Jaylen Brown and Stephen A. Smith’s Feud Intensifies

Despite the Boston Celtics’ season concluding, tensions between star player Jaylen Brown and ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith escalated over the weekend.

Brown took to his livestream to address Smith’s remarks where he told the NBA player to “shut up.” This came after Smith contested accusations that referees had pointed to Brown as having a bias following the Philadelphia 76ers’ comeback win against the Celtics.

Earlier this month, Brown hinted in a post that he would “go quiet” once Smith decided to retire. On Sunday night, he responded, “Did he tell me I needed to be quiet? Who am I going to be quiet for?” Brown emphasized his discontent, stating, “Hey, Stephen A, Stephen A, Stephen B, Stephen C. If you want me to stop streaming, then I want you to step away from these networks because you’re not doing proper journalism; it’s more about clickbait.”

He continued, jokingly suggesting, “Maybe if he retires, we could spark a movement to restore some journalistic integrity around here.” It seems there’s no love lost between the two.

Brown also criticized Smith’s decision not to highlight teammate Jayson Tatum on his stream, branding him a “clown” for that choice.

The Celtics had a surprisingly strong season, especially without Tatum, who was sidelined due to an Achilles tendon injury from the previous playoffs. Brown managed to play in 71 games, averaging an impressive 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists, arguing that Smith fails to see the value of leadership and team chemistry that propelled the Celtics this far.

With a record of 56-26, Boston clinched the Atlantic Division title.

In past statements, Smith suggested that Brown should keep quiet unless the Celtics were pursuing a trade involving him.