BREAKING NEWS: Stephen A. Smith believes that the crime rates in Memphis deter NBA players from going to….see more

In a recent episode of ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith stirred controversy by claiming that some NBA players, including Jimmy Butler, have expressed concerns about their safety in Memphis. He emphasized that these players have confided in him about feeling unsafe in the city, urging local authorities to address these issues to prevent them from deterring potential players from joining the Memphis Grizzlies .

Smith’s remarks have sparked significant discussion, with fans and analysts debating the validity and implications of his claims. While he did not provide specific details about the nature of the safety concerns, his comments have brought attention to the environment surrounding NBA games in Memphis and raised questions about player safety and city accountability.

In response to Smith’s comments, Grizzlies star Ja Morant took to social media to defend his city, stating that instead of focusing on individual performances, the narrative should not shift to negative portrayals of Memphis and its team on a national level .

The debate continues as both sides present their perspectives, highlighting the complexities of balancing player safety concerns with city reputation and team dynamics.