Kendrick Perkins Responds to Bill Simmons’ Critique of ESPN’s NBA Draft Coverage

Kendrick Perkins is clearly not impressed with Bill Simmons’ recent remarks regarding ESPN’s coverage of the 2025 NBA draft.

The former NBA player and current analyst took a jab at Simmons on Thursday, following Simmons’ frustrations about how the network handled the first 30 picks during the event.

In a video shared on X, Perkins remarked, “I’m not sure who gave you the impression that you’re some kind of preacher or kingpin of basketball, but maybe they missed the mark.” His tone suggested he felt Simmons was being a bit too self-important.

Perkins continued, “It irks me because it seems like you’re sitting up there, acting like you’re on a throne. You’ve got your own feelings all mixed up in this.” His irritation was evident.

During his podcast on Wednesday night, Simmons called out various aspects of ESPN’s coverage, particularly referencing Perkins for his bold prediction regarding the Toronto Raptors’ playoff aspirations next season.

“You claimed they brought in Colin Murray Boyles and that they would be among the top six teams in the East,” Simmons mentioned. “And seriously, I kept looking for a third ESPN channel to tune into because I thought maybe there could have been more coverage, but it turns out there wasn’t.” His frustration with the situation was palpable.

The social media exchange didn’t seem to satisfy Perkins, who stated he plans to address Simmons further on the podcast “Road Trippin'” scheduled for Sunday. He urged, “Guys, just keep quiet sometimes. You didn’t really think this through before throwing those opinions out there.” Perkins also took a shot at Simmons, indicating he had a supportive audience behind him on his own podcast.

Simmons responded to Perkins’ comments about an hour after, tweeting back, “If you really think the Raptors might be top six in anything other than being the most enjoyable place to visit, then we’ve clearly lost it.” His retort hinted at skepticism regarding Perkins’ belief.

The back-and-forth highlights a continuing critique Simmons has had about ESPN’s basketball coverage throughout his tenure with the network.