NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith speaks out on 76ers superstar's recent remark

Anthony Pasciolla

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NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith speaks out on 76ers superstar's recent remark image

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid recently spoke about Team USA's chances of winning the gold medal, which the public deemed a bit too honest.

Embiid pointed to the equal talent of other teams, along with the older age of the roster, as possible reasons to fall short of first place. He specifically mentioned Los Angeles Lakers veteran star LeBron James. NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith did not take his comment lightly, speaking on the matter in a recent episode of First Take.

"I think it's fair. I just think it's like he's managing expectations, and I don't like it. LeBron James is sensational," Smith said. "When I think about Joel Embiid, I think Joel Embiid is in the conversation as one of the greatest big-man talents in the history of basketball. So here you are on the Olympic stage. All I'm saying is that you're going for the gold. I don't want to hear all that."

Both Embiid's comment and Smith's response are completely understandable. The Sixers star is right in saying the USA should not underestimate their competition, as they recently defeated South Sudan by a single point in an exhibition match. Alternatively, as Smith pointed out, the public doesn't want to hear about a player's doubts in his team. Especially calling out a specific star in James, who was a strong reason for their comeback against South Sudan.

Anthony Pasciolla

Anthony Pasciolla Photo

Anthony Pasciolla is a sports journalist who contributes to The Sporting News. He writes about the NBA and NFL, primarily focusing on the Philadelphia 76ers and Philadelphia Eagles. He also writes for Fan Nation’s Inside the Heat and Illini Now. He can be reached at [email protected] or followed on X @anthonypasci.