Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown has escalated his public criticism of ESPN and commentator Stephen A. Smith, labeling the network "unethical" while speaking in Cannes, France. Brown, addressing attendees at Sport Beach on Wednesday, appeared to be referencing the controversy surrounding his earlier comments where he described the past season as his "favorite."
Brown specifically called out Smith as the "head and face" of ESPN's alleged unethical practices. The Celtics forward stated that his teammates and the organization understood his perspective on the season, despite the team's first-round playoff exit.
"The organization, the players, they were all in agreement. They all knew what I meant by that," Brown said. He explained that the team had undergone significant roster changes, with many players being "salary dumped," making their continued success notable.
This latest exchange follows a period of tension between Brown and Smith. Last month, Brown criticized Smith on a Twitch livestream, suggesting the ESPN personality should retire and questioning his journalistic integrity. Smith, in response on ESPN's "First Take," warned Brown to "be careful what you wish for."
The dispute originated after the Celtics' season concluded with a first-round playoff loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, a series in which Boston squandered a 3-1 lead. Brown had previously defended his "favorite season" remark, noting his personal achievements, including a career-best 28.7 points per game and his fourth consecutive All-Star selection. However, he was also fined $50,000 for criticizing officials during a post-game livestream following the team's elimination.