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Stephen A. Smith Believes Kobe Bryant Would Be Disappointed With Kyrie Irving For His Media Blackout

Before Kyrie Irving finally spoke to the media on Monday, the 28-year old Brooklyn point guard previously made it clear that he’s embracing a media blackout, consequently claiming that his attention is worth more and that he refuses to talk to pawns.

As expected, Irving’s statement became controversial and hit a ton of people negatively. While Irving clarified his comment, explaining that he’s not attacking or referring to the media, this didn’t stop people, particularly media members to fire back at Irving.

Stephen A. Smith, who is one of the most recognizable media members today, was one of those personalities who voiced out his displeasure with Kyrie’s comments and decision not to speak to the media. Stephen A. made his response in an episode of ESPN’s ‘First Take’.

“But I hope he’s [Irving’s] listening when I say this: Somebody he respected and loved and idolized was Kobe Bryant. I don’t think Kobe Bryant would be happy,” Stephen A. Smith said.

“Not cryptic, not ambiguous, or anything like that. Be clear, that’s all I’m talking about when I talk about Kobe Bryant would be disappointed,” Smith continued.