Stephen A. Smith Slams Activist Claiming Victor Wembanyama and Spurs Dishonored National Anthem

Stephen A. Smith slammed a political pundit who claimed the Spurs disrespected the national anthem.

Stephen A. Smith Slams Activist Claiming Victor Wembanyama and Spurs Dishonored National Anthem

Stephen A. Smith (Image via MARCA)

Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs are on the biggest stage of the basketball world. After beating the defending-champion Oklahoma City Thunder in seven games in the Western Conference Finals, the Spurs reached their first NBA Finals in 12 years.

With all eyes on the NBA Finals, the lights are brighter than ever on the young Spurs team. After a strong start in Game 1, the Spurs struggled to make their shots and lacked intensity in the second half. In the end, the Spurs lost 105-95 at the Frost Bank Center.

While the end result grabbed the headlines, another moment before the game also caught some attention. Some viewers noticed that several Spurs players did not put their hands over their hearts during the U.S. national anthem.

Conservative influencer Matt Wallace highlighted the moment, sparking some controversy. However, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith was having none of it and slammed the accusations.

This is patently false. There are plenty of people who listen to the Nat’l Anthem and simply bow their heads with their hands in front of them or behind their backs and pay respects. Holding your hand over your heart is not a requirement. The Spurs were not being disrespectful in anyway. Who is anyone to say they were just over that gesture? That is utterly ridiculous!!!

Stephen A. Smith on X

Stephen A. Smith has been a vocal figure in the sports world for over two decades now. He is known for his controversial takes and does not shy away from speaking about politics. He slammed the political pundit for starting something out of nothing.

Victor Wembanyama was one of the several Spurs players scrutinized on social media. The French star, who blamed himself for the Game 1 loss, was seen having his arms folded in front of him, despite standing with his head bowed.

While Wallace and other right-wing media members try to portray a negative light on Wembanyama and the others, Smith did not hesitate to hit them back. It was also seen that several Knicks players did not place a hand over their hearts during the national anthem.

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Fans react to Stephen A. Smith clapping back at political pundit

In the age of social media, it is easy for little things to blow out of proportion. Unfortunately, Victor Wembanyama and his teammates are on the receiving end of it this time.

Following Stephen A. Smith’s post defending the Spurs players, fans took to the internet to react to it.

Several fans sided with SAS and agreed that it is not a requirement to place their hands on the chest during the national anthem. Unfortunately, the Spurs are being accused of disrespect.

Stephen A. Smith speaks about his fame

Stephen A. Smith has made a name for himself in the sports world. He has served as an analyst on ESPN for over 25 years and continues to be the face of the network. He has built a big reputation in the NBA over the years and has also been involved in a few feuds with players such as LeBron James.

Stephen A. Smith meeting LeBron James might not happen in the future
Stephen A. Smith and LeBron James (Image via Complex/X)

Smith was in attendance for Game 1 of the NBA Finals in San Antonio and revealed that he is too popular to sit in the stands with fans.

I was standing in the tunnel because that’s what I like to do… Obviously, you know I’m a popular dude, so it’s difficult to sit in the stands.

Stephen A. Smith on First Take

It is no secret that Smith is an avid and lifelong supporter of the Knicks. The excitement surrounding the franchise is higher than ever as they are just three wins away from their first championship in 53 years.

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