ESPN commentator Richard Jefferson has made it clear he’s not interested in feedback from Boston Celtics fans.
As part of ESPN’s Knicks-Celtics series, Jefferson responded to notable Celtics supporters Bill Simmons and Dave Portnoy, who criticized him after the Celtics’ Game 3 win in Boston.
“Richard Jefferson can throw Knicks jerseys at the booth,” Portnoy remarked following Boston’s 115-93 victory.
Jefferson didn’t respond well to Portnoy’s comments.
“My brother, Dave, we discussed this when we reviewed your pizza,” he replied on X, adding a laughing emoji. “I really don’t care who wins. And seriously, try not to tweet about me.”
Portnoy has been active in addressing Knicks fans throughout the series and poked fun at the team after Game 3, insisting that New York stands no chance despite Boston winning the first two games in their home arena.
Simmons, on the other hand, expressed his frustration more subtly about ESPN’s coverage. “It was incredible how [Payton] Pritchard played,” he posted on X. “He put in 18 crucial minutes in the first half, and they really relied on him today.” Jefferson took Simmons’ comment to heart.
“1. Please give me a break,” Jefferson retorted. “2. I’m a great Boston fan myself and would love to see more talk about Pritchard. 3. I even created a highlight package for him during the game.”
Celtics’ backup point guard and Sixth Man of the Year Pritchard wrapped up the game with 23 points, hitting 5 out of 10 from beyond the arc.
Simmons, who runs one of the largest sports podcasts, has also produced a seven-part documentary series on the Celtics for Max, titled “Celtic City.”
It seems NBA playoff commentators can’t catch a break; Jefferson joins Reggie Miller in facing criticism on social media during playoff games.
Miller has also been targeted by fans for his unusual commentary and suggestions, including calls for PJ Tucker to be brought into the game.
Following a 17-year NBA career, Jefferson succeeded former player JJ Redick as ESPN’s color analyst. Monday’s Game 4 will be broadcast again on ESPN before Game 5 moves to TNT.
