Cody Decker still has a few tasks ahead for Stephen A. Smith, as the ESPN personality recently took aim at another NBA player.
Back in June, Smith revealed a new multi-year deal with SiriusXM, which plans to feature him in two upcoming radio shows. He’s also co-hosted with Decker and Michelle Beadle from the network.
On Thursday, he called out Ty Halliburton after security staff for the Pacers criticized the media without really explaining the situation following their 116-107 win on Wednesday.
“If he was referring to me… the players have accomplished a lot more, and the better ones seemed to take swings at me,” Smith mentioned on ESPN’s “First Take.” “How did that go for them? I’m still here; I remember it giving me a chip on my shoulder.”
After seeing Smith’s latest comments, Decker reacted on social media, saying, “This little b-that empowered the tch.”
“Commentary is what it is,” Halliburton remarked after Game 3.
Smith suggested that Halliburton was “smart” to keep his name out of things and indicated he’d support the Pacers’ point guard if he ends up being labeled as the most overrated player in the league.
“Victory over your damn chip buddies. Go get a chip.” He criticized Halliburton’s performance in the initial two games of the NBA Finals, pointing out a missed opportunity with only 0.3 seconds left on the clock, suggesting he didn’t perform well overall.
“I won’t be going anywhere, just in case he was talking about my family. I’ll be around for a bit,” Smith addressed Halliburton.
Decker seems frustrated about the cancellation of the “Beadle and Decker” show and wanted to highlight Smith’s potential growth in sports media.
Smith has been engaging with various NBA players who have challenged him, including moments with LeBron James during Lakers games this season.
He’s had his share of clashes with figures like Charles Barkley too.
In March, Smith secured a significant contract extension with ESPN, set to earn $100 million over the next five years.
