Stephen A. Smith Under Fire: Calls for Apology Over “Idiot” Comments

On Wednesday’s “First Take,” Stephen A. Smith urged Darius Garland of the Cleveland Cavaliers to push through his toe injury as the team fell behind 0-2 in the series against the Indiana Pacers. Despite Garland's absence for four playoff games, Smith insisted he must find a way to contribute. Following a narrow 120-119 loss in Game 2, Smith criticized Garland’s inability to play, emphasizing the need for support for star Donovan Mitchell amidst elimination threats. This sentiment sparked significant backlash.