Stephen A. Smith Blasts NBA Officials In Favor Of Sixers

ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has been enjoying the success of the New York Knicks, given his lifelong fandom. While the Knicks are up 2-0 in the series against the Philadelphia 76ers, Smith is calling out league officiating in favor of the 76ers.

Following Philadelphia’s loss in Game 2 it was reported that they are likely to file a grievance against the NBA after poor officiating plagued their chance at victory. Smith agrees that late game situations haven’t favored the Sixers.

“I saw Tyrese Maxey get mugged if I’m being totally honest,” said Smith on First Take, via Awful Announcing on X. He got fouled at least two or three teams. There’s no reason on Earth why that call shouldn’t have been made. It wasn’t made, unfortunately for the Sixers. If you’re a New York Knicks fan, it’s not unfortunate.”

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Smith is speaking on the apparent foul by Jalen Brunson on a Tyrese Maxey rebound with seconds remaining in the game. Review of the pictures and video after the game show that Brunson clearly pulled on Maxey’s jersey and the Philly star was hit while the Knicks trampled him to get the ball.

Philly can’t turn this game back in their favor, but they’re looking for a fair matchup. From their postgame actions, many individuals in the 76ers’ organization believe they aren’t just playing against the Knicks, but the officials as well.