Draymond Green, recently reinstated after a 12-game suspension, opened up about the emotional toll during his absence, particularly addressing comments made by ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith that deeply affected him. Smith’s critique of Steph Curry’s leadership due to Green’s actions struck a nerve, leaving Green both angered and crushed.
“One thing throughout this process that really hurt me is I turned on the TV screen and Stephen A. Smith was like, ‘Steph is a bad leader, Draymond did X.’ It pissed me off and it crushed me. It crushed me because how is Steph enduring being a bad leader? This guy doesn’t give us anything to tear him down about.”
“This guy does everything the right way, and yet he’s being torn down because of my actions? Crushing… And because he got crushed publicly for that, I’m going to apologize publicly. I sincerely apologize to Steph for my actions. Because that was a tough pill to swallow.”
"Stephen A. was like, 'Steph [Curry] is a bad leader because Draymond did X.' It pissed me off, but it crushed me… [Steph] does everything the right way and yet he's being torn down because of my actions?"
– Draymond Green
(via @TheVolumeSports) pic.twitter.com/HNPm5PMqG1
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 8, 2024
The Warriors’ defensive anchor expressed his frustration on his podcast, emphasizing that Curry, known for doing everything the right way, was unfairly torn down because of Green’s actions. The scrutiny of Curry’s leadership capabilities hit Green hard, leading him to publicly apologize to his teammate for the undeserved criticism.
Green’s emotional response revealed the depth of his connection with Curry and the impact that external opinions can have on a player’s psyche. The ordeal prompted Green to reflect on the collateral damage his actions could cause, extending beyond the court.
Despite the challenging period, Green acknowledged the unwavering support he received from Curry and the team, emphasizing their consistent check-ins during his suspension.
Green’s openness about his emotions and the introspection into the effects on his teammates’ reputations indicate a level of accountability and maturity in handling the consequences of his actions. Now on the brink of returning to the court, Green aims to rectify his mistakes and contribute positively to the Warriors’ performance.
Stephen A. Smith Responds To Draymond Green’s Comments
Stephen A. Smith responded emphatically to Draymond Green’s comments on ‘The Stephen A. Smith Show,’ vehemently denying the notion that he labeled Steph Curry as a bad leader. Smith characterized Green’s claim as false, erroneous, and outright untrue.
In his response, Smith clarified that his criticism was never directed at Curry’s leadership but took the opportunity to express his dissatisfaction with Golden State Warriors head coach, Steve Kerr. Smith criticized Kerr for publicly expressing his disgust at those who questioned Curry’s leadership, claiming that everyone, including Kerr, knew that Smith was the target of those remarks.
Smith, known for his outspoken and unapologetic style, shifted the focus from Green to Kerr, challenging Kerr’s public statements about the criticism of Curry’s leadership. The sports commentator, who holds Kerr in high regard as one of the top five greatest coaches and a decent person, expressed frustration at being indirectly targeted by Kerr’s comments.
This exchange further highlights the intense scrutiny and reactions within the sports world, emphasizing the intricate dynamics between players, coaches, and media personalities. As the conversation unfolds, it showcases the intersection of emotions, accountability, and differing perspectives in the realm of professional basketball.
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