PHOENIX — After Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia publicly defended himself against Stephen A. Smith, fans across social media delivered a wide range of reactions — from fierce criticism to cautious praise.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Suns finished the season outside the playoffs and cycled through their third coach in three years. Ishbia’s bold moves since purchasing the team in 2023 — including trading for Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal — have led to one of the NBA’s most expensive rosters but little postseason success.
One fan, replying to a clip of Ishbia’s comments about Smith, didn’t hold back: “Suns owner is a disgrace, has no clue about basketball, and destroyed the franchise. Just in it for clout chasing and publicity.”
Another echoed that sentiment: “Not a Stephen A. fan but I’d side with him on this. Ishbia’s delusional think gin might be what made him a billionaire — but in basketball, he’s out of his depth. Unless he gives his GM real autonomy or sells the team, it’s only going to get worse.”
Critics have pointed to the Suns’ downward spiral since their 2021 Finals appearance. “Can’t believe people act like that isn’t a fair statement,” on user posted. “The Suns went from the NBA Finals to missing the playoffs with three top-end players. He fired two championship coaches. No direction. It’s true.”
However, not everyone is out on Ishbia.
“He’s a great team owner,” one fan wrote. “At least he went for it. I’d rather have an owner who tries to win than one who’e cheap and content with mediocrity.”
Others acknowledged the duality of his tenure. “He’s done phenomenal things for the city and the teams… off the court! But his dealing with the roster? Beyond poor,” another fan wrote. “Two things can be true at the same time.”
Ishbia’s decisions — from slashing concession prices to making local broadcasts free — have made a visible impact in the community. But his basketball moves remain under a microscope, with the Suns’ future uncertain and key stars aging or underperforming.
“Sounds like he’s willing to spend,” a user added. “But it’s up to the GM and coach to make it work. The players have to show up, too.”
With Stephen A. Smith promising more commentary and a turbulent offseason ahead, one thing is clear: Suns fans are watching — and they have plenty to say.
Mat Ishbia fires back at Stephen A. Smith: ‘disrespectful and inappropriate’
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Reporter Reyna Stanley covers the Phoenix Mercury and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on X @rey_stanley776.
