Kenny Smith made some questionable NBA All-Star draft decisions, particularly regarding his reasoning for avoiding international players. Earlier this season, the NBA introduced an entirely new format for the All-Star game, featuring four teams in a three-game mini-tournament. While three teams would consist of 24 NBA All-Stars, the fourth team would be the winner of the Rising Stars game.
During Thursday night’s episode of Inside the NBA, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenny Smith drafted the 24 All-Stars into three teams. Smith faced criticism for his team, which noticeably lacked international players, seemingly by choice. With his third pick, Smith expressed a desire for a young, athletic big man by selecting Jaren Jackson Jr., which led Ernie Johnson to point out that Victor Wembanyama was still available.
“I don’t think the international guys are gonna play hard” – Kenny Smith during NBA All-Star Draft pic.twitter.com/z6awWl8S0v
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 7, 2025
Smith’s remark, “Yeah, but I don’t think the international guys are gonna play hard,” caught Johnson off guard. He stated, “In general, I just don’t. Because they’re worldwide.” This mindset is puzzling, especially considering that the NBA All-Star Game has become less competitive over the years, prompting the league to explore new formats like a mini-tournament. Does Smith genuinely believe the absence of international players would have made the All-Star Game more competitive in recent years?
Throughout the draft, there were several intriguing decisions. It appeared that Shaq favored a veteran roster, while Smith opted for a younger team, and Barkley strategically selected international players. However, Smith’s reasoning for ignoring international players was particularly noteworthy. Ultimately, we’re discussing an exhibition game that fans have increasingly lost interest in. It’s unfounded to assume that Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, or Victor Wembanyama would put forth any less effort than Anthony Edwards, Jayson Tatum, or Kevin Durant. Smith’s reliance on outdated stereotypes regarding international players felt unnecessary.
