Stephen A. Smith's Misstatement on Golden State Warriors' Playoff History Sparks Backlash

On April 20, 2026, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith made a significant error while discussing the Golden State Warriors on the show *First Take*. During a segment focused on head coach Steve Kerr's future, Smith claimed that the Warriors had not reached the NBA playoffs since their championship victory in 2022, stating, “They haven’t been back to the playoffs since that championship in 2022. That’s four years away from the playoffs.” This assertion was quickly challenged, as records show that the Warriors actually participated in the playoffs in both 2023 and 2025.

Stephen A. Smith Faces Backlash Over Warriors Playoff History ErrorStephen A. Smith Erroneously Claims Warriors Missed Postseason Since 2022Stephen A. Smith forgot Golden State Warriors made playoffs last yearStephen A. Smith Misstates Golden State Warriors Playoff Record

The Golden State Warriors, under Kerr's leadership, reached the postseason in 2023, where they defeated the Sacramento Kings in a seven-game first-round series before losing to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference semifinals. In 2025, they again advanced to the second round after overcoming the Houston Rockets. The only seasons the Warriors missed the playoffs were in 2024, following a loss in the Play-In Tournament, and the current 2026 season, where they concluded with a record of 37 wins and 45 losses.

HeavyStephen A. Smith Erroneously Claims Warriors Missed Postseason Since 2022Warriors news: Stephen A. Smith calls out Dubs, forgetting two playoff berthsStephen A. Smith ripped for ‘clown behavior’ after embarrassing blunder live on First Take

Smith's comments drew immediate backlash from fans and commentators alike. Many took to social media platforms like X to express their frustration, with one user stating, “Loud and completely wrong is the only brand Stephen A knows how to sell anymore. Absolute clown behavior.” Critics highlighted the discrepancy between Smith's claims and the actual playoff history of the Warriors, emphasizing the need for accountability in sports media. Another user remarked, “It’s really sad that the world wide leader in sports lets a guy like Stephen A. Smith parade around like he’s something special. Guy doesn’t even watch basketball.”

Stephen A. Smith Faces Backlash Over Warriors Playoff History ErrorHITCHeavyStephen A. Smith Faces Criticism After Golden State Warriors Error

While Smith's comments were met with widespread criticism, ESPN has not publicly addressed the backlash. The network continues to promote Smith as a leading voice in NBA analysis, despite his history of inaccuracies. Smith's previous missteps in sports commentary, particularly regarding football, have led to a perception among fans that he may not be as well-informed about basketball as he claims.

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As the Warriors navigate a challenging offseason, questions about Kerr's future loom large. Kerr's contract is set to expire, and he has indicated a desire to discuss his position with team ownership. The Warriors face critical decisions regarding their roster, including the futures of key players like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, both of whom have expressed uncertainty about the team's direction moving forward.

Stephen A. Smith ripped for ‘clown behavior’ after embarrassing blunder live on First Take

• “They haven't been back to the playoffs since that championship in 2022. That's four years away from the playoffs.” — Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst

Warriors news: Stephen A. Smith calls out Dubs, forgetting two playoff berths

• “Loud and completely wrong is the only brand Stephen A knows how to sell anymore. Absolute clown behaviour.” — Social Media User

HITC

Smith's misstatement regarding the Golden State Warriors serves as a reminder of the importance of accuracy in sports commentary, particularly from prominent figures in the industry.

The Sun - US