Jaylen Brown Strikes Back at Stephen A. Smith Over Anonymous Source
Boston Celtics’ player Jaylen Brown has been forced to come out and defend himself against recent statements made by ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith regarding his appeal.
Jaylen Brown has been instrumental in the Celtics’ playoff run, averaging 24.7 points per game on 54.5% shooting through series wins over the Miami Heat, and Cleveland Cavaliers, and the first three games against the Indiana Pacers. His crucial game-tying three-pointer in Game 1 against the Pacers, which led to an overtime win, showcased his value to the team.
Smith’s Controversial Comments
On a recent episode of “First Take,” Stephen A. Smith shared a text from an anonymous NBA source suggesting that Jaylen Brown’s “I am better than you” attitude has affected his marketability. This comment was part of a discussion on whether Brown is underrated in the league. Smith agreed with the sentiment, stating that while Jaylen Brown is underrated, his attitude is perceived negatively by some within the NBA.
Jaylen Brown’s Response
Upon seeing the segment, Brown took to X (formerly Twitter) to challenge Smith directly, demanding transparency. “State your source,” Brown tweeted, indicating his frustration with the anonymous criticism.
State your source https://t.co/7ay3dXr6YN
— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) May 26, 2024
Support from Isiah Thomas
NBA legend Isiah Thomas also defended Jaylen Brown, emphasizing their long-standing relationship. Thomas urged Smith to have his source put a name to their claims or refrain from making such statements. “He is 100 percent marketable,” Thomas asserted, highlighting Brown’s character and marketability.
NBA legend Isiah Thomas, who mentors Jaylen Brown, had this to say: pic.twitter.com/jPW1e3ORrc
— Forever Green ☘️ (@CelticsByFanly) June 26, 2016
Smith’s Retort
Smith responded to Thomas on X, expressing surprise and disappointment that Thomas chose to address the issue publicly rather than privately. Smith reiterated his admiration for Jaylen Brown and clarified that his comments were based on information from a credible NBA source.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith and NBA Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas get into a heated debate over an anonymous NBA source telling Stephen A. Smith that Jaylen Brown is not marketable. 😳
[H/T X// @stephenasmith @IsiahThomas 🎥 @ESPNNBA @FirstTake] pic.twitter.com/jWZslAznFr
— BASKETBALL ON 𝕏 (@BASKETBALLonX) May 26, 2024
The harassment from the media and lack of All-NBA recognition did not affect Brown and remains hopeful of winning a title with the Celtics. Lack of regular season success has been one of the biggest complaints about this team and its players, but answering many critics with his solid playoff outings. He has the potential to contribute and become even more vital in the breakthrough season for the franchise and getting the team ready for the NBA Finals.
When the Boston Celtics get set for game 4 against the Pacers, Jaylen Brown shows he never gives up or lacks the effort. Besides, a win would advance Boston closer to the championship that the team’s management and its fans have been longing to achieve, not to mention Brown as one of the best players in the league regardless of how he may be seen by some who consider players’ marketability for endorsements.
The recent coverage of Jaylen Brown, Stephen A. Smith, and Isiah Thomas shows that concepts of the ‘marketable athlete’ are still flawed and nuanced. Though the comments made by Smith had real controversy, Brown’s action during the game shows how important he is and how much room he has for improvement. When the Celtics are gunning for an NBA finals, there are sure to be off-court issues that must be dealt with and here, Brown and his focus on winning will be crucial.