, he often draws strong reactions with bold opinions, but he made it clear that targeted, personal threats are never acceptable.

The NBA analyst stressed that the experience highlights how crucial security is for both players and media members. The NBA and major networks have systems in place to shield people from harassment, and in this instance, those measures proved effective.

The Bucks went on to capture the championship that year, with Antetokounmpo delivering a historic 50-point performance in the decisive Game 6. The Middleton-versus-Giannis debate quickly faded as Milwaukee celebrated its first title in 50 years. For Perkins, however, the lasting takeaway was the real-world danger that came with doing his job.

The 14-year NBA veteran and 2008 Boston Celtics champion, said the experience drove home the importance of safeguarding both players and media members. “The work might be about basketball,” he continued, “but the stakes can be much higher.”