ESPN host Stephen A. Smith is facing intense backlash after criticizing the Los Angeles Lakers' roster makeup. On a recent episode of his podcast, the prominent commentator took aim at the team's newly formed core. He questioned whether a team with three white players could succeed in the modern NBA.
Smith specifically mocked the franchise's trade for center Walker Kessler. The move pairs Kessler with superstars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. He bluntly asked his audience where the Lakers thought they were going with "a bunch of white dudes."
The controversial host went on to question the history of the sport. He demanded to know when a team led by three white players had ever won a championship. Critics quickly pointed to 1980s Celtics legends Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Danny Ainge.
3 WHITE DUDES?! The Lakers Really Think THIS Can Win a Championship?
👇 Watch the full episode. Link in the comments. pic.twitter.com/jTQ2vrDV7C
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) July 1, 2026
The segment has been widely condemned as a display of double standards. Many online commentators noted the severe outrage that would follow similar remarks about Black athletes. They accused Smith of reducing elite professional sports stars to their race.
The remarks also strike many analysts as highly uninformed. Luka Doncic led the entire league in scoring last season with an average of 33.5 points per game. Meanwhile, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler have both posted highly productive starting seasons.
The idea that white players cannot dominate the modern game is increasingly detached from reality. Nikola Jokic is widely regarded as the best basketball player on the planet. Caitlin Clark has completely transformed the landscape of women's basketball.
The controversy comes at a tense time for Smith's relationship with ESPN. The network recently signed him to a massive five-year, $100 million contract extension. However, his flagship show has posted sluggish ratings while competitors like Pat McAfee continue to gain ground.