Erica Brunson slams ESPN over Stephen A. Smith's Knicks critique
Erica Brunson, sister of New York Knicks All-Star Jalen Brunson, criticized ESPN on X after Stephen A. Smith targeted her brother's team and teammate Josh Hart on "First Take." She called Smith's comments "utterly ridiculous," stating she no longer watches the network despite growing up with it as a staple. The post followed a video of Smith's rant amid the Knicks' recent three-game losing streak.
Smith directed his remarks at Hart, Brunson's teammate and co-host on the "Roommates Show" podcast, urging him to prioritize basketball substance over defense of teammates. Brunson, a 2023 Villanova communications graduate who works in basketball client and marketing services at CAA, her brother's agency, posted on Wednesday. Smith highlighted the Knicks' 4-8 or 4-9 record against teams above .500 since the All-Star break, contrasted with 9-0 against sub-.500 opponents.
The Knicks hold a 7-3 record in their last 10 games despite recent struggles against stronger teams, which Smith said mirror playoff challenges ahead. He noted the team lacks a definitive identity despite playoff-caliber talent, with Hart himself acknowledging the need to get things together.
Six regular-season games remain before the playoffs, where the Knicks figure to face tougher competition.
