In a recent episode of ESPN’s “First Take,” the ever-outspoken Stephen A. Smith set the sports world ablaze with his bold proclamation that Golden State Warriors superstar Steph Curry deserved the NBA MVP award over the legendary LeBron James.
The statement, as expected, has stirred heated debates among fans and analysts alike.
Smith, known for his passionate and often controversial takes, didn’t mince words when discussing the merits of Curry’s impact on the game compared to LeBron. “LeBron James is an all-time great, no doubt about it,” Smith began, “but when we talk about who truly changed the game, who revolutionized the way basketball is played today, that title belongs to Steph Curry.”
The argument, according to Smith, centers around Curry’s unprecedented influence on the game. “We are in the era of the three-point shot because of Steph Curry. The way he stretches the floor, his ability to shoot from virtually anywhere, has forced defenses to rethink their entire approach. LeBron is dominant, yes, but Steph has altered the very fabric of basketball.”
Smith also pointed to Curry’s leadership during the Warriors’ historic 2015-2016 season, where they broke the regular-season record with 73 wins. “That was no fluke,” Smith emphasized. “Curry led that team with poise, and he did it without another top-five player by his side. That season alone warrants MVP consideration, but what he’s done over the years, solidifying himself as the greatest shooter ever, makes him more than deserving of that award.”
However, Smith’s assertion isn’t without its detractors. Critics argue that LeBron’s all-around game, his versatility on both ends of the floor, and his ability to elevate any team he plays on make him the perennial MVP candidate. “LeBron is a force of nature,” one analyst rebutted on the show. “He makes everyone around him better, he can play all five positions, and his basketball IQ is off the charts. You can’t overlook that.”
Despite the divided opinions, Smith doubled down on his claim, citing the influence of Curry’s style of play on younger generations as a crucial factor. “Look at the kids today. Everyone wants to be like Steph. They’re not trying to overpower opponents like LeBron; they’re trying to shoot from deep, create space, and play with finesse. That’s Curry’s legacy, and that’s why he deserved the MVP.”
As the debate rages on, it’s clear that both LeBron James and Steph Curry have left indelible marks on the NBA. Whether Curry truly deserved the MVP over LeBron is a question that may never have a definitive answer, but one thing is certain: Stephen A. Smith’s take has reignited one of basketball’s most compelling discussions.