Stephen A. Smith and Giannis Antetokounmpo Update

ESPN star Stephen A. Smith recently described Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo as an “underachiever” if the 30-year-old Antetokounmpo doesn’t win another NBA championship. Smith, 57, attracted attention to himself with his comment. Most recently, ESPN’s Jay Williams slammed Smith over his comment. Here’s why.

Stephen A. Smith’s Controversial Comment

Stephen A. Smith can be described as a “man of many words,” as evidenced by his recent comment on Giannis Antetokounmpo, whom he referred to as an “underachiever” if Antetokounmpo doesn’t win another NBA championship. Smith might have a point to some degree, but Antetokounmpo’s resume can speak for itself.

Antetokounmpo became a first-time NBA champion in 2021 and previously faced a difficult Toronto Raptors team that prevented him and the Milwaukee Bucks from winning the 2019 Eastern Conference Finals. Antetokounmpo is also a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player. Only 15 NBA players have won two or more NBA MVPs ever.

Smith’s Comment Draws Attention

Stephen A. Smith’s comment drew attention from various individuals. Most recently, ESPN’s Jay Williams. Williams, 43, appeared on “First Take” and told Smith, “That was one of your worst takes I’ve heard in a long time, man. That was horrible. I think we really need to do a better job of reframing some of these conversations. “Williams previously described Smith’s comment as “asinine” and stated, “Wild how humility + loyalty gets rebranded as a flaw.”

Final Thoughts

Injuries affect all NBA teams, but the Milwaukee Bucks suffered from the “injury bug” at the worst possible time in recent years. The Bucks could’ve had some deep playoff runs if it weren’t for injuries. Giannis Antetokounmpo is a star player on the Bucks’ roster, but not the only player. Antetokounmpo deserves more than one NBA championship, but if not, Bucks fans and media members should be satisfied how he hasn’t left Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to join a “super team.”