"Kevin Durant Responds to Stephen A. Smith's Leadership Criticism, Calls Him a 'Clown'"

 "In a recent interview with The Athletic released Sunday night, Kevin Durant took aim at ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, calling him a 'clown.' Durant's frustration stems from Smith's ongoing critiques, particularly his recent remarks questioning Durant's leadership skills, which have clearly upset the Suns star."

Addressing the criticism of his leadership specifically, Durant added: “To say that I’m just sitting here, you paint this picture of me coming into the locker room, not talking to my teammates, quiet, not talking to my coaches,” Durant said. “Like, come on, man. It’s just ridiculous.” Former Suns assistant coach Kevin Young as well as the team's current head coach, Mike Budenholzer, both defended Durant's leadership to the outlet. “He set the tone for us as an organization, for us as a team. And it’s not just been by leadership. It’s been his voice," Budenholzer said. "He’s put his arms around young players, he’s put his arm around veterans. He’s put his arm around me. It’s something that’s important to us. I don’t know if he likes it or knows it, but I’m going to keep pushing him to be his best, in all ways, including as a leader.”

"In response to the criticism of his leadership, Durant dismissed the portrayal of him as a disengaged teammate, saying, 'The idea that I walk into the locker room, don't talk to my teammates, stay quiet, and avoid my coaches—it’s just ridiculous.' Both former Suns assistant coach Kevin Young and current head coach Mike Budenholzer defended Durant’s leadership, with Budenholzer noting, 'He’s set the tone for our organization and team—not just through leadership, but by using his voice. He’s supported both young players and veterans, including myself. I don’t know if he fully realizes it, but I’ll keep pushing him to be his best, in all aspects, including as a leader.'"

"The interview follows the Suns' 5-1 start to the season, highlighted by a victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday night. Durant contributed 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 assists in the win. The Suns will face the Philadelphia 76ers in their next game on Monday night."