Yesterday 76ers PG Michael Carter-Williams published a piece on Derek Jeter’s website, The Players Tribune, titled “Don’t Talk to Me About Tanking”. In the piece MCW accused the media of creating the narrative that teams lose on purpose to receive a top pick in the NBA draft. Carter-Williams specifically called out ESPN First Take’s Stephen A. Smith.
“That’s how Stephen A. Smith ends up in our locker room with a big smile on his face.”
He went on to say he wasn’t picking on Smith and that he understands the First Take star is “playing a character”. When Smith got wind of the comments he responded with a barrage of tweets like only he can.
I'm sitting here waiting to catch a plane and finally I run across MCW's comments about me in the "Players Tribune." For the record:
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) November 14, 2014
MCW is misinformed. First, never once have I accused any player of throwing games; the finger was pointed at the org. Secondly, that was
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) November 14, 2014
Last year, not this season. Thirdly, it was the absolute truth. Fourth, most folks think it still is — but I haven't said so. Fifth: if MCW
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) November 14, 2014
We're paying attention, or had spoken to numerous employees who have been friends of mine for years, he would've known I stuck around for
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) November 14, 2014
2 hours. I was actually in the back of the locker room with his coach AND GM. As for sticking around, what to you want me to say: Congrats..
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) November 14, 2014
On ending a 26-game losing streak? You've got a bright future MCW. I respect you. I root for the 76ers. But be careful who you try and call
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) November 14, 2014
Out. You'll never have the last word. Ask some folks within the Sixers organization, they'll tell you. They know first-hand. Wrong-brother!
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) November 14, 2014
H/T Complex