ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith addressed his evolving perspective on NBA star Kyrie Irving during a recent podcast discussion. Smith acknowledged he had previously criticized Irving harshly for refusing to comply with COVID-19 vaccine protocols, which led to the player missing games and facing widespread scrutiny.

On the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, Smith admitted he may have overstepped in his earlier assessments of Irving, particularly regarding the guard’s decision not to get vaccinated. “Kyrie’s a good brother,” Smith said, noting their long-standing clashes over professionalism and work ethic. He reflected on how Irving’s stance, once seen as divisive, now appears more defensible in hindsight. “We didn’t see that at the time,” Smith added, without specifying which “conspiracy theories” he referenced.

Irving, who remained unvaccinated during his tenure with the Brooklyn Nets, faced significant consequences. He opted out of a four-year contract extension worth over $100 million, citing personal principles as his priority. The decision left him sidelined for much of the 2021–22 season and subjected him to intense public criticism. Smith, who once accused Irving of selfishness, now acknowledged the player’s “foresight” in standing by his beliefs.

The conversation highlights shifting perspectives on athlete autonomy, even as medical guidelines continue to emphasize vaccination. Irving’s career trajectory since then—including a 2024 NBA Finals appearance with the Dallas Mavericks—has reshaped narratives around his choices. Smith’s remarks signal a rare pivot in his public commentary, though he stopped short of fully endorsing Irving’s position.