NBA Tanking Controversy: Stephen A. Smith Calls Out Disrespect to Fans
Tanking, the deliberate strategy of losing games to secure a higher draft pick, has long been a controversial practice in the NBA. While teams see it as a pathway to acquiring future superstars, the ethics and fairness of the tactic are constantly debated. Recently, veteran broadcaster Stephen A. Smith voiced his strong disapproval of the NBA’s tolerance of tanking, arguing it’s a blatant disrespect to paying fans.
Smith’s Outcry
During a recent episode of his podcast, Smith expressed his frustration with the league’s acceptance of tanking. He argued that fans invest their hard-earned money to witness competitive basketball, and deliberately fielding weakened teams undermines that experience. “The NBA has to do something about it: tanking issues,” Smith emphatically stated. “The Lakers sat five starters. What the hell? What the hell?!”
Recent Examples Fuel the Debate
The controversy has been reignited by recent actions from several teams. The Utah Jazz have faced criticism for sitting key players, including All-Stars Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr., in the fourth quarter of recent games, even when the outcome was still within reach. Similarly, the Los Angeles Lakers drew ire after benching their entire starting lineup against the San Antonio Spurs, a move that reportedly upset the Spurs organization.
The Cost of Attending NBA Games
Smith highlighted the financial commitment fans make to attend NBA games. Tickets, particularly for popular teams like the Lakers, can be incredibly expensive. Fans expect to see the star players they’ve paid to watch, and are understandably disappointed when teams field lineups that resemble G League rosters. “It’s a disrespect to the paying customer, to the fans. It’s abhorrent what the NBA has gotten away with doing,” Smith asserted.
Distinguishing Tanking from Load Management
Smith clarified that he understands and supports load management – strategically resting players to maintain their health for the playoffs. However, he draws a clear distinction between individual rest and the widespread, simultaneous benching of multiple key players. “I have no problem with guys getting rest… But all of y’all at the same time? You’re a coaching staff. You can’t schematically come up with a better plan than that?” he questioned.
The Integrity of the Game
Smith’s core argument centers on the integrity of the game. He believes that intentionally fielding weaker teams diminishes the competitive spirit and ultimately harms the product on the court. He wonders why players, seeing thousands of fans in attendance, wouldn’t feel compelled to give their best effort. The recent trend of “healthy scratches” – players being held out for seemingly no legitimate reason – is particularly concerning.
Ultimately, Smith’s message is a plea for the NBA to address the issue of tanking and prioritize the experience of its fans. He believes that the league has a responsibility to ensure that paying customers receive a competitive and entertaining product.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Feb 12, 2026.
